JustinSmith

I went to the Village Vanguard tonight. I love when i am home in NY.

I saw the Gonzalo Rubalcaba quintet. Gonzalo Rubalcaba-piano, Yosvany Terry-alto/soprano saxophones, Mike Rodriguez-trumpet, Matt Brewer-bass, Marcus Gilmore-drums.

They played a set of all original music, with the exception of Horace Silver's "Peace" which was played as a piano trio. The band has been touring and recently recorded a new album “Avatar”. the music is very complicated with shifting grooves and time signatures but maintains a certain fluent grace. it was a beautiful set of inspiring music, that made me come straight home to compose and shed.

For those of you who haven't heard Mike Rodriguez, you need to check him out. Mike has played/recorded with Charlie Haden and Jazz at Lincoln Center AFRO-LATIN JAZZ ORCHESTRA.

I first heard of Mike, when I met and played with his older brother Robert at a jam session in Miami about 8 years ago. Robert also lives in NYC now, and plays piano with Roy Haynes and others.

He is an incredible young trumpet player in NYC with a real fluid sound, excellent technique, and very creative melodic approach.

For those of you who want to know: He had a yamaha trumpet (NY custom I believe) and a Monette mouthpiece.

The band will play at the Vanguard through Sunday night,if any of you are interested.

Another note: Marcus Giimore, drums, is Roy Haynes' 22 year old grandson. He is incredible. Roy was at the gig tonight watching. It was a pleasure chatting with him for a bit tonight.



Links:
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/17/ar..._r=1&ref=music
RodBros

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Justin J. Smith

When people believe in boundaries, they become part of them.......Don Cherry

jonfernandez

jazz is cool

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Ray Vega

Mike Rodriguez is one of the young jazz players worth keeping an eye on. I've known him and his family for many years.....his commitment to achieving excellence was evident at a young age.

Knock 'em dead Mike!

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Ray Vega
Stomvi Artist
www.rayvegamusic.com