By Esther Callens
A remarkable recording of some incredible jazz is in retail by the fabulous jazz pianist Mike Longo. Live from New York! Mike Longo and the New York State of the Art Jazz Ensemble featuring vocalist Ira Hawkins is a rare jewel. In entertainment today, this kind of music is priceless.
The album was recorded live in concert on July 23, 2013. The setting was the John Birks Gillespie Auditorium in the NYC Baha’i Center. Most importantly, when Mike Longo and the New York State of the Art Jazz Ensemble took the stage – the atmosphere immediately was supercharged with electricity. Add to this Ira Hawkins’ magnificent vocals and the fireworks sky rocket and light up the night.
Out of the eight melodies on Live From New York, there are only three Mike Longo original compositions. They are ‘Afro Desia”, “Yoko Mama” and “Inner City Hues.” These are nice, not too complex with just the right amount of thunder to be considered classy. The ever so popular Judy Garland classic “Over the Rainbow”, takes an unexpected riff mid-stream – which is quite lovely. Ira Hawkins is featured on this track as well as the mellow “I’m Old Fashion” and the bluesy “Muddy Water.” The set closes on a high note as the upbeat track, “Wee” brings it all home. Only one word is needed to describe Mike Longo’s Live From New York – Fantastic!
Mike Longo was born in Cincinnati. His mother was the church organist and his father was a professional jazz bass player. During the mid-sixties to the early seventies, Mike Longo was Dizzy Gillespie’s pianist. He has performed with countless A-listers. He is one of jazz’s greatest.
Track listing: Whisper Not, Afro Desai, Yoko Mama, Over the Rainbow, I’m Old Fashioned, Muddy Water, Inner City Hues, Wee.
Track Personnel: Trumpets-Chris Rogers, John Replogle, Brian Davis, Waldron Ricks; Trombones-Sam Burtis, Nick Finzer, Nick Grinder, Earl McIntyre; Saxophones-Bob Magnuson, Frank Perowsky, Lee Greene, Mike Migliore, Matt Snyder; Piano- Mike Longo; Bass-Tom Hubbard; Drums-Mike Campenni; Vocals-Ira Hawkins.
