Jamie Mackay (guitar)
(Review by Russell)
Sage Gateshead BMus student Jamie Mackay brought along
his Telecaster to sit in front of the altar to play a few improvisations.
Billing the recital as ‘fusion guitar’ could have deterred some with
visions/nightmares of searing seventies pyrotechnics. Thankfully, it wasn’t
anything of the sort.
Citing the quiet simplicity of Jeff Buckley and the
harmonic intricacies of Bill Evans and Charlie Hunter as influences, Mackay
played five pieces during a half hour set. Titles not important (some pieces
probably didn’t have one), the performance focused upon the feel generated in
St Nicholas’ imposing space.
The cathedral-like dimensions (pun intended), the
attentive few in the pews and the serene atmosphere encouraged Mackay to play
with the amazing acoustics of the place. Finger style, no sign of a plectrum,
Mackay fused the blues with gospel, an Eastern vibe with flamenco, to small
group jazz guitar playing.
Tone and volume control were impeccable, Mackay’s keen
ear tuned to his surroundings. This ‘lite bite’ lunchtime recital was a jazz
delight. Jamie Mackay can be seen around and about checking out who’s who on
the scene. It’s about time the talented Mackay played a proper gig in a proper
jazz joint, the kind he referred to as having low ceilings and sticky floors.
Promoters of the world…okay, we’ll start with promoters in Newcastle…it’s time
to check out Jamie Mackay.
Russell.
1 comment :
Cheers Russell! This made my day! Especially as I read this before a money gig in the bigg market in Friday night!! Haha Put me in a great mood, thanks it means a lot! PS tried to find you on social media to private message a thank you, but failed
Post a comment