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Roy Ayres
@ Ronnie Scott's, London
17 January 2005 (photography 17 & 19 January)
Click an image to enlarge.
Biography
For nearly four decades LA-born Roy Ayres has shared
his gift of music with millions of people around the globe. Roy
began his quest after he was given his first set of mallets from
his idol Lionel Hampton at the age of seventeen. Roy worked with
Teddy Edwards, Vi Redd and Chico Hamilton and later spent a solid
four years perfecting his vibe playing style with Herbie Mann, then
forming his own band ‘Ubiquity’ in 1970.
The following years proved fruitful for Roy, producing
many ‘must have’ soul /funk albums with the Polydor
label as well as starting his now infamous touring schedule, which
further cemented his popularity. Signing with Columbia Records in
the early 1980’s, Roy incorporated funk & R ‘n’B
styles into his music, which spawned club classics such as “Running
away” & “Everybody loves the sunshine”. He
continues to be a credible force in the ever-changing fickle world
called ‘The Music Industry’, with outstanding contributions
to major talents such as Eric Benet and Erykah Badu to name just
a few.
Review
Though I have grown older I have not necessarily
become wiser. I still search for the answer to many questions, for
example, why I have consistently missed Roy Ayres gigs over the
years? It seems he has become a regular visitor to our capital city,
more regular than myself.
It is has been at least four years since my last
visit to Soho’s Ronnie Scott’s, ‘an institution’
which has seen hundreds of accomplished musicians pass through it’s
very tight 46 year old doors. It seems not much has changed in the
past 46 years, but as the words of the memorable Sam Cooke classic
would say… “a change gonna come”.
Roy Ayres is an extremely gifted musician who has
clearly understood the power of sharing such a gift with individuals
who love and appreciate him. Without his
co-operation it would not have been ‘difficult’ to continue
my quest.
Roy’s entrance onto the Ronnie Scott’s
stage was reminiscent of a man walking into the living room of his
own home. The intimate dimly lit setting with close table arrangement
is a Jazz haven and the mature patrons dream. After brief comical
banter with band member and long time friend Ray Gaskins, Roy began
his ‘patron friendly’ set with a triple treat “Can’t
you see me”, immediately putting his precious magical mallets
to use with such precision delicacy and now renown funky timing,
followed by “Running Away” continuing explosive vibraphone
passions into “Evolution”.
It is said that a musician rarely performs a song
the same way twice. As this is the first time I have seen Roy Ayres
live it is hard for me to verify this, but I would be surprised
if it is possible to replicate the mellow Rick James / Frank Sinatra
inspired version of “Sweet Tears”, with expanded improv
sax solo performed by Ray Gaskins. Unselfishly Roy handed leadership
to Gaskins on several occasions, allowing him to smooch on keyboards
and offer a vibrant, reflective vocal performance on his own composition
“Shady Lane”. Then sliding seamlessly into a vocal and
visually grinding performance of Marley’s “Waiting In
Vain”. Drummer Troy Miller let loose a 'hurricane force solo',
only easing off to step into gear for the audience sing along of
“Everybody Love’s The Sunshine”.
Roy's ability to personalise every song 'vocally',
without steering too far from the original song's essence is refreshing.
“I wanna touch ya baby”, and “Can't you see me”
where both given the 'Roy-Ray' unique funky improv stamp.
By the time Roy and band had completed this set, you felt you had
spent the evening being entertained by close friends, or family
members in the privacy of your own home. If only my friends and
family shared such diverse talent!
My New Year resolution is to ensure I do not
miss Roy Ayres future gigs!
Musicians:
Roy Ayres – vibraphone & vocals, Ray Gaskins – saxophone,
keyboards & vocals
Mark Adams – keyboards, Donald Nicks – bass guitar,
Tony Smith – lead guitar
Troy Miller - drums
Robin Francis
© Michael Valentine Studio.
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