The jazz trio Flying Saucers will bring their own brand of vintage jazz to Jazz Vespers at St. John’s United Church. Guitarist Clark Brendon will be joined by Al Pease on saxophone and Joey Smith on bass.
As a boy, Brendon was inspired by the music of Oscar Peterson, Dave Brubeck and Mose Allison. He now plays with Twango, Cold Cut Combo, Flying Saucers and other local bands. A highly regarded musician in the Victoria music scene, Brendon plays bass, saxophone, percussion and sings, but most enjoys playing his Gibson guitar. His stylings include jazz, blues, gypsy jazz, Latin, Flamenco, Parisian musette, and swing.
Pease began his career in Vancouver. He joined the air force band in 1960, playing all over the globe and with the Naden Band as well. He retired from the forces in 1987, and has since played in clubs around Victoria, at Butchart Gardens and at the Empress Hotel. He has also done studio work and shows playing saxophone, clarinet and flute.
Bassist Smith is much in demand in the Victoria area. Originally from Tennessee, he came to Victoria via the Glenn Miller Orchestra, for whom he played bass for two years. He has also played with a long list of jazz luminaries which includes Cleo Laine, Herb Ellis, Rosemary Clooney, Charlie Byrd, John Dankworth, George Essihos, Daniel Lapp and CanUS.
Flying Saucers perform on June 5. All jazz vespers services begin at 7 p.m. at St. John’s United Church, 10990 West Saanich Rd. There is no admission charge, and an offering will be taken. For further information call Bernadette at 250-656-0875 or email bernadettegreene@shaw.ca.
After the June 5 date, the series will take a break over the summer, returning on Sept. 11 with Skyla J and the Vibes.
