In Culver City at the internationally renown Jazz Bakery, a non-profit haven for “A” list jazz musicians and jazz enthusiasts that appreciate a top-notch listening venue, is where jazz vocalist virtuoso Kenny Washington performed to a lively audience on Wednesday night. For those who have never heard his voice, he is a must-hear performance. From Ella Fitzgerald to Stevie Wonder, Washington has captured them all and then some adding his own unique dynamic to the mix. From his sultry, soul-filled tenor tones to a falsetto that challenges even Prince’s vocal range to his percolating scat that emerges as he transforms his entire being into the expansive sounds he creates, Washington has truly mastered his craft.
“He is the real deal!” said Brad Williams of KKJZ 88.1 as he gave a heart-felt shout out to Washington after he and his hired accompanists Jeff Colella on piano, Chris Colangelo on bass
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and Steve Hass on drums finished their first set. In an earlier interview held that day, Williams mentioned that Washington arrived sounding like the raspy-voiced late and great Miles Davis due to a head cold. But no one would have guessed it after hearing Washington’s crystal clear vocals. The fusion of sound from Colella’s flawless piano to Colangelo’s fretless bass rhythms to Hass’s unlimited talent on drums combined with Washington’s perfect pitch vocals was an experience that is beyond words.
As the band wrapped up playing the jazz standard “Summertime” after a bit of play between the musicians, Washington said with a smile, “we don’t know which way were going but it’s fun getting there” as the audience laughed and clapped for more. His much-awaited latest CD release “Kenny Washington LIVE at Anna's Jazz Island” features a rich array of jazz classics from “All Blues” to “I’ve got you under my skin” and is a must have for anyone who loves jazz. Ruth Price, the Jazz Bakery’s founder has already asked Kenny Washington to return for an extended run so make sure to check back at www.jazzbakery.com for upcoming performances.
