The Barbary Coast Jazz Ensemble gave a solid final performance in honor of their graduating seniors on Saturday night. Amid an air of nostalgia and friendship, the Coast's seniors drummed, blew and hammered through a diverse and appealing set.
One of the show's early highlights was Sun Ra's "Watusa," a perfect crowd-pleaser. With a set of congas, Steve Farraris joined drummer Joe Gilbertson '97 for some loud, rhythmic jamming over the song's Latin flavor.
Echoing Gilbertson's consistency on the skins was trumpeter Kazu Munakata '96/'97 B.E. After taking the spotlight several times during the show for a series of brief, outstanding solos, Munakata finished off his night with a clear and potent rendition of Gillespie and Pozo's "Tin Tin Deo."
Audience members were transported to an intimate club when accomplished musician Taurey Butler '96/'97 B.E. took the stage with a trio.
Vadim Sarma '97, a recent addition to the Coast, worked the keyboard on the tune, "Tiny Capers."
"In a Sentimental Mood" received an appropriately subdued treatment from lead trombone Hans Kieserman '97, and Andy Bernasconi '97 proved that he is both a competent soloist and an effective band member on "The Meaning of the Blues."
Regrettable as the departure of these exceptional seniors may be, the Coast is not left without talent for its future pursuits. Aiyana Thompson '99 showcased her exquisite voice on two pieces, including the standard "God Bless the Child."
The Coast's perennially valuable asset, director Don Glasgo, also made his presence felt. His composition, "Blues for Jauklaght," featured each of the seniors soloing ("Jauklaght" contains each senior's initial). His warm and witty commentary on the players enhanced the show's ambiance.
