Glasshopper/Triptych @ the Bridge Hotel, Newcastle - Oct. 11

Glasshopper – Jonathan Chung (Ten Sax); James Kitchman (Guitar); Corrie Dick (Drums).

(Review/photos by Ken Drew) 

Second Sunday of the month means it’s Splinter at The Bridge – Two distinct sets, one by a locally-based group and one by an up and coming group from further afield. 

With band members hailing initially from Scotland and Hexham, the young London-based trio arrived at The Bridge as part of a short UK tour celebrating the release of their debut EP ‘Glasshopper’.  The band is a relatively new and exciting instrumental trio, born out of a love for melody and improvisation. Led by saxophonist Jonathan Chung, the trio thrives on the equally creative minds of guitarist James Kitchman and drummer Corrie Dick.  Chung is developing an increasing recognition for both his inspired improvising and his melodic writing. Always with improvisation at the heart of the performance, the band plays as one to reveal the story of each piece, taking the audience on wayward imaginary journeys.

At The Bridge, the band performed Jonathan’s emotionally-sophisticated compositions, seamlessly weaving from moments of quiet sonic contemplation to emphatic but well placed full-on rock infused power-statements.  Inspiring stuff – and well received by the (quite reasonably sized) audience at The Bridge.

Triptych – Paul Edis (p/clt) Rob Walker (d) Paul Susans(b)

Earlier, Triptych took us on an exploration of styles – each member contributing one or more of their own compositions to the diverse repertoire.  They also included original interpretations of old standards, with what is now a characteristic Edis-style twist on the keys.  Also, a slower-paced and evening-mood piece played on clarinet (PE) – a nice change using a sometimes underappreciated instrument – creating a wonderfully peaceful and sombre atmosphere, and nicely done.
Ken.