The Place: East of Main. Vancity. Note the presence of the motorhome. We are not in Kits anymore. It’s a good thing I brought my lulu “peace and tranquility” yoga mat… cuz being even four blocks from Capers makes me edgy. Without my ginseng infused wheatgrass shots, I’m unable to focus my eyes.

Loading in at sunset on May 10th.

The Venue: La Casa del Artista = Mexican kitsch meets band portable. Strange, but oddly festive. Watch out for that cactus. It’s a mean one. Ouch.

The Main Man: Samuel Davidson. Clarinet. He’s that kinda good that is almost so ridiculously good in its awesomeness that you’re like “whoa, are you serious?” But he is serious. A seriously skilled player. And, I’m pretty sure that his likeness to John Mayer hits a serious sweet spot with the ladies.

Parker on Keys.

My Jazzy Guy, Ryland on Bass.

Brendan (somewhat engulfed by a gigantic Mexican flag) on drums.

Now let’s hear some original jazz…

A hot hot night of fiery fantabulous jazz! And to top it off the Samuel Davidson Quartet received a rave review on kezine.com by Matt O. you should check out.

Here’s a short excerpt from Matt O.’s review

Show stealing moments were in abundance, with three of note. Following Sam’s heartfelt dedication of the fourth number to his friend, Will, he began with a minute-long clarinet solo of wrenching beauty. It wasn’t clear whether any one took a breath the whole time, it was that good. A pin drop could be heard.

The second show stealer belonged to Ryland for his bass soloing during the first song of the second set, “Two Ways Out”. The element of surprise was involved as Ryland had been relatively unassuming with his playing up to that point. He let loose though, playing a dizzying array of string and note patterns resulting in raucous applause from the audience.

The third moment worthy of mention goes to Brendan for his superior roles and break downs on drums during “Cambie Bridge”. Working off of Parker’s held notes on the keyboard, Brendan built a precise storm of climbing and crashing fury, carefully setting up pauses throughout that drew anticipation from the listener without being predictable. Again, the audience, as they were all set, was hugely appreciative of Brendan’s skill.

I’m sold! When is their next gig? Saturday June 2nd at Rime (1130 Commercial Drive). Should be a great show! I am looking forward to hearing some more raucous applause from the audience.

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