The Voice in Jazz. Report from Jim McD.

"The Voice in Jazz" @ The Gateshead Jazz Festival.

Where to begin? An afternoon of magical music celebrating the Voice in Jazz. Comprising 3 sets, London born Cleveland Watkiss (Voice), Mark Hodgson (bs)and Shane Forbes (dms) kicked things off. This splendidly tight knit trio performed immaculately throughout the set. Although most of the tunes were new to me the results were very enjoyable.

Next came the warmly welcomed Welsh warbler, Ian Shaw, who gave us standards played in a cocktail manner. He later sang a duet with Sheila Jordan on an ultra 'Slow Boat to China' with plenty of humourous one liners.

Finally, Be-Bop's own, the delightful Sheila Jordan delivering jazz standards as only she can. Support was by the magnificent Brian Kellock Trio, Ken Ellis (bs), Stu Richie (dms), Kellock (pno).

Recalled to the stage ,Watkiss and Shaw joined Sheila for 'I got rhythm' which developed into 'Anthropology' thus giving a rousing finish to the final and most enjoyable third set.

A superb festival, good luck for the future Gateshead!

Jim McD .