Diane Hubka at the Los Angeles Westin Hotel
by jazzcat on Nov.04, 2004, under News
Even
smooth roads and clear days ahead can take a detour towards Diane
Hubka. She does some interesting arrangements of the standards and even
does some music from a Disney animation film, “The Aristocats” called
“Everybody Digs a Swingin’ Cat”. Truer words were never spoken!
Of course it’s like magic when Theo Saunders takes
over. He delivers with a strong melodic presence and is an outstanding
talent. He was also featured on “Jazz in the Modern Era” the following
week after I made my second appearance on the show. However, tonight he
is swingin’ with us here at the LAX Westin and we can feel it!
Chris Connor and Tim Pleasant round out the trio
with Chris thumping strong and Tim with the wonderfully light
subtleties that ever singer desires. Diane also sang “Dolphin Dance” a
tune written by the one and only Herbie Hancock with lyrics written by
a close friend of hers.
Bruce Escovitz is back with yet another group of
USC students to jam on the breaks. This particular group of young
players has some lush harmonies coming from the front line with sweet
mystic melodies on guitar and the rhythm section was on it! The Piano
player was especially colorful with some dynamic phrasing. From jazz
and bop straight to hip hop, this new breed of lions make it sound all
good.
Diane lets the trio stretch out and you can hear
their cohesive sound and how generously supportive they are with each
others solos. Diane also pulls out her guitar and lays down a nice
Brazilian flavor. This multi-talented musical professional has a brand
new album out called “Look No Further”. I think that speaks for itself.
LeRoy Downs