Ruth Lambert (vocals); Alan Law (piano); Neil Harland (bass); Russ Morgan (drums)
(Review by Lance).
"Not only the grooviest band, but also the tallest" quipped Ruth as she introduced her three henchmen. She asked them to stand up and it was as if the Manhattan Skyline had taken human form with Ruth as the Statue of Liberty.
A first gig for her new band but who could tell? I couldn't - they gelled from the off. No Moon at All followed by On a Clear Day told us she meant business. Don't think I've heard her in better voice. She had no choice, with these three guys behind her it was a case of put up or shut up.
Ruth put up!
A Love That Never Dies, one of several originals, told those who didn't know already that she could compose as well as sing.
That Old Feeling. Ruth queried as to the composer. My thoughts were, De Sylva, Brown and Henderson but I was only 33.333% correct. Lew Brown wrote the lyric but Sammy Fain composed the tune. It didn't matter - Ruth made it her own.
Just Squeeze me; But Not For me (as a samba), But Beautiful and another original, Hey It's Wonderful, brought an extended first set to a close.
Conversation with a Dutch couple - Cees and Jnelie - on a cycling holiday provided an enjoyable diversion during the break. Lovely couple who seemed to enjoy the music.
A shorter second set was, nonetheless enjoyable with a couple more originals: Coffee and Sunshine and a real wowser - Tyneside Blues. Add a fast Latin take on Over the Rainbow, a poignant 'Round Midnight and, finally, a blast on How High the Moon brought the evening to a close.
Ruth was great as were Law, Harland and Morgan. A rhythm section that ranks with the best.
Catch them next time round - they're sure to be back!
Lance.
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