The music made you want to jump up and dance in the aisle at the UMKC 3:30 Combo and Latin Combo concert.
3:30 had a variety of jazz styles, and showcased jazz from the 1930s and '40s up until the swanky sway of the 1970s. Rudolph Torrini, freshman, was exceptionally good wailing on the saxophone and clarinet.
Jazz clarinet is not seen as often as many of the other types, but Tarrini offered a surprising and thoroughly enjoyable piece from Benny Goodman's era.
The 3:30 Combo got its name from practicing at 3:30, according to drummer Jeff Fitzpatrick, sophomore.
"I've been playing with the band for two years, but the class has been around for much longer," Fitzpatrick said.
The Latin Combo was very enjoyable, and showcased different styles of Latin jazz, including a song called "Rio."
Michael Herrera, senior, switched from saxophone to the flute. Jazz flute is, again, something that isn't used as much as other types of jazz instruments.
Jordan Shipley, senior, was noticeably talented on the guitar, and it was great whenever he soloed.
Both bands' upright bass players (Kegan Warring, freshman, for 3:30 and Alex King, freshman, for the Latin Combo) played with finesse, and I liked King's switch to bass guitar.
Jessi Davis, junior, stage managed the show, and did a good job at helping the show go smoothly.
"I help stage manage for the conservatory [UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance], and I really like Jazz, so when I was offered, I said I would stage manage for the combos," Davis said.
Torrini's original composition "Struttin Blues" and the Latin Combo's interpretation of "Black Orpheus" were also good at showing off UMKC jazz talent.
Both bands had thumping beats and catchy rhythms, and I especially liked 3:30's last song, where Torrini donned sunglasses, a saxophone and played "Tequila."
Both bands are offered as UMKC classes for instrumental Conservatory music majors. Many have had years of experience, like Fitzpatrick, who has been playing for 11 years.
Whether you wanted the thumping big band swing, '70s swank, or Latin twist, these bands had them all there, and I applaud the artists' talent and skill at making the room sway with the sounds of authentic jazz.
Upcoming jazz concerts include the Concert jazz band on April 7, and the 11 O'clock jazz band on April 8. Both start at 7:30 p.m. in White Recital Hall.
ssheffield@unews.com
