The family that plays together . . . creates beautiful music. Here are some more performances by the Au Brothers Jazz Band from their October 28, 2011, appearance at the Pismo Beach “Jazz Jubilee by the Sea”: for this occasion, the band was Gordon Au, trumpet; Justin Au, trumpet; Brandon Au, trombone / English baritone; Howard Miyata, tuba. (That’s “Uncle How” to those in the know.) The friends were Katie Cavera, banjo / guitar; Danny Coots, drums — with a few added surprises.
Let’s start with Gordon’s own PISMO BEACH PARADE — a rollicking march which keeps its flavor no matter if it’s performed far from Pismo — say in Brooklyn, New York:
The Brothers welcomed the hot pianist Jeff Barnhart for a little meteorology in PENNIES FROM HEAVEN — sweetly expounded by Uncle How:
I WOULD DO MOST ANYTHING FOR YOU was an occasion to welcome other playful folks to the stand: Bob Draga and Peter Meijers, clarinet; Jeff Beaumont, alto sax — a reed section to match the Au / Miyata brass:
Two satires follow — a slightly modified version of ROCKIN’ CHAIR (“Fetch me that ginseng,” is what I believe we hear):
and I’M GONNA SIT RIGHT DOWN AND WRITE MYSELF A LETTER, its Thirties lyrics updated and reconfigured:
Here’s a groovy SHE’S CRYING FOR ME — with an unidentified young washboardist, stage right, in dialogue with Gordon:
In memory of the Eddie Condon Town Hall concerts, a key-changing OLE MISS:
Although this is a thoroughly mischievous band, they play KEEPIN’ OUT OF MISCHIEF NOW (beginning with the tender verse). And, as for the vocal, it’s Crosby, Columbo, and Miyata:
Let’s conclude with a mellow Fiesta for Brass on the theme of STARDUST:
I doubt that I will ever organize a jazz festival in this life — but this band seems supremely good music and good value. Is anyone listening?
All these nice videos were created by Gene Mondro: thanks and applause to Gene! The comings and goings of the Au Brothers are ly documented here on “Dolphinhunter,” their YouTube channel.