Wild Women of Jazz an Entertaining, Educational Journey Through Music History

"Music is the happiest, most constant friend I've ever known."

These words ring true to many musicians, but are especially pertinent for Pamela Rose, a renowned jazz songstress who performed at the second in a series of jazz shows at the San Ramon Library.

Rose grew up listening to Rock 'n' Roll but eventually grew an ear for music that held a deeper meaning to her. She found that music in jazz but was dissatisfied that womens' contributions to the genre were overlooked.

Her latest album, "Wild Women of Song: Great Gal Composers of the Jazz Era," pays tribute to these women through a series of mini-biographies and musical performances. The ensemble includes the talents of Tammy Hall, Ruth Davies, Jeff Massanari, Kent Bryson, Kristen Strom, and of course, Rose herself.

But Rose with "Wild Women of Song" not only performs for us but also educate us in the history of jazz, and on the women who made it what it is today.

The performance is a series of songs by female jazz legends such Dorothy Fields, Doris Fisher, Bernice Petkere, and Peggy Lee each preceded by a mini-biography of the artist. The biographies are both interesting and informative; and the music performances are full of high energy and enthusiasm.  

I saw Pamela Rose with "Wild Women of Song" perform in the San Ramon library (which was magnificently transformed to suit the concert) and lost myself in the rhythm of the jazz, tapping my foot from beginning to end. 

Rose will perform the same show at Yoshi's in Oakland on Nov. 9, and I strongly recommend buying that ticket.

It's rare to find such talented musicians that are as passionate and dedicated to their music as  Rose. It's a real treat to behold.