(Preview)
For at least the past couple of decades big jazz units have tended to
fall into two camps - those that draw their inspiration from the Swing Era,
with the various sections (reeds, trumpets, trombones) riffing in unison, and
those that play more with the varied orchestral textures that can be achieved
through different combinations of instruments.
The great thing about the Jonathan Silk band is that it straddles that
divide. There's plenty of big band drive, as you might expect from an outfit
led by a drummer, but Jonathan's extensive experience of writing for smaller
groups is reflected in interesting juxtapositions that don't interrupt the flow
of the music, but unfailingly lend it the sound of surprise. It's new and very
tasty wine in an old and much loved bottle.What also makes this band stand out
is the quality of the musicians involved. They may not be household names (jazz
musicians have to be dead before they achieve that status), but they've all
been forged in the white heat of the vibrant Birmingham scene, and the band's
debut CD 'Uncouth' features a constant stream of outstanding solos. So if
you're in the mood for an exciting 15-piece big band (but preferably without
'In the Mood'), this is an unmissable gig.
Tickets on sale in advance from Reflex : 0191 2603246, from the Jazz
Cafe and online at www.seetickets.com Further info. from www.jazznortheast.com.
Tonight (July 28) @ 8pm Black
Swan Bar & Venue, Newcastle Arts Centre, 69 Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1
1SG. £12 & £10 concessions.
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