(Review by Lance/photos courtesy of Colin & Jeanie Aitchison.)
I think Kowloon must have been empty today judging by the number of visitors from Hong Kong at the Millstone this afternoon.
Two of their number, Valussi and Aitchison were an integral part of the Vieux Carré International Jazzmen and Sarony and Segura popped up at frequent intervals - entertainers all.
A rousing Bourbon St Parade followed by China Boy led to a couple of numbers from Neville Sarony. Neville, son of Leslie Sarony - a well known entertainer and songwriter whose career straddled both world wars -, sang Buddy Bolden's Blues and It Had to be You. A strong voice with more than a hint of George Melly about it.
Colin, of course, also sang a few as did Fred Thompson but perhaps the the emotional highlight was Franco playing Memories of You with just rhythm accompaniment.
Dedicated to the late Barry Soulsby.
Kenny Segura (pictured left with Neville Sarony and myself) joined the band for Hello Dolly with vocal by Colin and now we had TWO banjos on stage!
It didn't hurt a bit!
Segura is part of the Hot Chop Suey Jazz Band out in Kowloon.
Sarony returned for Won't you Come Home Bill Bailey and Colin sang I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter - updated to a Postcard - next time it will be an Email!
More Neville with I Can't Give You Anything But Love then Shine from Fred and a grand finale with Doctor Jazz.
Needless to say, apart from the visiting firemen, the band regulars were on top form. Paul excelled on alto slotting into the idiom with ease whilst McBriarty had his moments too. Banjo and bass guitar gelled and it was a splendid afternoon all round.
They can be heard again on Saturday Afternoon at the Mouth of the Tyne Festival at Tynemouth.
Lance.
1 comment :
My mother and I have enjoyed listening to the jazz this week, the jazz and the meals at the Millstone are great. Only thing wrong is that not everyone can see the band.
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