L.to R, Jan Jordan(p); Stan Gilbert (b) and Carl Burnett (d)©Glenn Mitchell

Bassist Stan Gilbert resides in Japan and comes back home here in the U.S.A. a time or two each year.  This gig, in early January, was originally planned to include pianist Llew Matthews, but he became ill and was replaced with Jan Jordan, who fit into the job perfectly. Gilbert, along with Matthews and drummers Harvey Mason and Carl Burnett, have produced some wonderful CDs that I would rate highly. I have known Jordan many years, as we were in high school together and began playing some jazz then.  Jordan worked a long time at an exclusive Orange County hotel with the late, legendary bassist, Dr. Art Davis. He continues working many other premium jobs in OC, while continuing at the hotel. Excellent drummer Carl Burnett did a fine job all evening.  One of Burnett’s credits is his tenure for several years with the Gene Harris Trio. 

The trio opened with “All Blues,” giving a good swinging version with intricate soloing by Gilbert and good back-up from both Jordan and Burnett.   They continued with “Girl From Ipanema” and a delicious rendition of “Some Other Time.” “Take Five” followed with Burnett doing a burning solo and Gilbert raising the bar with his gratifying solo.     

Gilbert’s son, Derrick, recited a couple of poems, “Lady from St. Kitts” and another that I didn’t get the title of, but had some audience participation. “John Brown’s Body” was soulfully played and “Walkin,’ ” with its famous blues line, was another solid tune.  I got a chance to sit-in for “Stella by Starlight,” and I did a decent bass solo.  What a fun privilege!  Gilbert performed a very melodic bass solo on “Invitation,” making it a beautiful number, and ended the evening with the captivating “Poinciana.”   

The audience was pleased with the music and dined during the show.  ‘S’ Restaurant in Westminster continues to bring great live jazz to Orange County on Wednesday evenings.  Their Vietnamese cuisine is first-rate fare.  See www.Sfinedining.com for more info and entertainment schedule.   
 

Glenn A. Mitchell plays bass and writes for the LA Jazz Scene. Reprinted with permission from the February 2008 issue. 
 

For L.A. Jazz Scene, February, 2008 issue.