The Sunshine Coast Jazz Club audience on Sunday 20th July at the Caloundra Power Boat Club were taken back to the 30's/40's when the PAUL HENDON SEXTET played their “BENNY GOODMAN TRIBUTE”.
The sextet introduced 2 visiting outstanding musicians GLENN HENRICH [vibraphone/saxophone] and ALEX COMPTON [bass/vocals]. “Don't Be That Way” was a Goodman standard, “Limehouse Blues” led into a Glenn and Paul bigband sound with “Jersey Bounce”. Alex showed his talent with a sterling “Ain't Misbehavin” vocal. “Stompin' at the Savoy” had our tootsies stompin' as well. Jazz classic “How High the Moon” segued into Hampton's “Flying Home” allowing Dave on guitar and Glenn on sax to really fly. Rod on drums not to be outdone sang in his inimitable style “Bye Bye Blackbird”. As the famous LOUIS once said “This is Le Jazz Hot”.
Set two after our raffles and the winners happy, the Sextet continued to entertain with wonderful jazz solos. A Gerry Mulligan “Lullaby of the Leaves” was a joy, then Alex serenaded us with “How About You”. A nice applause from the audience!!!!. A fast, hot “Undecided” segued into a slow sexy version from Rod of the glorious song “Moon Glow”, Phew!! Our guest Glenn explained how the vibraphone has different sounds and Glenn all afternoon showed what a master he is of this instrument. I haven't given credit yet to leader Paul on clarinet/sax, the wonderful Jo Bloomfield on keyboards, Dave on guitar and Rod on drums, who keep the music flowing, allowing soloists to show their talents. Rod was warming up to tell us that there are “Pennies From Heaven”.
Afternoons always must finish and the final “After You’ve Gone” was a nice finale. We will remember the PAUL HENDON SEXTET and the Tribute to Benny long after, as we do now remember the famous Benny Goodman Trios, Quartets, Sextets and that great swinging Orchestra.
Our thanks to the PAUL HENDON SEXTET for an afternoon of musical memories, fun, and enjoyment.
Review by Brian Fane (Life member) plus a little help from our club's friendly ghost Casper!
