Wild Blue Herons at Frankie's Jazz Club
We are bringing the groovin’ 6 piece band (with BG guest - Jane Mortifee) back to Frankie’s Jazz Club! We’ve got some new funky jazz and soulful tunes to add to the mix! Stay tuned!
Band: Bill Sample (keys/vocals), Darlene Cooper (lead vocals), Miles Foxx Hill (bass), Randall Stoll (drums), Steve Hilliam (sax), Brian Harding (trombone).
Wild Blue Herons are a dynamic jazz and funk ensemble, fronted by the husband- and-wife team of Bill Sample and Darlene Cooper. Their sound embraces a “groove-centered approach reminiscent of The Crusaders, early fusion-era Blue Note recordings and the polished sophistication of Steely Dan” (Thierry de Clemensat , Paris Move, FR).
Their 3rd album (released February 2026) got rave reviews.
“Infectiously entertaining, incredibly well played and sang, superbly arranged, It’s All About Love is such a precious record, a ray of sun for the rainy days and a postcard to everyone's soul. Bravi, Wild Blue Herons.” (Giovanni Pilato, Bluebird Reviews, UK)
Come enjoy the Frankie’s vibe of delicious food, great music - experience an evening to remember!
Wild Blue Herons with Horns at Vernon Jazz Club
Featuring the acclaimed husband-and-wife team of Bill Sample and Darlene Cooper, Wild Blue Herons deliver sophisticated, groove-driven jazz and funk with soul, gospel, and pop influences woven throughout. Their sound moves effortlessly from infectious jazz-funk grooves reminiscent of The Crusaders and Steely Dan to intimate, emotionally charged ballads inspired by the great ladies of jazz. The musical connection between Sample and Cooper is at the heart of the band, and forms the foundation of their latest album “It’s All About Love” – a contemporary blend of jazzy swing to funky ballads.
A BC Entertainment Hall of Fame inductee, Bill Sample has performed with legends including Celine Dion, Ray Charles, Kenny Loggins, and opened for Oscar Peterson. Darlene Cooper is celebrated as an engaging jazz, soul, and gospel vocalist whose collaborators include Eric Bibb, Dee Daniels, and Leon Bibb. One critic praised the duo’s performances as “pure emotion… a full on listening experience that sizzles deceptively.” (Chris Spector – Midwest Record) With appearances at festivals and premier jazz venues across Canada, Wild Blue Herons bring a polished, soulful, and deeply musical live experience to every stage.
Christmas Tales Jazz Edition Featuring Bill Sample and Darlene Cooper
A Jazzy Christmas Evening with Bill Sample, Darlene Cooper & Friends
Celebrate the season with an unforgettable night of music, stories, and festive cheer! Join us for A Jazzy Christmas Evening, featuring the incomparable Bill Sample—one of Canada’s premier jazz pianists, composers, and recording artists. Bill’s music captures the timeless charm of Vince Guaraldi’s A Charlie Brown Christmas, with that cozy, soulful sound that instantly brings the holidays to life. Sharing the stage is the wonderful Darlene Cooper, whose smooth, expressive voice blends perfectly with Bill’s piano magic to create an atmosphere of warmth and joy.
The evening will also feature Russ and Sandy Rosen, bringing heart and humour through seasonal songs and stories that celebrate the meaning and magic of Christmas. Between sets, enjoy delicious Christmas treats and join in singing your favourite carols—because no holiday gathering is complete without a little community harmony!
Whether you’re a jazz lover, a carol singer, or simply looking to recapture the wonder of the season, this concert promises to be a highlight of your Christmas celebrations. Come share the music, laughter, and spirit of the holidays with us!
