The Jazz Caff Refugees present - Lickety Split @ The Star

Eddie Bellis (tmb/ldr); Kevin Eland (tpt/flg)/ Alan Marshall (ten/alt); Bill Brittain (pno); Alan Rudd (bs); Roy Willis (gtr); Paul Wight (dms).
(Review by Lance.)

The tried and tested West Coast/hard bop library of the "Splits" sounded good even though they were now a mere seven piece. John Hudson having departed since last I heard them.

The audience were taken by surprise when the band hit the deck running on Bag's Groove at prompt 8:30pm. In fact because of this prompt start most of the audience hadn't yet arrived having become used to the elasticity of the starting times that are the norm here.

Blues Walk and Joyspring led us into Li'l Darlin' and Bolivia before rounding off the set with So What and Four. As always, Kevin Eland spent a lot of time in the stratosphere with some JATP style showboating. What an amazing range this guy has! Having said that he can also blow with tasteful sensitivity, particularly when he moves over to flugel horn. As the sole sax, Alan Marshall doubled on alto and tenor, bandleader Bellis blew 'bone and Brittain ruled the keys with Rudd, Willis and Wight strong in support.
A short break then it was Straight No Chaser, 88 Basie St., Filthy McNasty, St. Thomas, an up-tempo version of What's New? that inspired a couple of dancers to strut their stuff and finally Sister Sadie which brought the session to an early close. No jammers tonight.
Photos.
Lance.