Larry Roland of
The Larry Roland Trio – Jazz and Poetry
Live
Show, Blue Door Gallery, Yonkers, October 19, 2013
Review
by Monique Avakian
It’s like a desert sometimes, this country and the lack of
access to poetry. So when I find an oasis of sound play and thoughtful wondering,
you better believe I am all over it. Apparently, a lot of people have a similar
thirst, because every seat was taken!
On October 19th, listeners at Blue Door Gallery were treated
to a spectacular evening of textural context quietly and powerfully forged.
Through questions and musings posed by poetry and jazz, The Larry Roland Trio
brought us metaphor, sound~play, analogies, improvisation, loving~kindness,
socio-political awareness and intense groove. All the familiar jazz standards
helped the listener absorb the novel words and experience of poetry and music
combined. The group really carried this sub-genre to a deep, yet completely
accessible level. The words truly functioned as another instrument within the
group structure, and the musicians proved adept and responsive to one another
in an authentic and enjoyable way. From the very beginning, the experience
itself came to embody the poet’s quest--all of us “in search of hope” became
part of the “continuous pursuit (that) manifests.”
Dwayne Cook Broadnax on drums had a very small ride cymbal
on a very small kit—a thoughtful choice that fit the realities of the room. His
style was very commanding, yet completely quiet. I would describe him as
skilled at leading from the back, which is very hard to do when poetry is
involved. Though the words are structured, Mr. Roland’s rhythms are always
variable and completely live in the moment. Mr. Broadnax rose to the occasion,
showing a quiet, restrained leadership while playing completely in-the-pocket throughout
the evening.
Waldron Ricks, on trumpet, also complimented the group
without dominating. Playing on a horn specially made by Dave Monette in Oregon,
Mr. Rick’s sound was warm and embracing. His style enhanced the words and the
music equally, and he was not afraid of space during solos. His horn was very
vibrant even when still. The bell on this instrument seemed very unique; truly
one-of-a-kind. I can’t get the look of the bell out of my mind! So symbolic of
the quality of the evening, where the listener was drawn in and in and in…..
As for the poetry, sometimes spoken word is off-putting to
some people as the “one-up-man-ship” involved in the competitive aspect takes
away from the connection between poet and audience. None of that is part of
Larry Roland’s universe, where generosity and gentleness embrace and engage the
listener. The man is totally for real and seeks connection at all turns. The
content of his poetry is direct, deep, serious and well-crafted. Mr. Roland
often writes about family and friends, with themes situated within a
socio-historical context as well as the larger philosophical questions germane
to the human condition. I think Larry Roland is especially powerful precisely
because he asks a lot of questions. He takes you on a thoughtful journey that
leaves you in a place of reverence for life. Larry Roland (who also plays bass)
is a philosopher for Every Man.
After the program, as the large crowd spilled into the
street, I was struck by the vibe carried forth by the people, who were clearly
buoyed and sustained by the experience. During the break, Mr. Roland had stated:
“I’m just tryin’ to be a force for good, you know what I mean? That’s where I’m
coming from.”
It was evident from the timbre of the listener’s voices, as
well as from the word choice involved in their reactions, that The Larry Roland
Trio had succeeded in transforming the people who had come to hear.
Next performance
of poetry and jazz at Blue Door:
Nov. 22
7-9pm
The Jazz & Poetry Choir Collective
Michael TA Thompson (conductor)
Golda Solomon
E.J. Antonio
Will Connell, Jr.
Rosi Hertlein
Larry Roland
Physlisha Villanueva
Blue Door Gallery -- just a hop, skip and a jump down
Warburton
