(Review by Russell)
Guitarist Nik Svarc played a trio gig at this year’s
Gateshead International Jazz Festival. On that occasion he worked with young
guns Martin Longhawn and Steve Hanley. This Jazz Café gig featured groove
meisters Scott Devine (bass) and Dave Walsh (drums). A select gathering –
including two first year music students – took their seats in time for a prompt
nine o’clock start.
At a glance Svarc could pass for a young Larry
Coryell. The seated Scott Devine looked uncannily like Scott Devine and there
was no mistaking the big presence known as Dave Walsh. Bemsha Swing opened the set; ‘groove’, ‘in the pocket’, ‘on it’,
such terms were made for this band. A tousled mop-top veiled Svarc’s face; head
down, ‘time’ and ‘feel’ elusive qualities for many, not for Svarc as he paused,
listened, notes selected with care. Devine and Walsh exchanged a smile, they
were ‘in the groove’.

2 extra photos from Mike Tilley.
Russell.
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