Think of the era of the jazz greats - the 30's, the 40's, the 50's.
Consider some of the classic songs from the Motown stable in the decade referred to as the Swinging 60's.
Supplement this with the occasional torch song and a few blues numbers mixed with some contemporary tunes.
Now, picture a 17 piece Big-Band, immaculately presented and fronted by one male and two female vocalists delivering all the above in a powerhouse package of glamour, elegance and excitement - and you come close to imagining just what the Metro Big Band is all about!
The Metro Big Band consists of an average of 20 of the most enthusiastic pro and semi-pro players to have entertained Perth audiences in a long time, combining diverse backgrounds in music, rehearsing on a regular basis and culminating in outstanding performances wherever they play.
Metro's personnel come from all walks of life - Greg Marston, the band's alleged "front-man" has over 20 years experience as being one of the most famous "voices" you never see - he's a voice-over and has been heard on most radio stations, web-sites and telephone systems across the planet!
Musical Director Adrian Hicks, a graduate from WAAPA, "cut his teeth" playing with the West Australian Youth Jazz Orchestra (WAYJO) and has shared the stage with many jazz greats including Frank Foster, James Morrison, and Don Burrows.
During his busy career, Adrian has played many styles including Jazz, Rock, Funk, Latin, African and World music. He is currently the Musical Director with The Chameleon Brass Band, The Oz Big Band and plays trumpet with Latin Pop outfit Funkalleros.
And the latest addition is Jonathan Brittain on tenor trombone, who is largely self-taught - but who has played with ARIA nominated artist Andy Cowan.
Altogether, this bunch of eclectic and really talented people make an almighty and highly danceable sound, ideal for bespoke functions, balls, weddings, clubs, town halls, pubs and just about anywhere which could accommodate 20 players who all want to play the same kind of music, entertain an audience, and enjoy themselves whilst doing so!
Snapshot of the Current Repertoire includes -
I've got you under my skin - Frank Sinatra
Respect Aretha - Franklin
Sway - Michael Buble
Stormy weather - Lena Horne
Almost like being in love - Ella Fitzgerald
Ain't that a kick in the head - Dean Martin
Reach out (I'll be there) - Four Tops
Mack the knife - Bobby Darin
Let's get loud - Jennifer Lopez
Minnie the moocher - Cab Calloway
Ain't no mountain high enough - The Supremes
and more
|
