Neil
Hunter (vocals), Terry O’Hern (trombone), Alan Thompson (tenor saxophone),
Steve McGarvie (alto saxophone & vocals), Geoff Owens (keyboards), Bob
Garrington (guitar), Ian Rigby (bass & vocals) & Gary Cain (drums)
(Review by Russell)
First Sunday in the month,
lunchtime, the Cluny .
The Smokin’ Spitfires. Vocalist Neil Hunter, a survivor from his days with the
Eastside Torpedoes, goes further on down the soul road with the tightest of
outfits in tow. The Spitfires’ loyal audience knows what to expect and
willingly hitches a ride.
Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag, Can’t Get Next to You, Soul Man – classic tunes all and nailed
first time, every time. Hunter commands attention with his vocal style hewn
from the coal face of the north east r & b scene. This gig heard him
struggle through with man flu, his keen rapport with the audience aided by a
few on stage medicinal beers. Oh, for the days when musicians drank beer – not
a bottle of water in sight!
The ‘girls’ were soon up dancing
and after Unchain My Heart (alto solo
from Steve McGarvie) and Rufus Thomas went Walking
the Dog the ‘boys’ were up on the floor too! Arthur Conley asked the Sweet Soul question – Do You Like Good Music? You bet – the
joint was jumpin’! Bob Garrington’s Telecaster stepped out front from time to
time (bass and drums – Ian Rigby and Gary Cain – immense in the engine room)
and Geoff Owens’ keys kept a low profile until he wound it up on Move On Up. Alan Thompson (tenor) and
McGarvie leapt in to trade searing solos – the horn section (arrangements by
Terry O’Hern) did Curtis proud. At it’s exhausting conclusion Hunter turned to
the horns and said: When we formed the
Spitfires we said we would never play f******
jazz!
The Smokin’ Spitfires’ monthly
gig at the Cluny
is a fundraiser for the Bubble Foundation www.bubblefounfation.org.uk Get
along to the next one – Sunday February 2. Hear a great band and show your support
for the foundation. Recommended.
Russell.
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