Biting Cold doesn't faze Grapelli, Grisman

Posted on Nov 15, 2009 in Reviews | Comments Off on Biting Cold doesn't faze Grapelli, Grisman

By William Johnson
Times Tribune staff

SARATOGA – At the opening concert of the Paul Masson Summer Series Thursday, master jazz Violinist Stephane Grappelli was delightful, but mandolinist David Grisman was sensational.

Grappelli, the 78-year old Parisian, was as lyrical and nimble-fingered as ever, playing the great standards of George Gershwin, Cole Porter and others.

Joined by bassist John Burr and guitarist Marc Fosset, Grappelli swung mightily in quick tempo through “Liza.” “Fascinating Rhythm,” “Blue Moon,” “Chattanooga Choo-Choo,” and other standards in his repertoire. A finger-freezing breeze blew across the Masson hilltop vineyards, but Rappel’s dexterity seemed as remarkable as ever.

Grisman and his new quintet matched the classic Grappelli performance with his own innovative blend of bluegrass and mainstream jazz. Grisman recently added drummer George Marsh to his group, and the consequence is that Grisman’s mandolin playing has gained subtlety.  Apparently freed of time-keeping duties, Grisman played in a happier, more relaxed fashion.  Other members of the band include James Kerwin on bass, Dimitri Vandellos on guitars and Jim Buchanan on violin.

Grisman calls his blend of jazz, old world folk and country “dawg” music.  But propelled by Marsh’s tasty brush work, Grisman is leaning more toward the modern jazz of the recent decades. “Lonesome Moonlight Waltz.” written by the father of bluegrass Bill Monroe, was followed by Miles Davis’ classic “Milestones” and Milt Jackson’s “Bags’ Groove.”  The black-bearded mandolin player also stretched his range of styles with a couple at Latin and Brazilian tunes.