Sid Scott Orchestra @ The Bridge Hotel. September 28

Ray Truscott (electric bass), Paul Gowland (tenor & alto saxophones, synthesizer) & Paul Wight (drums)

(Review by Russell).

Sid couldn’t make the gig with HMRC on his trail. The other Sids did make it. Confused? You will be. The ‘orchestra’ packed a punch. The massed ranks of the sections distilled, a familiar-looking trio took to the floor promising/threatening Weather Report stadium-gig power in the upstairs room at the Bridge Hotel. Those in the know took back row seats.

Philip Clouts Tour Dates

The Philip Clouts Quartet will shortly embark on their Autumn 2014 Tour. Newcastle's Jazz Café hosts them on October 31.
Link to other dates.
Lance.

Globe Seek Digital Piano

The Jazz Co-op need a good quality digital piano available for use at the Globe.

Before going to the expense of buying a new one, does anyone have a suitable keyboard that they could borrow, hire or buy?

Released Today.

The Whirlwind Album by Jim Hart's Cloudmakers Trio - Abstract Forces is available today.
Check out Wes Stephenson's review.
Lance.

CD Review: Julie Kelly - Happy To Be.

Julie Kelly (vcld); Bill Cunliffe (pno/synth); Anthony Wilson (gtr); Tom Warrington (bs); Joe LaBarbera (dms); Walter Rodriguez (perc.); Bob Sheppard (sax/fl); Clay Jenkins (tpt); Ron Stout (flug); Bob McChesney (tmb); Kim Richmond (sax); Nick Mancini (vbs); John Prouix (guest vocal).

(Review by Lance).

Not to be confused with Juliet Kelly who recently played a JNE gig at the Black Swan in Newcastle, Julie Kelly is a California based singer and this is her album number 8.

From New Orleans to Birmingham (Birmingham, England)

Your regular date with Paul Jones (Monday 29th September, Radio 2, 7:00pm) features a live session from Woody Mann and the New Yorker talks to Jones about his involvement in a film documentary – Harlem Street Singer – about the Rev Gary Davis. Tuesday’s In Tune (Radio 3, 4:30pm) includes a performance by Spanish jazz singer, trumpeter, saxophonist Andrea Motis and pianist Peter Edwards talks to Jamie Cullum (Radio 2, 7:00pm).

The Glenn Miller Story is hidden away on freeview channel 5USA on Wednesday afternoon (1:40pm). Reimagining the City (a repeat of a five part documentary, Monday to Friday, Radio 4, 11:30pm) is, ostensibly, nothing to do with jazz (a bit like Glenn Miller!) however, part one on Monday visits New Orleans and Friday’s concluding part visits Birmingham, presented by Soweto Kinch who grew up in a Brummie tower block.

Russell.                        

Alex Baker Quartet @ The Jazz Café. September 27

Alex Baker (tenor saxophone), Dean Stockdale (keyboards), Amy Baker (electric bass) & Stephen Fletcher (drums)

(Review by Russell/photos courtesy of Mike Tilley).

Saturday night in the Jazz Café and a good crowd (some new faces) turned out to hear Alex Baker. The self effacing tenor man emerged from the ranks of the Durham County Youth Big Band, relocated to Sheffield and makes oh-so-rare appearances as a member of the Durham County’s alumni band.

Saxophonics @ The Jazz Café. September 26

Keith Robinson (alto), Steve Summers (alto & tenor), Graeme Wilson (tenor) & Niall Armstrong (baritone)

(Review by Russell/photo courtesy of Mike Tilley.)

Friday night in the Jazz Café and it wasn’t too busy. The listening few enjoyed another fine performance from the supremely talented saxophone quartet Saxophonics. Keith Robinson led the ensemble through two sets of well-honed material, much of it composed and/or arranged by the versatile Graeme Wilson. Twenty four hours earlier the amiable Scot had been on stage at Sage Gateshead as a member of the Paul Edis Sextet. Altoists Robinson and Steve Summers similarly were on duty with the Strictly Smokin’ Big Band the previous evening down at the Millstone.

Lindsay Hannon/Alan Law @ Jazz Café - Macmillan Cancer Care Coffee Afternoon.

Lindsay Hannon (vcl); Alan Law (pno).
(Review by Lance/photo courtesy of Mike Tilley).

A coffee afternoon (to allow late night jazzers time to get out of bed) didn't draw the charitably minded members of the community in the numbers anticipated. Perhaps it should have held with tradition and made it a Coffee Morning thus catching the jazz owls before they went to bed! Whatever, if you missed it it was your, and unfortunately, Macmillan Cancer Care's loss.

A chocolate walnut gateaux that probably contained all of the calories in the world went down a treat as did the duo up front.

Celebrating Thirty Years of Jazz at Blaydon

Mark Toomey (alto sax) Noel Dennis (trumpet & flugelhorn) Jeremy McMurray (piano) Neil Harland (bass) David Francis (drums) and the man himself ROLY VEITCH (guitar/vocal). 

(Review by Kathy/Photo by Elaine Francis.)

Last Sunday (September 21) there was a very important event at the Black Bull Pub, Blaydon.

A celebration of 30 years of Jazz and all thanks to the tireless efforts of ROLY VEITCH.

CD Review: Alison Rayner Quintet - August.

Alison Rayner (bs); Buster Birch (dms); Deirdre Cartwright (gtr); Diane McLoughlin (sop/ten); Steve Lodder (pno).

(Review by Lance).

With the exception of The Beatles' Fixing a Hole, all the compositions are composed and arranged by Ms Rayner who also provided her own take on The Beatles' number. The inspirations are many - the mind-turning moments when jazz-rock captured her after listening to Jaco and Stanley Clarke, the ending of relationships, the loss of parents, a hilltop town in Andalucia, bebop, Monk and Muppets, Sly, Ernest Ranglin and Cannonball, to mention but some. Those, most of whom are now gone, could have no better tribute paid to their memory than by the music on this album of delight.

Congratulations to John Taylor and Ashington Jazz Club

Great news from Jazz North. In a competition on promoters day at Manchester Jazz Festival I won the competition in which I had to see 12 bands in 12 hours. The prize was part sponsorship for a band of my choice!!!! 

This results in Zoe Gilby being booked for Ashington Jazz Club on May 6 next year - first date we could firm up on.

John Taylor

Paul Edis Sextet @ Sage Gateshead. CD launch of Mr. Hipster. Sept. 25

Paul Edis (piano), Graham Hardy (trumpet & flugelhorn), Graeme Wilson (tenor & baritone saxophones), Chris Hibbard (trombone), Mick Shoulder (double bass) & Adam Sinclair (drums).
(Review by Lance/photo by Jerry Edis.)
There have been several ground-breaking bands in the north-east during my lifetime. The innovative (in its day) Dixieland of the Panama Jazzmen and the hard bop of the Emcee Five - until last night the yardstick by which bands north, south, east and west of Sage Gateshead,  have been judged.
Until now.
Last night's CD launch by the Edis Sextet placed them firmly on that exclusive plateau. This was music played by a band and composed by a leader that bore comparision with anything recorded in London, LA or New York over the past 50 years - maybe longer.
Originals that are original and solos that display technique and creativity without resorting to banshee-like howls made this a most enjoyable evening.
Russell gave a rave review to the CD which, rather than duplicating with my own misspelt rhetoric, I can do no worse than to refer you to that review via the link below.
Link.  
Ken Drew photo.
Lance.

Jazz on BBC under threat?

(Post from Kerstan of Riot Squad Publicity.)

I don't know if you have heard but there is a BBC Trust review of their music services. 
Jazz is already something of a pauper on the BBC - compared to classical and pop music at least and I think there is a real danger of the music being further marginalised. 
With cuts meaning less hours and less budget for recordings and reporting. We can't afford for this to happen.

CD Review: Jesse Bannister - Play Out

Jesse Bannister (alto); Zoe Rahman (pno); Kenny Higgins (bs); Seb Rochford (bs).
(Review by Lance.)

A faculty member of the renowned Leeds College of Music from 1995-2013, Bannister has finally emerged to front a trio of big hitters on this, his début album. It's impressive. A fluent technique and a melodic flare combine to make him one of the more interesting guys to grace the buoyant Yorkshire scene. Bannister's music draws extensively on his cosmopolitan background. We hear shades of Indo-Jazz, Afro-Caribbean, maybe some reggae and other, to my ears, indiscernible influences.   Contemporary? Yes, but it's also very accessible.

Festival Weekend

It's festival time either side of the border this weekend. The Scarborough Jazz Festival in North Yorkshire and the Lockerbie Jazz Festival held at Lockerbie, Moffat and Annan, both take place on Friday /Saturday/ Sunday (Sept. 26/27/28).

This is unfortunate timing as I know several folks who would like to take in both events.

However, this year it's one or the other. They're both great weekends.

Below are links to help you make a last minute decision.
Lance.
Scarborough.
Lockerbie.

Terry Cryer Celebration

Our man out west(ish) Hugh Cochrane has sent me a link to an exhibition of photos by the legendary Terry Cryer currently on show at Red House Originals, 15 Cheltenham Mount, Harrogate HG1 1DW.

They include some cracking B&W shots from the 1950s of Dizzy, Duke, Ella, Louis, Sonny Stitt, Hawk and others. They're not cheap but they're class.

Link.
Lance.
PS: We've got one or two ace snappers on our team too!

Claire Martin & Montpelier Cello Quartet @ Sage Gateshead. Sept. 22

Claire Martin (vcl); Dan James (also double bass); Sarah Davison; Joe Giddey; Sirial Hugh-Jones (cellos).

(Review by Lance).

I'd never heard a cello quartet and in truth I haven't heard that many solo cellists in recent years. What a sheltered life I've led! So, given my misspent senior years, how would tonight pan out? Well I guess there were others with reservations about this concert as Hall Two was sparsely populated and normally a Claire Martin gig pulls the punters - deservedly so as there are few British jazz singers of her calibre.

Perhaps some decided on the evening's other attraction - Lloyd Wright with James Harrison at the Cherry Tree - I was torn between the two myself. For those who didn't do either then the only word I can think of is SAD.

Jazz North East & Splinter @ the Bridge present The Dors. Sunday Sept. 22

_{Christophe de Bezenac (sax & electronics); Chris Sharkey (guitar); Eve Risser (keyboards & vocals); Yuko Oshima (drums); Paul Miller (audiovisual projections).}

_{(Review by Steve H/photo courtesy of Ken Drew.)}

_{A jazz hating friend of mine has just visited New Orleans where he encountered the music in its birth place and seemed to thoroughly enjoy the experience. I patronizingly informed him that the sort of Jazz he was listening to belonged  in a museum. Quite where Sunday night’s performance at The Bridge Hotel ‘belonged’ to was anybody’s guess.}

CD Review: The Microscopic Septet - Manhattan Moonrise

Phillip Johnston (sop/comp); Don Davis (alt); Mike Hashim (ten); Dave Sewelson (bar); Joel Forrester (pno/comp); Dave Hofstra (bs); Richard Dworkin (dms).

(Review by Lance).

The Microscopic Septet, NYC's Fave Purveyors of Swing, Roar Back into the Limelight with Manhattan Moonlight, an Album of 21st  Century Tunes Dedicated to their Beloved Manhattan. So reads the album notes and, after listening to the music within, it's my Beloved Manhattan too. 

Extra Jazz Café Gig Next Saturday.

Next Saturday (Sept. 27) the Jazz Café are holding a Coffee Afternoon (jazzers don't do 'morning') in aid of Macmillan Cancer Care. Alan Law piano & Lindsay Hannon vocals. 2-4 pm Free. All coffee and cake sales to Macmillan.
Come and get your cake and eat it and in doing so help a good cause.
Lance.

Strictly Smokin' Big Band @ Hoochie Coochie Sept 21.

Michael Lamb (MD), Pete Tanton, Gordon Marshall, Dick Stacey (tpts); Keiran Parnaby, John Flood, John Day, Dave Barnes (tmb); Steve Summers, Keith Robinson (alt); Jamie Toms, Paul Gowland (ten);Laurie Rangecroft  (bar); Graham Don (pno); Pawel Jedrejewski (gtr); Michael Whent (bs); Guy Swinton (dms); James Hedley/Lindsay Hannon (vcls). 
(Review by Lance)/photo courtesy of Ken Drew)
There should be a warning on the music stands of the Strictly Smokin' Big Band  - like there are on a packet of Silk Cut - Smoking can damage your health. Take it from me that, listening to this band, the danger level is even higher! Lower your blood pressure? - no sir it will send it rocketing through the ceiling! So be warned!
However, if your constitution can cope, go for it. And if it can't? Then what a way to go!

Learn from the Sage Lulo Reinhardt

(Preview by Russell)

The name is Reinhardt, Lulo Reinhardt. The great-nephew of Django Reinhardt is coming to Gateshead! On Tuesday 30 September the gypsy jazz guitarist visits Sage Gateshead mid-way through an extensive British tour.

Tune in with Rob Heron

Wake up to Weekend Wogan (Sunday 21 September, Radio 2, 11:00am) to hear Jamie Cullum live in session. 

At noon on Radio 3 Private Passions profiles mathematician and keen jazz painist Timothy Gowers. Clare Teal (Radio 2, 9:00pm) talks to Georgia Mancio ahead of the singer’s ReVoice! festival.

Charlie Haden is remembered on Jazz on 3 (Monday, Radio 3, 11:00pm) with a repeat of the bassist’s concert performance at the 2007 London Jazz Festival. 

A welcome repeat of Bombay Jazz (Thursday, Radio 4, 11:00pm) looks at the jazz scene in 1930s India and on Friday Newcastle’s Rob Heron and the Tea Pad Orchestra drop into the In Tune studio (Radio 3, 4:30pm).            

Russell.

Kenny Wheeler describing his compositional process in a masterclass at NEC in 2002:

Lance - New England Conservatory's Jazz Studies Department Chair Ken Schaphorst posted this on Facebook Thought you might enjoy reading. – Ann Braithwaite.

-----
The process I go through to write or compose a new melody is this-I get up about 7:00 and don't wash or shave or anything, but put on a bathrobe or dressing gown and take a couple of biscuits, a tea, and sit at the piano which is an old slightly out of tune upright. Then I play through some 4-part Bach Chorales. After that I try, with my limited technique to play through some Bach 2 or 3 part Inventions or maybe Preludes. Then I fumble through some more modern music such as Ravel, Debussy, Hindemith, Bartok or maybe the English Peter Warlock.

Alan Barnes @ Jazz Café September 19.

Alan Barnes (alt/bar/clt); Paul Edis (pno); Paul Susans (bs); Rob Walker (dms).
(Review by Lance/left photo courtesy of Ken Drew/right photo courtesy of Mike Tilley).

In the delightful, intimate, setting of the "Caff's" upper room the disciples came to hear and dutifully worship The Master(s) who preached the gospel of good music, good fun and goddamn awful gags.!

In this latter respect, since the passing of Ronnie Scott, Barnes has long held the post of Court Jester and he never fails to get the fans on his side with a quip or six. However, joking apart (boom! boom!), it is his playing that makes him such an outstanding performer and in this respect he is second to none.

Alan Barnes & Paul Edis @ The Gala, Durham. September 19

Alan Barnes (alto & baritone saxophones, clarinet) & Paul Edis (piano)

(Review by Russell/Photo by Ken Drew from the evening gig at Jazz Café).

Another full house. You Stepped Out of a Dream, I’m Old Fashioned, One Note Samba. Pianist Paul Edis invited reeds maestro Alan Barnes to travel ‘up north’ to play a couple of gigs. The first of them in the studio theatre at the Gala, Durham attracted yet another capacity audience…’What’s New?’ you might say.

The presence of Alan Barnes signalled a step change in the profile of musicians invited to perform at the monthly lunchtime session. The region’s finest have played fine sets at the venue, but a musician as well known as Alan Barnes indicates how successful the venture has become. 

Pilgrim St. Set @ Hoochie Coochie Sept. 18

Richard Burns (tpt); Gary Turner (ten); Paul Edis (pno); Paul Susans (bs); Rob Walker (dms).

"Good to see you on this historic night" said owner Warren referring to the referendum going on in his native Scotland.

I agreed. On stage history was also being made, and remembered, in a program of compositions from the not to distant past (Shorter, Coleman, Zappa) and some forward looking originals. The first set had some balance problems with keyboard a little below the required sound level to cope with what was going on around him. Perhaps a soundcheck would have helped.

Fortunately, by the second set, the levels had evened out and they produced a great overall sound with all the guys on form. I didn't stay to the end as 'my gang' were absent tonight and I knew a long night lay ahead!

Photos.

Lance.

Kenny Wheeler Update

(From David Fraser ECM Label Manager Proper Note.)

ECM Records have posted this message from Manfred Eicher and Steve Lake on their website this morning:

September 19 , 2014

Angel Songs - Kenny Wheeler 1930-2014

The news of Kenny Wheeler’s death, at the age of 84, reached us just two weeks after we’d finished work on the mixing and mastering of his new album, which was recorded at London’s Abbey Road last Christmas. The session itself was inspirational, a very frail Kenny rousing himself to play creative and touching flugelhorn improvisations in a programme of nine of his fine songs, surrounded and supported by some of his favourite players: Stan Sulzmann on tenor sax, John Parricelli on guitar, Chris Laurence on bass, Martin France on drums. Three of the band were able to join us for the mix of an album which was to have marked a return to ECM for Kenny after some years away. A release date for the album is not yet finalized, but early 2015 seems likely.
Manfred Eicher / Steve Lake

RIP Kenny Wheeler

The news that trumpet player/composer/arranger Kenny Wheeler has passed away came as a shock if not a surprise - he'd been ill for sometime. Nevertheless, his death was an untimely reminder of how few of the jazz greats are left. Although Canadian by birth, where he was much loved, Kenny spent most of his musical career in this country. His ground-breaking Windmill Tilter Suite with the Dankworth band is an important work and invites comparision with any of the extended works of many, more renowned, composers.

Kenny Wheeler died September 18 aged 84.

Sadly missed.

Obituary.

Lance.
PS: Now someone is saying on F/b that it's a hoax!

RIP Jackie Cain.

Jackie Cain died on Monday Sept. 15. Really sad news to anyone familiar with the dynamic vocal duo Jackie and Rov [Kral].

They really were something else breathing a breath of spring to 1940s/50s vocals. Cool bebop phrases and harmonies, first with Charlie Ventura's Bop For the People combo and then as a duo. I never caught them live, only on LP. Roy's piano playing, as modern as tomorrow and as traditional as yesterday, coupled with his and her vocals they are still an object lesson for singers. Nobody sung scat quite like them.

Roy died in 2002 and now Jackie, aged 86, is gone.
Sadly missed.
YouTube.
Obituary.
Lance.

Join in and make music at Sage Gateshead

(Press release)

Sage Gateshead’s music making and learning programme invites you to join in and make music with them – the Autumn term starts Monday 22 September and with more activities on offer than ever before, you’re sure to find something that’s right for you.
The Adult Programme provides a range of vocal and instrumental classes, whether you’re starting from scratch or reigniting your passion for singing or playing.

CD Review: Partisans – Swamp

Julian Siegel - saxophones & bass clarinets;  Phil Robson – guitars; Thaddeus Kelly – bass; Gene Calderazzo – drums.

(Review by Steve H.)

The Partisans could be described as an Indie Jazz British super group - all members being stars in their own right. Swamp is the band’s fifth studio album since their formation in 1996 and the tightness and empathy in this performance are apparent throughout.

Flip the Sneck (Siegel) is a jolly opener with an easily recognisable theme.  Siegel  leads the way before Robson ends the piece with a crushing guitar solo. Low Glow (Siegal) has a great bass  background reminiscent of Miles’ 70’s era recordings complemented by Calderazzo’s sensitive drumming allowing Siegal and Robson space to flow with fine solos. 

CD Review: Mammal Hands - Animalia.

Nick Smart (keys); Jordan Smart (saxes); Jesse Barrett (dms/tabla).
(Review by Lance.)

One of the quotes describes this as "Somewhere between Go Go Penguin and early Portico Quartet". 

I'm not sure that that's an area I particularly want to visit - with or without Penguins. However, after tentatively dipping my toe in the water, I find this to be a not unpleasant experience. All three musicians are talented players capable of meaningful improvisations without resorting to the barnyard effects so beloved of many of our contemporary players.

CD Review: Louis Sclavis Quartet – Silk and Salt Melodies

Louis Sclavis (clarinet), Gilles Coronado (guitar), Benjamin Moussay (piano, keyboard), Keyvan Chemirani (percussion).

(Review by Hugh)

Silk and Salt Melodies is Louis Sclavis' tenth album for ECM. He has previously collaborated with Gilles Coronado and Benjamin Moussay on his last album Sources. On this new album, which was recorded in a studio near Avignon in March 2014, the trio are joined by Iranian classical percussionist, Keyvan Chemirani who brings a new dimension to their sound world. Chemirani has played in many different formats from classical Iranian music to working with musicians from India, Greece, Turkey and Spain.

Jazz Café Jam September 16

Peter Gilligan (pno); Bradley Johnston (gtr); John Pope (bs); Paul Wight (dms) + Brian Lynham (hca/vcl); Hannah Wilson (vcl); Ray Truscott (bs gtr); Kathryn Lowdon (vcl).

(Review by Lance/photo by Mike Tilley).

The house trio became a quartet tonight with the addition of  Bradley on guitar. How well this young man has mastered the idiom slotting in comfortably with Gilligan, Wight and Pope John - the latter depping for the absent Paul Grainger.

Days of Wine and Roses took off as if the bar and the florist were about to close in 3 minutes time! The quartet made it! Johnston provided the melody for All the Things You Are, Gilligan took us to Dear Old Stockholm followed by some Latin rhythms on that bossa nova with 20 different names. Tonight it may have been sailing under Carnival. 

Preview - Claire Martin @ Sage Gateshead Monday September 22

Claire Martin OBE brings her wealth of experience as a jazz vocalist into a brand new arena with the Brighton based Montpellier Cello Quartet. This exciting new venture combines her love of the Great American Songbook and popular classics with brand new arrangements especially commissioned for this project by internationally renowned composers including Sir Richard Rodney Bennett, Mark Anthony Turnage and Django Bates.

Unlike anything Claire has ever done before, this chamber/jazz adventure promises to be a magical fusion that brings a new sonic perspective to songs such as Kurt Weills’ ‘My Ship’, Gershwin’s ‘My Man’s Gone Now’ and Lennon and McCartneys’ ‘She’s Leaving Home’.

Pub says "No" to Hipsters!

Having a pint in The Star of Kings - next to Kings Place - this notice raised a smile although Paul Edis (new album Mr Hipster to be launched at Sage Gateshead  on Sept. 25) may not have been amused.

Lance

CD Review – Stefano Bollani – Joy In Spite of Everything

Stefano Bollani (piano), Mark Turner (tenor saxophone), Bill Frisell (guitar), Jesper Bodilsen (bass), Morten Lund (drums)

(Review by Hugh)

Stefano Bollani has had previous collaborations with Enrico Rava and Chick Corea and has also improvised solo or led a trio. On this album we find him with a transatlantic quintet powered by a Danish rhythm section and joined by guitarist Bill Frisell and saxophonist Mark Turner. The album, which comprises nine new compositions by Bollani was recorded in New York City's Avatar Studios. The albums performance configurations range from quintet to quartet to trio to duo.

Coltrane in Glasgow

With all the current debate over Scottish devolution, it's perhaps timely that I came across this particular gem from the pages of Jazz Journal in 1962.

Following on from an extended critique of Coltrane and the "avant-garde" in the pages of JJ, reader Wellington Holliday of Glasgow weighed in with his own experience of hearing Trane and Dolphy when they toured the UK the previous autumn.

As was well-documented elsewhere in the press at the time, the tour met a mixed reception, with bemused reviews appearing in Melody Maker and Jazz News.

However, I'll wager that Coltrane wasn't expecting to be accosted at the side of the stage by a disgruntled, slightly pissed, gobby Scotsman...

Read on....

Simon Spillett.

This Sunday at Blaydon - A 30 year celebration

Roly Veitch/Jeremy McMurray Quartet plus guests Mark Toomey alto sax and Noel Dennis tpt/flgl

The club started at the Black Bull in Sept 1984 so this concert marks 30 years of jazz at Blaydon.  Great Teesside pianist Jeremy McMurray joins Roly Veitch guitar, Neil Harland bass, David Francis drums plus special guests Mark and Noel for an evening of standards and some of Mark's compositions - with a boppish flavour no doubt. 

Black Bull, Bridge St., Blaydon. Sunday September 21. 8pm.

Joe Sample’s crusade is at an end

(Obituary by Russell)

Joe Sample, founding member of the Jazz Crusaders, has died at 75. In his home town of Houston, Texas, Sample formed a band in high school with friends Wilton Felder and Stix Hooper. Later they recruited trombonist Wayne Henderson, changed their name to the Jazz Crusaders, and in a few short years would hit the big time.

Djangologie @ The Lit & Phil. September 12

Mick Shoulder (contrabasse), Emma Fisk (violon), James Birkett (guitare) & Giles Strong (guitare rythmique)

(Review by Russell).

Monsieur M.Shoulder ‘Sur contrabasse et les announces inutiles.’ So said the programme notes written by the man himself. Francophile Djangologist Mick Shoulder is getting into all things Django in a big way. Impenetrable notes, incomprehensible announcements (in pigeon French), whatever next…berets? Come to think of it, a beret-wearing fan took his seat in a packed-out Lit and Phil, no doubt leaving his bicycle outside, onions drying out under a strong September sun.

The Jazz Repertory Company presents A Tribute to Jazz At The Philharmonic. Cadogan Hall, London. Sept. 14

Charlie Shavers, Howard McGhee, (or) Roy Eldridge, Dizzy Gillespie (tpts); Charlie Ventura, Flip Phillips, Illinois Jacquet (ten); Tommy Turk (tmb); Oscar Peterson, Nat Cole (pno); Les Paul, Barney Kessel (gtr); Ray Brown (bs); Gene Krupa, Buddy Rich (dms); Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday (vcls).

(Review by Lance)

I didn't believe in reincarnation - not until yesterday afternoon that is when Cadogan Hall was transformed into the Shrine Auditorium, LA and the above star-studded line-up was brought back to life and playing better than ever!

Jamil Sheriff Trio @ Jazz Café. September 13

Jamil Sheriff (piano), Pete Turner (double bass) & Dave Walsh (drums)

(Review by Russell/photo by Mike Tilley)

The Jamil Sheriff Trio played a Saturday night gig at the Jazz Café and what a gig! One question arises – where was the audience? A handful took their seats to listen to a piano trio of exceptional quality. Sheriff, an academic staffer at Leeds College of Music, made a return visit to Newcastle having previously performed at the Lit & Phil, and as on that occasion, he had with him his regular partners Pete Turner (double bass) and drummer Dave Walsh.

Have Faith in Hyde Park

Tune into BBC Radio 2 today (Sunday 14) from 1:00pm to listen to an eight hour marathon broadcast Radio 2 Live in Hyde Park. At 1:50pm Clare Teal introduces Gregory Porter and from 4:20pm Paloma Faith takes a walk in the park.

Stay tuned…Clare Teal follows at 9:00pm, then at 11:00pm Moira Stuart plays recordings by Ellington, Marian McPartland and others.  

Russell. 

Beats & Pieces Big Band @ Kings Place. Sept. 13

Ben Cottrell, director; Anthony Brown, Sam Healey, Ben Watte / saxophones; Owen Bryce, Graham South, Nick Walters / trumpets; Ed Horsey, Simon Lodge, Rich McVeigh / trombones; Anton Hunter / guitar; Patrick Hurley / piano, Fender Rhodes; Harrison Wood / bass; Finlay Panter / drums.

(Review by Lance).

What a band! swingers every one! Not a music stand in sight, sorry, the drummer had one! They went for the jugular from the off with powerhouse ensembles and dynamic solos. The saxes in particular blew as if it was the eve of Armageddon  The inevitable comparisions are made to Loose Tubes and they are valid except this is 2014 and these guys are playing for today as, of course, LT did in their day. 

Impossible to single anyone out and the above line-up is only a guess so please let me know any corrections needed.

A fitting end to a splendid couple of days and Cadogan Hall to come (JATP 3.30pm today).

Lance.

Blue-Eyed Hawk @ Kings Place Sept. 13

Lauren Kinsella (voice), Alex Roth (guitar, effects, synth, voice), Laura Jurd (trumpet, synth, voice), Corrie Dick (drums, percussion, harmonium, piano, voice).
When my review copy of Blue-Eyed Hawk's Under the Moon dropped through the letter box I took one look and promptly despatched it off to one of our other reviewers deciding that this wasn't for me.
I was wrong!
Boy was I wrong!

A Thousand Kisses Deep – Christine Tobin: Sage Gateshead Sept. 12

Christine Tobin (voice); Phil Robson (guitar); Dave Whitford (double bass);

Huw Warren (accordion, piano); Andriano Adewole (percussion)

(Review by Ann Alex)

Tonight I got to sing with Christine Tobin! - well myself and the rest of the audience, as we la la la’d along to Ms Tobin’s scat.  I was so excited that I’ve forgotten which song was being sung at the time.  The concert was a tribute to Leonard Cohen who is celebrating his 80^th birthday.  Some would say that no-one can sing Cohen’s songs like Cohen, but Ms Tobin made a very good job of interpreting the songs with the help of her excellent musicians, in a line-up which is unusual for jazz. Brief details of the genesis of each song were given by Ms Tobin in her gentle Irish voice, very relaxing to listen to. 

Juliet Kelly @ The Black Swan. September 11

Juliet Kelly (vocals), Nick Ramm (keyboards), Oli Hayhurst (double bass)& Eddie Hick (drums)

(Review by Russell/photo courtesy of Ken Drew.)

Juliet Kelly made an overdue Newcastle appearance with her Spellbound Stories show.   Ten songs inspired by novels (mainly twentieth century works) formed the basis of the two-set performance. Kelly’s band comprised top-flight musicians familiar to Tyneside audiences – Nick Ramm, Oli Hayhurst and Eddie Hick. The Black Swan venue in the basement of Newcastle Arts Centre was sparsely populated, but as Kelly was to discover, she was in the presence of a select, well-read audience!

Empirical @ Kings Place Sept. 12

Nathanial Facey (alt); Lewis Wright (vbs); Tom Farmer (bs); Shaney Forbes (dms).

It was getting late and it had been a long day and my attention did start wandering from time to time, although,  needless to say, the playing was impeccable.

A low key rhythmic opener with all four musicians shaking things seemed to last forever. However, once Wright picked up his mallets and Facey started blowing, the game was afoot. Four quite incredible players. Facey I've heard many times, his playing is always worth a listen. Wright was new to me - just how many more brilliant vibes players are going to emerge? - he's certainly another one to look out for. Farmer and Forbes also familiar and formidable faces. It was too dark for me to take notes so I just let the music wash over me then, when I woke up, it was all over.

Lance.

PS: I didn't actually fall asleep but I did nod once or twice (in time to the music of course!)

National Youth Jazz Collective @ Kings Place. Sept. 12

Ella Hohnen (voice); ? (ten); ? (clt/bs clt); ? (pno); ? (gtr); ?(bs gtr); ? (dms). (Names to follow - see comment).

Elsewhere, Martin Carthy and Dave Swarbrick were performing but for me the National Youth Jazz Collective performing on one of the free stages held more appeal. Average age 15, they gave a performance that belied their tender years.

Was ever a singer more appropriately named than this Ella. Using her voice instrumentally she blended in perfectly with the horns who were themselves quite something else. Apologies for not getting the names, hopefully later.

It was good to meet up with one of their tutors again - Issie Barratt last seen conducting the Voice of the North Jazz Orchestra some years back. Issie, along with Mark Lockheart, Norma Winstone and Mike Walker, has done a grand job with these youngsters.

Also said hello to Martin Hummel of Edition Records.

Lance.
PS: Photo from F/b)

Andrew McCormack @ Kings Place, London Sept. 12

Andrew McCormack (pno); Sam Lasserson (bs).
I always get a buzz when I make my now infrequent visits to the capital and none more so than at last night's Festival at Kings Place just a short stagger from Kings X Station. Not that it was plain sailing. The concert started late - par for the course with jazz gigs remarked the lady standing in front of me - and the drummer didn't make it so the trio became a solo and then a duo. But what a duo!
McCormack is very much one of the newer breed of pianists and none the worse for that. There are many classical elements in his playing and these were all the more apparent given the lack of a drummer. One composition I thought had elements of the Hungarian composer Dohnani about it although McCormack said he'd been listening to a lot of Gustav Mahler so what do I know?!
Whoever, whatever, it was a brilliant performance that fully lived up to my expectations after hearing and reviewing his latest CD First Light earlier this year.
On bass Sam Lasserson was a tower of strength providing the solid foundation as well as soloing and complementing McCormack.
An excellent session.
Lance.

Lyndsay Hannon Plus @ The Cherry Tree, September 8

Lyndsay Hannon (vocals), John Pope (bass), James Harrison (piano), Dave McKeague (drums).

(Review by JC)

'Life is a bowl of cherries' as someone once said but at the Cherry Tree it's even more than that - delicious cheese souffle, thinly sliced rare fillet of beef, and seasonal sea trout - and, on this occasion, Lyndsay Hannon Plus as well. Hannon and the band opened with Joni Mitchell's The Hissing of Summer Lawns, which is one of my favourites, but some loud residual chatter from a large table interfered with the sound a little bit. However, as the band got into it's stride this diminished and then some delightful versions of Why Try to Change Me Now with it's slowed down middle section and I Can't Escape from You with a elegant bass solo and delicate piano ornamentation had everybody paying attention. The band upped the tempo with a swinging I Can't Give You Anything But Love that showcased James Harrison's piano playing.

The Collective @ Hoochie 9/11

Al Saxon (alt/fl); Tim Bloomer (gtr); Dominic Snaith (keys); Martyn Dixon (bs); Steven Barrass (dms).

(Review by Lance).

Dixon described this month's offering as "Acid Jazz" - I wasn't too sure about what he meant, me having grown up long before all these sub-divisions when jazz was either Trad or Modern or, as the Duke once put it,  Good or Bad.

Tonight was definitely in the former camp and the audience, of whom there were plenty, agreed.

Improvisers’ Workshop @ Jazz Café. September 9

(Review by Russell).

The Jazz Café’s monthly improv workshop has quickly established itself on the local scene. September’s event attracted familiar faces and one or two newcomers. Led by John Pope (double bass) and percussionist Wes Stephenson, the numerous participants worked in a series of duos, trios, quartets and larger ensembles.

Alpine kazoo cast aside inhibition to join Pope and Stephenson and before long alto, soprano and flute threw caution to the wind and their collective improv hat into the ring. 

Can Anyone Help?

I wonder if you could help me. I am looking for more information about my granddad’s music career - photos or anything.

His name was Thomas Danby he was from Bishop Auckland and was a drummer in a number of jazz bands playing in local pubs and clubs around the north east,

In the Second World War he worked for the mines but was down South a lot with various bands.

I know this isn't much to go on as my father’s side haven't got much about his musical side.

It's ok if you have nothing I thought I would ask though

Kind regards

Sarah Danby Cooper.

CD Review: Paul Edis Sextet – Mr Hipster

Paul Edis (piano), Graham Hardy (trumpet & flugelhorn), Graeme Wilson (tenor & baritone saxophones), Chris Hibbard (trombone), Mick Shoulder (double bass) & Adam Sinclair (drums)

(Review by Russell).

Mr Hipster is the second CD release from the Paul Edis Sextet. Recorded in October 2013, the album comprises eleven tracks composed and arranged by pianist Paul Edis. The bandleader’s pen ranges from township jazz to the modern jazz of a small combo, hinting at the prospect of a future larger ensemble project.

The Jazz Repertory Company Presents…….. Jazz At The Philharmonic: A 70th Anniversary Celebration Sunday 14th September 2014. 3.30pm Cadogan Hall 5 Sloane Terrace London, SW1X 9DQ

Richard Pite's Jazz Repertory Company continues its run of successful Sunday afternoon concerts at London's Cadogan Hall with this celebration of the exciting jam sessions, cutting contests and performances by some of the greatest names in jazz history that made up the legendary  Jazz At The Philharmonic.

On 2^nd July 1944 in Los Angeles, the American band leader, producer, prolific record label founder and jazz impresario Norman Granz presented “A Jazz Concert at the Philharmonic Auditorium” - shortened by the printer of the concert posters to “Jazz At The Philharmonic”.

RIP Gerald Wilson

Trumpet player, Bandleader, Arranger and Composer Gerald Wilson died yesterday, September 8. One of the all-time arranging greats, his charts featured in the pads of many of the great big bands - Lunceford, Hampton, Gillespie, Basie and, of course, his own band. 

Listening to his 2003 release New York New Sound I was impressed, not just by the music which is tremendous, but comments made by other musicians on the date.

Jon Faddis summed up the session and the man: "Recording with Gerald Wilson was a dream come true. Gerald epitomises the absolute best in jazz, with grace, wisdom and elegance."

Grace, wisdom and elegance says it all.

Gerald Wilson was 96. RIP.

Obituary.
Lance.
PS: Thanks to Peter Bevan for bringing this sad news to my attention.

CD Review: Thomas Maintz - Present

Thomas Maintz (electric/acoustic guitars); Scott Colley (bass); Jonathan Blake    (drums)

(Review by JC)

I am a big fan of jazz guitarists, particularly when they play acoustic guitar as well, and so was keen to listen to this album. Thomas Maintz is a Danish guitarist whose last album This is the Colour.. .released in 2009 garnered many positive reviews and was nominated for 'Best Danish Jazz Album' at the Danish Music Awards. This latest recording Present was made in New York with a couple of fine musicians, Scott Colley and Johnathan Blake.

Noel Dennis Plays the Music of Tom Harrell @ The Bridge. September 7.

Noel Dennis (tpt/flg); Paul Edis (pno); Mark Williams (gtr); Andy Champion (bs); Adrian Tilbrook (dms).

(Review by Lance/Photo courtesy of Ken Drew).

I hold my hand up and confess that, although I knew the name of Tom Harrell as a prolific Down Beat poll winner, I wasn't actually familiar with his work. After tonight's performance by Noel Dennis this is a hole in my jazz listening experience I must surely rectify.

Noel Dennis, of course, is no stranger. His warm toned, post bop, trumpet playing has long been a corner stone of north east modern jazz and never has he been heard to greater effect than in tonight's concert where he featured several compositions by Tom Harrell.

Graeme Wilson Quartet @ Jazz Café. September 6

Graeme Wilson (tenor saxophone), Paul Edis (piano), Andy Champion (double bass) & Adam Sinclair (drums)

(Review by Russell/photo courtesy of Mike Tilley)

Fantastic! At the end of the evening an acquaintance said: It’s amazing that we have musicians of this calibre here in Newcastle. Honorary Geordie Graeme Wilson has recently relocated to his homeland north of the border after a decade or so on Tyneside but the good news is he continues to gig here in the north east and this Jazz Café date proved to be as good as it gets.

Mica Paris @ Hoochie Coochie. Sept. 5

Mica Paris (vcl); Chris (keys); Kenny (gtr); ? (bs gtr); Mark (dms).
(Review by Lance.)

Another winner for Warren! Hoochie was a hotbed of heaving humanity last night as the most sensational soul singer I've ever seen strutted her stuff to the delight of us sardines - yes it was a capacity crowd!

I can't put a name to all the tunes - with Mica in such close proximity, at a time like this who keeps score?

How could I write whilst clapping, waving my arms and applauding?

CD Review: Cloudmakers Trio – Abstract Forces.

Jim Hart (vibes); Michael Janisch (bass); Dave Smith (drums).

(Review by Wes Stephenson).

What starts off as a fairly standard piece of modern jazz, soon twists and turns indeed to become a force to be reckoned with. An album of solid grooves and free improvising create the foundation for a high quality eclectic contemporary Jazz record.
It’s always a pleasure to hear new material from the three great musicians on this recording, should you ever have the opportunity to catch them live then I recommend that you do so

Did The Venerable Bede like Jazz?

Three Italian musicians (sorry don’t know your names) on keys, clarinet and trumpet, Hildy Harland (vocals)

(Review by Ann Alex.)

It must be the sort of unusual entertainments that I attend, but I find that jazz keeps popping up in the most unlikely places.  This time it was at an event at Bedes World last night, involving readings and plainsong about Bede’s life and writings.  These were performed by a group which meets there regularly, Benedict Biscop Gregorian Choir.  Very interesting stuff as you can imagine. Plainsong must surely be one of the most spiritually serene forms of music ever, and Bede was the foremost intellect of his day (673-735).  The Jarrow monastery was the place to be in those times.

Jazz Journal Collection

Major Domo of Ashington Jazz Club, John Taylor, wishes to dispose of 13 years of bound Jazz Journals (1979-1992).
Free to a good home.
The article on the left by the late Chris Yates is from the December 1979 issue.
Contact Ashington Jazz Club for more details.
Lance.

CD/DVD Review: Annie Ross - To Lady With Love

Annie Ross (vcl); Bucky Pizzarelli, John Pizzarelli (gtr).
(Obeisance by Lance).

Forget Annie by Candlelight - no don't forget it, the album was and is a vocal classic - as was the ground-breaking vocalese of Twisted and Farmer's Market. The Lambert/Hendricks/Ross discs were also important albums that helped to establish Annie Ross as one of the all-time great jazz singers. Yet, To Lady With Love is something else - even by Annie's back catalogue - this is un disque hors catégorie!

On a purely vocal level there are probably a 1000+ singers from Tyneside to Timbuktu with a better voice than Ross has these days. The range is extremely limited but, when it comes to an emotive interpretation, there isn't one in a million who comes within a country mile of Annie Ross in this tribute to Billie Holiday (I've been reminded that Sheila Jordan could be included in that elite group!).

Jazz Café Jam Tuesday September 2.

Peter Gilligan (pno); Paul Grainger (bs); Paul Wight (dms) + Paul Gowland (alt); Johnny Davis (ten); Bradley Johnston (gtr); Jen Errington (vcl); Ian Forbes (dms); Ray Truscott (bs gtr); Oliver ? (dms); ? (bass).

(Review/colour photo by Lance. B&W photo by Mike Tilley).

Re-opened after the summer recess, "The Caff" was buzzing tonight. The air of expectancy high and the ultimate delivery even higher.

The house trio got off the mark with a set that included pieces by Horace Silver, Hampton Hawes and Bud Powell along with standards such as Autumn in New York and Beautiful Love. No one does this material better than Gilligan and co.

Calling All Workers

As I rode the 27 bus home from the Cherry Tree last night I observed that some kindly soul had left behind, whether by accident or intent, a WEA brochure listing the various courses due to start in the coming weeks. These activities ranged from Art Appreciation in Acklington to Beginners' Spanish in Darlington. Closer to home (for me) and more relevant to these pages were the activities of the Newcastle cell of the WEA.

As well as Creative Cakes and Crafts,  Italian and Indian Cookery, and Dressmaking I also found an Introduction to West African Drumming, Improvisation for Musicians and Jazz Appreciation!

A Star is Born! - Caroline Bagley w. James Harrison Trio @ The Cherry Tree. September 1

Caroline Bagley (vcl/alt); James Harrison (pno); Anth Ord (bs); Tom Chapman (dms).
(Review by Lance).

For once, I'm not going to eulogise over the rump steak even though it's the tastiest bit of rump my lips have tasted for a long time. Imagine if Bernie, your number one bull, had died and this cut had been taken from his still warm hindquarters... call me a cannibal if you like but it was succulent. A few cows will be mooing the blues tonight.

However, tonight was jazz night at the Cherry Tree although, given the absence of recognisable jazz faces in the audience, I couldn't help but wonder if Mondays are a jazz fast day.

Their loss.

Glasgow and Edinburgh Vote 'Yes' For Jazz!

Bridge Music, the organisation that promotes jazz in the Jazz Bar in Edinburgh and Glasgow Art Club, has announced a full programme for September and October.

CD Review: Klokkeblomst – Romantiker

Anders Banke (Tenor); Peter Danstrup (Acoustic bass guitar); Ander Provis (Drums).

(Review by Steve H.)

This is the Danish trio’s second offering and has so many tracks featuring climatic references that one could be forgiven for thinking that Weather Report would have been a more appropriate title.