Andrea Pattinson Quintet @ The Cherry Tree.

Andrea Pattinson (vcl), Dave Dunston (alt/sop), Graham Wood (pno), Richard Rutherford (bs), Paul Smith (dms).

Tonight I had my better (ish) half with me and I'm pleased to report the food and the music was to her taste. Marlene's sardine starter, she said, went down a treat although she did find it disconcerting to have the poor creatures eyes staring up at her. I had no such problem with my squid it formed an immediate alliance with my tastebuds and they lived happily ever after.

On the stand, Andrea, perched on a high stool with only Graham's piano for accompaniment, warbled "A Nightingale Sang in Berkely Square" or, in this case, in Osborne Road.

It was a low key opening, no doubt in deference to the diners, that was perhaps a little too laid back to be fully appreciated. Nevertheless, the quality was there and gradually, as the night unfolded and the band reached its full complement, she began to blossom. "The Way You Look Tonight" was easy on the ears with some nice alto from Dave Dunston. He too blew in the understated manner of say early Lee Konitz.

Graham Wood chorded beautifully on the grand piano with bass and drums giving sound support.

A good first set that didn't ruffle any feathers,

Talking of feathers, the Chicken Supreme was just that whilst 'er outdoors enjoyed her Haddock Mash which, wallowing on a bed of spinach, was more than just your average fishcake - my microwave cooking will never be the same for her.

Circumstances decreed I didn't catch all of the final set but the band had raised its game for this set kicking off with "My Baby Just Cares For Me" although I think anyone who sings that song should update the lyric e.g "Liberace's smile" is no longer meaningful. Any suggestions?

"I Wish You Love" and "You Are The Sunshine of my Life" were a couple of others that went down ok with Dave getting a sort of Spyra Giro sax sound going on the latter.

Nice easy listening dinner jazz that gave additional flavour to the chocolate tart and blood orange sorbet.

Next week it's the Graham Hardy Quartet.

Lance.