words by Patty Riek
photos by Jon Bauer
When Greg Stern (CEO of SFJAZZ) introduced the Stanley Clarke and Hiromi (Uehara) duo at SFJAZZ last night, he said that the audience was in for a real treat by two “virtuosos.” Not only is this absolutely true, the treat was more than a technical demonstration of talent. These two masters put on a joyful clinic displaying their talents in myriad ways.
During the two duet sessions, Clarke and Hiromi offered a vibrant musical conversation. Clarke’s would posit an idea via his bass, and listening intently, Hiromi waited fingers hovering above the keys for the perfect moment for her pianic response.
Clarke’s solo session showcased why he is credited with putting the bass in the spotlight. Clarke plays the bass as if it were part percussion instrument as well as part cello. Clarke’s expertise allowed him to evoke the full range of human emotion in a 15 minute featured solo.
Likewise, Hiromi’s solo set offered musical storytelling spotlighting her vivacious view of music. Her featured performance during the solo had her signature levity, gravitas, and vocalizations.
A notable highlight was during a Chick Corea song (“Chuck” if you heard his story about Mel Tormé introducing Chick on his TV show long ago) where Clarke turned his chair and bass toward Hiromi to continue their music conversation. Converse they did – as they went back and forth with musical quips that were mischievous and moving. As the audience soaked in the dialogue with great enthusiasm evidenced by multiple standing ovations.
Clarke and Marcus Miller are at SFJAZZ on Saturday, September 7; Stanley Clarke N 4Ever perform Sunday, September 8. Fans of Hiromi can see her again in April as she returns to SFJAZZ for 4 nights to SFJAZZ with her “Sonicwonder” quartet.
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