Joe Lovano and Ralph Lalama – an Introduction by Joe Barna

Joe Lovano and Ralph Lalama.

I’d like to pose a question to you, the reader? If presented the opportunity to see Eric Clapton and Joe Bonamassa or John Coltrane and Dexter Gordon or Jeff Beck and Stevie Ray Vaughan in a one time only performance, on the same stage, at a club in the capital region, for a minimal fee…Would you go? What if food was included? How about you have the chance to meet them before, on the break or after the show…Would you get your tickets immediately? What if the concert was purposely scheduled on an off night like a Tuesday to minimize the chance of a conflict? Does any of the above entice your senses?

I know, I know, I know……Impossible.

So what is the point in asking such an absurd question?

Well, I have exciting news for you. Coming on Tuesday, June 13th will be 2 of music history’s most in demand, respected and iconic personalities. Combined with over 60 albums as leaders, nearly 10 Grammy Awards and resumes that would make most people’s jaws hit the pavement these performers have literally done it all. From world tours to legendary recording careers these esteemed gents have accomplished just about everything one could ever dream and more.

Ladies and gentlemen…Let me introduce to you saxophonists, educators, recording artists, composers and all around wonderful humanitarians, the iconic Joe Lovano (tenor sax) and Ralph Lalama (tenor sax). Now, please buckle up and put your seats in the upright position…You’re about to embark on quite a journey.

But first, a little background on what this performance means to me.

Back in 1989 a young man from Lansingburgh, NY decided to take up the drums. Coming from a poor family this kid needed something to distract him from those activities that could eventually destroy any chance of success entering adulthood. So, why not music? Seemed harmless enough. It also encouraged growth on multiple levels…Make new friends, develop a skill, possibly earn a living and maybe have the honor to record some albums along the way. Sounded far more promising than being put in a boys home, getting into drugs and experiencing jail time. This was the future path ahead had it not been for the support of 2 amazing human beings. The first was his mother, who through every trial never wavered in her devotion to her son. The 2nd was a music teacher, who although didn’t know the young man, but knew of his troubles gave him an opportunity to reset and begin a new path towards bettering himself.

By now you might have guessed that the troubled individual referenced above is none other than me, Joe Barna. Although this article isn’t necessarily about me, I’d like to put into focus how one might perceive the unlikelihood that a kid such as myself would ever have the honor to share a stage with luminaries such as Joe Lovano and Ralph Lalama. I for one could have never imagined the day that I’d be announcing these 2 giants as the frontline for a performance in my hometown. But, when the right influences descend on your life, at precisely the exact moment, anything you dream is possible. Who are these 2 angels that saved my life as a young man and afforded me the promise of a newer, more rewarding future? My mother Pamela Rose Barna and my very first mentor of music, Kevin Champagne. Had it not been for their exhaustive love, patience and compassion I would not be composing this article. Thank You and I love you.

Now, enough about me and onto the reason I’m typing all of these letters, words and spaces…

What can one say about Joe Lovano that hasn’t already been written? He’s an innovator, master improviser, accomplished composer, bandleader, clinician, recording artist and just about everything else you’d expect from someone who is considered the voice of his generation. Born in Cleveland, Ohio on December 29th, 1952 his dedication and passion for music would eventually lead to performances and recordings with legends the likes of Mel Lewis, Woody Herman, Tony Bennett, John Scofield, McCoy Tyner, Diana Krall, Herbie Hancock and many others. To say Lovano is a true master of his craft would be the understatement of the century. He’s been there, done that and is still carving his way into the vast history of jazz music.

Let’s talk about the one and only Ralph Lalama.

If there’s one person who has taught me how to play jazz with passion, integrity, fire, control, creativity and a relentless sense of swing it is saxophonist Ralph Lalama. I first heard Ralph during a masters recital while in my first semester in the fall of 1999 at SUNY Purchase. He was the lead voice in a quartet led by pianist Pete Malinverni. It was the very first time I’d heard up close and personal what the tenor sax was really supposed to sound like in a jazz context. His husky tone, infectious swing feel, infinite ideas that seemed to flow like water from a dam and control of the instrument reached deep inside me like nothing I had previously experienced. Shortly after this performance I introduced myself, asking if he would consider playing on my first recording as a leader. Like waiting for a potential bride’s response I was quite nervous inside.  All of a sudden I heard the words that would resonate in my soul the rest of eternity…”Sure..I’ll do it…Why the hell not.”

It’s been 24 years now since that day and I can honestly say that Ralph Lalama is my musical father. He has always been honest, transparent and has never told me what I wanted to hear, only what he knew I needed to hear at the time. He’s a great friend and someone I look to when in need of answers.

But, who is Ralph Lalama the musician?

Well, for starters he is one of the longest consistent members in the saxophone section for the world famous Village Vanguard Orchestra. He’s also been a first call frontline voice for nearly every major artist of his era and beyond including Kenny Barron, Buddy Rich, Barry Harris, Carmen McRae, Mel Torme, Joe Morello, The Joe Lovano Nonet, Carnegie Hall Jazz Ensemble, Woody Herman, Tom Harrell and too many others to list. A true warrior of the music and an inspiration to over 3 generations of aspiring improvisers, Lalama continues to forge ahead as one of his era’s greatest soloists and creative voices.

Now, onto the show…

If you are still on the fence about whether or not to attend this show you might want to seek immediate medical attention, as your brain might not be operating to its full capacity. It is rare to hear iconic figures the likes of Joe Lovano and Ralph Lalama together in an intimate setting such as this. I began working on getting this concert booked in 2010 and could never get the details worked out to everyone’s satisfaction. But, now here we are and it’s popping off like a cork from a champagne bottle. Plus, there will be the opportunity to meet the artists, hear 2 sets of music for the price of 1 set in NYC and dinner is included for those who purchase tickets ahead of the show. That’s the deal of the year for live jazz in Troy, NY.

Tuesday, June 13th 2023

Joe Lovano and Ralph Lalama w/ Joe Barna Trio

Live at Alias Coffee Roasters, 219 4th Street, Troy, NY

Sets at 7:30 and 9pm / $45 in advance through www.Eventbrite.com

Warmest Regards,

Joe