[ad_1]
Drummer Kenny Phelps, pianist Kenny Banks Jr. and bassist Nick Tucker December 23, 2023 at Jazz Kitchen Two performances were held, pushing the Christmas atmosphere to a climax.
For many of us, this dream trio is reminiscent of the 2019 American Pianists Association Jazz Competition, which featured Kenny Banks Jr. as a finalist. The duo of Phelps and Tucker have supported the APA Jazz finalists and competitions for many years, and it’s always special when the finalists return to town to work their magic. I can confidently say that tonight was no exception.
Kenny Banks Jr. is bringing most of his new material and a few originals to town this time around. But just in time for the holidays, the trio managed to incorporate so many holiday favorites into originals and standards that you’ll find yourself nodding to familiar musical phrases all night long.
Opening with Bank’s “American Canvas,” the keys are sprinkled with “Joy to the World,” while “Body and Soul” manages to add its own “My favorite Things.” The thrilling finale included an extensive mashup of “Take Five” that served as the trio’s climax and received a standing ovation from the audience in appreciation of the talents of these three incredible musicians. It was a perfect night to get me in the festive mood.
Happy holidays everyone and here’s to more live music in 2024!
Kenny Phelps ©2023 Mark Shelton
Kenny Banks ©2023 Mark Shelton
Nick Tucker ©2023 Mark Shelton
Kenny Phelps ©2023 Mark Shelton
Kenny Banks ©2023 Mark Shelton
Kenny Phelps ©2023 Mark Shelton
Kenny Banks ©2023 Mark Shelton
Nick Tucker ©2023 Mark Shelton
Kenny Banks ©2023 Mark Shelton
Dorian Phelps ©2023 Mark Shelton
[ad_2]
