The Kentucky Symphony Orchestra continues its 25th summer in Devou Park featuring its newest subsidiary group — the K-so Combo.
After the Swing and Big Band eras of the 1930s-40s, instrumental songs appeared frequently on the charts and were heard blaring from car and transistor radios everywhere. Alas, in the early 90s the pop instrumental disappeared as rap, country and hip-hop began to dominate the airwaves.
Since many of these nostalgic instrumental tunes require a real stylistic understanding of jazz, rock, blues, and funk, the KSO pulled together the top musicians from across the region to perform a range of music that was popular in their youth.
K-so Combo in concert
The group’s engine features Steve Mason (keys), Aaron Jacobs (bass) and John Taylor (drums), together with guitarist Bradford Myers, and a horn section including Rick VanMatre (reeds & flute), Matt Anklan, (trumpet) and Dominic Marino (trombone and arranger).
Together with a small string section and a couple of extra sidemen, the K-so Combo offers up instrumental tunes that audiences will rarely hear performed live today. Many of these selections folks will recognize and associate with advertising (“Music to Watch Girls By” — Diet Pepsi) or link them to sports and entertainment (“Love’s Theme” — PGA, “Soul Bossa Nova” — Austin Powers, “Rise”— General Hospital).
Even big Rock groups dabbled in purely instrumental music (Rush, Edgar Winter).
“These instrumentals were certainly popular in their day, but they had lasting qualities that extended their play far beyond the Billboard charts,” says KSO Music Director James Cassidy.
So, “Hustle” down to the bandshell as the KSO cooks up some tasty “Green Onions” and a little Woodstock vintage “Soul Sacrifice.” “(Hawaii) 5-0” and “S.W.A.T.” will patrol the perimeter and provide security. After the show, we hope you’ll stay and help us “Pick up the Pieces.” By the way, if you see him, tell “Shaft” that “Lily was Here.”
Picnics are welcome, though drinks and concessions will be available.
Join James Cassidy and the K-so Combo for the Symphony’s 25th Summer (and Toyota’s 20th summer as presenting sponsor) in Devou Park, Saturday, August 3, at 7:30 p.m.
The TANK Shuttle from the Covington Catholic parking lot to the bandshell runs from 6:00 -7:30 p.m (returning around 9:30 p.m. following the concert) for $1 each way.
Bring blankets or lawn chairs. Free admission and parking, though donations are suggested. For more information, visit the KSO at www.kyso.org or call (859) 431- 6216.
