Fyfe Dangerfield (keyboards/electronics), Chris Cundy (bass clarinet/saxcello/electronics), Alex Ward (clarinet/alto saxophone), Dom Lash (double bass), Steve Noble (drums/whistle).
The quintet took to the stage upon which free jazz heavyweights such as Ken Vandermark and Charles Gayle had given towering performances in recent times. Undaunted, the band led the hardcore audience on a rollercoaster ride of fearsome blowing, subtle shuffles and convincing drum 'n' bass excursions.
Bandleader Fyfe Dangerfield ensured a collaborative effort; reeds players Cundy and Ward offered lyrical then full on contributions, bass player Dom Lash, an emerging figure on the free jazz scene, gave a committed performance and the man at the back - Steve Noble - had it all covered. Noble, no stranger to Tyneside, gave a percussion (and whistle!) masterclass amidst the group performance - New Orleans shuffles, Blakeyian press rolls, swing to bop to improv. A good gig.
An hors d'oeuvre to the main event was the screening of Shirley Clarke's documentary film ''Ornette: Made in America''. The interest in the film could be gaged by the presence in the audience of members of Gannets - themselves the main attraction of the evening.
Last night's event was the latest in Jazz North East's offering of free jazz concerts (a series of concerts known as ''On the Outside''). The next installment is the highlight of the year for fans of the music - it comes in the form of the three day festival ''On the Outside'' held at the wonderfully renovated Gateshead Old Town Hall from Friday 9th to Sunday 11th October inclusive. So many names, so much to hear including Marilyn Crispell, Marc Ducret, Rudi Mahall, Chad Taylor and Graeme Wilson. It all adds up to five sessions over three days preceeded by an improvisation workshop and drum clinic on Thursday 8th.
The marathon event will be captured on canvas by artist in residence Gina Southgate. Tickets from Gateshead Old Town Hall, JG Windows and Roots Music. Further details from http://www.jazznortheast.co.uk/ or telephone 0191 265 5699.
Russell
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