Four on Friday

(Preview by Russell)

Lunchtime today offers an embarrassment of riches. The Lit & Phil in Newcastle is sure to pull its usual large crowd with a first visit by Miriam Ast and Victor Gutierrez. The vocals-piano duo's album - Secret Songs - was favourably reviewed by BSH's Ann Alex. 

Four stops on the Metro from Central Station to West Jesmond and you can hear (at the same time, one o'clock) Classic Swing at the Royal British Legion Club. One minute from the station, reasonably priced beers, good jazz, it's an option.

A few more stops on the Metro to Monkseaton and you can catch Maureen Hall's Rendezvous Jazz at the Monkseaton Arms. The Front Street pub is a popular watering hole with a high demand for its lunchtime grub to accompany Hall's happy band of Dixielanders. 

 If you really want to push the boat out, metaphorically speaking, take the X21 bus or jump aboard the choo choo to Bishop Auckland. The bus stops right outside Bishop Auckland Town Hall, the train doesn't, it's a few minutes down the road. The purpose of your visit? Mick Shoulder's roaring Jazz Messengers-inspired quintet will be tearing it up in the Town Hall's first-floor cafe. What's more, Lewis Watson will be playing tenor sax! A rare sighting of the Lesser Spotted Watson is an unmissable occasion. 

All four concerts begin at 1:00pm. The choice is yours. 

Russell.