Hank Johnson Quartet Gets Down at Queens Library!

On July 11th, 2005 at the Cambria Heights library in Queens, New York the Hank Johnson Quartet consisting of Hank Johnson on piano, Gary Smith on drums and “Cool Mike Fitzbenjamin on bass plus female vocalist Diane Allen transformed the library into a jazz club! Hank lectured for about 20 minutes discussing the different great jazz pianists, their techniques, and provided an educational overature before the wonderful performance. Vocalist Diane Allen really was in a swinging mood, and at times reminicent of the late Ella Fitzgerald with an outstanding rendition of Undecided. Hank's piano lines were a true compliment to Diane Allen's voice with an Oscar Peterson like touch providing some great accompianment. The place was filled to capacity, and not only was it a great perfomance but it was educational and right to the point. Upcoming events include the library in Laurenton, Queens on August 8th, 2005. Check the library's website. -30-

By Cleofus Rawls, publicist for Hank Johnson and Tresser Music & Jazzbone Records