Dan and Chris Brubeck, sons of legendary jazz pianist Dave
Brubeck, brought their family’s secret recipe to Harro
East Ballroom on Sunday night. The Brubeck Brothers Quartet drew a large crowd, perhaps due to the family
name. People sat mesmerized, taking in a healthy balance of original tunes,
Dave Brubeck classics, and jazz standards.
Regardless of origin, each piece flowed from the Quartet with
impeccable ease. I have never seen an act that felt more at home on stage. Each
member’s instrument seemed like an extension of his body, and it all came
together to create a perfect storm of quick rhythms and complicated chords. As
intricate and ornate as the music was, the Quartet made it look easy, never
once breaking a sweat.
Although each member brought impressive talent, pianist
Chuck Lamb was a standout. His fingers flew lightly across the keys. In
addition, Chris Brubeck demonstrated a rare mastery of the trombone, producing
distinctly clear melodies on an instrument that can easily sound muddy.
Despite the large, fancy venue, the gig had a relaxed and
intimate feel. Chris talked fondly about growing up surrounded by legendary
musicians like drummer Joe Morello.
It was like being privy to a living room jam session in the
Brubeck house. Each tune felt like a gift passed down through the lineage of
the Brubeck family.
Tomorrow, I’ll be back at Harro
East to hear another artist with impressive musical roots: Catherine Russell, daughter of the late Luis Russell. Russell’s
vocals have been highly praised in the music media, so I’m excited to hear her
for myself.
This article appears in Jun 25 – Jul 1, 2014.
