Al Grey Meets the Trudell Big Band Over Some
Basie Charts
 Al
Grey, one of the greatest trombonists to play with the Count Basie
band, visited Clarenceville High School on March 28 together with Johnny
Trudell's crack big band to pay tribute to his former band. It was a pleasure
to hear the master trombonist play and reminisce about his Basie heritage
and the Trudell band was well prepared for the night. Grey sat in front
of the band and sometimes seemed to direct it, even though I suspect that
was mainly for show. His trombone playing is still very spirited, in contrast
to his somewhat frail appearance these days. I remember him from the late
fifties when he was a powerhouse on his instrument as well as a stage
personality. His solos on two vocal numbers by Detroit's own Harvey Thompson,
"Moonlight in Vermont" and "Every Day," were some of his best of the night.
The Trudell big band sections all sounded good
and the trumpet section was a real showstopper, which was to be expected
with the leader and Bob Mohica leading the attack. Trudell soloed nicely
on "Corner Pocket," and Mohica crackled on "Things Ain't What They Used
To Be" and "This Love of Mine." George Benson contributed some nice tenor
work and Jeff Trudell did a great job in the difficult role of swinging
a big band from the drums.
A nice feature of this concert series is the
opportunity for high school bands to play in front of a large audience.
The Northville High School Jazz Band sounded better rehearsed than many
bands at that level. Midge Ellis should be commended for putting on a
fine series.
photograph by Lars Bjorn
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