The Blaydon Aces @ Ashington Jazz Club

A unique coalition took place in Ashington last week.

This was a fusion of the long established Ashington Jazz Club and Ashington Folkmembers who came together for one evening to enjoy the talented Duo of Roly Veitch and Jim Birkett as the Blaydon Aces.

Those of us from the Jazz Club have had the pleasure, and recognize the brilliance, of these two established local musicians, while this proved to be a new experience for Folk Club members.

The versatility on guitars of Roly and Jim was established from the first number with Roly's vocals, in a distinctive and wonderful Tyneside and North East accent, being much appreciated. It is a rare occurence these days to hear the music of our heritage and all agreed that this is an art that must be preserved. The arrangements were delightful and melodic with an injection of humour within the lyrics. To the surprise of all some of the items were accompanied by a Bossa Nova rhythm which gave the duo the opportunity to air their skills.

The audience listened intently to the stories, the songs told while R and J skillfully and so professionally painted a classical background of great accompaniment, as the audience joined in some of the more familiar lyrics.

It was a masterful evening by two respected collaborators and we are fortunate to have both living in the North East. It is not surprising that they can move so easily between different genres of music and I recommend them to you all without any hesitation. Let us keep our traditions alive where and when possible alongside our love of Jazz in all its forms. Congratulations Roly and Jim and thanks to the two leaders of the Clubs for the use of the venue and arranging this for our delight. I suggest you take a look at Roly's web site for more information and listing of many of the songs presented to us.

Photos.

Peter S.

Ashington Jazz Club.