This was an evening full of surprises which began with a program of standards presented brilliantly by the Graham Hardy Trio. The selection was very reminiscent of the wonderful Chet Baker but without the vocals. An appreciative audience listened intently to the arrangements and applauded enthusiastically as each masterpiece ended. At times you could have heard a pin drop as members were captivated by the sound. Indeed there are a number of adjectives which came to mind during the performances – relaxed, gentle, smooth, mellow, soulful , meditational , cool and swinging. That about sums up the group. Graham was ably supported by Giles Strong (Guitar) and Paul Susans (Double Bass) who were very comfortable and harmonious in that style.
Programme- Bye Bye Blackbird, Mellow Tone, Delilah, Man I Love, Meditation, Stomping at The Savoy.
This was a great way to spend an evening with stress free chamber Jazz.
Thank you Trio – that was great.
Surprise Number two – We had experienced the CALM now for the STORM.
If any of us were so relaxed in a comfortable chair with an enjoyable drink before us then we were to be brought back to reality for on came Horn Dogs with the biggest band in our Club’s history of almost 26 fantastic years. As was mentioned by our conductor this was one over the eight as you shall read.
The Band had been joined by our Club Director, John Taylor, who surprised us all with his Sax. This was his best kept secret for not even his supportive wife had any idea this event would happen .Complete with pristine white shirt and Club Logo he joined the group in their first number and proved to us all that he is a man of many talents who did not cause any embarrassment. Didn’t he do well?
Afterwards the band jumped into its stride with a lively show. The renditions were loud, energetic, exciting and a total contrast to the previous session. At times the Jazz was frantic, pacey but always in the best possible taste and by the end of the evening the audience was as physically and emotionally exhausted as all the band members. Audience responses had been electric and our guest musicians had replied as only they knew how. We enjoyed and loved their Jazz Style,new to Ashington and we embraced it. If the Band are in need of sponsorship then Boots might be an option as our elderly enthusiasts would love to be taking whatever they are on. Thank you Horn Dogs for the night.
Programme – What a Friend, Big ‘n Breezy, Tears of a Clown, Do what-cha want, Mellow Felony, Remember When, Saints go marchin ‘ in, Hey Jude, Horn Dogging (imagine that) and High on Life.
Peter S.
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