The annual Carol Fest at Community Christian Church serves as an excellent survey of Kansas City's mainstream jazz scene. Yesterday's rendition was no exception. Even Scrooge- a character sometimes identified with Plastic Sax- would have tapped his toes with vigor.
Here are a few of the evening's highlights:
*Millie Edwards was the clear favorite of the capacity audience of about 600. The louder she sang, the more they loved her.
*I preferred Ida McBeth's controlled, emotional reading of "The Christmas Song."
*Angela Hagenbach, accompanied only by James Albright's bowed bass and Tim Whitmer's piano, was also outstanding on "I Wonder As I Wander."
*Bram Wijnands shone brightly on "Let It Snow" and "White Christmas." He played accordion to great effect on the latter.
*Guitarist Rod Fleeman anchored the house band. He demonstrated impeccable taste and versatility on every selection.
*Folk musician Danny Cox was a nice addition. His heartfelt original song allowed Fleeman to cut loose a la Duane Allman.
*Jurgen Welge's fine drumming was punctuated by festive seasonal flourishes.
*Other participants included Max Berry, Tom DeMasters, Everett DeVan, Jim Mair, Al Pearson, Diane "Mama" Ray and Lucky Wesley.
(Original blurry image by Plastic Sax.)
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