|
Roy Haynes: Fountain of Youth Band – Friday 18 November |
|
Tuesday, 20 December 2011 16:25 |
|
In a pre-show interview, eighty six year old drummer Roy Haynes attributed his ability to 'make others sound good' as the catalyst to his career. This trait showed itself to be based on two concepts working together: swing and space. This was most exemplified when during his set at the Queen Elisabeth Hall he stepped away from his instrument mid song à la Thelonious Monk. Armed with just his drum sticks Haynes provided all the rhythmic accompaniment his Fountain of Youth band needed. Many of the songs from the set could be found on the Fountain of Youth Album (2004). Pianist Martin Bejerano impressively echoed the phrases of his band mates whilst alto saxophonist Jaleel Shaw stole the show with an kinetic solo on Harry Warren's tune Summer Night. Bassist David Wong was at his best when soloing on the ballad Ask Me Now which the band had decided to play whilst on stage. Often interacting with his band and the audience between songs Roy Haynes made the large venue seem much smaller and reminded us that the youth and vitality in Hayne's playing also extended to his character. – Chris Hyde – Harrison
|