Djangologie @ Ashington Jazz Club. July 4

James Birkett (guitar), Emma Fisk (violin), Giles Strong (guitar) and Mick Shoulder (bass)

(Review by Peter S.)
Our Guest group for this evening attracted a very good audience of enthusiastic members and new faces. With the musicians warming up like athletes before the concert it was obvious that we were about to experience a superb evening.  

From the first bar we were transported imaginatively back in time to the sounds of Paris bars and night clubs. The music rekindled the ambience of Montmartre with the basilica of the Sacre Coeur towering above.  One could imagine the artists gathering up their easels and heading for the nearest café to enjoy good food and wine to the melodies of Django Reinhardt and Stephan Grappelli.  Djangologie do just that in the most professional and masterful performances.  The audience responded to the energy of brisk rhythms while listening intently to the beautiful melodic arrangements . The Quartet have formed a unique combo who are so well integrated in the pleasures of playing this most popular music format  I’m sure Django and Stephan would applaud the contribution Dajangologie make in continuing our love of this Jazz form.

We enjoyed every moment during this incredible evening during which we were offered eighteen memorable treatments of the music including three originals penned by Mick, whose attempts at a French accent were to be applauded if not understood. He was enjoying himself and his audience recognized the amusement behind each syllable.

We were also pleased to welcome as guests the dancing couple, Richard and Navella who practice Balboa Dance routines - a delightful addition to the music

I may have forgotten some of the Programme but here are the following:-Belle Ville, Django's Stomp, A Romany Dutch tune, Fru Fru or was it Poo Poo? The romantic Nuages, Autumn  Leaf, Artillery Road,, Stompin’ at Decca, Minor Swing , J' attendre, Bolero, I Dream of Autumn, Walk Musette, Beautiful Till 3, Lady be Good, The Sinister Drag, Sheik of Araby , Gypsy, Dark Eyes and the encore In My Quiet Place. 

The band work so hard and so well together.  Your music is much appreciated. Till the next time.

I strongly commend these fabulous musicians to you.  Djangologie will be releasing their first CD at The Sage on October 18. The members would be delighted to see you there.

We welcome your support at Ashington when after a short summer break we shall resume on Wednesday  September 5 at 8.30 p.m. at the Elephant.

Photos.

Peter S.