Wed Feb 07 2007
Silverleaf Jazz Band
Panama Silverleaf Jazz Band 1979
The Silverleaf Jazz Band from Toronto. I have now found several video recordings of this wonderful New Orleans band, and every time I'm able to witness and process one of their tunes, I get more impressed.
They approach their music in a beautiful natural way. Leader Dennis Elder is a master in early New Orleans drumming. A simple set, bass, one tom, a snare and one cymbal. No high hat needed and nothing extra for that matter. But the power coming from his playing carries and inspires the band. I have been fortunate to play with Dennis many times and have even made some recordings with him. He was my all favourite drummer. Another giant in this band was reed player Brian Williams. I certainly think he meets Sammy Rimmington stylistically. (Sammy is probably the most recognized George Lewis styled clarinettist worldwide). Both Joe van Rossem (tpt) and Manfred Koch (tbne) do a superb job in carrying on that revival New Orleans Jazz as well.
I cannot think of many bands who played the style that well.
The Silverleaf Jazz Band from Toronto. I have now found several video recordings of this wonderful New Orleans band, and every time I'm able to witness and process one of their tunes, I get more impressed.
They approach their music in a beautiful natural way. Leader Dennis Elder is a master in early New Orleans drumming. A simple set, bass, one tom, a snare and one cymbal. No high hat needed and nothing extra for that matter. But the power coming from his playing carries and inspires the band. I have been fortunate to play with Dennis many times and have even made some recordings with him. He was my all favourite drummer. Another giant in this band was reed player Brian Williams. I certainly think he meets Sammy Rimmington stylistically. (Sammy is probably the most recognized George Lewis styled clarinettist worldwide). Both Joe van Rossem (tpt) and Manfred Koch (tbne) do a superb job in carrying on that revival New Orleans Jazz as well.
I cannot think of many bands who played the style that well.