Brian Bennett (banjo & vocals) , Barry Soulsby (clarinet,alto & vocals) , Lawrence McBriarty (trombone) , Fred Rowe (trumpet & vocals) ,Brian Sibbald (double bass) and Fred Thompson (drums & vocals).
The Vieux Carre Jazzmen entertained the forty or so regulars at the coastal hostelry's afternoon session with a varied programme to suit all tastes.
The proceedings began with the little heard, ''A Porter's Love Song to a Chambermaid'' featuring Fred Rowe on vocals. ''Exactly Like You'' followed with Barry Soulsby taking up the singing duties. The sweet tones of Fred Thompson emanated from behind the drum kit on the next number - ''Georgia on My Mind''. Thompson delivered a measured, unhurried reading of a tune which some singers can all too easily destroy - Mr.T. came up trumps. The highlight of the first set was ''Yellow Dog Blues'' with appropriate wailing of the clarinet from Mr.Soulsby.
The second set opened with "Cake Walking Babies'' and '' If I Had You ''. Trumpet maestro Mr. Rowe followed with a humourous version of ''Mandy, Make up Your Mind." A stand out number from this set was ''Ponchartrain Blues''. Following the blues number was a tune this correspondent wasn't familiar with...''By the Sea , By the Sea , By the Beautiful Sea''. ''Big Butter & Egg Man'' saw the afternoon draw to a close but not before Brian Bennett called in the band as we were ''Goin' Home''.
The Vieux Carre's coach trip to Staithes next month is all but fully booked. One ticket remains ! If you want it, see the band's new website http://www.vieuxcarrejazzmen.com/
Russell .


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