Zoe Gilby (vocalist), Andy Champion (bass), Mark
Williams (guitar), Richard Brown (drums).(Review by Peter S.)
The Quartet returned to the AJC after a long absence
completing a commitment which was unfortunately cancelled at the last minute
when our venue failed to inform us of closure for refurbishment. Causing further problems, the management had
offered a practice room above our function room for a local group. Following
some diplomatic negotiations with JT an agreement was reached and the group
agreed to stop at 8.00 p.m. and joined us for an evening of superb music.
From the outset we were entertained by this masterly
combo to an eclectic selection of swinging music with a diversity of lyrics
sourced by Zoe and her band and delivered in a very interesting and personal
style. Since the last visit this Band has made remarkable progress in
developing unique renditions of established standards and the very evocative
and original lyrics of their own compositions.
Zoe described how she was strongly influenced and
encouraged by her late father when many of us remember his appearances with the
River City Jazzmen during the early years of this Club. Jazz music has never
stood still and it is a delight to find that in our region there are young, gifted musicians who are prepared to change
the canvas of the music giving the genre another dimension. This makes the
fresh delivery of the music very personable and identifiable and should be
encouraged and applauded. I recommend
you to get out there and hear for yourselves the fine musical experience which
this Quartet offers.
This sadly was the final meeting of the Ashington Jazz
Club. An ageing membership, falling attendance numbers, and venue difficulties with
the ever increasing costs in bringing Bands to the most northerly Jazz Club in
England has convinced the members that the Club at this time is no longer a
viable proposition. The AJC through Bebop Spoken Here wishes to thank all the
many brilliant musicians who have been engaged on our stage over the last 31
years. There are many stories to tell of the great nights we have enjoyed in
the company of musicians and friends. It has been a long journey but regrettably
the Ashington A Train has reached its final destination. Sadly all good ideas
come to an end but we shall always recall our memories with pride in what was
achieved over the years at the AJC. I’m sure that our love of the music will
endure long after the curtain has come down on our stage.
Peter
S.
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