Graham Hardy (trumpet), Ben Chinnery (trumpet), Jamie Toms (tenor saxophone), David Gray (trombone), Jason Holcomb (trombone), Phil Rosier (tuba), Adam Sinclair (snare drum) & Brendan Murphy (bass drum)
(Review by Russell)
The good folk of Hexhamshire have a Friend in Jesus. They may not have known it, but Graham Hardy’s New Orleans eight-piece made the trip way out west to spread the word, the missionary words ‘funky jazz’. The Northern Monkey Brass Band draws them in, softens them up with a pop tune of yesteryear, then sets about laying down some jazz, bold as brass.
Star Wars’ Imperial March, Kung-Fu Fighting (honestly!), and some Monkey’s Blood. Yes, 2017
All-action David Gray and the depping Jason Holcomb knocked out killer trombone solos, to their right, tenor man Jamie Toms surfaced from time to time with his usual measured solo contribution amidst the blowing brass. The fun time rhythm boys – Adam Sinclair, snare and Brendan Murphy bass drum – are the best in the business, and, as usual, had a ball. Phil Rosier, tuba, was where he should be…’right there’, every time. Main man Hardy called on trumpet dep Ben Chinnery and the absence of Alistair Lord went more or less unnoticed – praise indeed. Superstition must be a real blast for horn players. If they’re not going to get the call from Mr S Wonder the next best is surely to play it for themselves and they did just that. GH writes for the band and tonight Funky Pie was on the menu. The north of England Cluny
Russell.
1 comment :
Brendon Murphy was an early inspiration for number one son when he brought his bongos and maracas to Hunwick Primary School near Bishop, must be about seven years ago. I remember Francis conducting his classmates. The system works.
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