Blue Jazz Quintet @ The Globe. Oct 11.

Chris Finch (keys); Karen Rann (sop sax); Jeff Smith (tenor sax); Dave Parker (bass); Michael Howard (drums)

(Review by Ann Alex).

The second jazz venture for the Globe.  Last week I excused myself for a truncated review because of too much dancing.  This time I found myself taking the door money, but I still managed to at least hear the band from my seat, thank goodness, rather like listening to a CD.  And the listening was good with the band in fine form. It was probably the last appearance for Chris, before he moves to Worcester, and he’s also to become a Dad very soon, so changes are afoot.

They began with an interesting version of Softly As In A Morning Sunrise.  I say interesting because this was anything but soft, it was full on with sax solos and quite fast, a different way to do it.  In fact it sounded like solos all round, stomping keys, then 4’s galore.  There followed West Coast Blues; a Latin number I should remember; then a composition by Chris Feeling Wise, which was quite a swinger.  The next number had the saxes playing an eastern type of harmony, (an effect I love); then came East Of The Sun; My Funny Valentine; another tune which escapes me; Bernie’s Tune (I wished they’d had a singer to do the silly words).  The set rounded off with So What, a very enjoyable set it was too with lots of soloing and some tunes I hadn’t heard from the band before. The Metro called me home before the second set began.

The Globe is well worth a visit.  There is still a bit of building work to complete, eg the lift is not yet installed, but don’t let any of that stop you.  The atmosphere is quite like Keith Crombie’s Jazz Cafe, low lights, recycled tables and chairs, and candles and lamps.  Psychedelic patterns were playing on the walls where I sat, and I swear it wasn’t the drink, and it reminded me of parties of my younger days.  I’d better stop now!

Ann Alex