Jack Wood Quartet at Kobe Steakhouse, L-R: Denny Dennis--drums, Luther Hughes--bass, Joel Scott--piano and Jack Wood--vocals. (Photo by Glenn A, Mitchell)

Jack Wood is a seasoned singer of American Popular Songbook. A singer from the “old school,” he demonstrates how both the melody and lyrics are important to tell a song’s story.   Wood had a terrific trio with him August 30th: Joel Scott, piano; Luther Hughes, bass; and Denny Dennis, drums.  The trio began with Jobim’s “Wave” for an eager base of fans supporting live jazz and enjoying Kobe’s Japanese Cuisine, located in Seal Beach. 

Wood opened with a stunning version of “Days of Wine and Roses.”  His voice is expressive and clear.  They followed with “‘S Wonderful” as arranged by the late George Gaffney from the movie classic, An American in Paris. They continued with “Come Rain, Come Shine,” “I Remember You,” “The Way You Look Tonight” and “My Funny Valentine,” with Scott’s flowery piano work shining through and Hughes playing a lovely bowing solo.  Longtime drummer Denny Dennis kept the time tastefully throughout the night.

Set two kept a good amount of patrons who enjoyed “Once I Loved,” “It’s Almost Like Being in Love,” and Antonio Carlos Jobim’s “Girl From Ipanema.”   Vocal guests sitting in (and enjoyed) were: Cami Silva singing “Angel Eyes” and “On a Clear Day;”  Jennifer Hart singing a novel version of “Someone Else is Stepping In;”  and Becky Gonzales Hughes (Luther’s wife) singing a groovy rendition of “I Love Being Here with You.” Wood closed the set with a driving four feel of “On the Street Where You Live.”

Jack Wood has a gifted CD, The Gal That Got Away (on WoodWorks Music) that he recorded with a number of great musicians, with whom he has shared musical performance credits over his fine singing career.  He also works at several other venues in the Orange County area regularly.  He is definitely recommended.  
 

Glenn A. Mitchell is a bassist and writer for LA Jazz Scene. This review is reprinted with permission from the October 2008 issue. 
 

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