The exclusive coterie of enthusiasts at the Chilli had a special treat this week - the heating was back on. Also, with former Squadronaire Laurie Brown on vibes and later drums, musical delights too were there to be savoured.
Lawrie produced an excellent arrangement of "Stepping Out With My Baby" that had good solos all round. Tough tenor John Rowland put the boot in with an earthy blast that set the mood for other punchy choruses from Dave, Lawrie, Mick Danby (bs gtr) and Barry Ashcroft (pno). Earlier, a 12 bar in F had got things up and swinging. The band were playing "Love Walked In" when in walked John Pope wearing the seemingly obligatory double bassist's hat.
John took to the stage for the second set providing the rhythmic impetus whilst Mick played a more melodic role; at least he did until the Carlsbro amp blew up and was stretchered off during "St Thomas"; St Thomas obviously isn't the patron saint of amplifiers. This didn't deter Mick who shook some shakers and added calypsonic vocalese. For this number Lawrie spelled Eric Stutt on drums. As the night progressed, Mick threw in a bluesy vocal and played a frugal flugel on "Take The A Train". A man of many talents.
Other numbers included Mulligan's "Five Brothers", "Blue Skies", "It Don't Mean a Thing", "Anthropology" and Frank Rosolino's "Blue Daniel". The latter is a 14 barred 3/4 structure that, although recorded by the brothers Adderley, I will forever associate with the late tenor player Syd Warren as it was the first tune I ever heard him play. This was upstairs in the Rex Hotel, Whitley Bay; a room that was not unlike the upper room where the disciples meet at the Chilli.
Apart from Pope John, the sitters-in sat-out this week.
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