Jazzy Celebration Review- February 23rd 2009

On Feb 23rd, The Abyssinian Baptist Church in NYC, under the direction of Ron West, Kicked off the first of a series of Concerts appropriately named Jazz at Abyssinian. In his words “we want to bring an additional form of musical enjoyment to the community and NYC guests. Well, he did just that! Everyone on the program was wonderful. There was a good mix of vocals and instrumentalists, true jazz mixed with some gospel to satisfy the taste of everyone in attendance.

While all of the performers were wonderful, this writer wishes to focus on two of them at this event.

Donald Smith’s’ rendition or “Martin Luther King” was performed with the passion and spirit of the man in the song. He captivated the audience and was properly rewarded with a standing ovation.

Charlotte Doreen Small, accompanied by V.Jeffrey Smith {21 Gold record Recipient} on the Sax, Harvey Morris on Drums, Trevor Allen on Bass and Aaron Swinneton on Keys really lit it up when they played, Night in Tunisia.
The audience could barely stay in their seat as they listened to Small pitching her voice to add another musical instrument to the song and playing off of Smith. The excitement was Electric!
Ms Small, known for her outstanding work in Gospel, is one of the most versatile artists on the scene today. She is quickly becoming known as the “Female Josh Groban” with her wonderful performances in just about any genre of music. In the words of WABC TV personality Scott Clark “One of the Best Singers you’re every going to hear”.

-Thaddeus Robbins