The Alibis
Posted: Thu Nov 1, 2007 4:50 pm

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Next Wednesday (November 7th), The Alibis make a rare Auckland appearance, playing the Kings Arms in Newton, to launch their second CD, On The Rocks.

The Alibis are a “jump swing band”, culling their repertoire from mostly obscure R&B combos of the 1940s and 1950s. As with their previous release (2000’s Not Guilty) all tracks on the new CD are covers; unless you’re an enthusiast like the band members themselves, chances are you’ll be familiar with the likes of Freddie Slack, Big Joe Maher and Buddy Johnson.

Formed in 1995, the Alibis have survived changing trends, playing to a small but respectful following. Club and pub gigs are rare but the band is a regular fixture at jazz and blues festivals – The Alibis’ last performance was headlining last month’s Whangarei Jazz & Blues Festival.

“I wouldn’t call us a jazz band,” says singer-guitarist Wayne Baird, “but we get that crossover crowd, which is why we play so many jazz festivals. Our music is accessible – popular music rather than pop music.”

Local jazz legend Rufus Rehu says of The Alibis, “Even if you don’t know the songs, you can respond to the rhythm.”

The Alibis are now a seven-piece although the band still remains, essentially, the nucleus of Baird, Stephen Clarke (keyboards) and Phil Oxenham (bass & vocals). Being in demand with other jazz bands, horn players come and go (only Mike Croft remains from the first album) and drummer Mike Abbot has recently joined the ranks.

Recorded with time restraints (less than 20 hours in the studio), On The Rocks is typical of The Alibis’ live performances, with the onus definitely on dancing.

The Alibis launch the CD at the Kings Arms – 8pm, Wednesday 7th November. On The Rocks is available now, priced at $25.00.

[email protected]
www.alibisjumpswing.co.nz

RE: The Alibis
Posted: Fri Aug 1, 2008 9:27 am

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