“Lovely Day” by Bill Withers played softly as voices chattered and people filled the seats in the terracotta and butterscotch-colored amphitheater, home to the Walt Disney Concert Hall. It was Friday night, and the main attraction was multi-platinum-selling singer, songwriter, composer, producer, music director, and world-class jazz pianist Patrice Rushen.
“Dorothy from the ‘Wizard of Oz’ was right: there’s no place like home,” Patrice exclaimed.
The Los Angeles native had a treat planned for everyone’s date night with the LA Phil: two acts that showcased her talents as a pianist and a composer, wrapped up in one fantastic show. The first act offered a smooth listening experience with her “Jazz Classics Band,” which featured Ernie Watts on saxophone, Reggie Hamilton on acoustic and electric bass, and Marvin “Smitty” Smith on drums. The second act was a dedication to her 80s-styled dance and radio hits, performed by “The Band,” which included Enzo Iannelli on guitar, Rayford Griffin on drums, Andrew Ford on bass, Rastine Calhon on saxophone, Chris Gray on trumpet, and Alexis Angulo on keyboard and vocals.
When Patrice arrived on stage, the crowd greeted her with a standing ovation. The oohs and ahhs from those in attendance sprinkled the air with excitement as she went straight to work.
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With his glasses resting on the tip of his nose, saxophone player Ernie Watts set the tone for the complex and emotion-driven performance that characterized Act One. The set began with “Shortie’s Portion,” and the sounds produced by the musicians were captivating as the four-piece band smoothly transitioned through its selection of songs, including “I Need You,” “L’Esprit De Joie,” and a hauntingly beautiful rendition of “In a Sentimental Mood,” originally composed by the legendary Duke Ellington.
Patrice took a moment to give the audience some backstory on her composition “Lil’ Bit,” inspired by one of her littlest, feistiest greyhounds, which garnered laughs from everyone. But the central star of act one came from “Frequie Flyiers” by Ernie Watts.
“Yeeshuh! Come on now!” screamed a man in the right corner of the room.
The piece was incredible and challenging to put into words, so I encouraged everyone to hear it for themselves. It was so complex and jaw-dropping to hear and watch. The mechanics and the syncopation that went into playing such a piece were unbelievable.
After a short intermission and set change, it was time to get funky with some old favorites and new hits. When the crowd rose to their feet, they didn’t sit down. For the last 11 songs, everyone in attendance clapped, danced, and took their place as impromptu backup singers for Patrice as they sang favorites like “Settle For My Love,” “Feel So Real,” “Remind Me,” and “Forget Me Nots.” If there had been room to start a line dance, we would have.
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With each passing moment, Patrice Rushen’s confidence radiated as her fingers danced effortlessly across the elegant ivory keys, creating a mesmerizing symphony that captivated the audience. It was the perfect low-lifting night date night.
Afterward, I went home and cracked open some of my vinyls to remember the night.
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