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Story and Photos by James Walker, Jr.
Close Up 2 continues to showcase Chicago's finest smooth jazz artists and on
February 20th , guitarist Buddy Fambro and his "band-mates" graced the stage
before an enthusiastic crowd. Joining Buddy was bassist Chuck Webb, drummer
Tyrone Blair and keyboardist "Kapt" Will Kurk. It was such a pleasure to see
Buddy fronting his own ensemble, as he's often performing as a "sideman" with
some of Chicago's outstanding jazz aggregates. On this occasion as a leader, he
demonstrated why he' s often in demand when bands are looking for an experienced
guitarist who's capable of performing several genres of jazz and R&B.
Upon arriving , the band was playing "Cast Your Fate To The Wind." This is a
beautiful number taken from Buddy's 2004 CD entitled Higher Consciousness.
Chuck Webb, performing with his electric bass on this occasion was in a "zone"
all night long and on this number, he thrilled the crowd while "spanking" the
bass on an extended solo. This writer has seen him perform quite frequently
lately after his successful 2 year stint as bassist for the play "Jersey Boys"
ended when it left Chicago.
Former Chicagoan Phil Upchurch's "No Sooner Said Than Done" afforded "Kapt" Kurk
an opportunity to work the keyboard for a solid extended solo. Webb again was
highlighted as he worked his bass sliding from top to bottom. He's
enjoying his new freedom of playing regularly in clubs that wasn't possible
when he was in "Jersey Boys" pit five and six days a week.
Buddy coaxed a friend into joining the band for a number. Vocalist Mario Conner
rendered a sultry version of "What You Do For Love." The crowd loved the full
golden tone sound of this baritone.
Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On" allowed Buddy to unleash his fleet fingers with
fluidity. He absolutely hit his peak on this classic R&B number,
passionately shifting into overdrive.
Drummer Blair experienced his finest moment of the set on "Bumpin on
Sunset" and "Eleanor Rigby." His extended solo was full of original ideas while
maintaining melodic integrity. Often drum solos lose their purpose, but Blair
was in complete control on this beautiful number.
Buddy concluded his set with an original "Bar B Que Shuffle" which will appear
on his up and coming CD.
For information about future CU2 events, refer to their website at
www.closeup2jazz.com.
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