Paul Edis Trio @ The Gala, Durham. Friday November 1.

Paul Edis, piano, Mick Shoulder, bass, Adam Sinclair, drums.

(Review and photos by Jerry)

“If I don’t like the jazz,” said the man at the bar to Paul and Mick (presumably unaware of who they were!), “at least I can get a drink”. Edis and Shoulder eyebrows were simultaneously raised – but not their hackles! An hour later, the man was still there, and applauding. Presumably he was won over!

It was a full house – 80+ people and others, apparently, turned away. The lunchtime format really does seem to be a winner, both here and at the Lit & Phil in Newcastle where today’s set-list was first used back in March – a fine selection of Monk, Evans, Ellington and Brubeck interspersed with biographical detail and musical comments about time-signatures, influences etc. Ideal for the audience, many of whom stayed back at the end to compliment the musicians and to buy CD’S (a queue even!!!).

There were unconventional compliments during the programme as well: after one Bill Evans number a talkative punter in the front row said, “I almost fell asleep during that one. I mean that in a good way, of course”. “Feel free,” said Paul, “just don’t snore!”

Half-term, I know, but there were children in the audience today. Now that IS nice to see at a jazz gig!

My favourite thing? – Well, all of it really, but quote-spotting I thought I got a burst of The Simpsons during one solo: I’m sure Monk, or Brubeck would have approved!

Photos.

Jerry