"The Cookers"–Billy Harper, Cecil McBee et al in Jerusalem

[White Lightning]

The Jerusalem Jazz Festival took place last week. It was a blast. The Location – The open arena @ the Tower of David was simply incredible, with a perfect Jerusalem weather and sound.

The Jazz fest held some very good to excellent concerts, including Slide Hampton's four-trombone band w/Steve Davis, Avi Lebo & Jonathan Volchok (wish you were here, Free for All…)

The highlight of the Jazz fest were the two concerts by "The Cookers" – an all-star septet that our own David Weiss assembled: Eddie Henderson, David Weiss (tp); Craig Handy (as, fl); Billy Harper (ts); George Cables (p); Cecil McBee (b); Gene Jackson (d)

I was lucky to attend both gigs (being the musical advisor has its benefits…). The first one was excellent, but the second was simply amazing. The group had a great choice of songs: Capra Black & Priestess by Billy Harper, one song each by Cecil McBee & George Cables, and a Freddie Hubbard tune from the album "Free for All".

Nice balance between arrangements for 4 horns and great solos. All members were great. I've never heard a bad Billy Harper, especially live. Cecil McBee is still playing amazingly beautiful with atypical choice of notes, Mr. Cables' playing is very tasteful and Gene Jackson's drumming on the 2nd gig drove tirelessly.

It was one of the best concerts I've ever attended.

I took some pics during the soundcheck and the concert – enjoy!

Edited June 24, 2007 by White Lightning

[White Lightning]

Soundcheck

[White Lightning]

The Concert @ the Tower of David

[BFrank]

I think it got lost in the "crash", but thanks - again - for the great pix, Barak.

I saw them (w/Billy Hart on drums) a few weeks ago out here in California. One of the better shows I've seen in a long time.