Fred Rowe (tpt/vcl); Barry Soulsby (clt/vcl); Laurence McBriarty (tmb); Brian Bennett (bjo/vcl)); Ian Heslop (bs); Fred Thompson (dms/vcl). + Colin Aitchison (tpt/vcl); Don Armstrong (clt/alt).
(Review by Lance/ photo of Colin and Lance by Jeannie Aitchison)
A jolly afternoon listening to the goodtime jazz of the VCJ was enhanced today by our man in Hong Kong in Tynemouth 'till Saturday Colin Aitchison on trumpet and vocals and ex-pat Aussie based Don Armstrong playing clarinet and alto.
It was a good boisterous session with the guests blending in well with the band. Too many choice moments to pick out save to say the room was crowded and appreciation was shown vociferously. Good also to catch up with Colin who is playing well. Like his late dad, famed trumpet man, Hughie, Colin has a penchant for the humorous quote in his solos and there were several which all added to the light hearted summery atmosphere.
Don Armstrong played clarinet much better than his adopted countrymen play cricket - he also excelled on alto, the complete all-rounder.
Apologies for singling out the guests as the band regulars more than held their own. Fred Rowe has been around for 80 something years and he still blows like he did 50 years ago. Laurence, after his recent health problems is back, slimmer and playing as good as ever. Barry Soulsby - a near perfect clarinet sound - Ian Heslop, now a regular after Brian Sibbald's recent stroke, Fred Thompson - drummer, vocalist extraordinaire - and of course the leader, the man with the banjo, Brian Bennett.
A good session. The 55 bus from the Haymarket takes you right there - be on it next week!
Lance.
PS: In the audience and looking cool was the aunt of a certain rock star - I hope she reads this as I sure ain't gonna post no message in a bottle!
1 comment :
The aunt of the rock star who shall remain anonymous (let's just call her Roxanne) was elegantly dressed in a 60's chic, 'summer of Love' style outfit. She told me some of her garments were made of parachute silk. Was tempted to ask if anyone was tugging her rip-cord but decided not to risk getting a smack in the gob.
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