Pizzazz Music

The Bristol Luxury Condominiums hosts a poolside and penthouse jazz soiree for the French-American Chamber of Commerce. This snazzy event is for professionals who are interested in networking and meeting internationally minded individuals. Take a sneak peek at the new penthouses and dance to the music of Lauren Lombardo and Pizzazz International Jazz! The Bristol offers the ultimate choice for in-town living with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding metropolis matched with elegance, grandeur and convenience, giving city living a new description.
Tuesday, August 25 from 6-8 p.m. - PR Boutique

Singer Lauren Lombardo performed with the Ray Armando band at Lunaria's in September. Lombardo is a new vocalist in town, from Houston, Texas and has only been in town a few months. The band that backed her up included Ray Armando on timbales, Robertito Melendez on congas, pianist Rick Olsen and Kevin o'Neil on bass. Lombardo said she had been singing a lot of Latin tunes back in Houston and hopes to continue her career here in L.A. The band backed her up with spirit and energy.
The musicians did a pretty "Morning" by Clare Fischer. Olsen is a fine pianist but he had to work with a very out of tune piano. He still managed to sound pretty good despite it. Lombardo did a nice version of "Fascinating Rhythm", done in a Latin style and Olsen did a good job of supplying a strong Latin groove. Armando, Melendez and O'Neil were right in there supplying the right rhythms and excitement. "Autumn Leaves" started off with Lombardo singing in French, then went into the Latin style. Lombardo ended the tune with English lyrics. Jobim's "How Insensitive" featured the entire ensemble. "Bluesette" was done in 3/4 Latin style and had a lively, happy feel. Olsen's solo was another highlight. "Quand Tu Dors" was a slow and pretty French tune, with just Armando, O'Neil and Olsen. "Watch What Happens" was a fine version from the group.
Despite a small crowd the performers were real troupers, who put on a good show.

Author: Bob Comden "Bob's Beat" - L.A. Jazz Scene