Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Don't miss the Freddy Cole Quartet


Jazz lovers in Asheville are in for a real treat this Saturday, July 31st as Freddy Cole, brother to Nat King Cole, takes the stage starting at 8:00PM in the Diana Wortham Theatre.

With his signature elegance and authentic cool, legendary vocalist-pianist Freddy Cole's performances make every audience members' heart smile. The New York Times recently heaped rare praise in Cole's direction: "Freddy has an impeccable sense of swing...he is, overall, the most maturely expressive male jazz singer of his generation, if not the best alive."

Cole doesn't apologize for a style that faintly echoes his brother, Nat "King" Cole. There are certain unmistakable similarities. He plays piano masterfully and sings and performs live with guitar and upright bass, just like Nat. Yet his voice is raspier, smokier, jazzier even. In truth, his phrasing is far closer to that of Frank Sinatra or Billie Holiday than that of his brother and his timing swings a little more. His vocals-suave, elegant, formidable, and articulate-are among the most respected in jazz.

If you would like to learn more about the show visit the WNC Jazz Society's site. There you can also listen to select audio clips of Freddy's music. If you are traveling in from out of town and need a place to stay, check out these great hotels.

No comments: