Diachronix at the Jazz Cafe, November 29

Gabrielle Heller (vocals, electronics, percussion); Steve Glendinning (guitar)

(Review by Ann Alex/photo by Mike Tilley).

There was a full house for this unusual gig from Gabi and Steve, including people from Germany and Brazil.  The material covered jazz standards, Gabi originals in cabaret style, a bit of blues, and numbers written by Sting, Billie Holiday, and others.  The general theme was ‘The City’, well illustrated by adventurous use of electronics, with sirens and people rushing about.  And the percussion made an effective appearance even in the first song, about not being able to get out of the city, when Gabi made a defiant ‘chock, chock’ sound by hitting a bar with a stick.  (What is this called,  BSH readers?)   Steve showed his considerable talents throughout the whole set, many long solos, up and down scales, chords galore, guitar wizardry, but always fitting to the song being sung.

CD Review: Nils Landgren: Christmas With My Friends 1V

Nils Landgren (bandleader, trombone, vocals); Sharon Dyall (vocals, harmonica); Jonas Knutsson (saxes); Jeanette Kohn (vocals); Eva Kruse (bass); Jessica Pilnas (vocals); Ida Sand (piano, vocals, glockenspiel); Johan Norberg (guitar, kantele)

(Review by Ann Alex).

Santa time is here again and so are the Christmas CDs up for review.  ‘Ugh’ I thought, ‘this will be sentimental tosh’.  But not a bit of it, this is the 4^th CD in a series, popular in Germany, offering thoughtful, varied interpretations of Christmas songs, just the thing to play for the family, and not too kitsch at all.

Christmas Music at Cherry Tree

We take great pride in creating a warm traditional atmosphere with lighting decorations, a beautiful high quality menu and live music.

CD Review: Jennie Marie Hammond & The Quiet Band - Lullabies & Dreams..

Jennie Marie Hammond (vcl); Mark Chandler (tpt/flug); Mike Hope (ten); Sean Miller (pno); Richard Hammond (bs); Dom Sales (dms/perc).

(Review by Lance).

A delicate, fey, offering that is totally laid back in the best traditions of Astrud and Blossom.

"I wanted to make a jazz album that could lull my baby girl to sleep." So states drummer, bandleader and founder of the Jellymould Jazz record label, Dom Sales.

SSBB/Jamie Toms @ The Millstone November 27

SSBB - Michael Lamb , Pete Tanton, Gordon Marshall, Dick Stacey, Chris Gray (tpts); Sarah Boult, David Holman, John Lord, Mark Ferris, Keiran Parnaby (perm any 4 from 5) (tmbs); Keith Robinson, Steve Summers (alt); Jamie Toms, Paul Gowland (ten); Laurie Rangecroft (bar); Graham Don (pno); Michael Whent (bs); Pawel Jedrejewski (gtr); Dave McKeague (dms); Lindsay Hannon, Guy Swinton (vcls).

Jamie Toms Quintet - Toms (ten); ?(bs); Pawel Jedrejewski (gtr); Dave McKeague (dms); ? (keys).

(Review by Lance).

No, I haven't got it wrong! Tonight, Guy Swinton vacated the drums for the male vocal chair and handed over the announcing to Pete Tanton. Both performed well in their new roles!

A good mixed program varying from the familiar to the first time - test your sight reading chaps - pieces. Drummer McKeague played the first set without the drum pad and still managed to swing the band - maybe that's why!

Without mics, at times the sax soloists were struggling to be heard over the ensembles but eventually a balance was found. Lindsay sang from the tried and tested and sang well  and not only is Guy Swinton a better drummer than Ringo, he's also a better singer!
As befits Thanksgiving Day, American trumpeter Tanton was in top form both soloing and announcing. Leader Lamb also blistered.
The big band set was followed by a set from Jamie Toms that, for some reason, wasn't announced so that by the time they kicked off most of the uninformed audience had left!
I too had a bus to catch but what I heard sounded good.
Lance.

Big Sid Catlett Reigns @ King’s Hall, Newcastle Uni. November 27

(Review by Russell).

The ‘Student Performances’ hour, late afternoon, Thursdays, throws up unexpected delights. The jazz content today featured drummer Lewis West and a trio playing a  well-received set of three tunes. Add classical clarinet, folk guitar and a West End (London) show girl to the mix and it really is a variety hour.

Dominic J Marshall Trio @ King’s Hall, Newcastle Uni. Nov 27

Dominic J Marshall (piano), Sam Vicary (electric bass) & Sam Gardner (drums)

(Review by Russell).

Pianist Dominic J Marshall left it late. The King’s Hall audience stood in the corridors as DJM and co. completed a swift soundcheck. The twenty five year old Scot, resident in Amsterdam, makes frequent trips to the UK to link up with the two Sams – Vicary, the bass player and Gardner, the in demand drummer.

GATESHEAD INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES 2015 LINE-UP

Gateshead International Jazz Festival is delighted to announce an exciting international line-up with its trademark mix of UK, European and international jazz icons, hot new talent and some of the best of the thriving Northern jazz scene. Renowned for being the UK’s biggest jazz festival held under one roof, the festival is programmed by Sage Gateshead in collaboration with London-based music producers Serious, and runs from Friday 10 – Sunday 12 April 2015 at Sage Gateshead, forming part of the year long Sage Gateshead 10^th birthday celebrations. Booking opens tomorrow at 10am (Friday 28 November).

Radio Russell: Paul Tips His Hat to Jack

Paul Jones’ weekly blues programme (seven o’clock, Mondays, Radio 2) is required listening. This coming week’s hour-long broadcast (Monday 1 December) is one for archivists of the British blues scene. Jones pays tribute to Jack Bruce. Unmissable.

Radio 3’s Hear and Now (10:00pm Saturday 27 November) includes a Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival commission – Twelve for Twelve Musicians – for Evan Parker to celebrate his seventieth year. The work will be a first performance by Evan Parker and ensemble. Earlier, at six o’clock, Jazz Line-Up celebrates a birthday. An octogenarian – Tony Coe – takes centre stage. And a young drummer with his career stretching out ahead of him – Ollie Howell – is heard in concert at this year’s London Jazz Festival. Preceding Jazz Line-Up at 5:00pm, this week’s Jazz Record Requests includes tracks by Jack Bruce and Acker Bilk.

Finally, at 4:30pm, Friday 5 December, Radio 3, In Tune will shoehorn Manchester’s RNCM Big Band into the studio. Small room, big band!

Russell.

Preview: "Big Sid Catlett Reigns" @ King’s Hall. November 27

Today’s lunchtime concert at Newcastle University (1:10pm) introduces a new name to many – Dominic J Marshall. Baseball cap cool pianist Marshall plays the King’s Hall’s Steinway in the company of the ‘Two Sams’ – double bassist Sam Vicary and drummer Sam Gardener. All three have played at the Bridge Hotel, all three can play, to be sure. 

The one set performance (fifty minutes) is the first of two ‘freebie’ events this afternoon in the King’s Hall. Two hours later at four o’clock the weekly Student Performances gig presents a mix of classical, folk, jazz and anything else that catches the student ear. This afternoon’s potpourri includes a jazz trio playing three standards; pianist (and final year student) Jamie Lawson will work in the company of drummer Dan Egdell and trumpeter Ed Addo. And drummer Lewis West takes on Max Roach’s For Big Sid. Go, Lewis!

Russell.

Julie Sassoon (solo piano) + Travelers @ Jazz Café November 25.

Antonin Tri-Hoang (reeds); Francesco Diodati (guitar); Matteo Bortone (bass); Ariel Tessier (drums)

(Review by Steve H.)

This superb JNE/Schmazz double bill was served on two levels both literally and metaphorically. The night began on the ground floor. Berlin based Julie Sassoon performed a superb solo piano recital. It is hard to categorise her music -  is it jazz or is it improvised contemporary classical? But, frankly, who cares? it is simply spellbinding. Sassoon, after apologising to the audience for playing with her back to them, opened with an untitled piece which was something that just happened to take her mood at the time. This was followed by 44  at the conclusion of which Sassoon turned to the audience and explained the context of the next piece Land of Shadows.  

I've Got Those Didn't Get to LJF Blues

For the first time in several years I didn't make LJF and, going by what I've heard on radio and read elsewhere, it was/is a cracker. So, if any of our readers are in, or have been in town for the Festival and would care to send me a few words then please do so.

I'll be back next year!
Lance.
Fred Grand's reviews (see comments).

More Plaudits for Bebop Spoken Here

JC found this on-line mention of BSH related to his excellent review of Colin Harper's Bathed in Lightning. John McLaughlin, the 60s and the Emerald Beyond. - (i.e. There's also a terrific review over at Bebop Spoken Here, the fabulous website for jazz buffs in the North East of England, where John McLaughlin grew up. )

This might be a good moment to remind readers that the polls are now open in the All Party Parliamentary Jazz Awards and that a vote for Bebop Spoken Here in the Media section is also a vote for all of those north east musicians we tirelessly Champion.

Here's the link to mark your X 

Lance.

Vinyl Review: Nucleus with Leon Thomas – Live 1970

Leon Thomas (vocals), Ian Carr (trumpet & flugelhorn), Karl Jenkins (oboe & piano), Brian Smith (soprano & tenor saxophones, flute), Chris Spedding (guitar), Jeff Clyne (bass) & John Marshall (drums.)

(Review by Russell).

June 20 1970. The Montreux Jazz Festival. Forty fours years later we have the official release of Nucleus recorded live at one of Europe’s premier summer jazz festivals with American vocalist Leon Thomas. Gearbox Records’ lovingly packaged vinyl recording comes as a gatefold double album with a free download code enclosed for the avid fan.

New Hartlepool gig.

The Rapport Café, down on the Marina at Hartlepool, features alto saxist Ray Dales and pianist Jeremy McMurray on Friday Dec. 5. It's a new venture that, if supported, may become regular. The gig is free and runs from 7pm-9pm so if you're down Hartlepool way have a look in.

Lance.

CD Review: Ken Thomson and Slow/Fast - Settle.

Ken Thomson (alt/bs.clt.); Russ Johnson (tpt); Nir Felder (gtr0; Adam Armstrong (bs); Fred Kennedy (dms).

(Review by Lance).

Settle arrived on the doormat along with a zillion other CDs and missed the cut. However, I've eventually caught up with it (the other zillion -1 will have to wait awhile longer). I'm glad I did get around to listening to it - I think! It's certainly an unusual disc and almost impossible to pigeon-hole - or to put in any hole!

Jazz North East & Splinter @ the Bridge present Sean Noonan & The Suwalki String Quartet @ The Bridge November 23.

Sean Noonan (drums & voice); Adam Roszkowski & Maciej Afanasjew (violins); Magda Malecka? - check photo! - (viola); Jan Roszkowski (cello)

(Review by Steve H/Photo by Ken Drew).

Sean Noonan entered the arena in his now familiar boxing gown however one would have to say that this guy is more of a surrealist then a pugilist -think Salvador Dali rather than Muhammad Ali. Noonan is not only a damn fine drummer but also a composer and storyteller of mystic tales. This was the second visit to the Bridge for this combination of string quartet and drums (see previous BSH review).

Vasilis Xenopoulos w. Paul Edis Trio & Black Bull Blaydon. November 23

Vasilis Xenopoulos (ten); Paul Edis (pno); Andy Champion (bs); Adam Sinclair (dms) + Zoe Gilby (vcl).

(Review by Lance/photos by Jerry).

In his review of Friday's gig by the same line-up at Darlington, Russell just about covered all the bases. The only thing he got wrong was that they would be queuing round the block for this one. They weren't, but nor were there many empty seats. David Gosling, who presented a concert by Edis and Xenopoulos at Lanercost Priory on Saturday night, described that duo gig as "musically the best ever played there" so the portents for tonight were good. 

The participants didn't disappoint.

Globe Bar Prices

I'm pleased to say that the Jazz Co-op folks have managed to produce a Bar Price List for gigs in the upper room of the Globe Pub (11 Railway St., Newcastle NE4 7AD) thus removing the confusion that reigned during some of their earlier gigs.

Lance.

Election Time - Vote Now!

Following hot on the heels of the results of the 2014 British Jazz Awards, the All Party Parliamentary Jazz Awards are with us once more.
BSH regulars will, I'm sure, give us their support in the Jazz Media Category (Best Blog etc.) But this is also an opportunity to draw attention to some north east talent worthy of greater recognition by the rest of the country.

Jazz Coop At The Globe: Folk Meets Jazz: Saturday Nov 22

Landermason : Fiona Lander ( vocals, keys, saxes, clarinet, whistles, even a shakey egg);

Paul Mason (vocals, guitar).

(Review by Ann Alex).

This event was something of an adventurous experiment to combine jazz with folk music, and it worked folks!  A double header with Landermason playing the first set, with their blend of traditional and contemporary folk, jazz, and other styles, such as a touch of ska on the guitar.  

Fiona grew up listening to classical music and jazz whilst Paul hails from the glam rock bands of the 1980’s.  The duo gave a hugely enjoyable set to a sizeable and appreciative audience.  

When The Boat Comes In had a skilled jazzy piano and a folksy ending – sounds odd in writing but it works well musically.  Then came Take Five on guitar and whistle; a local song The Shoemaker, followed by Words Unsaid, with good jazz piano and a clarinet solo in true jazz tradition.  Other numbers included In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning; Working Man Blues (Paul took the vocals, accompanied by clarinet and shakey egg); a Fiona original, The Mirror, a bebop style song with a bit of scat; a haunting song, Somalia.  And all most splendidly rounded off with a fast folksy instrumental, The Bellingham Stomp.  The band hails from Bellingham, so go there to see more of them. 

DVD Review: Fred Hersch - My Coma Dreams

Michael Winther (actor/singer); Fred Hersch (pno); Ralph Alessi (tpt); Adam Kolker (reeds); John Hébert (bs); John Hollenbeck (dms) + string quartet inc. Joyce Hammann (vln/vla); Dave Eggar (cello).

(Review by Lance).

Jazz/theatre filmed live at Columbia University and released in Honour of World's AIDS Day (Dec. 1) with all proceeds going to the Benefit Treatment Action Group.

The story involves a renowned jazz musician with HIV/AIDS, in near-fatal septic shock, who is rushed by his partner to Manhattan's St. Vincent's Hospital where doctors place him in a medically induced coma. Over the next two months, he enters a highly personal dream world, full of vivid experiences of confinement and release, of surreal comedy and ineffable beauty. Meanwhile, his partner fights through panic and despair to try to reach out to him across the gulf of conciousness, while negotiating the real world complexities of his medical care.

That's the plot folks.

Things Ain't What They Used to Be!

Doing some late night Christmas shopping I called into a long established Newcastle music store - one I'm not totally unfamiliar with - the object being to buy a Curtis Stigers CD for a friend. I browsed alphabetically through Jazz/ Rock & Pop/Easy Listening - even World Music! No sign of Stigers, C.

I approached the bright looking young chap behind the counter and asked him where I could find Curtis Stigers. He looked blank, I was half expecting him to say that Mr Stigers is on a tea break but then he turned to a computer screen - "How do you spell his second name?" He asked.

"S-T-I." I began then said, "Ah forget it!" and turned on my heel and left.

The store's motto used to be "If you can't get it at ......... you won't get it anywhere".

Haven't heard it said recently... 

Lance.

Vasilis Xenopoulos with the Paul Edis Trio @ Opus 4 Jazz Club. November 21

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

(Review by Russell).

Vasilis Xenopoulos was taking no chances. On his last visit to the Traveller’s Rest in Darlington he made it in the nick of time (seven hours on the M1).This time, London-Darlington by train appeared to be a better bet. Vasi X (typing Xenopoulos a number of times could result in a case of rsi) arrived in good time (3:30pm!) and took time out to check-out Darlington town centre (TK Maxx a major attraction).

The Traveller’s Rest is a comfortable roadhouse pub in Cockerton on the outskirts of town. The Ferryhill Brewery a guest at the bar, talk of jazz, festivals, birthdays, a lost wallet, a pleasant way to spend a half hour or so waiting for Vasi and co. to complete their soundcheck in the upstairs room. A queue formed long before the doors opened, winding its way down the stairs. A queue at a jazz gig!!! The place was packed, beer flowed, jazz deity looked down from the walls – Dizzy, Lady Day, Tubbs, Zoot et al – ready to commune with the Greek God of Xenopoulos.

More from Durham University Big Band

Durham University Big Band presents A Jazzy Christmas 2 in aid of  Durham Foodbank

The gig you have all been waiting for is back.

Let the Durham University Big Band get you swinging into the Christmas spirit with a snowdump of ridiculous big band arrangements of your favourite yuletide tunes, as well as a sprinkling of classic and contemporary (non seasonal) charts.

Jazz UK to cease publication immediately.

Jazz Services has issued the following press release:

Following the withdrawal of its NPO status in the last round of Arts Council England funding, Jazz Services has been working hard both internally and externally.  This has involved consulting with the wider public, continuing its encouraging discussions with the Arts Council England and other related parties and most recently undertaking a comprehensive organisational review.

These results of these activities have informed several key decisions about the organisation’s present and future endeavours, and to coincide with its 30th anniversary in 2015, Jazz Services is now developing a new and revitalised business model that will ensure it can continue working with and for the UK’s jazz scene beyond the end of March next year.

John Wilson Orchestra - Cole Porter in Hollywood. Sage Gateshead.

John Wilson (cond/md/arr etc.); Anna-Jane Casey/Scarlet Strallon/Matthew Ford/Richard Morrison (vcls); +full orchestra).

(Review by Lance).

A lovely afternoon listening to some of Cole Porter's finest songs expertly arranged by John Wilson (of Gateshead) and sung by four of the finest interpretors of the idiom.

BSH's Elizabeth of York (AKA as Liz) had made the journey north and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

This wasn't a jazz gig, although there were one or two tasty sax/clarinet breaks and I think I recognised Colin Oxley on guitar, but the music of Porter is timeless and has fuelled the repertoire of most jazz musicians.

Benn Clatworthy Quartet @ The Globe, Newcastle.

Benn Clatworthy (ten); Cecilia Coleman (pno); Simon Thorpe (bs); Matt Home (dms).

(Review by Lance).

They were skating in Times Square [Newcastle version] but I had no time to stop and watch. The Globe beckoned and I knew that the combination of two of Britain's finest on bass and drums, coupled with an American pianist and an Anglo-American tenor player, meant that seats would be at a premium in the compact, yet cosy, Jazz Co-op venue. Earlier, I'd passed Fenwicks department store and the queue just to look in the window was a mile long. Optimist that I am, I envisaged just such an eager throng clamouring to get into The Globe.

I was wrong - sadly I was very wrong.

Abdullah Ibrahim - Solo Piano Recital @ Sage Gateshead. November 19.

(Review by Steve H.)

In terms of purity of sound, this piano recital by the legendary South African Abdullah Ibrahim was possibly the best I have ever experienced. The vast stage of Hall 1 was laid bare aside from the ceentrally positioned grand piano. With  not even a microphone in sight it doesn’t get more acoustic than this.

Over the last 30 years have I have seen Abdullah Ibrahim in every possible grouping from solo artist to dectet each combination providing its own unique performance. Wednesday evening's concert took the form of a mesmerising solo performance from the youthful Octogenarian pianist. 

THE 2014 BRITISH JAZZ AWARDS: THE RESULTS

 Known as the Jazz Oscars, The British Jazz Awards have been presented every year since 1987 and have long been established as the most important jazz awards in this country.

A total of 53,738 votes were cast by 3822 voters, with the most votes for a winning musician in any category going to Mark Nightingale who won Best Trombone with 1423 votes.

Jam Session @ Jazz Café - November 18.

Peter Gilligan (pno); Paul Grainger (bs); Paul Wight (dms); Bradley Johnston (gtr) + Paul Gowland (alt); Yuya Honami (dms); Kath Jobes, Ann Alex (vcl); ? (fl).

(Review by Lance).

The students were out in force tonight. Noisy, boisterous, but, nevertheless, adding a welcoming ambience that surely served to draw the passing stranger inside. Nothing more forbidding to the curious than the sepulchral silences that pervade at some gigs.

Johnny Mandel's Emily set the scene. Cool and relaxed in 3, the 4 on stage gave a 5 star performance and this was but the beginning. Mancini's Two For the Road didn't raise the game but it didn't lower it either.

Scots recreate two classics – with strings attached

(Preview by Rob Adams)

Scottish saxophonist Paul Towndrow and trumpeter Ryan Quigley will recreate two historic recordings in concert on Thursday, November 27 when they perform the music from Charlie Parker with Strings and Clifford Brown with Strings at Adelaide’s Auditorium in Glasgow.

Towndrow and Quigley will take the roles of Parker and Brown respectively, accompanied by an eleven piece chamber orchestra and a jazz rhythm section, in a concert that marks the sixty-fifth anniversary of Parker’s first recording session with strings under the guidance of legendary record producer and Verve Records founder Norman Granz on November 30, 1949.

Paul Skerritt Band @ Fenwicks, Newcastle

How do you do a review of a gig without any seating? After great difficulty getting into the building I eventually found the band in the lighting department - not in any of the cafés as advertised. It was a passing audience! For a while I sat on one of the sofas in the adjoining  furniture department but got some bad looks from one of the assistants and moved on. 

As usual the band sounded great - but how many of the punters where there for the music? It all became overcrowded by shoppers - there for what was a money off promotion evening. Just a shame the band were not on the stores music system and we could have heard more from them. As the picture shows it was a truly enlightening experience.

John T.

RIP Buddy Catlett.

American bassist Buddy Catlett died on November 12. A contemporary of Quincy Jones was a well respected musician who played in many well known big bands and small bands including Count Basie and Freddie Hubbard.
He was 82.
RIP.
Obituary.
Lance.

Pete Churchill Workshop @ Durham on Nov. 27

On Thursday 27th November Durham University Big Band will welcome Pete Churchill to workshop a number of pieces with them.  Pete Churchill is renowned for his jazz education.  He lecturers in jazz composition at the Royal Academy of Music, and has inspired countless school children across the country with his innovative large scale singing projects.  He is the musical director of the London Vocal Project which has collaborated with Kenny Wheeler on the album 'Mirrors'.  His busy freelance career has included work for almost a decade and a half as the  British accompanist for the legendary jazz singer Mark Murphy and collaborations with, amongst others, Norma Winstone, Stan Sulzmann, John Taylor and Julian Arguelles.  He conducted the 80th birthday tour of the Kenny Wheeler Big Band which culminated in the critically acclaimed album 'The Long Waiting'.  

Durham University Big Band are delighted to be able to work with Pete.  They invite anyone who is interested to watch the workshop from the Music Department (Palace Green) Concert Room Gallery at 8pm.  Free Entry

Facebook event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/653942664721384/

This event is supported by PwC.

Luke Bentley
Durham University Big Band 
Public Relations Officer

Jason Isaacs @ Bonbar, Newcastle. November 16.

Jason Isaacs (vcl/ten); Mark Webb, Darren Irwin (tpt); Dave Brock  (tmb); Lewis Watson (ten); Ray Dales (alt); Stuart Collingwood (pno); Neil Harland (bs); Simon Ferry (dms) + The Fenner Sisters, Dorothy Ellis (vcl).

(Review by Lance).

There was a buzz about Bonbar as I exited the rain-swept mean streets into the glitzy interior of what was once the very majestic Old Assembly Rooms. There were a few distingué traces on the faces of those in the bar where, the tannoy was playing Fats Waller's version of Two Sleepy People followed by Ella and Louis duetting on  Dream a Little Dream of me.. Never experienced that before!

The women were in their LBDs, - some more L than others - the men had the the cool, clear (ish) eyes of a seeker of wisdom and truth.

The mood was set, the food served and the wine approved, all that remained was the cabaret...

Wow!

CD Review: Jeremy Platt Jazz Soul Moment - Sometimes Saying Your Name.

Jeremy Platt (piano/microkorg/vocal); Frank Felix (bass); John Boulton (drums).
(Review by Lance).

Platt's professed influences are Les McCann and Ramsey Lewis. I would be tempted to maybe add Mose Allison and early Georgie Fame, particularly on the vocal tracks.  Reminiscent of the earthy piano styles that found success in the 1960's, but updated with the measured incorporation of some synth lines, this is an easy album to listen to, by which I don't mean "Easy Listening," but a disc that doesn't require a degree in extra sensory perception to discover the elusive beauty of the music.

Jazz Latin Groove @ The Globe 15/11/14

Steve Summers (saxes/perc); Alan Law (pno); Steve Glendinning (gtr); Paul Grainger (bs); Tim Johnston (dms) and Debra Milne & Paulo Torres (vcl).

(Review by Kath J /Photo courtesy of Ken Drew.)

The Globe was packed out on arrival, with hardly a place to sit, but luckily Lance had bagged a table at the front and there was room for Paul and I to join him for this latest Jazz Co-op gig.  Lance and I tossed a coin as to who would do the write-up and I lost… it also meant that Lance could make an early exit to catch some of Ruth and Dean’s Gig at The Café.

Drinks arrived and the band struck up with a Latin vamp into Wave, Steve Summers adding that authentic sound of a Pandeiro, the first of several percussion instruments that appeared over the course of the evening.  No More Blues brought out the Cabasa and the musicians were out in force showing what a wonderful sound they can make together, it would be difficult to pick out one above the rest…. A superbly talented line-up and each one displayed their skills over the course of the evening. 

Ruth Lambert & Dean Stockdale @ The Jazz Café. November 15

Ruth Lambert (vcl); Dean Stockdale (pno).

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

‘Have you met Ms Lambert? Mr Stockdale let me introduce you to Ruth Lambert. Ruth, this is Dean. Pleased to meet you’ Saturday night at the Jazz Café, Ruth Lambert, well established on the scene, met up with pianist Dean Stockdale for the first time to play a set of standards. Vocalist Lambert’s pad numbers a couple of hundred songs or so. The newly formed duo talked through a few tunes, scribbled down some favourites and they were ready to go to work.

Roy Willis in Hong Kong - The Truth!

Hi all, I just want to tell you a little about my visit to Hong Kong .

Colin [Aitchison] and his wife Jeannie were wonderful hosts during my visit to HK. He was adamant that I didn't miss any important HK sight. There can’t have been many places he didn't show me - particularly the best music venues. Believe you me, Colin is very well known by very many HK musicians as well as being the band fixer for various venues around town.

Jeannie made sure I sampled  all types of HK's finest food - gave me a lot of background to the city and how to get around. How Colin fits all of his activities in I have no idea!. As well as managing all of this - and playing through the daytime he then goes down to Ned's and blows up a storm until the early hours of the morning!! He’s a whirlwind! 

Friday Gigs to have 8pm start on Fridays from December on.

As of December 5, Jazz Café's Friday night gigs will commence at 8pm as opposed to the current 9pm. Hopefully, this will mean an easier journey home for those dependent on public transport and avoid them being solicited by drunken, lustful ladies (lads).
Win some/lose some.
The £3 charge will now apply up to 7.30pm.
Lance.

Big Bands Are Like Buses

Radio Reveling from Russell).

BBC Radio does jazz well.* The problem is there isn’t enough of it – until the annual London Jazz Festival registers on Auntie’s radar. Composer of the Week: Big Band (Monday-Friday) on Radio 3 (12 noon) looks in depth at the form. Regular presenter Donald Macleod is guided through five one hour programmes by Guy Barker starting with Pioneers on Monday 17 Nov. Tuesday – The Swing Era, Wednesday – Big Band Bebop, Thursday – The 1950s and Friday – The New Sounds. All five programmes are repeated at 6:30pm each day through the week. 

Hebrides Ensemble: Dead Elvis @ Sage Gateshead. November 13.

(Review by Russell).

Elvis was in the building, supposedly. Dead or alive, he was keeping a low profile. A cursory glance along the concourse, a look in the café, the bar, the loo, not a sign. The main attraction (for some) couldn’t possibly be a ‘no show’, could he?        

Billed as ‘American classics with a cool vibe’, the Hebrides Ensemble presented six pieces to an attentive, and, belatedly, animated audience in Sage Gateshead’s Northern Rock Foundation Hall. Elvis (dead or alive), was top of the bill. We would have to be patient, other performers and composers were to be heard first. 

Kate Daniels Quartet @ Lit & Phil - November 14.

Kate Daniels (vcl); John Horler (pno); Alec Dankworth (bs); Graham Pike (hca/tpt/flug).

(Review/photo by Lance).

I'd put my head on the block, my heart on my sleeve, my...well never mind.. but, after hearing Kate's CD - Atmospherics - I was so knocked out I wanted the world to know! Then came the downside, would her live performance live up to the recording? Would local jazz fans follow my lead?

They Did!

Did they regret it?

They most certainly did not!

Steward banjoed at Jazz Party!

Lance and Jan Bennett at Classic Jazz Party - photo by Brian Bennett.

Herbert ‘Herbie’ Sargent : 8 January 1934 – 9 November 2014

It is with greatest sorrow and deep sadness that we report the news that Herbie Sargent passed away suddenly on Sunday November 9, 2014.  Herbie was a great Jazzer who managed the Tyne Valley Stompers as well as Carol Clegg and Speak Easy whilst also helping out at the Whitley Bay Jazz Festival and many others.  He and his wife were frequently seen all over the UK and abroad at many Jazz festivals from Boston Spa to Sacramento. He leaves behind his beloved family and his dearly loved grandchildren.

Our condolences to Barbara and family - May Herbie Rest In Peace.

Lance and all at Bebop Spoken Here.
Herbie's son Adrian has set up a British Heart Foundation Appeal in memory of his dad.
For more details follow link.

No Coochie @ Hoochie tonight.

I had the option of Ryan Quigley at Sage Gateshead or The Collective at Hoochie Coochie. I opted for the latter - wrong call!
No Collective tonight and too late for Sage.
The barman at HC wasn't too sure thought maybe it was because of a bereavement so I couldn't argue but hey - you guys in the band - I do my best to promote the gig couldn't you have let me know? I met a couple of fans coming in as I was going out and they weren't pleased... neither was I!
I had a punt on the "Rapid Transit" Metro - it was on time!
Win some, Lose some.
Lance.
PS: Kate Daniels at Lit & Phil tomorrow night...

Mike Durham's Classic Jazz Party News

The good news is that, after last weekend's highly successful Classic Jazz Party, the event will take place again next year.
The bad news is we've got to wait until next November!
Nov 6 - 8, 2015 to be precise.
Once again at the Village Hotel.
See you then, if not before.
Lance.

Fumi Okiji’s Old Time Jazz Band Northern Tour Dates

Fumi Okiji’s Old Time Jazz Band is a joyous 
celebration of the great tradition of jazz song. 
The music is essentially lovingly crafted interpretations of  from Jazz’s inception, through the interwar years. 
The band takes in the clues, New Orleans, black vaudeville,  Louis, Ella and Billie. While tackling the material with upmost reverence it does with both feet firmly in the 21st Century. Featuring Idris Rahman on clarinet and sax, Ben Davis on cello, Stuart Hall on guitar and Roy Dodds on drums, The Old Time Jazz Band is simply a great group of musicians playing timeless, great songs.

The Quartet Grew Smaller + Improv Jam @ Jazz Café

Matt Robinson (clarinets); Seth Bennett (bass); Phil Marks (drums) + Karen Rann (soprano sax); Paul Taylor (piano).

(Review/photos by Ken Drew/Heading by Lance!)

Disappointingly, Stephen Grew had to call off his visit at the last minute, leaving the trio to play to the quite reasonably sized audience at the Jazz Café (downstairs).  Treated to 2 sets with good solos all round from Matt, Seth and Mark, underpinned throughout by  constantly changing drums/brushwork/effects from a very energetic Phil on drums.    The 2 sets were followed by the usual (but shortened) improv night where Karen Rann (soprano sax) and Paul Taylor (piano) stepped up to make a quintet, and followed on very nicely from where the trio had left off.   A good night, leaving us with the expectation of a re-visit with Stephen!

Ken.

CD Review: Hank Marvin - Django's Castle.

Hank Marvin (gtr); Nunzio Mondia (acc); Gary Taylor (gtr); Pete Jeavons (bs)* .
(Review by Lance).

The pattern for rock/pop artists, as they approach the September of their years, seems to be to record an album of standards. Conversely, those singers who've spent their life interpreting the GASbook, as the years catch up with them, turn to more contemporary material. Each group hoping to attract a new audience - it rarely works.

Some LJF Gigs.

With the start of the London Jazz Festival I have had several press releases, posters and other paraphernalia (with the threat of more to come!) making it is impossible to devote separate posts to each individual submission. Below are links to some of them. Click on the above LJF link for full program.

Nov. 15: Laura Macdonald/David Berkman.
Nov. 20: Georgia Mancio/Ian Shaw.
Nov. 22: Johanna Graham.
Nov. 26: Georgia Mancio/Alan Broadbent.
Lance.

Jazz Co-op Workshop Featuring the Samuel Eagles Quartet. Dec. 3. 4-6pm.

This will be an interactive session featuring the entire quartet,  with Samuel Eagles on saxophones, Ralph Wyld on vibraphone, Daniel Kasimir* on double bass & Eric Ford on drums.  The session is particularly aimed at aspiring  jazz musicians (teenage upwards – any age), and will provide a great opportunity to play with, learn from  and be inspired by this  young, highly regarded quartet. The cost of the workshop is £10,  the evening gig (8pm) is £10, and a combined ticket only £15. 

Here is the link to the event on the Jazz Coop website

Tickets may be purchased through the website. The closing date for workshop applicants is Monday December 1st.

*Daniel Kasimir was here recently playing with Clark Tracey, The Quartet’s new CD - Next Beginning has also been reviewed on this blog.

Be Quick, Quigley at Sage Gateshead!

(Preview by Russell).

Quick, book now for the Hebrides Ensemble this Thursday. Ostensibly a classical event, there is much to attract the jazz fan.  Based in Scotland, the virtuosi take an innovative approach to classical composition, performing commissioned work (an impressive list of ‘names’ have been keen to work with them – Sally Beamish and James MacMillan amongst them) and like to ‘put on a show.’

Preview: Kate Daniels Quartet @ Lit & Phil Friday Nov. 14

I reviewed this CD about a year ago and it figured highly in my vocal discs of 2013. As the Kate Daniels Quartet are appearing at the Lit and Phil on Friday (Nov. 14) I thought it appropriate to repost the review - with vocal samples - to give readers an idea of what they have to look forward to.
Not to be missed - 7.30pm. £10/£8 (concessions). More details in RH column.

Lance.

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Kate Daniels (vcl); Tony Coe (ten); John Horler (pno); Mike Piggott (vln); Graham Pike (tpt); John Etheridge (gtr); Alec Dankworth (bs); Winston Clifford (dms).
(Review by Lance).

I usually deal out vocal CDs to Anne Alex or Debra M but, on this occasion, I hope the two ladies will excuse me for being selfish and allow me to wallow in this CD myself!

Kate Daniels is a new name to me but her love of film noir and The Third Man in particular drew her into my aura before she'd even sang a note!

When I spun the CD I wasn't disappointed!

The cool, smoky, laid back approach of say, a Julie London or a Jeri Southern with a sprinkling of Peggy Lee, make this the late night disc to end all late night discs and it's only early afternoon!

The Geordie Boys

Our man in Hong Kong will have to change to Our Geordie Men in Hong Kong for this week.

Where Roy Willis gets his energy from I'll never know. From the minute he stepped off the plane he was at Ned's, and then a sit in on Sunday with the big band.

Today it's off to see the Big Buddha on Lantau island, cue for a song, "When Buddha Smiles". 

From the Geordie Duo of Hong Kong.
More photos.

(Colin and Roy)

Coming soon to Blaydon...

Just an early reminder of our next concert as it's a week later than our usual Black Bull slot on the 3rd Sunday of each month.  This month we are on Sunday 23rd.
Sunday 23rd Nov - 8pm - £6.00

Vasilis Xenopoulos Quartet - our guest is the wonderful Greek tenor saxophonist now based in London.

Vas is a warm toned tenor saxophonist who plays in a style that is exciting, lyrical, modern yet embracing the great traditions of the instrument - Hawkins, Pres, Getz, Rollins and beyond. It's all in there.  With Paul Edis pno, Andy Champion bs and Adam Sinclair dms. 

Roly.

Pannonica @ The Bridge Hotel. November 9

Zoe Gilby (vocals), Paul Edis (piano), Andy Champion (double bass) & Adrian Tilbrook (drums). 

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

This was some occasion! A sparkling, luminescent Zoe Gilby presented Pannonica, a personal response to Carmen McRae’s Carmen Sings Monk album. Accompanied by a stellar line-up – Paul Edis (keyboards), Andy Champion (double bass) and Adrian Tilbrook (drums) – Ms Gilby delighted a full house with expressive singing and many insights into the making of McRae’s late-career recording and the lives of the bop era musicians associated with Thelonious Monk and their loyal patron ‘Pannonica.’

Am Jam @ The Globe. November 9

(Review by Russell).

Newcastle won. Time to head for the Globe. Taking the stairs (the recently installed lift didn’t seem to be working), that was the unmistakable sound of Fly Me to the Moon. As last month, Keith (guitar) lead the second Sunday in the month Am Jam session.

No Chilli This Wednesday

IMPORTANT! JUST FOR THIS WEEK (WEDNESDAY 12TH NOVEMBER), THE JAZZ SESSION AT THE CHILLINGHAM IS OFF. Accidental double-booking by the venue. Back to normal the following Wednesday, 19th November.

CD Review: Leo Appleyard – Pembroke Road

Leo Appleyard (guitar), Duncan Eagles (tenor sax), Neil Yates (trumpet/flugelhorn), Max Luthert (bass), Eric Ford (drums/percussion).

(Review by Hugh C).

Pembroke Road is the début album by twenty-five year old London-based guitarist Leo Appleyard. The album is a testament to the strength of enduring musical relationships. Appleyard states: “I have played in bands with Duncan Eagles and Max Luthert for more of my life than I haven't”.

CD Review: Simon Purcell – Red Circle

Chris Batchelor (Trumpet), Julian Siegel (Tenor and Soprano Saxophones), Simon Purcell (Piano), Steve Watts (bass), Gene Calderazzo (Drums)

(Review by Hugh C.)

Red Circle is the début release from internationally acclaimed pianist and educator Simon Purcell, currently the head of Jazz at the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Dance and Music in London. Purcell originally came to prominence during the UK jazz boom of the 1980s through his band 'Jazz Train'. He has performed with many leading musicians. Red Circle marks his return to a more active performing career after nearly three decades in the world of jazz education.

Jack Bruce Tribute.

Over a year since their last appearance in the UK, T-A-B return to Newcastle for what will be their only UK appearance this year, paying tribute to Jack Bruce, the legendary bass player/vocalist who passed away this month. The concert, which will take place at The Three Tuns (Sheriff's Hill, Gateshead) on Thursday 13th November, will feature music from Cream, through Jack's solo albums (including the highly regarded Songs For A Tailor), and collaborations with other groundbreaking musicians.

Anyone who caught last years gigs or their support slot with Ginger Baker's Jazz Confusion at the Cluny will want to see their usual risk filled take on some of Jack Bruce's finest moments - the band featuring Tom Atkinson on guitar, Jimmy Giro on bass, and Jeff Armstrong on drums - plus guests.

Tickets are £3, reserved via jackbrucetribute@gmail.com - doors open 9pm.

RIP Manitas de Plata

The great French gypsy flamenco guitarist Manitas de Plata died on November 5..
I never heard him play but I remember when he appeared at Newcastle City Hall circa 1964. Those friends of mine who attended the concert spoke of it as awesome and this was before "awesome" became the throwaway word it is today.
Truly a great talent.
He was 93 years old.
Rest In Peace.
Obituary.
Lance.

The Virtuoso Jazz Trio @ Ashington Jazz Club. Nov. 5

George MacDonald (clt); James Birkett (gtr); Tony Abell (bs).

(Review by Peter S.)

Last month AJC experienced the power and excitement of the Strictly Smokin’ Big Band. This month we returned to an appreciation of small group Jazz. The Virtuoso Trio visited to give our audience a musical masterclass. Led by George MacDonald on clarinet with outstanding support from James Birkett and Tony Abell  we experienced  the joyful compositions of George Gershwin, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Hoagy Carmichael, George Shearing, Jobim, Gilberto, Fats Waller and more. 

Havana Club 5 @ Empty Shop, Durham. Nov. 6

Carlos Luis Rivera (Vocals, Timbales/Bongos); Paco Rivera (Congas/Hand Perc.); Paul Grainger (Bs Gtr); Alan Law (Piano)

(Review by Teresa Driscoll).

It’s a weekday night, this quirky city centre venue is full to bursting, all seats and floor space taken... and the manager’s having to turn people away. The audience members - mostly students - listen and watch reverentially.  No, not a scene from a 1960s folk revival concert – it’s a Havana Club 5 gig in Durham, part of the monthly jazz night programme at Empty Shop.

From the Village Hotel to the London Jazz Festival

(Preview by Russell).

Richard Pite, currently starring at the Classic Jazz Party on North Tyneside, talks to Clare Teal (Sunday, BBC Radio2, 9:00pm) about his Jazz Repertory Company, days before heading to this year’s London Jazz Festival to present several productions (an eagerly anticipated show must surely be the celebration of the Newport Jazz Festival). More from London on Monday night as Paul Jones (Radio 2, 7:00pm) presents a two-part review of the recent Blues Fest at the Royal Albert Hall. Listen out for Stanley’s Mitch Laddie! Earlier on Monday on In Tune over on Radio 3 (4:30pm) Alexander Stewart sings accompanied by harpist Alexander Thomas. Late Monday (11:00pm) Swiss trio Vein are joined by Greg Osby on Jazz on 3.

Classic Jazz Party - Day 3

I'm not going to be able to make this, the final day of a fantastic weekend, so I'm going to torture myself even further by listing what I'll be missing!

Lance.

12 Noon – 12.30pm: Fiddlesticks.

Based on the great Joe Venuti’s Blue Four (and yes, he also had a Blue Six), you will enjoy this session of what may fairly be termed the Chamber Music of Jazz. Emma Fisk is certainly the most brilliant star to rise in recent years! Emma Fisk (violin); Mauro Porro (reeds); David Boeddinghaus (piano); Martin Wheatley (guitar); Frans Sjöström (bass saxophone).

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12.30pm – 1.30pm: ‘May it please you – Ben Pollack.’

Drummer and bandleader Ben Pollack may be little-known today, but his career began as far back as 1923 with the New Orleans Rhythm Kings. Josh will explain and illustrate how his bands launched many star players such as Jack Teagarden, Benny Goodman and Harry James. Duke Heitger, Andy Schumm (trumpets); Kris Kompen (trombone); Matthias Seuffert, Lars Frank, Mauro Porro (reeds); Emma Fisk (violin);  Keith Nichols (piano); Jacob Ullberger (guitar); Phil Rutherford (brass bass); Josh Duffee (drums). Janice Day, vocal.

Jazz Party - Day 2 [Afternoon] Report. Nov. 8

Determination was called for today - roadworks, delayed Metro, wet weather all combined to make this very much a labour of love!

However, once settled and listening to bass saxophonist Frans Sröjströn relate in words and music the bizarre life of trumpeter Jack Purvis played here by Bent Persson, all the traumas were forgotten!  Purvis, apart from being an excellent trumpet player, was also a conman, burglar, gunrunner and frequent prison inmate. Sröjströn interspersed the stories with the music in an entertaining manner.

Paul Edis Trio @ The Jazz Café. November 7

Paul Edis (piano), Mick Shoulder (double bass) & Adam Sinclair (drums)

(Review by Russell).

Earlier in the day at the Lit and Phil pianist Paul Edis gave a solo concert performance to a full house. This evening’s engagement with his trio at the nearby Jazz Café (a residency unlike no other in the city centre) drew an attentive, appreciative crowd eager to hear top flight jazz piano playing.

Today [Saturday] @ The Classic Jazz Party

More goodies in store today:

12 noon – 12.30pm: Jelly -  Library of Congress Memories.

In 1938, Jelly-Roll Morton made a long series of recordings for the Folk Song Division of the Library of Congress, telling of his life and times, both in speech and music. Martin Litton and Spats Langham explore & demonstrate some of this priceless jazz heritage.

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12.30pm – 1.30pm: The Freshmen.

Recordings for the Gennett record label were pivotal in early Jazz. Their home base was in Richmond, Indiana, 250 miles by road from Chicago. The New Orleans Rhythm Kings and the Wolverines made the trek several times. Claus has made a selection from the recordings of both bands. Andy Schumm (trumpet); Alistair Allan (trombone); Claus Jacobi, Mauro Porro (reeds); Morten Gunnar Larsen (piano); Spats Langham (Banjo, guitar); Phil Rutherford (brass bass); Josh Duffee (drums).

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1.30pm – 2.30pm: The Duke’s Men.

From 1936-1940, Ellington stars Rex Stewart, Barney Bigard, Cootie Williams and Johnny Hodges made recordings with small groups drawn from the main band. Enrico presents a selection of these gems. Enrico Tomasso (trumpet);  Alistair Allan (trombone); Matthias Seuffert, Claus Jacobi (reeds); David Boeddinghaus (piano); Henry Lemaire (guitar); Malcolm Sked (bass); Richard Pite (drums).

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Richard Pite - Boisdale Interview.

Talking to Richard Pite, he of the Ringo Starr proboscis, at the Jazz Party prompted him to send me this link to an interview. The interview is on the Boisdale site which is now very much the home of mainstream jazz in the Metropolis. Reference to the Jazz Festival at Middlesbrough back in the 1970's is of much local interest - guess the identity of "The Madman"! (No, not me!)

Lance.

Jazz Party - Afternoon.

How can you put into words the music and the atmosphere of this wonderful weekend? Every session is themed - a player or a scenario of jazz and hot dance music as played between the first and second world wars. To call music such as this 'Dated' is to call Schubert, Chopin or Mozart 'Dated'. Good music is timeless.

Paul Edis @ The Lit & Phil. November 7

(Review by Russell/photos by Jerry)

More seats were brought into the Loftus Room at the Lit & Phil, a sure sign that many people wanted to be at today’s concert. Pianist Paul Edis performed a solo programme consisting of eleven compositions (five of them written by Edis).

The first three tunes in a varied programme were by Edis; Pulse (the melody unfurling quietly), From Nothing to Nowhere and Not Like Me (typically Edis!). The Rodgers & Hart standard Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered followed and instantly became the odds on favourite for this reviewer’s ‘Performance of the Year 2014’. Within minutes Rodgers & Hammerstein’s My Favourite Things topped it, then an unlikely contender – Percy Grainger’s English Country Garden – jockeyed for pole position! The playing couldn’t have been better. The audience loved it, one hour of sheer joy.

Today @ Classic Jazz Party

I've got an absolutely gorgeous weekend ahead  at the Village Hotel, Cobalt Business Park, nr Shiremoor, North Tyneside - never mind the weather - it's the (late) Mike Durham's Classic Jazz Party organised this year by Patti Durham with the able assistance of Keith Nichols, Frans Sjöström and several others.
It's a mouthwatering feast for lovers of classic jazz as today's program will testify to.
12 noon – 12.30pm: Tribute to Mike.

Spats Langham leads a re-creation of his Rhythm Boys – a group lovingly crafted by Mike Durham, complementary to his beloved West Jesmond Rhythm Kings. This music and song – indeed the entire Jazz Party – is a fitting tribute to all that Mike achieved for Classic Jazz over many decades. Enrico Tomasso (trumpet); Graham Hughes (trombone); Matthias Seuffert (reeds); Keith Nichols (piano); Spats Langham (Banjo, guitar, vocal); John Hallam (bass); Frans Sjöström (bass saxophone); Josh Duffee (drums).