Ballads, Burners and Blues by Allan Vache

24 Apr

Written by Richard Bourcier
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Fans of National Public Radio will instantly associate Allan Vache with the networks respected Riverwalk jazz series. Vache was clarinetist with the Texas based Jim Cullum Jazz Band for twenty years. Many of the other players in Allan Vache’s group were also frequently heard on the Live From The Landing broadcasts.

Born in New Jersey, the clarinetist now lives in Orlando, Florida where he often appears at Disney World, Church Street Station and Rosie O’Grady’s. Vache has played with the cream of traditional jazz musicians over the years including legends Wild Bill Davison, Max Kaminsky, Bob Haggart, Clark Terry and many more.

The recording units on this CD vary in format from one track to another to accommodate the mood of the piece performed. Material comes from New Orleans, big band favorites and mainstream jazz spanning many decades. It’s the kind of jazz albums that is enjoyed for personal listening or at a party.

Allan Vache is an inventive player who explores the outer limits of his chosen instrument to perfection. Reed fans will really appreciate Ballads, Burners and Blues. My particular favorites include It Could Happen To You, Lazy Mood, Yellow Dog Blues and I’m Glad There Is You. The latter features the piano work of Mark Shane. The pianist is a great asset to the Vache outfit and it’s impossible to ignore his indefatigable accompaniment on this recording. Very nice jazz!

Additional Info

Artist / Group Name: Allan Vache
CD Title: Ballads, Burners and Blues
Genre: Traditional / New Orleans
Year Released: 2004
Record Label: Arbors Jazz
Tracks: The Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gives To Me; It Could Happen To You; Some Of These Days; I’m Glad There Is You; Yellow Dog Blues; Lazy Mood; Besame Mucho; It’s All Right With Me; Prof’s Blues; A Minor Majority; Danny Boy; Our Day Will Come.
Musicians: Allan Vache (clarinet, vocal, leader); Ed Polcer (cornet); Dan Barrett (trombone); Mark Shane (piano); Phil Flanigan (bass); Ed Metz Jr. (drums); Vanessa Vache (clarinet on track 10).
Label Website: http://www.aborsrecords.com
Rating: Four Stars