Jo Harrup and Paul Edis Trio Fill the Cherry Tree

Jo Harrup (vcl), Paul Edis (pno), Mick Shoulder (bs), JC Caddy (dms).

Of course the food was excellent - my Rock Lobster and Crab Linguine with Parsley and Lemon was as good a main course as you'd find this side of The Savoy Hotel - but the Dish of the Day was undoubtedly Jo Harrup.

Jo, who has herself been singing at the newly refurbished Savoy, and looking a million dollars in a lacy shimmery little black number that did nothing to detract, served up a course in the art of projecting a lyric that included Where or When, World on a String, Too Darn Hot, Love Me or Leave Me, I've Never Been in Love Before and When I Fall in Love. As well as Jo's immaculate rendition, this latter tune had a fascinating selection of notes by Paul as he went into his solo that caught my harmonic fancy.

Jo was in good voice tonight retaining the attention of the majority of the crowded restaurant well past the sweet stage - in my case - Warm Ginger Pudding, Spiced Autumn Fruits and Caramel Sauce. The Autumn Fruits blended well with Jo's Autumn Leaves.

On drums, Jo's hubby - JC - slotted in nicely with the trio whilst, as ever, Mick Shoulder was the unsung hero that kept the ship afloat.

Earlier, the trio had opened up with Miles' All Blues whilst I started with Bayonne Ham, Turnip Remoulade, Purple Figs and Mustard - both classics in their own field.

Another night to remember at the CT. The vocal season continues next week with a return visit by Sarah Ellen Hughes acc. by the Paul Edis Trio.

Photos from Jerry Edis.

Lance.