Any fans of Ken Peplowski here?
I thought I knew the jazz scene moderately well but, earlier this year I had the good fortune to be at the Deerhead Inn in Delaware Water Gap, Pa. when Ken Peplowski was playing. Till that night I never had heard of him but he was the cleanest, best toned clarinet and sax player that I have ever witnessed. Turns out he has been around for ages and played with many if not most of the greats. PLUS for us audiophiles I was pleased to find his recordings are almost always top notch! So far I have not found one recording of his that is not a delight to listen to. His timing is impeccable while at the same time appearing effortless. I really enjoyed how he employed dynamics at the Deerheard that night to raise and lower the level of his playing. He would occasionally take the melody so soft the whole club would hush so that they could follow him. The Deerhead is always great that way. When they have a master like Mr. Peplowski they respond and the crowd there is almost always courteous and respectful of the performers, not talking while the performance is in progress. If you are ever in the area you should not miss a chance to visit this club, it is a bit of Jazz history, America's oldest continuously performing jazz club!
@bruce19 Thanks for your post. Listening to Ken Peplowski’s "In Search Of..." The DWG reference brings back good memories. It was on my commute. Also, many rides in / through the area. My ancestors (Mom’s side) first settled in Stroudsburg. I’ll have to stop by the Deerhead Inn when I’m in the area next. |
Monster player. A traditionalist; more to the “Swing” side of things and probably why he is not better known. I agree with your description. Glad that you have discovered him. The Deerhead Inn is a Jazz institution. The Delaware Water Gap was home to the great Phil Woods who appeared there very frequently. Great place. , |
