The atmosphere definitely was relaxed and casual when the Russ Peterson Trio took to the Border Concert stage April 7 at Backus Auditorium in International Falls.
Pinch-hitting at the last moment for the ailing Daryle Ryce, Peterson–accompanied by cousin, Linda, on piano and son, Damon, on drums–staged an intimate, cabaret style show aptly titled “Family Ties.”
Peterson lost no time in demonstrating why he has been called “the musicians’ musician.” In an incredible display of versatility, he wowed the crowd with his jazz improvisations on saxophone, flute, trumpet, bass guitar, and clarinet, sliding effortlessly from one instrument to the other.
His creamy Mel Torme-like voice was featured throughout the show in several well-known standards, including, “It Had to be You,” “All of Me,” and “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love.”
Peterson also proved to be quite a standup comedian. The stories and jokes flowed non-stop throughout the evening but he got his biggest laughs with his astounding rendition of “Yakity Sax” (remember the “Benny Hill theme?) played on a mini saxophone, and his remarkable version of “Melancholy Baby” performed on a duck call.
When you can play jazz on a duck call, you’re definitely good.
Pianist Linda Peterson’s keyboard talents provided the perfect accompaniment to the solo instruments, and her silky voice was featured in several numbers, including “I Love Being Here With You,” “The Girl From Ipanema,” and “Someone to Watch Over Me.”
Meanwhile, Damon Peterson demonstrated that not only is he a gifted jazz drummer but a vocalist of considerable skill. His vocal solos included “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay,” “What a Wonderful World,” and a moving interpretation of Erroll Garner’s “Misty.”
The Russ Peterson Trio proved to be a pleasant surprise in this year’s Border Concert series. Sometimes the pinch-hitter turns out to be a game-winner.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
