Sonsale + Collaborations Trio @ Sage Gateshead. November 28

(Review by Russell)

A double bill of familiar names and faces: regionally based musicians (bassists Andy Champion and John Pope), national names (Corey Mwamba, Chris Biscoe and Roger Turner) and from France, Valentin Ceccaldi and Sylvain Darrifourcq. The Northern Rock Hall at Sage Gateshead attracted the committed. Chris Biscoe performed earlier in the day at Newcastle University as ‘Biscoe & Co,’ and the same line-up – Biscoe (reeds), John Pope (double bass) and Roger Turner (percussion) – played a set of approximately one hour as the ‘Collaborations Trio’ offering four freely improvised pieces. The quality of the acoustic was in marked contrast to the ‘difficult’ space of the King’s Hall.

Gateshead Fell Cricket Club Follow On.

The first night back at the cricket club was well received by a very enthusiastic crowd, and it looks like the gig will continue. However the cricket club have a number of functions booked and the next date for the Jazz Night is Friday December 27, which will be the Xmas party night. (Also the gig time will be 8pm to 10:30, by popular request.)

Maine Street Jazzmen.

CD Review: Saxophonics - The River Flows At Night

Keith Robinson (alt/sop); Steve Summers (alt/ten); Graeme Wilson (ten); Niall Armstrong (bar).

(Review by Lance.)

Saxophonics go back a few years now - I remember them with a slightly different line-up back in the days of the Side Café. At the time they were very much based on Bobby Watson's 29th St. Saxophone Quartet and much of the material was drawn from the pen of Watson.

Zoe Hits The Road with Twelve Stories Album

Top north east vocalist Zoe Gilby takes her trio on the road starting this weekend at the Bridge Hotel, Newcastle.

In the days that follow, Zoe, Mark Williams, Andy Champion and Richard Brown take in Brampton, Darlington, Manchester, Norwich, London (Spice of Life), Dorset and Bristol.

Full itinerary here.
Lance.

Biscoe & Co @ King’s Hall. November 28

Chris Biscoe (alto & soprano saxophones, bass clarinet), John Pope (double bass) & Roger Turner (drums)

(Review by Russell).

Lunchtime, King’s Hall, free admission, a freely improvised performance. Hall a little more than half full (a number of students absent – they must have met their mandatory number of concert attendances for the semester and were still in bed). Tyneside’s John Pope, a recent graduate of Newcastle University, no doubt felt at home as he stood between two of the key figures of the British free scene. Pope, the cat with the hat, looked cool. Perhaps inside his stomach was churning. 

CD Review: Kate Daniels - Atmospherics

Kate Daniels (vcl); Tony Coe (ten); John Horler (pno); Mike Piggott (vln); Graham Pike (tpt); John Etheridge (gtr); Alec Dankworth (bs); Winston Clifford (dms).
(Review by Lance).

I usually deal out vocal CDs to Anne Alex or Debra M but, on this occasion, I hope the two ladies will excuse me for being selfish and allow me to wallow in this CD myself!

Kate Daniels is a new name to me but her love of film noir and The Third Man in particular drew her into my aura before she'd even sang a note!

When I spun the CD I wasn't disappointed!

The cool, smoky, laid back approach of say, a Julie London or a Jeri Southern with a sprinkling of Peggy Lee, make this the late night disc to end all late night discs and it's only early afternoon!

Preview: The Collaborations Trio & Sonsale @ Sage Gateshead, Thursday November 28.

(Preview by Russell).

Veteran reeds player Chris Biscoe visits Sage Gateshead on Thursday (Nov 28) working with long-time collaborator Roger Turner (drums) and Tyneside’s John Pope (double bass). The Collaborations Trio – Biscoe, Turner and a guest musician – tours Britain into December, stopping off in Glasgow to take part in GIOFest. North east fans get the chance to hear the trio in the acoustically perfect Northern Rock Foundation Hall at Sage Gateshead, an intimate space allowing a real connection between musician and listener. Older readers will be familiar with Biscoe’s work alongside Mike Westbrook, Harry Beckett, Chris McGregor, Andy Sheppard and countless others. His association with Turner dates back to 1968 and the duo have worked together on and off ever since. 

From Mike Papapavlou (on Facebook)

Now I can cross out one of the things I wanted to do before I die. See my hero Jim Hall live! It was awesomeee!! 

CD Review: Manhattan Brass - Manhattan Holiday

Wayne Du Maine, Lew Soloff (tpts); Michael Seltzer (tmb); David Taylor (bs tmb); R.J.Kelley or Ann Ellsworth (Fr. horn).

(Review by Lance).

Christmas isn't my favourite time of year - too much turkey, false bonhomie and hackneyed tunes. So when I unpacked this latest seasonal gift from across the sea the words "Bah Humbug" or possibly something even stronger may have passed my lips!

However, when you've got Carla Bley or Jack Walrath doing the arrangements, then you know that Santa ain't gonna get stuck in no chimney!

RIP Chico Hamilton

Some jazz deaths hit you harder than others and the knowledge that Chico Hamilton died yesterday (Nov. 25) floored me even though he was 92 which is an age few drummers seem to reach.

I don't think I ever heard him live but it was his elegant brush work on the first Gerry Mulligan Quartet recordings that attracted me to him. This was in an age when Krupa, Rich, and the emerging Art Blakey were combining volume with showmanship and selling excitement by the dollar.

Hamilton was the complete opposite, tasteful, subtle, living proof that the rapier can be more effective than the cutlass or the claymore.

His career moved in many directions after Mulligan - his own groups, writing, teaching... 

Chico Hamilton - one of the all-time greats.

Sadly missed.
Obituary.
Lance.

Madeleine Peyroux @ Sage Gateshead. November 25.

Madeleine Peyroux (vcl/gtr); Jason Rebello (keys) + string quartet, bass, guitar, drums.
Take These Chains From My Heart sang Ms Peyroux in the slightly laconic, laid back manner that had drawn a goodly throng to Hall One. We weren't disappointed. The sometimes controversial songstress was in good voice. Randy Newman's Guilty kept the momentum flowing with the string quartet used to great effect.
The guitar came into play for Bye Bye Love followed by a drinking song then Born To Lose. This was a really depressive plea from the inner soul and I wondered if perhaps they shouldn't have erected safety nets in case anyone on Level Two decided to jump. It was that kind of song. Peyroux herself confessed that there weren't many happy songs on the set list!
One of them (happy songs) was I Hear Music which, apart from the chanteuse's vocal, featured solos all round including an impressive piano blast from Jason Rebello. Rebello also impressed on Hammond B3 during Careless Love.
The show concluded with Walkin' After Midnight and This is Heaven. Come to think of it, listening to Peyroux was pretty much like being beyond the pearly gates - Heaven indeed.
Earlier, singer/songwriter/guitar/vocalist Josephine had the daunting task of providing the opening support slot. The girl did good.
Lance.

Ollie Howell Quintet @ The Bridge Hotel Newcastle. November 24.

Ollie Howell (dms); Nick Perry (tpt); Duncan Eagles (ten); Matt Robinson (pno); Max Luthert (bs).

My review a couple of months back of Howell's CD Sutures and Stitches more or less summed up tonight's gig although, in truth, no CD can compare with hearing a band live within the confines of  a small venue such as the upstairs room of the Bridge Hotel.

The two horn frontline blow contemporary hard bop with a suggestion of what Clifford Brown/Max Roach or Art Blakey/Horace Silver may have sounded like had they been around 50 years later. Powered on by Howell's drumming, Luthert's bass and some incredible keyboard work from Robinson this is a band that looks to the future whilst taking on board the past.

All but one of the numbers played were from the above mentioned CD. Paradoxically, the exception, Time Will Tell, was, I thought, their best number! Not that it matters as they were all brilliantly performed and the less than full room seemed to agree.

Splinter @ The Bridge Photos.
Lance 

CD review: Tianna Hall and Chris Cortez: Noel

Tianna Hall (vocals); Chris Cortez (guitar, additional vocals); Anthony Sapp (bass); Paul English (piano); Tom Cummings (vibes, drums); Dennis Dotson (trumpet);  Woody Witt (tenor sax, clarinet); Warren Sneed (alto sax, flute); Thomas Hulten (Trombones); Joel Fulgham, Memo Rezo (drums, various tracks)

(Review by Ann Alex)

Christmas has come to BSH, in the form of sweet-voiced Tianna Hall and the band, doing well known Christmas songs in a jazz style which pleasantly avoids the sentimental trap of some Christmas music, thank goodness.  

Why not listen to...?

BBC radio 4 on Tuesday morning at 11.30am to hear The Story Of ‘Strange Fruit’ in the Soul Music series.  Tells you all about the song and its origins.  Catch it on BBC iplayer if you’re not around at that time.

Russell, as BSH’s radio correspondent, keeps us up to date with this sort of information, but just in case he’s missed this one ...

Ann Alex

CD Review: Foreign Motion - In Flight.

Cory Wong (Guitar); Kevin Gastonguay (Keyboards); Yohannes Tona (Bass);  Petar Janjic (Drums).

(Review by Steve H)

Foreign Motion is a band formed and led by guitarist, New York native, Cory Wong. His three fellow musicians are from various parts of the globe. Pianist, Kevin  Gatonguay  hails from Minnesota. Bassist, Yohannes Tona  is from Ethiopia and drummer, Petar Janjic, from Serbia. Their diverse musical origins all help to add local colour to what is essentially a Jazz Rock/Funk/Fusion offering.

Five Men No Dog – Salsa Café November 23

Dave Jones (vocals), Peter Drake (sax/vocals), Simon Stephenson (guitar), Andy Booth (percussion), Jonny Drake (electric d.bass)

(Review by Kath Jobes).

Five Men No Dog were billed as playing a mix of original and classic songs that draws on jazz, blues, folk and swing and ‘sister’ we were not disappointed!  

The first set commenced with St Celie’s Blues from the film, The Colour Purple and then we swiftly took the A Train down to Sugar Hill with pleasant solos from the sax and guitar.  Ain’t Misbehavin’ set away with a mellow saxophone and led onto a bright version of  All of Me. 

Pink Lane Jazz Coop: The Henchmen and Burundanga @ World Headquarters, Newcastle, Nov 23

The Henchmen: Belinda Voshtina (vocals); Tim Bloomer (guitar); James Carmichael (drums); A N Other (bass guitar)

(Review by Ann Alex).

Sorry about not knowing the line-up properly, but I could see that the personnel were different from an incarnation reviewed previously in BSH and I hadn’t seen this band before. Katie Trigger was not on bass - presumably saving herself for her part in Burundanga later.

And when the band kicked off I wasn't’ disappointed, no way. Belinda sings in an expressive strong voice, backed by truly competent musicians, playing in an interesting style which bears the influence of rock as well as jazz, with plenty of solos for the band.  Out spun the numbers such as: Route 66; with the guitars portraying a journey, a sexy swirling Fever; Ray Charles’ Unchain My Heart; Georgia; Besame Mucho; and finally The Thrill Is Gone.

Debra Milne Ensemble – Emptyshop HQ Durham November 22

Debra Milne (Vocal) Stevie Glendinning (Guitar) Paul Grainger (D. Bass) Rob Bates (Drums).

(Review by Kath Jobes).

A new venue for Jazz in Durham proved to be a little gem!  Parking was ‘fun’ on the steep and narrow Crossgate Peth just up from Framwellgate Bridge… and finding the venue could have been tricky had it not been for one  of the Musicians being outside for a ‘breath of fresh air’!  I was quickly ushered up the stairs and into an intimate and unpretentious bar area to meet up with a small group of musicians and friends who led me into a larger room, set up for a night of two and a half sets of entertaining Jazz…

Rendezvous Jazz Goin’ Home to the Sandpiper

Maureen Hall’s Rendezvous Jazz will be returning to the Sandpiper (formerly the Piper) in Cullercoats to resume their regular first Saturday in the month residency. The band’s monthly gig in Preston Grange has come to an end, so, from Saturday December 7 Maureen and the boys will be back at the Sandpiper (first Saturday in the month, January 4 already confirmed) at the usual time – 8:30 pm – with admission on the door at a bargain £3.00. 

The December date just happens to be the band’s Christmas party night. Delights are sure to be plentiful – silly hats, streamers, raffle prizes galore and the promise/threat of Iain McAulay playing the bagpipes! The Sandpiper, on Farringdon Road, has been substantially redesigned, real ales are on tap and it is but five minutes walk from Cullercoats Metro station. And if you can’t wait that long to hear them, catch the band at St Joseph’s CMS Club in Birtley on Thursday December 5 (8:15 pm). All this in addition to your weekly rendezvous with Maureen at the Black Horse in Monkseaton (Friday 1:00 pm). The party season starts here!      

Russell.

Dallas Blues

I was taking part in a brass band practice when the news broke of JFK's assassination. Horrific as it was, it paled into insignificance compared to what we were doing to the Poet and Peasant Overture.
Lance.

Jazz Café News

The news that the refurbished Jazz Café will open on Dec.7 is indeed good news although, of course, it will be nothing like the old and much loved one that sank with the death of Keith Crombie - no place ever could.
However, let's not wallow in sentimentality for what has gone but welcome this new venture and wish it every success.
The following program has been arranged with updates to be announced as they transpire.

Sat 7 Dec  8.15pm: Alan Law solo piano. 10.15pm: Slowlight Quartet

Fri 13 Dec 10.00pm Paul Edis Trio. 

Sat14 Dec 10pm Paul Gowland Allstars

Fri 20 Dec.10pm Mo Scott Quartet (Rob Walker / Neil Harland/ Stu Collingwood)

Sat 21 Dec 10pm Don Forbes Quartet

Fri 27 Dec 10pm Pink Lane Co-op. 

Sat 28 Dec 10pm T/B/C

Tues 31 Dec NYE Pink Lane Co-op

Fri 3 Jan 10pm Mark Toomey Quartet

Sat 4 Jan 10pm Zoe Gilby Trio.

----- 

Meanwhile, the quest for funding goes on for Abi Lewis' documentary; The Jazzman. Dedicated to the late Keith Crombie, ex Grupenführer of the original Jazz Café, this is a jazz documentary that has to be brought to fruition. A portrait of a man - a true individual - who didn't suffer fools (gladly or otherwise), who tilted at windmills whether they be jazz ones or local government ones and was never afraid to pass judgement. Support this appeal - the  goal is within sight but a few more pledges are needed so please, if you love jazz or ever visited the original "Caff", dig down and contribute via the Kickstarter campaign.

Lance.

Carol Grimes @ Lauderdale House, London Jazz Festival. November 21.

Carol Grimes (vocals); Dorian Ford (piano);Annie Whitehead (trombone); Neville Malcom (bass);  Winston Clifford (drums).

(Review by Flore).

'If you want to get ahead get a hat and head for Lauderdale House'. The temperature doesn't just dive in Newcastle, North London also has its share of howling winds, and below zero temperatures. 
Carol rapidly  warmed the audience up with red hair flowing topped by a snazzy hat  at a jaunty angle, her way of warning off  winter's bugs.

1. All Blues, already the packed audience were anything but blue.

2.Little Sister, with drummer Winston interjecting 'Call my Name', who wouldn't?
3.’Round Midnight, Carol chose Oscar Brown’s lyric, ably philosophising (is there such a word)?.........'as one day gets spent we gain another'.......through all this a speedy tempo, but was toned down for some poetry.......'the ghost of Thelonious Monk visits me'......and we are enveloped in a cha cha rhythm to conclude  on a high. By this point the audience were agog!

John Wilson Orchestra: That's Entertainment - A Tribute to the Golden Age of the MGM Musicals. Sage Gateshead

(Review by Lance)
This afternoon we abandoned the jazz hat and, instead, stepped out in top hat, white tie and tails - figuratively speaking. John Wilson and his huge orchestra - I lost count - presented That's Entertainment - A Tribute to the Golden Age of the MGM Musicals.

And what a tribute it was by an orchestra totally attuned to the task in hand. The Overture comprised a medley of songs from several of those glorious films whose heyday ran from the 1930s through to the 1950s and, in the process, set the scene for the two vocalists Anna Jane Casey and Matt Ford.

CD Review: Tim Warfield's Jazzy Christmas.

It's not even December but, already, Santa has jetted out of JFK (don't be doing with that Reindeer/Lapland jazz) with a planeload of his favourite tunes. A selection came down my chimney today. Unfortunately the fire wasn't lit.

Tim Warfield's Jazzy Christmas - Tim Warfield (ten/sop); Terell Stafford (tpt); Stefon Harris (vbs); Cyrus Chestnut (pno); Rodney Whitaker (bs); Clarence Penn (dms); Daniel Sadownick (perc.) Ned Podgurski (pno some tracks); Joanna Pascale, Jamie Davis (vcl)
(Review by Lance)

To get the picture, imagine a corporate outfit hiring a band of jazzmen for the annual grope.

Seasonal tunes played within the bounds of respectability. The bosses and the secretaries stepping outside the bounds of respectability and a good time being had by all. Musically you can't knock it - a gig is a gig and if you've got to play Xmas lift music at least do it well.

CD Review: Burak Bedikyan - Circle of Life

Burak Bedikyan (pno); Chris Potter (ten); Peter Washington (bs); Bill Stewart (dms).
(Review by Lance)

The moment I heard the opening First Steps I said "Monk with Charlie Rouse." Then it dawned on me that this guy was playing a lot more notes than Monk even though some of the harmonies and intervals were similar. However, unlike Monk, these sounded right first time round!

Bedikyan could be the greatest Turkish jazz musician ever - I've forgotten the name of the other one, so maybe he is.

Nicolas Meier Gig Cancelled at Lit and Phil

The advertised concert by Swiss guitarist Nicolas Meier scheduled for December 6 at Newcastle's Lit and Phil Society has been cancelled.
As of yet no reason given.
Lance.

Latin Big Band @ Ned Kelly's Last Stand

Our man in Hong Kong sent us this clip of the latest big band bash at Ned's.
Thank you Colin,
Lance

Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings @ Sage Gateshead November 19

Bill Wyman (bs gtr); Frank Mead (sax/vcl/hca) Nick Payn (sax/hca); Geraint Watkins (keys/vcl); Albert Lee (gtr/vcl); Terry Taylor (gtr/vcl); Graham Broad (dms); Beverly Skeete (vcl) + Maria Muldaur (vcl).

Good old fashioned Rock & Roll, Rhythm & Blues, Soul, Blues, Jazz - you name it, you got it!

Vocals galore and mind-blowing solos to boot. The only thing that puzzled me was why weren't the audience boppin' and jivin' in the aisles? Then I looked about me - there were as many grey hairs and bald pates as you get at the average north-east jazz concert. More in fact as Hall One, whilst not full to the rafters, had a respectably crowded two tiers with a sprinkling on the third.

Don't Take the A Train - Take the Metro!

A week of FREE Xmas jazz sessions on the platform at Tynemouth Station. 

The bands will be located adjacent to Porter's Coffee House where you can purchase drinks including tea and coffee (proprietor Mick's bacon sandwiches highly recommended!). Seating and tables available - wrap up warm, tho! 

Jazz commences 12.00 noon prompt. 

Monday 2 Dec: THE VIEUX CARRÉ HOT 4 with Graham Hardy, trumpet  

Tuesday 3 Dec: THE VIEUX CARRÉ HOT 4 with Paul Gowland, tenor sax  

Wednesday 4 Dec: THE GAVIN LEE BAND ace reed player Gavin's jazz combo 

Thursday 5 Dec: THE BRIAN CHESTER QUARTET great jazz, Christmas songs and Santa hats!

Friday 6 Dec: THE NON-ELECTRIC BAND John Carstairs Hallam's acoustic 4-piece band 

Brian Bennett

Hoochie Coochie Hotline

Two great FREE gigs at Hoochie Coochie this week - 

Thurs we have a young band from London, The Outlanders , who are causing a stir with their debut album. Funky, jazzy, and guaranteed to move your ass.

Fri - The award winning International Soul/Jazz singer , Julie Dexter with band visits Hoochie for the first time. 

Both of these gigs a FREE & 2 for 1 on cocktails till 9pm. Come along & support quality live music in Newcastle.

Warren.

Captain's Log - Star Date 17/11/2013 Blaydon Jazz Club at The Black Bull

Steve Andrews (ten/sop); Graham Hardy (tpt/flgl); Paul Edis (pno); Mick Shoulder (bs); Adam Sinclair (dms).

I wouldn't want to let this lovely  session pass without an acknowledgement. When you book a band and it all works out great, it is very rewarding. This evening at Blaydon Jazz Club, Steve Andrews, Graham Hardy, Paul Edis, Mick Shoulder and Adam Sinclair sure served up a memorable musical treat to an enthusiastic audience. They played their socks off!

The session as a whole was rather boppish in style with a very interesting and varied selection of tunes including Lester Leaps in, Just One of Those Things, Shiny Stockings, a tender version of Embraceable You, Horace Silver's Song for my Father and Sister Sadie, Boppin' on a Riff (Navarro/Dameron) and Donby (Byas). Among many highlights was a gorgeous version of Kern's Yesterdays and a delightful version of John Handy's Dancy Dancy. All the boys really were on great form and it must go down as one of the best concerts we've had down the years. 

'Thank you for the music' as a certain Swedish pop band would say. 
Roly

CD Review: Carolyn Lee Jones - The Performer

Carolyn Lee Jones (vocals,  background); Brad Williams (piano, keyboard); Jonathan Fisher (basses); Andrew Griffith (drums); also on various tracks: Todd Parsnow (guitars); Jorge Ginorio (percussion); Shelley Carrol (flutes, tenor sax); Mario Cruz (flute, tenor sax); Joyce Spenser (alto sax); Paul Elder (bass clarinet); David Pierce (trombone, string synth); Tony Baker (trombone).

(Review by Ann Alex)

Take hope all ye people in ‘ordinary’ jobs.  Carolyn Lee Jones, raised in Nebraska, worked for many years in retail but never quite forgot her musical ambitions.  She became a full time jazz singer and bandleader in 2008, and this is her second album, and a fine piece of work it is.  The CD insert describes her as a ‘contralto’, not a term I’d use about a jazz singer.  No, she’s a singer with a rich, flexible range, expressing herself admirably in song.  The musicians are well skilled and play as appropriate for the tune.  For example in Lazy Afternoon there is a repeated buzzy bee sound from the  horns, and for The Island, a song about living with your lover on a desert island, the flute solos like a humming bird.

Sean Noonan & the Suwalki String Quartet @ The Bridge Hotel. November 17

Sean Noonan (drums & vocals), Adam Roszkowski (violin), Afan Asjew (violin), Magda Malecka (viola) & JanRoszkowski (cello)

(Review by Russell/Photo by Ken Drew). 
Odd ball New Yorker Sean Noonan returned to the Bridge Hotel with a string quartet in tow. Drums and strings…the writing had to be on the outside and it was. Noonan wrote the music and lyrics. His storytelling took the form of narration rather than conventional singing. The narrative – A Gambler’s Hand – wove the strange tale of a man trapped in a wall (the wall of the Bridge Hotel, said Noonan). He, the man, broke free and travelled the world – perhaps in a dream, because, after all, he was trapped in a wall. We were in a dream, said Noonan. The audience believed him…well, some of us did.

CD Review: Keith Jarrett - No End

Jarrett (Electric Guitars, Electric Bass,Drums, Tabla, Percussion, Voice, Recorder, Piano).

(Review by Steve H.)  

Keith Jarrett is one of the finest musicians to ever have graced this earth.

However, this double CD is a strange one. It appears to be an extended jam session, though not a one the Women’s Institute would be likely to hold. Stranger still is that, despite a vast array of instruments played, there is only performer -  Keith Jarrett.

A Unique Night of Blues and Gospel from The Holy Rollers – Salsa Café November 16

Kathryn Lowdon (Vocal) and Gypsy Dave Smith (Guitar and Vocal). (Review by Kath Jobes).

Memories of the Jazz Café as it was were tangible this evening as Gipsy Dave Smith kicked the evening off with Careless Love, followed by I’m The Whining Boy, and if I closed my eyes I would have believed that there really was a trombone introduction as the skill of this great performer excelled as he mimicked the sound of a trombone to open the number… Just wow! 

London Jazz Festival: Wayne Shorter Quartet + BBC Concert Orchestra @ The Barbican November 17.

Wayne Shorter (sop/ten); Danilo Pérez (pno);  John Patitucci (bs); Brian Blade (dms) + (second set) BBC Concert Orchestra.

Another crowded Barbican, another legend, another triumph? Well maybe, maybe not.

The first set was very much along the lines of his Blue Note CD Without a Net. The same line-up, and a lot of the fire represented in the exciting album that brought the 80 year old back into the front-line of contemporary jazz was re-created here. Already I know several authoritative figures see this as the album of the year and on this performance I can understand them. It is a good album and this set reinforced the opinions.

If only it had ended there!.

Enter the BBC Concert Orchestra.

A wonderful orchestra, but not a jazz orchestra - contrast this with Guy Barker and his classical players. Nevertheless, they did a good job given the material but, and I'm sure I'm going to be hung, drawn and quartered next time I'm in town, to me this was on a par with Bix and Paul Whiteman. After hearing a cracking first set then to have all this quasi-jazz thrust upon me diluted the content. There are times when Serious can be too serious! Although in fairness it has to be said they have produced one of the world's great jazz festivals - and they're producing another one at Sage Gateshead next April.

Lance.

London Jazz Festival: David Sanborn/Bob James - Zoe Rahman Quartet @ The Barbican November 16.

Bob James (pno); David Sanborn (alt); Scott Colley (bs); Steve Gadd (dms).

(Review by Lance).

The applause was tumultuous from the packed auditorium even before the quartet had played a note! This crowd knew the form and clearly felt they'd backed a winner!

And they had! From the opening reflective chords from James you could feel the tension building up to the entrance of Sanborn and the rhythm section. Tension and Resolution was Peter Ind's formula and it worked here too. This was an absolute dream session. The Crowd knew its stuff and the familiar themes were given deserved recognition. All four went for the jugular. Sanborn I'd seen and heard before but Bob James had passed by my radar - not any more, not whilst wearing those shoes! Two tone with what appeared to be red lights attached. We're so out of touch up here!

London Jazz Festival: Gareth Lockrane Big Band @ Spice of Life. November 17.

Gareth Lockrane (flutes); Nigel Hitchcock, Sam Mayne, Graeme Blevins, Nadim Teimoori, Richard Shepherd (saxes); Steve Fishwick, Henry Collins,Tom Walsh, Nick Smart(trumpets); Nichol Thomson,Tom Green, Callum Au, Barry Clements (trombones); Ross Stanley (piano); Ryan Trebilcock (bass) Matt Skelton (drums); Jez Wiles (percussion); Mike Outram (guitar).

(Review by Lance).

The Spice was rapidly filling up and the only seat I could get was about a metre from the band. I thanked my lucky stars the trombones weren't at the front otherwise I'd have had a slide up my nose! Mind you, such was the calibre of the trombones I would have worn the slide with pride!

When Bix Met Louis

Radio 3’s Drama on 3: Bix: Singing the Blues on Sunday 17 November (10:00 pm) presents Robert Forrest’s fictionalised account of the recording studio meeting of Bix Beiderbecke and Louis Armstrong. Directed by David Ian Neville with original music composed and played by Iain Johnstone. Bryan Dick plays the part of Bix and Eric Kofi Abrefa is Louis.  

London Jazz Festival: Andy Champion and Chris Sharkey - Way in to The Way Out. @ Queen Elizabeth Hall November 16

Andy Champion (bs gtr); Chris Sharkey (gtr).

For me this was almost a Splinter @ The Bridge gig except the Geordie Duo played only briefly chosing instead to talk about their influences and how they got into jazz moving from Heavy Metal Rock to Jazz Fusion and eventually discovering the past of this great genre. Using recorded examples they cleverly segued a contemporary piece by ACV (I think), Mingus and ODJB. It was done so well you hardly noticed the joins. This to demonstrate that jazz despite the mode has always worked on the principle of improvisation.

The two raconteurs discussed the major contributors up to Bebop and beyond which is where I had to leave. Not because of any personal bias but because I had to get cross town to the Barbican and time was running out.

Done with much humour this, the first session of a two-parter, could well become a feature at Festivals throughout the UK.

Imagine if Ant and Dec had been jazzers and you've got a taste...

Part Two tonight including a performance by Shiver.

Lance

London Jazz Festival: Peter Ind Double Bass Master Class @ South Bank Centre. November 16.

Peter Ind (Double bass).

A masterclass ostensibly for bass players but of interest to anyone interested in jazz from the 1940s onward.

Now a young 85 year old and looking like Santa Claus he passed out his gifts of improvisation to the well attended room at Level 5 of the South Bank Centre.

Although British by birth, a trip to New York working with "Geraldo's Navy" on The Queen Mary told him the Big Apple was where he had to be. This he achieved and the tales of working with Lennie Tristrano (The founder of free form), Roy Eldridge (his favourite trumpet player) conjured up the picture of an era he rightly referred to as The Golden Age.

Playing a 400 year old bass "I didn't buy it new" he quipped, We heard beautifully toned versions of I Thought About You, Don't Get Around Much Anymore, Mean to Me and several more.

Tension and Resolution are Peter Ind's guide lines to a solo and he certainly aptly demonstrated those qualities.

A gem of a session.

Lance.

London Jazz Festival - Jazz Voice 2013 @ The Barbican Centre

Clare Teal, Jane Monheit, Omar, Annabel Williams, Krystle Warren, Vive, Eoka, Noel McKoy (vcls). Guy Barker (MD) + 40 piece orchestra; Victoria Wood (compere).

The 21st LJF got off to a cracking start with a hand-picked program of quality jazz singing. Over the past few years the Jazz Voice concert has been the traditional official opener to ten days of top jazz performances spread over a large number of venues.

Clare Teal gave us a cracking rendition of Secret Love and anyone who muttered "Not Secret Love again" hadn't heard this version! Surprise MC was Victoria Wood who ensured that the show was not without humour. Jane Monheit came on and not only gave a stunning version of Born To Be Blue but also looked stunning with the most gorgeous red lips I've ever seen!

Bradley Johnston in Semi Final (Facebook post)

"Well I'm through to the BBC Young Musician Jazz Award semi-final in Cardiff in January — feeling excited."
Bradley, you and all of us who have followed your progress from your sessions at Blaydon Jazz Club and Sage Gateshead with James Birkett, to this career landmark, are proud of you. Boogie  on in there and kick ass! Seriously, we're right behind you at Bebop Spoken Here - we know you've got the ability to go all the way. Keep us in the loop. (and share the Champagne with us afterwards!)
Lance

London Jazz Festival Starts Tomorrow

The UK's biggest jazz festival starts this weekend with an unbelievable array of talent spread over ten days in a multitude of venues across the capital.

Our own north east heroes even get a look in - Andy Champion and Chris Sharkey talk about their take on jazz and how they got into the music. This is over two 5pm slots on Saturday and Sunday (November 16/17) in the foyer of the Queen Elizabeth Hall. It is rumoured they will do it without an interpreter!

For the full Festival program visit http://www.londonjazzfestival.org.uk/.

Lance.

CD Review: Nicolas Meier Trio+ Kismet

Nicolas Meier (acoustic nylon guitar, glissentar & jazz guitar), Kevin Glasgow (bass), Laurence Lowe (drums), Demi Garcia (percussion) + Lizzie Ball (violin), Bernard Gregor-Smith (cello) & Cenk Erdogan (acoustic fretless nylon & electric guitar)

(Review by Russell)

Kismet, the title track, is placed third of nine on Nicolas Meier’s new album released at the beginning of next week (Monday 18 November). An original composition of Meier’s, inspired by a Turkish folk tune, it encapsulates what this recording is all about; a fusion of Eastern cultural elements, the brilliance of  Flamenco musicians and the nonchalance of the Manouche guitarists past and present. Meier’s relaxed approach and imperious technique make this new recording one for students of the guitar and for those appreciative of a beautifully realised project.

CD Review: Rachael Cohen Quartet - Half Time.

Rachael Cohen (alt); Phil Robson (gtr); Calum Gourlay (bs); James Bashford (dms).

(Review by Lance)

Anybody out there remember lyrical? It's what the old jazz alto greats had in abundance. Pepper, Desmond, Carter, Hodges, Parker they all had it. Then, along came Eric Dolphy and Ornette and lyricism suddenly became an endangered species threatened with extinction.

Well I've got news for you, with this CD lyrical is back big time!

Jazz Café article in today's Journal

To read this update on the café today and the documentary of the café yesterday follow this link.
Lance

Old with Blue eyes!

You know you are old when you discover, as I've just done, that Frank Sinatra junior is almost as old as you are!
Lance.
PS: Please stop spreading the news...

Walter Trout Band + Mitch Laddie Band @ Sage Gateshead. November 11

(Review by Russell)

A dream double bill – US blues-rcck guitar giant Walter Trout supported by local hero blues-rock guitar sensation Mitch Laddie. Contrary to some media reports Trout’s European tour had not been cancelled and Hall Two at Sage Gateshead was busy, the crowded main floor all standing.

Trout, a long time mate of Laddie, made a welcome return to Tyneside. His gigs at Riverside on Melbourne Street, Newcastle are the stuff of legend. Subsequent gigs at other venues have earned the former Bluesbreaker a loyal following in the north east.

As the band took to the stage at Sage Gateshead – Walter Trout (guitar, harmonica & vocals), Sammy Avila (Hammond organ & vocals), Rick Knapp (electric bass) & Michael Leasure (drums) + Andrew Elt (electric bass & vocals) – many in the auditorium stood shocked at the frail figure of Walter Trout. Illness had taken its toll, the XL-size American reduced to a ghostly skeletal frame. Trusty Strat in hand, Trout looked drawn, tired. Would this be a desperately sad occasion? No fear!

New Look Jazz Café to Open December 7 - Bands Wanted.

Newcastle’s famous Jazz Café is approaching the completion of a complete refit and will re-open on Saturday December 7. From then on it will open weekly from Tuesday to Saturday – as a café from lunchtime and in the evenings as a bar. From 9pm until late on Fridays and Saturdays the bar will be featuring live jazz.

A couple of quick introductions at this point. The new look Jazz Café is now and will in future be managed by the long-term owner of the building and of the neighbouring Newcastle Arts Centre.  My role in the operation is solely the programming of bands on the Friday and Saturday nights. My experience comes from my years with Jazz North East and, before that, from jazz programming at Live Theatre, including for Newcastle Jazz Festival.

Preview - A Norwegian Requiem: Arve Henriksen, Ståle Storrløkken and Choralia. Sage Gateshead November 25

In Hall One Madeleine Peyroux will be  strutting her stuff but over in Hall Two a much more sombre and sacred affair will be taking place...

Arve Henriksen – Trumpet; Ståle Storløkken – Organ; Christopher Finch – Choirmaster; Choralia – Wells Cathedral School Choir

Leading Norwegian musicians Arve Henriksen and Ståle Storløkken join acclaimed UK girls’ choir Choralia to perform Andrew Smith’s moving reflection on the tragic massacre on Utøya in Norway.

Andrew Smith’s moving new work is loosely based on the Roman Catholic requiem mass, and combines Arve Henriksen’s unique improvisation with the singers’ notated score to create music of deep reflective beauty. Requiem is dedicated to young, innocent victims of conflict everywhere, and in particular to those who lost their lives at Utøya on 22 July 2011.

The Jazzman Documentary

Check out here to discover how you can help bring this tribute to the late Keith Crombie and the Jazz Café  to completion in its final stages.
Lance.

CD Review: Zoe Gilby - Twelve Stories

Zoe Gilby (vcl); Andy Champion (bs); Mark Williams (gtr); Richard Brown (dms); Noel Dennis (tpt).

(Review by Lance).

I hope this review doesn't cause a divorce! With only a few weeks to go I had Andy Champion's ACV album Busk down as my UK Album of the Year now along comes Zoe (Mrs Champion) with Twelve Stories - a contender if ever there was one!

Solution - a vocal category and a small band one!

This Sunday (Nov. 17) at Blaydon Jazz Club - Paul Edis Trio plus special guests Steve Andrews sax and Graham Hardy tpt/flgl.

Steve Andrews, absolute master of swing style saxophone, and the versatile Graham Hardy (equally at home playing Satchmo through to Hubbard) are two of the area's finest jazz musicians. For this concert they are accompanied by the Paul Edis Trio (Paul pno, Mick Shoulder bass, Adam Sinclair dms).

Black Bull, Bridge St., Blaydon. 8pm. £4.

Roly.

Charlie Galbraith's son Carl?

One of our site visitors is trying to trace Carl Galbraith, son of the late trad band leader and trombonist, Charlie Galbraith. If anyone can help please contact me.
Lance.

Splinter Jam Session @ The Bridge

Alan Law (pno); John Pope (bs); Andy Champion (dms) + sitters in.

The house trio got the ball rolling with a couple of numbers including a swinging There is no Greater Love. Bass player Andy Champion was on drums, Bass player John Pope was on bass and occasional alto player Alan Law was on piano. A good combination.

Alan Law remained at the keyboard as Jim Crinson took over on bass, Eric Stutt got behind the kit, the Findens - Stuart and Fiona brandished tenors and three of the five sported trendy headgear - who says jazz is old hat?! Sartorially speaking, Alan Law's highly polished brown shoes got the verdict.

What I Did In The Holidays by Ann Alex

Blog readers may have noticed my absence from the blog during the past week, although the distaff side of BSH has been well covered by Kath Jobes and Debra Milne.  (Lance likes the distaff reference; if you are puzzled, it’s something to do with weaving in Shakespeare, just ask Lance).  Anyway, I was away on a singing holiday. 

Ian Shaw and Claire Martin: Joni At 70: The Songs Of Joni Mitchell The Sage: Saturday November 9

Ian Shaw (piano, vocals); Claire Martin (vocals)

What a thoroughly enjoyable concert this turned out to be, what with great singing and piano and self-deprecating comedy, mostly from Ian, who in a parallel life, is also an occasional stand-up comic. 

Hall 2 was almost full on level 1; the stage was set to give an intimate cabaret type feel with a curtained backdrop of muted green, purple, and a curious animal print pattern; Ian seated at the piano and Claire wearing a black jumpsuit and sitting on a high stool or standing at the end of the piano.  

Good Evans! Bill’s Composer of the Week

Radio 3’s Composer of the Week is Bill Evans. Five programmes over five days – Monday to Friday at 12 noon with a repeat each evening at 6:30 pm (Monday 6:15 pm).

Emily Dankworth, she of the dynasty, is in the Radio 3 In Tune studio, Monday, 4:30 pm. Tuesday, over on Radio2, Jamie Cullum features a session by Sons of Kemet. Shabaka Hutchings’ band – familiar to Newcastle jazz fans – goes on to play this year’s London Jazz Festival. The band can be heard live from Ronnie Scott’s in a Jazz on 3 London Jazz Festival special on Friday (11:00 pm) along with Medeski Martin and Wood. Earlier in the evening the gala opening – Jazz Voice – is broadcast live from the Barbican (7:30 pm) featuring a host of singers with Guy Barker conducting the London Jazz Festival Orchestra.  

Imagine (Tuesday November 12, BBC 1) presents Broadway Musicals: a Jewish Legacy. A treat is in store as a succession of talking heads pay tribute to Irving Berlin, George and Ira Gershwin, Jerome Kern, Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II and others.      

Russell.

Gavin Lee's Dixieland Band @ Ashington Jazz Club. November 6

Gavin Lee (Clarinet and Alto Saxophone), Phil Smith (Bass), Jimmy Stix Robinson (Drums), Brian Chester (Keyboard).

(Review by Peter S.).

Gavin arrived on this occasion with a group of musicians never seen at AJC within this combination. No soprano sax this time but with clarinet and alto sax which he plays with style and perfection. Always with him Phil Smith on bass and much to our surprise and delight Brian Chester on keyboard and on his first encounter with the AJC  Jimmy Stix on drums.

Tanton-Williams – Salsa Café and Tapas Bar – Saturday November 9

Pete Tanton (Flugel/Trumpet) Mark Williams (Guitar) Mark Robertson (Drums) John Pope (D.Bass) + Christine Ben-Ameh (vcl).

(Review by Kath Jobes.)

Salsa Café and Tapas Bar witnessed the genius of another group of talented musicians brought together in the form of Tanton-Williams.  The set commenced with a lively version of Four featuring Tanton on Flugelhorn… his main instrument of the night, chosen for its gentler timbre while folks were dining.  This was followed by One Note Samba and a mellow version of Sunny. 

It’s a Lockout! - Djangologie at St.Cuthbert’s Hall Crook - Friday November 8

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

(Review by Jerry)

Even when the main door jams and can’t be fixed there’s always a welcome (and a biblical abundance of pizza!) in Crook. 80+ of us (more than there were printed tickets for!) trooped through the back door and settled down for a great return visit by Djangologie. Two latecomers were literally locked out when the back door clashed shut – but they were swiftly admitted when their plight was spotted: in Crook, there is a welcome even for the tardy (and pizza and CD’s)!

MORE ARTISTS ANNOUNCED FOR 10TH GATESHEAD INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

Tickets on sale now for Courtney Pine, Polar Bear, the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra and more 

Following the announcement in October of Gateshead International Jazz Festival 2014 headliners Django Bates and the Norrbotten Big Band, The Spring Quartet, Robert Glasper and Bill Frisell, tickets for five further performances - including the well known British saxophonist, composer and broadcaster Courtney Pine - have now been released for sale.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary and renowned for being the UK’s biggest jazz festival under one roof outside London, the festival, programmed by Sage Gateshead in collaboration with London-based music producers Serious, runs from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 April 2014 at Sage Gateshead.

Tickets are now on sale for Saturday and Sunday performances by Courtney Pine - House of Legends; Jean Toussaint Quartet/McCormack and Yarde Duo with the Elysian String Quartet - double bill; Chris Sharkey’s SHIVER and Polar Bear – double bill; the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra - Jazz Toons (afternoon show) and the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra – In the Spirit of Duke.

Roly Veitch/Sue Ferris Trio @ The Lit and Phil, Newcastle.

Roly Veitch (gtr/vcl); Sue Ferris (ten/fl); Neil Harland (bs).
(Review by Lance.)

There's something very fragile about Roly's singing. Imagine a nervous juggler using valuable pieces of rare porcelain to perform whilst walking a tightrope without a safety net! You hold your breath knowing he's sure to fall breaking his neck and the porcelain. Of course he never does and neither does Roly! It's a quality he shared with Chet Baker and Shirley Horn which isn't bad company to be in. This was particularly noticeable in the tender interpretation of In The Wee Small Hours (at five to two in the afternoon!)

CD Review: Mark Perry & Duncan Eagles Quintet - Road Ahead.

Mark Perry (tpt); Duncan Eagles (ten); Gareth Lochrane (fl); Sam Leak (pno); Max Luthert (bs); Chris Nickolls (dms); Ola Onabule (vcl).

(Review by Lance)

A gem! A perfect example of where British jazz is at the moment and, if it's not, it's where it should be!

This is music accessible to all but the Troglodytes  and the Outsiders.. Superb solos, great ensemble sounds on compositions by the co-leaders. It's bop -  both hard and soft - as well as contemporary sounds that recognise chord changes. I'd love to know the background to the intriguing tune titles.

Walter & Mitch to catch up at Sage

(Preview by Russell)

One-time Bluesbreaker Walter Trout returns to Tyneside to play Sage Gateshead on Monday 11 November. Trout (Provogue record label’s big draw) has been at the top of the game for more years than he would care to remember: Lowell Fulson and Pee Wee Crayton were quick to recognise the talents of the man from Ocean City, New Jersey. John Lee Hooker employed the guitar ace and the prized gig of working with Canned Heat raised his profile to stratospheric heights. The call from John Mayall assured his place in the pantheon of blue-rock guitar greats.

CD Review: Greg Abate Quartet featuring Mike Levine - Time for Dave.

Greg Abate (ten/alt/sop.); Mike Levine (pno); Todd Baker (bs); Dave Zinno (bs on I Do Love You, Blue Moon, The Duke); Gary Johnson (dms).

(Review by Lance).

A reminder of last night's superb session by Greg Abate, this time with an American Trio in a tribute to Dave Brubeck recorded earlier this year.

CD Review: Odessa/Havana – Walk to the Sea

David Buchbinder (Trumpet; Flugelhorn); Hilario Duran (Piano) John Johnson(Clarinet, Tenor and Soprano Saxes, Alto Flute); Aleksandar Gajic (Violin, Viola); Roberto Occhipinti (Bass, Guitar (3)); Mark Kelso (Drums, Bata, Percussion); Michael Cohen (Vocal (2); Maryem Hassan Tollar (Vocals (3,5,9); Joaquin Nunez Hidalgo (Congas, Dumbeq, Bata, Chekere (1-3, 7-9); Jamey Haddad (Riq, Frame Drum, Dumbeq (3-6); Bassam Bishara ( Oud (3);  Demetrios Petsalakis ( Oud (5); Elmer Ferrer ( Tres (4).

(Review by Steve H.)

This album is an unlikely fusion of Jewish and Cuban traditions - a kind of Kosher Tapas one might say. The group is led by its two composers -  Canadian trumpeter David Buchbinder  and Cuban pianist Hilaro Duran.

Greg Abate w. Paul Edis Trio @ The Lit and Phil. November 7.

Greg Abate (alt/fl); Paul Edis (pno); Mick Shoulder (bs); Adam Sinclair (dms).
(Review by Lance/photos by Ken Drew.)

Where were you? The room should have been jam packed with wall to wall saxophone players (not to mention pianists, bassists and drummers). Every person who ever wore shades and a beret, dug Bird, Cannonball, Art, Paul, Phil, the three Sonny's and all the other bop and post bop players should have been queuing ten deep from the Lit and Phil to the other end of the High Level Bridge. This was it! This is what jazz is all about! You stayed in? well I only hope she was worth it!

CD Review: Jazz Combustion Uprising - Self Immolation.

Henry Hung (tpt); Grant Levin (pno); Andrew Ryan (dms); David "Elaine" Alt (saxes); Kenny Annis (bs) + Gabe Davis (bs); Alicia Bell (voice); Wendell Hanna (bassoon); Jane Lenoir (fl).

(Review by Lance)

This came in today as a late contender and, whilst it may not grab the top spot, it's going to be up there!

Fiery compositions, Equal parts, Innovation and Dedication with Blistering Solos and a Vintage Rooted Sound. So said the album notes and hey - they were right! My review done by them in a single sentence!

But no, I've got to earn my virtual corn and expound further.

Stevie Glendinning Trio and Chris Jelly with guest singer Barry Keating – Salsa Café - Nov. 2

Stevie Glendinning (gtr), Mike Clarke (bass), Mark Robinson (dms), Chris Jelly (vibes) Barry Keating (Vocals)

(Review by Kath J.)

The evening promised to be like no other, a new combination of the well-known trio with the addition of vibraphone.  The wild weather had kept a few people at home but what a night they missed!

A gentle introduction saw Stevie Glendinning perform a beautiful La Pasionaria.  Vocalist Barry Keating joined the Trio for Besame Mucho and What a Difference a Day Makes, performed in his usual confident but relaxed style. A trio of treasures in the form of All the things you are, Moonlight in Vermont and Four on Six, with superb solos from the lightning fast fingers of Stevie.