Bugged!

In my nine to five life, working in a music shop, a bug was either an instrument pick-up or a mythical condition staff members contracted when they fancied skiving off.

I just discovered they aren't always mythical and, having spent an agonising weekend (or should that be weak-end?) I must apologise for my scepticism all those years ago.

Nevertheless, with the new Penguin Jazz Guide (see previous post) to aid my convalescence the healing process isn't too painful.

In my review I referred to the comments that accompanied each album - here are a couple that caught my fancy.

Martin Taylor: Eddie Lang is the grandfather of jazz guitar. We owe so much to him and the recordings are still to be marvelled at.

Helen Merrill: It's supposed to be a compliment to a singer to say she sounds like she's playing a horn. I'd say that Clifford Brown always sounded like he was singing a song. he played with real understanding, not just the notes, as if he felt what was happening, moment to moment.

Lance.

PS: Will miss today's Soweto Kinch lecture at The Sage, The Jazz Café Jam, Catatumbo at The Bridge. Pass the pills please...