Jazz Café Jam

Sarah Travena (ten), Peter Gilligan (pno), Matthew Office (gtr), Paul Grainger (bs), Eric Stutt (dms), Gaby, Claire (vcls).

Elaine Binney (vln), Omid Ramak (dms), ? (gtr/vcl).

I approached The Forth wondering as I passed if anyone knew that the licensee of the pub was once Heavyweight Champion of the World Tommy Burns. Burns was a glorified cruiser punching above his weight before losing the crown to the mighty Jack Johnson and I guess Pink Lane has seen a few guys punching above their weight over the years.

Nearing the Jazz Café the unmistakeable sound of Pete Gilligan beating his keyboard into near submission filled the night air. Pete plays great piano. As I drew closer I could also hear Eric Stutt's easily identifiable ride cymbal and Paul's bass. Matt's guitar could also be heard - just. It was only when I got inside that I realised Sarah was blowing tenor but I had to get close up to hear the nice things she was doing to Besamé Mucho. Her solo was as long as her skirt was short - easy on the ear and the eye but why oh why isn't she miked up?

Likewise the vocalists who were miked had to struggle to be heard above the rhythm section.

Gaby did a lovely I'm Thru With Love despite the thunder and lightning going on behind her.

Having said all that - it's still a great afternoon.

After the regulars left for the coast Elaine, Omid and a guy who played acoustic and sang Summertime joined Matt and Eric as I too left - for The Bridge.

Lance.