By: Rudy Lu
California native Skylar Tang was originally classically trained but fell in love with Jazz from listening to her Dad’s CDs. She has since relocated to NYC to study at Columbia University and Julliard.
Her style resembles Miles Davis in tone and approach to the music.
Her playing occupies the lower end of the scale. There were no high pitched Maynard Ferguson style notes in her performance, although her playing could be rapid as well as slow. She also generously shared the band stand with her band, frequently content to listen to them playing and nodding in approval.
She did not display the “cool” that was part of the Miles’ mystique but displayed enthusiasm and youthful exuberance throughout the 2 sets.
Her band during this gig consisting of William Schwartzman on piano, John Murray on bass and veteran Rudy Royston (Tia Fuller band) was given the freedom to roam and play to where their muse let them. After playing a few tunes, Skylar would frequently remark “Wow, I didn’t expect it to go this way , but its all good”.
There were two sets played, consisting of 3 standards and 5 originals , all in the postbop style with a touch of Latin.
I am sure this is not the last time, this ensemble will be playing in the 518. Hopefully there is a recording session in the works and further touring as this ensemble has already played concert halls, festivals and clubs throughout the country.
Opening in the foyer in the front of the Caffe were the Jazzkids. Kids enrolled in the Caffe Lena music program. They have been appearing before much of the Caffe’s programming.
1st set-
Couch
Celia (Bud Powell)
Peace
Galivant
2nd set-
Audrey
untitled- John Schwartzman
Ghost
Estate (summer)
