Swinging into Blaydon this Sunday

 (Preview by Russell).

Win, lose or draw (Sunderland v Newcastle), as a way to celebrate or as a pick me up, be sure to get to the Black Bull on Bridge Street in Blaydon on Sunday evening. At eight on the dot the Greek God of Vasilis will blow the finest swinging tenor saxophone since the era of one-nighters at the Corner House Hotel in Newcastle featuring some of the all time great American tenor players.

You would like to have a pint but you don’t want to take the car and you need to get from Newcastle? Take the new 12A bus service from Eldon Square Bus Station, the journey is easy. The bus bombs along Scotswood Road, over Scotswood Bridge, along Chainbridge Road and, sixteen minutes later, you’re there. The Black Bull is but a stone’s throw from Blaydon Bus Station. The 12A bus departs Newcastle at 7:15pm. Some will set off earlier catching the no.12 at 6:45pm. £6.00. Admission, a quid or so for the raffle, a pint of Black Sheep (other tipples are available) and you’re set for a fabulous evening of swinging jazz. The return journey couldn’t be easier; the 12A leaves at 10:56pm, arriving Clayton Street West 11:06, terminating at Eldon Square at eleven minutes past eleven.

The Greek God is Vasilis Xenopoulos. Never heard of him? Don’t let that put you off. He is something special and his band mates on the gig are A-list musicians. Blaydon, London or New York, these guys are the best in the business: Paul Edis (piano), Andy Champion (double bass) and drummer Russ Morgan. You’re thinking…they couldn’t be possibly be that good. Are you prepared to eat your hat? Salt and pepper at the ready.

Russell.