“A New Orleans Style Jazz Night,”
presented by the VCU chapter of Habitat
for Humanity, was a truly enjoyable musical
event that benefited a great cause; the
rebuilding of lives in Louisiana.
Local performers Bungalo6, the No
BS Brass Band and an “All-Star Jazz Ensemble”
featuring VCU alumni and faculty
treated the audience to a smorgasbord of
jazz music.
The All-Star Jazz ensemble, composed
of four horn players and a rhythm section,
set the mood for the evening with
several original compositions, as well as
arrangements by various group members.
Each member displayed their outstanding
skills both as soloists and group players
throughout the 45-minute set.
With an ironclad rhythm section and
four horn mavericks, the band presented
driving upbeat works that had audience
members grooving and savory ballads
that delighted listeners.
The set came to a head with a colossal
trumpet battle between VCU professor
Rex Richardson and Virginia jazz legend
and UVA jazz director John D’earth.
There was no clear winner between
the two virtuosi, but it is a safe bet that
those who witnessed it will not soon
forget the exchange.
Next on the lineup was Bungalo 6, a
Richmond-grown band including two
horn players, two guitarists, bass, drums
and vocals. With a backbeat that can’t be
denied, the group flew through a variety of
genres, including modern funk, hip-hop,
Latin and jazz.
Grooves were punctuated with tight
horn lines and delectable rhythms. The
finale of the set was capped off with the
sassy vocals of Margaux LeSourd.
The evening’s final entertainment was
brought by the NO BS Brass Band, a
nine-piece mixed brass and percussion
ensemble. The energy of the band pulsated
through the audience, promoting a feel
akin to the rowdy streets of New Orleans
during Mardi Gras.
Consisting of a grand total of eight
horns, the players produced an enormous
sound with roaring lows and sizzling highs,
topped off by deliciously dirty solos.
Along with the musical entertainment,
the night also featured a silent auction to
further benefit Habitat for Humanity, as
well as a slideshow displaying rebuilding
efforts in New Orleans.
The event was well attended and a
certain success, exposing the audience to
a great variety of music and also raising
funds for the noble cause Habitat for
Humanity serves.