Watson Walker Edis @ The Cluny. October 30

Lewis Watson (tenor saxophone), Rob Walker (drums) & Paul Edis (keyboards)
(Review by Russell).

 Cluny 2, the Cluny’s additional space deep in the bowels of the earth, hosted the latest of Schmazz’s regular last Tuesday of the month gigs. 

Watson Walker Edis have kept a low profile since their début performance at the Jazzathon fund raiser some fifteen months ago at the Lit and Phil. Indeed their only other outing was at the library in June of this year. They were two memorable performances and the Cluny date promised much. 

There was a good turn out at Cluny 2 (some prefer the smaller intimate space). 

Tenor saxophonist Lewis Watson informed the crowd that the first set would consist of a suite (the music heard at the Lit and Phil) lasting about forty five minutes. Those who heard those earlier performances knew they were in for something special! A series of compositions written by members of the trio (some co-written) ranged from ballad form to fearsome post Bop sections to stunning explorations of Coltrane and Ayler. 

During the interval many of those hearing the music for the first time said how impressed they were. 

The second set premièred new material. 

Watson’s articulation on tenor, in whichever register, reaffirmed his position at the top table and pianist Paul Edis’ left hand more than compensated for the absence of a bass player. Rob Walker, a listening, sight-reading drummer, contributed effectively throughout. An indication of just how good Watson Walker Edis are as a unit is the thought that a dep being drafted in simply wouldn't work. The next time they play a gig make sure you are there – you won’t regret it.

Russell