[Dixielandjazz] Marsalis family concert

[Richard Crockett]

I watched tonight on Public Television (Ch 8) as the Marsalis family and a
couple of friends displayed their awesome talents. The star, IMO, was the
patriarch, Ellis Marsalis. But, everyone did very well. If there was a weak
link it would be Harry Connick, who played a duet with Ellis -- "Caravan".
Ellis' comping was more interesting that Harry's solo.

The drumming Marsalis, Jason, was surprisingly solid. One of his brothers,
Branford, I think --spoke of Jason being the " surprise brother". He was
several years younger. And of him having perfect pitch and other early signs
of being an outstanding musician.

Delfeayo Marsalis, trombone, had a beautiful tone and played with
confidence. His soloing seemed a bit more commercial with a lot of quotes
and bluesy licks and the occasional "tailgate glis". But, he played real
pretty and correct.

Wynton and Branford seemed to be striving for ensemble parity. Predictably,
Wynton had more "face time". The concert began with a Wynton cadenza leading
into "Struttin ...". Branford played straight ahead using the soprano for
the more traditional tunes and tenor for the bopish tomes. Ellis said
Branfor played clarinet from the 2nd grade until the 9th grade and then got
an alto sax. I would have liked to have heard him on clarinet.

The bass player was not mentioned much at all. He did a good job. I suspect
he's a New Orleans cat -- probably Ellis' first call bass guy. He did some
"slap" licks that were a little hoaky...

Bottom line: it's a good show, well produced and high quality playing. The
moldier figs will probably not last through to the credits but
middle-of-the-roaders will enjoy.

dc