Jazz Café Jam Session - February 21

Mark Williams (guitar); Paul Grainger (bass); Russ Morgan (drums) + Michael Lamb (trumpet); Vince Webb (piano); Alex Moniakis (guitar); Paul Gowland (soprano).

(Review by Lance).

Possibly because it was half-term, there were fewer jammers than usual this week. However, although lacking in quantity, there was no shortage of quality which meant that those who did play had more opportunity to shine rather than the normal wham bam thank you, ma'am, next please situation that inevitably occurs.

Thus, after a few numbers, the trio were joined by Michael Lamb who, no doubt inspired by Saturday's big band session with Bruce Adams, was on fire. I Love You; Long Ago and Far Away and September in the Rain were right on the money. Vince Webb, last here on that memorable evening when Eric Burdon's backing band turned up,  sat in on piano for Days of Wine and Roses and Tadd Dameron's Ladybird. Impressive!

Good to see Paul Gowland back in action, testing the water on soprano alongside a first-timer, Greek guitarist, Alex Moniakis. Moniakis, a student of Mick Wright and yet another fine guitarist slotted in nicely for Just Friends. Vince returned and Russ displayed dexterity a-plenty in his drum solo.

Gowland can play a ballad as good as anyone and Darn That Dream was no exception. Likewise young Vince.

Lamb returned for Billie's Bounce and Secret Love after which I reluctantly left for the legendary number 27 bus.

One of those evenings where less was more!
Photos.

Lance.
PS: Special mention of Russ and Paul [Grainger] who played without respite.