Submitted
One of the most interesting aspects of the jazz scene is the way in which new bands are spawned.
Entirely in keeping with the improvisational nature of jazz as an art form, it follows that different combinations of musicians and instruments perform hitherto untried arrangements of familiar melodies, and experiment with self-penned material.
Even more exciting is when magic happens, a nexus is created, and a new sound or style is born.
Such are the goals of Georgia Straight Jazz Society: keeping jazz music live, providing Comox Valley residents the opportunity to listen to an ever-increasingly higher standard of music, and a chance to experience those improvisational high points. Our new season has already proved we are growing, and we now have the most active jazz scene in British Columbia.
This Thursday’s performance touches on all these points when four familiar faces combine with two new additions to the society’s roster, when Anela Kahiamoe performs at the Avalanche Bar & Grill with his lineup Anela & The Experimenters.
Although Anela is well known in the Valley, this is his first appearance as a Jazz Society act. He is a native of Hawaii, and he’s been a professional musician all of his adult life. We are excited to introduce his extensive musical talent as he offers beautiful vocals, and performs on guitar and lap steel ukulele.
Meet the Experimenters
Perhaps the best known of The Experimenters is Ralph Barrat, keyboard and vocals. Also familiar to local regular jazz supporters is Rachell Fuller, who will be playing the Electronic Wind Instrument (EWI) and tenor saxophone. Grahame Edwards will provide his usual solid rhythm on bass, supported by Rob Peterson on drums.
And then, something completely different!
Evan Ehgoetz, four-time CCMA nominated steel pedal guitarist, will be masterfully turning his sweet pedal sound into jazz favourites. Evan has played with some of the great stage performers, including Conway Twitty, Bill Anderson and Allan Jackson.
What’s behind the name?
“It fits with this incredibly unusual instrumental lineup,” Anela said in a recent interview. “The Experimenters will be performing a broad range of jazz standards, a few blues numbers, and some of my original tunes.”
Add to this Anela’s engaging nature and you’re guaranteed a very special evening.
Cover charge is $5 for members and $7 for non-members, and an a la carte menu for Thursday night Greek dinner will be available.
AGM upcoming
Society members are reminded that the AGM will be held at the Avalanche at 5:30 p.m., Oct. 30.
For more information about GSJS activities and future performance schedule, visit www.georgiastraightjazz.com.
The society can also be found on Facebook.