Concert of the Week

Oh my cow! Last night I went to the Pink Martini CD release concert at the Arlene Schnitzer concert hall. It was one of the best concerts I've ever been to. China Forbes is a treat to listen to, and even better live. Their four percussionists are extremely versatile, switching instruments for each song. The trombone player gets a pure trombone sound out of his horn, the pitch was in the center for each note. Tom Lauderdale is the single most enjoyable pianist to watch. He is engaged, vibrant, entertaining, passionate, and a killer musician. At one point he was playing the piano, singing in a different language and conducting a choir. He uses the entire piano keyboard, giving the music a layered feel with a depth that isn't found in other groups.

The sound of Pink Martini can not be categorized. It is jazz, world, samba, classical, popular, latin, big band, small ensemble, movie music, and pretty much everything else you can think of. Their new album, Hey Eugene! is a perfect mix of all of these. I've been arguing with my dad over weather or not this album is better than their second one, Hang on Little Tomato, but one thing is for sure, it is pure Pink Martini magic.

If you ever get the chance to see them in concert, do it! They are some of the most enjoyable performers I've experienced, and their concerts will not disappoint you!