I'll take Manhattan
One highlight of my recent trip back East was a chance to finally catch a live show by Vince Giordano's and the Nighthawks. A frequent guest on Prairie Home Companion, Vince runs a great 20's style jazz band, one of the few out there these days, and certainly one the most energetic and authentic. I loved, loved, loved their show! The band was fabulous, and Vince has a charming stage presence and rapport with the audience.
The highlight of the evening was getting to sit in with Vince, something I had hoped might happen but hadn't expected. I usually hate watching videos of myself, but this evening was so much fun, I'm willing to put aside my typical self criticisms to relive it and share it with you. A big thanks to jazz writer Michael Steinman for the capturing it on video. (Now if only I had looked at the camera a time or two, ... and perhaps laid off the canoli's while in nyc)
(Note: the video says March 20th, but actually it was April 20th, for those of you keeping score)
And speaking of Michael, If you're any sort of jazz/swing fan, you need to be reading Michael's wonderful blog,Jazz Lives. Lots of good stuff there - great musician profiles, CD reviews, videos, as well as some insider tips for NY shows.