(Review by Russell)
The monthly Friday lunchtime jazz gigs at the Gala have become so popular
they are now selling out in advance. The appearance of Mo Scott was no
exception. The printed programme bore little relation to the set list Scott
devised on the spot. Pianist Paul Edis and double bassist Neil Harland
scrambled (most professionally) to find their parts as the Empress of the Blues
counted ‘em in. Scott added, helpfully: Everything’s
in numerical order except for the one’s that aren’t!
Don’t Get Around Much Anymore sang Scott and proceeded to ask the question: Gee Baby Ain’t I Good to You? Edis responded with some bluesy piano
playing. Scott can usually be heard singing the blues late into the night. At
the Gala she found herself performing at the decidedly non-bluesy hour of one
in the afternoon. Come Rain or Come Shine
featured fine vocals as did Good Morning
Heartache. Neil Harland set the mood on Fever
and Scott’s intro to Bye Bye Blackbird
hit the spot as did Edis’ solo with a fleeting quotation from
The hour long set flew by and before the full house left to wind their
way, Scott, Edis and Harland made a dash for it along Route 66. Next month at the Gala (Friday April 25) the jazz guitar
duo of James Birkett and Bradley Johnston will surely play to another sold out
crowd. Guitar playing of the highest order, order your tickets now – 0191 03000
266600 – because if you don’t you will be turned away. A week today Mo Scott
can be heard in full throttle blues mode at the Jazz Café in Newcastle .
Russell.
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