Jazz artists Les DeMerle and Bonnie Eisele are releasing a new CD in March of this year. The 10th recording of renowned drummer Les DeMerle for Origin Records, “Hot Night in Venice” captures the fire, excitement and bristling energy Les has been bringing to world stages for over 50 years. And a show it is, as his longtime quartet offers up tight arrangements of jazz classics and serious in-the-pocket blues, but most of all, the band is groovin’ hard, havin’ fun and swingin’ big time. Bonnie Eisele’s sensitive, sassy vocals highlight the set, creating an ambiance that adds to the feeling of being at the club enjoying the set. From his ground-breaking Transfusion band of the late ’60s, taking over Buddy Rich’s seat with the Harry James Orchestra for 12 years, or his tours with the Manhattan Transfer and Wayne Newton, Les DeMerle has always been about elevating the band, bringing a visceral, unbridled dynamism to the stage.
“Hot Night in Venice” can be purchased at Story and Song Bookstore Bistro at 1430 Park Avenue, Fernandina Beach.