:: Carl Riseley - Bennetts Lane - May 2008

By: Carmine Pascuzzi

Three sold out shows at Melbourne's acclaimed jazz venue, Bennetts Lane, proved that Carl Riseley is a growing star in his popular music/jazz style, and in Australian music generally. The former Navy trumpeter has learned to develop his entertaining skills as he launched his debut album “The Rise” to an appreciative audience.

The crowd comprised mostly a mix of young and middle-aged females who loved Carl's easy going vocals and occasional trumpet playing, plus his banter in between songs. The boyish charm won over the ladies. He was well accompanied by a seven-piece band of very good musicians. The album is largely made of Carl's favourites, amongst them “Lido Shuffle”, “Reminiscing”, “Girl From Ipanema”, and “This Guy's In Love With You”. He did these well tonight. The tempo picked up as the set proceeded. Carl's current album favourite is “Smooth Operator”, the Sade hit. I haven't heard a male voice sing the song before, but Carl did a fine job with it and the band provided the right rhythm. It was a very entertaining evening and Carl continues his development very well. There will be advances in his looks, through a need for styling and general polishing and professionalism as he gains greater confidence. His performance made a good impression and left the audience most satisfied.