Robert's Review of Charlie Haden Quartet West at Stewart Thearter, 02/15/97

Order CD * NCBlue - Carolina Blues Newsletter * Robert's Reviews Home Page * COMMENTS*

Charlie Haden's Quartet West came to the Stewart Theater on the campus of North Carolina State and played to a sold out post valentine's day crowd of lovers, jazz lovers, and students. It was a smooth polished romantic sound that brought out echoes of an imaginary simpler romantic era where jazz ruled.

The band opened and closed with Charlie Parker tunes - Passport and Segment. In between they played delicately with Haden originals and other classics. The show started late due to some mysterious problem with Haden having to borrow a bass from a local musician. But once they began the band played with total confidence and ease.

Charlie Haden has been one of the premier bass players for years and is known for his work with the free sounding Ornette Coleman band as well as work with Keith Jarrett and many others. A sensitive player that solos with melody and inventive. His other band the Liberation Orchestra is wilder so Quartet West's subtler approach showcases the range that has allowed him to play with so many people.

Charlie soloed well but his bass was mixed down too low in the mix for my taste. Interestingly they set Charlie on a raised platform behind the other players - a unique arrangement. Haden also seemed to be suffering from a number of problems; a strange instrument, ear plugs and Plexiglas between him and the drummer, and he was constantly blowing on his hands to keep them from cramping. None of the problems came through solos.

The quarter plays romantic sounds with echoes of the 40s and 50s with lush piano parts and a soaring tenor. In their latest CD the mood is even enhanced by strings but in concert the quartet was more alive. Ernie Watts is a full sounding tenor that provided a large part of the band's sound. His sax was strong and smooth without sounding bland or boring. Alan Broadbent plays a lighter sound on the piano and was more content to fill in the scene rather than to challenge the saxophone. Drummer, Larance Marable, was a solid foundation to build upon and during his solo he showed remarkable restraint by soloing quietly. He soloed on a one drum at a time and began with brushes before moving up to sticks then mallets and showing that he could cut loose. A very impressive solo and indicative of the band's emphasis on mood.

The crowd was incredible, after going to clubs and concert halls it was amazing to attend a concert where the audience was quiet during the show. No talking, no ego shouts, just appreciation of solos. One could hear the solos and enjoy even the quietest bass solo.

An excellent band in an excellent setting with an excellent crowd. A delicious night of jazz. 

For other related sites visit Links

Click here to order Charlie Haden Quartet West CDs & Cassettes at discount prices. Book Mark this page for future orders

A review of ordering CDs at Robert's Review of CDNow

Profits from advertisers now to go to blues societies and foundations. If you like the reviews and CDNow, please bookmark this page for all future cd orders. If you have any have comments about the service let me know. - thanks Robert.