In Chandler, Arizona, the Arizona Classic Jazz Society reconvened after their summer hiatus to enjoy the Wildcat Jazz Band at their monthly event in September. With band leader, Rob Wright, at the helm, Rob Boone (tb), Rick Peron (tp), Marco Rosano (cl), Ray Templin (p), Evan Dain (bs) and Arthur Vint (dr) led us into the autumn holiday season with great enthusiasm. Leader Rob showed off his new, custom-made, 22-fret baritone ukulele adding another instrument to his collection.
A highlight was the drum kit assembled by Arthur Vint. It is modeled after similar kits from the 1920s, with a light in the bass drum! The skin on the outside of the bass was thin and almost paper-like so the light was very visible. With two beautiful Chinese tack head toms on either side, the 1920s-themed cradle holders created the perfect kit. The tacked skin head and hard wood shell deliver a softer, lighter focused tone. The cymbals were fastened by two metal “arms” and affixed to the bass drum. A separate snare caught lots of action. With attached cow bells and wood blocks, Arthur was ready for any rhythm accompaniment.
Although a new member of the Wildcat Jazz Band, Arthur is not new to the music scene having spent 15 years in the New York area with stints at t
