Photographer: Rudy Lu
Drummer Joe Farnsworth was the featured band leader and performer at Caffe Alias. This 56 year old veteran of the jazz scene brought with him a trio of young players who were from 19 to 23 and still in music school. They certainly did not sound like it though!
Twenty year old Aidan McKeown who was a last minute substitute for well known saxophonist Sara Hanahan blew the doors down with a fast rendition of the opening chorus’ ‘ Love For Sale” and caused the jaws of many to drop. Aidan did not stop with just a chorus or two, his tenor kept on blowing chorus after chorus of mind blowing ideas, you could truly hear the history of this instrument and of jazz in his elocutions. In between his playing, there were long drumming interludes by Maestro Farnsworth, these weren’t just drum solos, these were musical statements that stood on their own.The rest of the band was equally as impressive, each given a brief moment to express themselves.
The time honored ballad “Body & Soul” is a rite of passage and repeated playing by all in the genre. This version was inspired by the late saxophonist Benny Carter. Pianist William Hill III played a piano solo that had variations on the theme. A surprise drum fill by Farnsworth punctuated the performance, it was followed by rapid playing by the band.
“Walking” is a Miles Davis tune that epitomized “Cool” in the 50s. It was given an airing with William Hill III giving his own interpretation of stride piano. Joe at one point was snapping his fingers, encouraging the audience members to clap in time, McKeown’s full bodied tone helped carry the tune. Bassist Griffin Fink was enthusiastically making the music groove, his glasses slipped down his nose and eventually fell.
That first set was a small combo jazz lover’s dream. The second one was full of surprises .
2nd set
Our local bassist Tarik Shah is part of the national scene. He and Joe have known each other for over 30 years. But this night in Troy was the 1st night they ever played together ! The opening choruses of the Ellington/ Coltrane composition were instantly recognized by many. Tarik knows how to make music both groove and swing at the same time, it was certainly a revelation to have them play together. The in sync but varied bass and drum combination is pure heaven to listen to. Speaking of heaven, Joe had an impromptu church service, where William Hill played gospel piano with ending of Joe Farnsworth leading the audience in a rousing version of “Amazing Grace”.
Benny Golson’s “Stablemates” is another standard that is a rite of passage. The composition starts with a drum intro before it goes to business with a complex chorus and variations.
There was a rousing jam session that followed with Jeremy Gold and Thom Avella the band on stage.
Along with the music, the audience was entertained by Joe’s tales of his storied career. The concert was an education as well as entertainment, Joe got several younger drummers to come up and play with encouragement.
He told us McCoy Tyner’s advice to all is “perseverance and patience”. That along with practice will get you where you are going and who you are.
In over 50 years of attending jazz performances, this was the most unusual high energy performance I have seen. Hopefully Joe will return.
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