Ray Harley (trumpet); Jim McBriarty (clarinet, vocals); Lawrence McBriarty (trombone); Brian Bennett (banjo, vocals); Bill Colledge (double bass); Fred Thompson (drums, vocals) + Miles Watson (trumpet, vocals)
(Review by Russell/Photos to follow)
May Day, be vigilant! Morris dancers, handkerchiefs at the ready, could be round the next corner! Arriving a little late in Cullercoats (a change of train, an amended timetable) with spots of rain in the air, the Vieux Carre Jazzmen were already at it with All of Me entertaining a good number in the bar of the sea-front Crescent Club.
Singing drummer Fred Thompson sang a couple; Georgia then Slow Boat to China, handing over to Jim McBriarty who was all Smiles. Bandleader Brian Bennett brought the first set to a close singing Oh, You Beautiful Doll - did he have anyone in mind?
The Crescent Club puts most other club venues to shame with its permanent selection of three or four handpulls on the bar and it really excelled this aternoon in not only offering Grainger Ale but, believe it or not, it was 'from the wood'! Jazz venues, take note!
It's a rarity these days catching Ray Harley on a gig. When he is, it's worth paying attention. Our trumpeter called quite a few of today's numbers and hearing him blow on Swing that Music made the trip to the coast worthwhile. Bandleader Bennett interjected to oversee the raffle. First prize, according to BB, was a trip to Gran Canaria plus a bottle of wine. He enquired of the winner if he could get to the airport in 20 minutes. Our prize winner replied: No. Bennett said: In that case your prize is no longer valid, although you get to keep the wine!
McBriarty J sang Hoagy's New OrleanMcBriarty L, that's Lawrence, didn't sing, choosing to play trombone) and a while later trumpeter Miles Watson joined the VCJ to sing Bye Bye Blackbird. Rar
ely does a Wednesday session stray beyond three o'clock but this one did, only slightly, as the band squeezed in Tiger Rag, FT crooning Up a Lazy River and When You're Smiling. Brain Bennett sent 'em on their way with, as ever, Goin' Home.
ely does a Wednesday session stray beyond three o'clock but this one did, only slightly, as the band squeezed in Tiger Rag, FT crooning Up a Lazy River and When You're Smiling. Brain Bennett sent 'em on their way with, as ever, Goin' Home.
Russell
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