Review: John Proulx Trio/ Sunday 3/19/23
On a cloudy Sunday afternoon, what a treat to listen to some beautiful, and sometimes soothing jazz played by outstanding musicians. Although these three guys had only played together once before, they were in perfect sync and harmony. And because it was only a trio, there was opportunity on most every tune for bassist, Santino Tafarella and drummer, Kevin Winard to solo and stretch out. John’s beautiful tenor voice, along with his inventive piano style, made every tune quite memorable.
Most of the songs were familiar jazz standards. And like most jazz musicians, John was influenced by those who came before him including Chet Baker with Just Friends and I Fall In Love Too Easily and a tribute the Nat andNatalie Colewith Nature Boy and Straighten Up and Fly Right. The Ellington classic, Do Nothin’ Till You Hear From Me with only John’s voice and Santino’s bass was truly mesmerizing. There were also some originals like the lovely Stuck In A Dream with Me and a nice blues, Benny’s Tune, written for pianist, Benny Green. Drummer, Kevin Winard was featured on a break neck version of The Lady Is a Tramp.
It was obvious that the full house audience felt fortunate to be able to hear such high quality jazz in Santa Barbara. We hope these guys will be back!
Photos by Rob Hoffman
