Christopher McDonald (left), Dean Fraser (centre) and Seretse Small on stage at 'Jazz in the Gardens' on Sunday. - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer It seemed nature was especially kind on Sunday, given the wonderful backdrop against which 'Jazz in the Gardens', held at the Pegasus Hotel, took place.
It was one of those rare evenings when there was a chill in the air, and there is no better time to be in a delightful garden listening to live soulful music. Nature was enhanced a bit - the trees were subtly peppered with beautiful lights which created an atmosphere of fantasy.
Della Manley opened the show and, as usual, served up a delightful performance, taking her audience through a six-song set.
As she sat there strumming her guitar, it became difficult at times to tell what was causing the goosebumps - Della Manley's soulful voice or the cool air.
Perched on a stool, Manley gave the audience Autumn Leaves before segueing into My Favourite Things. This song was enhanced by a passionate delivery from Seretse Small who supported her on guitar. Small delivered an captivating solo and earned himself a healthy round of applause from the appreciative audience.
The song itself was well received by the audience.
The Dream, often referred to as Why was next, followed by City Lights. The performance of this song was good to its last note. City Lights causes the mind and soul to come together in a fashion that only beautiful jazz on a Sunday evening can inspire.
Throughout Manley's performance, the audience nodded their heads and moved their feet as the jazz captivated their spirits and caused them to surrender helplessly.
Manley dedicated her next song, Bittersweet, to her husband, and in honour of 23 years of marriage.
The Garden/Why concluded her set.
Michael Anthony Cuffe, who hosted the programme, apologised for the absence of renowned guitarist Ernest Ranglin. He said that Ranglin was regrettably absent because of his overseas obligations. However, the audience was quickly appeased when young prodigy, 10-year-old Christazia Barnes took the stage to perform Celine Dion's My Heart Will Go On. The youngster captivated the audience with her voice and confident performance and they responded accordingly.
The evening's entertainment changed from smooth, soulful music, to more up-tempo segment masterminded by saxophonist Dean Fraser, who took everyone on a musical journey.
Fraser deliverd a lively, energetic and uplifting performance, letting loose the good vibes. Fraser delighted the audience with his mastery of the his instrument. At times it was a lullaby, soothing, almost lulling you to sleep while at other times it was stimulating totally energising.
His performance was sparkling, energetic, and he, too, was having fun as he teased and tantalised the audience.
His third song, Bank of a River, written by Harry Butler, was pure delight. The music began with a slow, romantic pace, creating the same effect as a morning sunrise. The piece had many moods, ranging from dreamy, to upbeat and giddy as smooth jazz was merged with an infectious reggae beat. His effort was rewarded with thunderous applause. His set included Dick Tracy, None A Jah Jah Children, and Lil' Darling.
What the audience got on Sunday was an exciting blend of music. Seretse Small also accompanied Dean Fraser, which delighted the audience. Christopher McDonald, who took control of the keyboard also gave a splendid contribution. Desi Jones added the sound of the drums with African Elation, which paid tribute to our African heritage. It was splendid. The various sounds, soft beats, hard beats and thumps combined well to create a delicious symphony.
Fraser soon returned to the stage. The audience was growing hungrier by the minute and before long they were calling for "Diamonds!" Their desire was indulged and this positive and happy song was served.
Fraser got the audience involved, telling them he wanted to create a multi-rhythmic pattern. The large audience was divided into three parts and given one of three lines, 'la la, la', 'a la la ooh' and 'ooh ooh'. The involvement of the audience added fun and excitement to the evening's entertainment.
He quit ahead of the game but a unanimous clamour recalled him for an encore. One member of the audience shouted for a 'Bob'. His request was met with a four-song Marley medley, consisting of Small Axe, Jammin, Africa Unite and Redemption Song. Dean Fraser also teamed up with Della Manley to render Wait in Vain.
Redemption Song was well delivered and closed the show on a wonderful and positive note. The master saxophonist closed his eyes throughout the performance of the song.
The other member of the team was Glen Browne, who supplied bass. The event was well-worth attending and a good time was had by all.
