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Hot! Episode #67

Episode #67

Recording Date: July 27, 2014
Location: SubCat Studios, Syracuse, NY

Musicians:
Dave Hanlon
John Viavattine, Jr.
Brian Golden
Mark Nanni
Bob Viavattine
John Viavattine, Sr.

Songs:
Summertime
Work Song
Stormy Monday Blues
Come Together
Watermelon Man

We recorded this session of Studio Jams at SubCat Recording Studios in Syracuse, NY (USA). It is somewhat unique, in that all of the musicians involved are from the Central New York area. This was also the third of three different sessions we taped there that day.

We had six musicians participate in this session. From Syracuse, we had Dave Hanlon on drums, Mark Nanni on keyboards and Brian Golden on guitar and vocals. Joining us from nearby Rochester, NY (about an hour away) were saxophonist John Viavattine, Sr., his brother Bob Viavattine on trumpet, and his son, John Viavattine, Jr. on bass. Dave, Mark, and John Jr. had all been on the show before so they knew what to expect. They knew the vibe. It was, however, the first appearance for the others.

To me, it’s always fun to see how musicians interact during the first song they play in each of these sessions. To see the musicians both “play it safe” and also “stretch a little” for the benefit of one another. Personally, I loved how this one started. To open the session, Mark suggested the George Gershwin classic “Summertime” – but with a funky feel. Good call. We recorded one take of this song. Dave then suggested “Work Song,” written by Nat Adderley. After a short rehearsal, we recorded a single take of this song as well.

Next, it was time for a little guitar and vocals. Brian asked the guys if they were up for a little “Stormy Monday Blues.” Everyone liked the idea, so together they worked out a short arrangement that included three vocal verses along with some solos. Nice job, Brian. After that, Mark thought it might be nice to play a song by The Beatles, “Come Together.” It was a tune that everybody knew, so working out a quick arrangement was a simple task. We recorded one take of this classic.

Finally, the band ended the session with a wonderful rendition of Herbie Hancock’s “Watermelon Man,” with a nice solos from both horn players and drummer Dave Hanlon. It was a great way to end what was a very, very long day.

– Tom Emmi / Producer


“I recall rehearsing on Saturday afternoons, watching Studio Jams with my band mates on our breaks, and just sitting there with our jaws on the floor. Your program has always been an inspiration.”

— A.H.