The Jazzcat

Additional Photos

Even

smooth roads and clear days ahead can take a detour towards Diane

Hubka. She does some interesting arrangements of the standards and even

does some music from a Disney animation film, “The Aristocats” called

“Everybody Digs a Swingin’ Cat”. Truer words were never spoken!

 

Of course it’s like magic when Theo Saunders takes

over. He delivers with a strong melodic presence and is an outstanding

talent. He was also featured on “Jazz in the Modern Era” the following

week after I made my second appearance on the show. However, tonight he

is swingin’ with us here at the LAX Westin and we can feel it!

 

Chris Connor and Tim Pleasant round out the trio

with Chris thumping strong and Tim with the wonderfully light

subtleties that ever singer desires. Diane also sang “Dolphin Dance” a

tune written by the one and only Herbie Hancock with lyrics written by

a close friend of hers.

 

Bruce Escovitz is back with yet another group of

USC students to jam on the breaks. This particular group of young

players has some lush harmonies coming from the front line with sweet

mystic melodies on guitar and the rhythm section was on it! The Piano

player was especially colorful with some dynamic phrasing. From jazz

and bop straight to hip hop, this new breed of lions make it sound all

good.

 

Diane lets the trio stretch out and you can hear

their cohesive sound and how generously supportive they are with each

others solos. Diane also pulls out her guitar and lays down a nice

Brazilian flavor. This multi-talented musical professional has a brand

new album out called “Look No Further”. I think that speaks for itself.

 

LeRoy Downs