Louisville Music News
July 1st, 2004

Later that week, two guitarists of from a younger generation performed here in Louisville. Tuey Connell, another guitarist of the mainstream school, visited the Jazz Factory two nights later. He began his career with a focus on the banjo, but now focuses not so much on either instrument, but on his vocals. On this tour he was accompanied by pianist David Hazeltine, bassist Neil Minor and drummer Joe Strasser, who graciously allowed Louisville's Jason Tiemann to sit in for several songs. Connell paid respects to his elders with classy renditions of "Born To Be Blue" and "I Just Dropped By To Say Hello," as well as performing several originals, including "Malady" (which Connell said was based on a piece by Sonny Stitt) and a driving number entitled "Fat Chance" and "I Think It's Gonna Work Out Fine" (another original, not the Ike and Tina Turner song). "Malady" and "I Think" are available on his 2003 Minor Music CD entitled Under the Influence. Unfortunately, his appearance coincided with opening week of "Louisville Live," and this may be why the audience was so sparse. Nevertheless, Connell handled the situation like a pro, playing with verve and singing with conviction. Hazeltine, who will be returning to Louisville as part of the Jamey Aebersold Jazz Camp (see below) was excellent throughout, whether tastefully comping or taking the lead with inventive soloing.


Martin Kasdan, Jr.
Jazzin' July 2004

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