Richard Burns (tpt); Gary Turner (ten); Paul Edis (pno); Paul Susans (bs gtr); Rob Walker (dms).
(Review by Lance).
It's that time of the month again - the second Thursday, Time for the monthly pilgrimage to Hoochie,
Trumpet, tenor, piano, bass and drums - the classic modern jazz quintet line-up, and this was classic modern jazz in a contemporary vein. Given Rob Walker's hard hitting Hiroshima-like explosions, it's not difficult to imagine that if Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers had been formed 50 years on they may well have sounded like this!
Mainly originals by the various band members, the overall musical concept was that of putting the boot in, the Glasgow Kiss or hitting them where it hurts.
And yet, amidst the mayhem, there was form and even sensitivity. This latter quality came to the fore in a bluesy number that had Edis playing early hours back room piano as if for some guy whose baby had left him. I think it was titled Not Everybody Knows the Blues.
A number by an Australian band, Gong? that rings a bell, saw Susans giving out with what was surely the bass guitar solo of the year!
In the front line Turner, never one for coasting, went for the jugular. From subterranean depths to harmonicspheric heights he hit the spot every time. By contrast, Burns was more restrained albeit not without making meaningful statements both playingwise and with his Aussie sense of humour.
The annual Down Beat Critics' Poll used to have a Talent Deserving of Wider Recognition (now called Rising Stars) section - The Pilgrim St. Set certainly meet that criteria.
They're back September 8.
However, this coming Sunday afternoon (August 16) Jason Isaacs and the Ambassadors of Swing are at Hoochie (doors 4pm, stage 5pm) so make a day of it. Providing Jason doesn't do too many encores you'll just have time to catch a bus to Blaydon where the ubiquitous Paul Edis Trio perform at the Black Bull.
Lance.
PS: Don't forget Strictly Smokin' Big Band at the Tyne Bar tomorrow afternoon. Then there's Zoe Gilby with Noel Dennis at the Jazz Café tonight whilst tomorrow night - if you're not 'smoked out' - Paul Gowland and Bradley Johnston are at The Caff and the Ladies of Midnight Blue are at the Jazz Coop's session at The Globe. Busy weekend ahead, let's hope it stops raining!
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