Jam Session @ Hoochie Thursday Nov. 1

Mark Williams (gtr); James Harrison (keys); Paul Grainger (bs); Jeff Armstrong (dms) + Paul Gowland, Sarah Travena (ten), Mike Papapavlou, Kazumi Ishigaki, Ian Simpson (gtr), Nicki Ortega (dms), Lindsay Hannon (vcl).
(Review by Lance.)

One of the best jams here, ever! Although Pete Gilligan is in Odessa, gigging with a Syrian guitarist - the international implications are of some concern - new kid on the block, Harrison, proved to be a more than capable sub producing some dazzling solos. This effervescent young man is a definite welcome addition to the scene although his penchant for quotes does become overused - The Sailors Hornpipe, the Bridal March and Scotland The Brave etc were funny the first time around but did become a little cringe-making as the night progressed. Nevertheless, having said that, in between quotes he played a lot of piano, swinging like a souped-up pendulum, as well as digging deep into the Groove Bag on the Hammond SK perched above the piano. Brian Auger Trinity sprung to mind.

Paul Grainger kept it all together on bass and Jeff Armstrong, and later, Nicky Ortega punched it along.

Needless to say, Mark Williams repelled all boarders and there were a few tonight including Harrison's buddy Ian Simpson, Papapavlou and Kazumi Ishigaki - all played brilliantly. Paul Gowland and Sarah Travena blew tenor in their contrasting styles - Paul played more notes but Sarah had longer legs - the legs got it!

Lindsay sang At Long Last Love - moving the lyric around a bit. There were other singers waiting in the wings but, a late start meant a late finish, and, as the number 27 was already crossing the Tyne Bridge, I had to hastily exit pursued by a bear.
Photos.

Lance