Tue Nov 4
Urban Renewal Big Band • Holiday Big Band Series
7PM / $15 - $30 | $3.50 Fees Get Tickets
Urban Renewal
The Urban Renewal Big Band returns to the world-famous Jazz Kitchen with an evening we call "The Best Of ..." In recent years, the band has performed shows of a particular musical or cultural theme. For this occasion, the band is reaching into our library of 250+ original arrangements to present some of our favorite tunes we have not played recently as well as some all-new arrangements written for this show. And of course, we will end the show with a set of music to help you get into the holiday spirit.
The Urban Renewal Big Band has its roots in the Jimmy Coe Orchestra, which was a band dating from the 1960s, born of the Count Basie tradition, performing modern jazz as well as popular music loved by generations. Members of that orchestra formed a “Who’s Who” of the golden age of Indiana Avenue.
Following Coe's death in 2004, trumpeter Cliff Ratliff and singer Larry Greene decided to form a band that would carry on the tradition of “urban jazz”, meaning a heavy concentration on a tight rhythm section, strong groove, and inspiring improvisation. Thus, the Clifford Ratliff Big Band was formed.
Today, we aim to continue this tradition and have adopted the name Urban Renewal Big Band, a multi-generational and multi-cultural band. Cliff appears most nights in the trumpet section, and Jimmie Coe Jr. continues as band manager. Unlike other big bands in the area, the Urban Renewal Big Band performs all its own arrangements, many penned by Rudy Finnell, for a performance that is unlike any others.
7PM / $15 - $30 | $3.50 Fees Get Tickets