They kicked off the set with “In a Mellow Tone.” There were some nice choruses by Dechter along with jubilant solo work from Hendelman, a feisty solo by Clayton and a cooking solo from Hamilton.  Steamers was packed and the audience gave lots of applause right away.   Next was an up-tempo number, “Broadway,” from the CD. Dechter moved briskly through several choruses of this classic tune and Hendelman performed a phenomenal solo beyond belief!  Hamilton played a driving solo, capturing the audience’s appreciation.  “Wave,” a Jobim classic, was arranged by Dechter when he was 19.  With Hendelman on board, it was re-written, some by the pianist, but the rest by Dechter, and is a suave, beautiful piece that everyone truly enjoyed.  Hoagy Carmichael’s “The Nearness of You” was a “killer” ballad arranged by Dechter, but had some gorgeous swing in its midsection.   

Dechter is technically perfect in all of his musical styles and approach.  He already has a pleasing stage presence.  Jazz fans have a lot to look forward to with him!  He introduced his father, Brad Dechter, who was in the audience and who composed the title tune of Right on Time, a very nifty jazz number. Duke Ellington’s “I Ain’t Got Nothing but the Blues,” a down and dirty soulful blues, closed the first set.  The sensational Graham Dechter Quartet received a standing ovation.  See www.grahamdechter.com. Highly recommended! 

Reprinted with permission from the November issue of L.A. Jazz Scene