Dave Weisser (vocal, trumpet & flugel horn), Dougie Fielder (tenor saxophone), Barrie Ascroft (keyboards), Jim Crinson (double bass), Paul Wight (drums) + Alan Law (keyboards & tenor saxophone), Fiona Littlewood (vocals), Ivan Scutt (5 string electric bass) & Rob Bates (drums).
The thing about Dave Weisser's night at the Chillingham is you never know who will turn up and what they will choose to play. Alan Glen, the advertised main attraction, was indisposed. Initial disappointment was compounded by the depleted ranks on the bandstand - the first tune featured Dougie on tenor, Barrie at the keyboard and Jim Crinson on bass (the only musicians at hand). MD Weisser was flitting about somewhere - as is his wont.
The first of the re-enforcements arrived mid-tune in the shape of drummer Paul Wight who called for someone to lend a hand and lug his gear up the stairs. Volunteers (ie. audience members) were thin on the ground so your reviewer got the job.
The tunes were choice - Mr.PC, There Is No Greater Love (great vocal from Weisser), Killer Joe - to name but three. A while later further re-enforcements took to the stage in the shape of Budvivarian Ms.Fiona Littlewood to sing a couple of tunes - Corcovado and Yardbird Suite - with Ivan Scutt offering spot-on support (Jim C sat out, taking a well-earned five). All excelled on Bird's classic number with Alan Law blowing some bluesy tenor.
Young Rob Bates got up to play (Paul Wight was relieved to be relieved) on Jaco's The Chicken (a request from a member of the audience - well, me actually) and it proved to be a stormer. Five String Scutt, making his Chilli debut, breezed through it with ease. The rhythm section and front line regulars should take a bow, so too, all the sitters-in.
A good night.
Russell.
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