The power, dynamics and majesty of a big band were combined with the fun and melody of ska as the NYC Ska Big Band.

The band occupied the entire stage and part of the front of the stage. There were 13 horns, bass, guitar, keyboards, drums along with 2 female vocalists .

The band is lead by arranger, trumpeter, educate Kevin Batchelor and the beat held down by Jamaican master Carl Wright. Larry MacDonald, the percussionist was not on stage but was present .The band was formed 10 years ago and originates from Brooklyn.

Opening with 4 non big band tunes, the band set the pace and expectations to expect anything as long as it was rollicking and moving.

Then with a horn heavy introduction, some familiar lyrics and notes appeared. The standard “Softly As In a Morning Sunrise” was interpreted big band style with swagger and power unlike the way the song is interpreted. Followed by “You Don’t Know What Love Is”. Arrangements and vocals performed by Aida Brandes Hargrove (Roy Hargrove’s widow).

Ska in its heyday addressed contemporary issues. This band is no different. Keyboard player Nick Balaban penned song “Stormy Daniels” started with burlesque phrases by the baritone sax player then morphing into a middle eastern dance. A tribute to Phil Lesh was paid with a cover of “Shakedown Street” that the overflow crowd in the rear and sides of the hall dancing. Pallavi Gummalam enthusiastically sang the vocals.

Johnny Nash’s crossover reggae hit “I Can See Clearly Now” had the crowd singing the lyrics .

The set ended with a cover of Bill Wither’s “Lovely Day”. A great ending to a concert that reminds us music comforts and heals.

Setlist:

Crawling Back Home, Flatbush Shuffle, True Confession, Don’t Stay Away, Softly as in a Morning Sunrise, You Don’t Know What Love Is, Stormy Daniels, Shakedown Street, On A Clear Day, You’ll Never Get To Heaven, I Can See Clearly Now, Delilah, Starry Night, When You Lay Your Head, Blessed Blackness, Too Many Pins, Lovely Day

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