Column: All That Jazz

Peruvian Singer Noel Brings Salsoul to Stage

By BARRY BLITZER Post Columnist There was a sell-out crowd last Thursday evening at the Skirball Center, and no wonder, the attraction was Cecilia Noel & the Wild Clams. While not exactly a household name in the Palisades, Noel has been called the Latin Tina Turner and has arguably been compared to the legendary icon Janis Joplin. A native of Peru, vocalist Noel and her 16-piece band played a torrid selection of sambas, rumbas and mambos, some with familiar melodies like ‘El Cumbanchero,’ ‘Carlito’s Way’ and ‘Tu Condena.’ As she subsequently explained, they were all part of her interpretive Afro-Latino/Motor City creation known as ‘Salsoul.’ If you’re turned on to percussion–in this case the infectious rhythm of bongos, congas and timbales, as played by percussionists Ricky Rodriguez, Handark Lozano and Cesar Chavez’the Skirball was a dream come true. You couldn’t help but get up and dance, along with the hundreds of other spectators. For that matter, who could resist the three enticing young singers and dancers on stage in addition to the ear-splitting shouts and erotic gyrations of Cecilia No’l in person? Approaching the show’s finale, she joined in an up-tempo duet with her Australian husband, guitarist Colin Hay of ‘Men at Work’ fame (a mega-hit from the 80s). All of which brings up a negative comment: As entertaining and exciting as the show was, there was a dire need for a slow ballad or two that would give both the audience and performers time for a breather–or to coin a phrase: ‘Less is more.’ Still and all, we’re indebted to the Skirball for presenting Noel & The Wild Clams. Let’s hope they’ll be back next summer. There’s no excuse for missing them. Call (310) 440-4500 for pertinent info. Labor Day weekend is looming and what better way for jazz buffs to celebrate than by heading south for ‘The Sweet & Hot Music Festival’ at the LAX Marriott Hotel. Performing artists include ace trumpeter Jack Sheldon & his Concert Band and the fabulous if seldom-heard guitarist Howard Alden. Not to forget the singer/raconteur Ernie Andrews along with the ever-popular vocalist from years gone by, the legendary Herb Jeffries. For reservations call the Jazz Festival office (310) 461-5570. Finally, a sincere reminder to keep listening to jazz station KJAZZ, 88.1 on your FM dial. Also be advised that this is the first ‘All That Jazz’ column that didn’t mention The Jazz Bakery in Culver City. There’s nothing like will power.