Big band music at Furman Wednesday

DOWNEY - From swing to swank, the Wiseguys Big Band Machine is an 18-piece ensemble dedicated to keeping great music alive. And they'll perform Wednesday at Furman Park as part of the city's free summer concert series.The Montebello-based big band features a screaming horn line, two vocalists and a rhythm section. Their repertoire includes the vocal tunes of Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin and Peggy Lee; big band favorites from Glenn Miller, Perez Prado and Buddy Rich; classic mambos and cumbias (classic Latin American music originally from Columbia); and dance music from the 50's and 60's. The Wiseguys' blend of swing, jazz and big band standards has made them a popular opening act for such artists as the Cherry Poppin' Daddies, Tierra, Mariachi Sol Del Mexico, Poncho Sanchez and Santos de Los Angeles. They have performed at the House of Blues, BB Kings, The Whiskey a Go-Go, the Grove of Anaheim, Disneyland, The Derby, and at various private parties and civic functions. Wednesday's concert begins at 7 p.m. Residents are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. The Downey Rose Float Association will be selling food and drinks.

********** Published: July 31, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 15