Greg Abate (alt/fl); Paul Edis (pno); Mick Shoulder (bs); Adam Sinclair (dms).It's been a long time since I last heard an American backed by a local rhythm section at the Corner House - perhaps Russell or one of our readers can come up with the answer as to who was the actual last American soloist at the venue?
Whoever it was he would have been hard pushed to top tonight's performance by Greg Abate.
This was no old-timer cruising on his faded laurels, this was a guy going for it - taking the bebop language and translating it into his own.
Bird, Stitt, Criss, Abate...
The affable Italiano/Americano hit the deck running with all guns blazing on All The Things You Are. Anyone who'd turned up unsure of what they were about to receive were soon put in the picture.
The tunes rolled out, Sweet and Lovely may have tasted sweeter elsewhere but it was never lovelier than this!
Angel Eyes,, Like Someone In Love, Confirmation, Billie's Bounce and a most wonderful Star Eyes played on flute - these were just a few of the selections where Greg's brilliance and his sense of humour shone through.
His flute playing was also featured on I'll Remember April but for the audience it was a case of I'll Remember July 21.
Paul Edis too was at his best and it seemed inconceivable that Greg, Paul, Mick and Adam could produce such a polished performance without having previously blown together. That's jazz for you it either happens or it doesn't.
Tonight it happened!
Lance.
Agree with you.Best gig for a long time.But why no mention of Mick Shoulder who I thought was outstanding.
ReplyDeleteAgreed Mick was excellent as indeed he always is.
ReplyDeleteLikewise Adam and Paul.
My apologies.