Scribe-ls

Max Wagner has once again proved to be a great producer in putting on the Estes Park Jazz Fest (in conjunction with the Art Walk).  He gives attendees at the free outdoor festival May 17 and 18 a good sampler of the one true American art form: jazz music in many of its varieties. 

Saturday started off with the cool trad tones of the Estes Park Big Band and man, it swung.  Next up were Brad Goode and the Ken Walker Trio shaking it up with some modern in amongst the swinging melodies.  For a traddie like me, some of it was a little out there, but hey, you've gotta keep your ears open and let the music in.  The Air Force Falconaires played tight trad and swing jazz with acumen and the vocals were gritty and sweet.  Topping off the day with panache were George Whitesell and His All-Stars with Jill Watkins performing largely jump and blues to rattle the rocky surrounds.  Watkins can sing it like nobody can, with outstanding projection and a whole lotta soul.  Anybody who didn't have a good time listening to George's crew has no-one to blame but themself. 

Sunday the 18th has a whole new lineup with the smooth crooner and reedsman Max Wagner joining the Ken Walker Trio to start the day at noon in good jazz form.  The OTones Brass Band comes next with a mixed-up New Orleans sound, then Javon Jackson and the iconic Les McCann, finishing with The Dexter Payne Quintet with Derek Banach.  See this link for a real run-down:  http://estesparkcvb.com/events.cfm?mode=cat_overview&l
isting_cat_id=1440. 

I can't think of a better way to spend a warm, sunny day in May.