Debbie Duncan and Dennis Spears

Two of the area’s most dynamic vocalists join for one swinging night!

Debbie Duncan, the Twin cities “First Lady of Song” as she is so often referred to by media people, club owners and dj’s, is a stunning and versatile vocalist who captivates audiences and jazz musicians. Minneapolis Star Tribune reports, “She’s superb on funky upbeat workouts, tender ballads and all kinds of jazz numbers; she energizes the ordinary and puts her stamp on just about everything she does.”

“Duncan’s a terrific entertainer… But more than that, she’s a superb singer – probably the finest in an area that boasts some excellent female vocalists… She showed just how good she is.. when she tackled ballads, be-bop, blues to some scat choruses reminiscent of Sarah Vaughan and finally to a concluding soul shot.. She sang with abandon, yet with control which most singers never learn.”

- Bob Protzman, St Paul Pioneer Press.

Dennis Spears is probably best known as the male voice of Moore By Four, the locally-based, internationally heeled quartet headed by pianist/arranger Sanford Moore, featuring the voices of Spears, Yolanda Bruce, Ginger Commodore and Connie Evingson. That was a while ago, and Dennis has kept himself busy and visible ever since, performing in theater, in music ensembles, and gigging with his own band(s).

“Dennis Spears’ voice isn’t just an instrument, it’s a continent: He sings of the rich earth of the south where the roots of the Blues and Jazz are deeply planted, of the lucid north where freedom of expression thrives. He deftly touches on the sharp sophistication of the east coast and the eclectic energy of the west, striking a common chord among us with every turn of phrase.”
- M. Dodge (Criterion Jazz Review)