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The vocal techniques of Nat King Cole, the tonal fluidity of Johnny Hartman, the ability to personalize a composition like Louis Armstrong, the soulful inflections of Marvin Gaye, and the ability to delicately dance around the notes of a melody like Sarah Vaughn, personifies the vocal stylings of A. London Arrington. London’s lyrical imagery makes the listener feel as though the compositions are autobiographical. The willingness to ride the ebb and flow of a composition’s chord progression into the uncharted land of improvisation, is an adventure that he will readily set sail for every time the tune leaves the dock on a musical expedition. That exploration is what he lives for.

Playing the trombone during his formative years gave London the affinity for the warm, strong, and soothing tones that are present when he sings. The rich tonality of a well played trombone is the benchmark that this vocalist strives for with each note that is articulated. His fascination with Marvin Gaye’s crooning style makes London delve deeply into soulful interpretations of a classic jazz standard, while maintaining the classic framework of the composition; a style comparable to that of Nat King Cole or Frank Sinatra. His playfulness and ability to connect with the audience provides the same feeling that one may experience while watching footage of Louis Armstrong. London creates such a companionable atmosphere which influences the audience to become friends with him and the music by the end of the show.    more


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  London Arrington:
lead and background vocals
Wycliffe Gordon: piano, keys, trumpet, trombone, background vocals
Mike Tanksley: guitar, background vocals
David Weston: electric bass, background vocals
Mike West: drums
Erik Hargrove: drums, percussion
1 That's How I Roll
2 I Love You
3 Dear God...
4 More Than Words Can Say
5 I Got Love For You
6 Since You've Been Gone
7 You've Changed
8 "Jimmy Gotta Gun!!!"
9 My Brothers' Keeper
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WYCLIFFE WITH JAY LEONHART
l LONDON ARRINGTON l WYCLIFFE GORDON l TOMOKO l MICHAEL DEASE
© 2008 Bluesback Records inc. Design > Janis Wilkins > ArtGraphica