On a smokin’ hot night (and I mean 102 degrees outdoors and air conditioning issues indoors), the Rams Head in Annapolis, MD was even hotter.  Jazz Attack featuring Peter White, Rick Braun, and Gerald Albright played two sold out shows to very appreciative crowds.  And to back them up was a stellar band that included Nate Phillips (bass), Khari Parker (drums) and surprise keyboardist, Philippe Saisse.

The show started out with the always special, “Cadillac Slim” from Rick Braun, who was out in the crowd for those familiar opening notes.  After he made his way to the stage, he was joined by Peter White, who then took the lead into “Promenade.”  It’s always fun getting the crowd revved up over the old favorites.  Gerald Albright joined Rick and Peter on stage for Gerald’s “I Found A Clue.”  Rick then introduced Philippe Saisse, who was on keys and joined in with Gerald for Rick’s “Tijuana Dance,” a tribute to Herb Alpert.  I love hearing Rick on the flugelhorn, and Gerald Albright was truly killing it on sax.

Peter White was back and joined by Rick Braun for “Who’s That Lady” which morphed into “Papa Was A Rolling Stone.”  The crowd was primed and ready now and starting to get on their feet!  Gerald Albright pulled a song from his 1993 album, Dream Come True for another crowd favorite, “My, My, My.”  Gerald is such a joy to watch.  His playing is so effortless.  It’s like breathing.  Peter White entertained the crowd with the background story of “Ramon’s Revenge.”  Such a fun, Latin-tinged tune!  Rick told the audience about his new project, due out on August 2nd called Sings with Strings, which was recorded with a 51 piece orchestra.  He then sang one of the songs from the album, “Once Upon A Summertime.”  Rick, who long ago was a background singer for Rod Stewart and Sade, has grown so comfortable being out in front as a singer now.  It was a real treat to hear him sing again.

The night began to wind down with Gerald Albright’s “Chips and Salsa,” Peter White’s “Bueno Funk,” and the duo together on Gerald’s “Georgia On My Mind.”  Joined on stage by Rick, the night ended with the always get-on-your-feet song, “Grazin’ In The Grass.”

This was such a fun show with top notch musicians and a crowd that, despite how hot it was indoors and out, got on their feet to cheer and dance.  Jazz Attack is currently touring all over the U.S., so be sure to catch this show if you can.