Olive Rudd
(vocals); Jim McBriarty (alto sax, clarinet, vocals); Tommy Moran (tenor sax);
Neville Hartley (trombone); Colin Haikney (piano); Alan Rudd (double bass);
Tommy Graham (drums)
(Review by Russell)
Formed
less than two years ago Classic Swing is a band comprising experienced
musicians who have been there, done that and continue to do it. Stepping
Out with a Memory was recorded earlier this year at Ayr Jazz Club and
the CD is a fine example of the band in action. No fewer than thirteen tracks
across a generous seventy eight minutes' playing time feature all seven
musicians.
Olive Rudd
and Jim McBriarty share the vocal numbers - Olive shining on I Got
Rhythm, It's a Sin to Tell a Lie and 'S Wonderful (to
name but three), Jim on the title track I'm Stepping Out with a Memory taking
an alto sax solo along the way with additional solos from the ever-elegant
Neville Hartley, trombone and the pianist's pianist Colin Haikney.
Caravan goes off at a gallop courtesy of energetic drummer Tommy Graham and
bassist Alan Rudd with McBriarty's sinuous soprano setting up Tommy Moran's
robust tenor sax solo. The band invariably closes a gig with Tuxedo
Junction and the album does likewise - after all, why change a winning
formula?
Classic
Swing's Stepping Out with a Memory is available from the band
at gigs. The band maintains two residencies -
The Ship Inn, Monkseaton Tuesdays and Jesmond British Legion Club, first and
third Fridays in the month, both 1-3pm, free admission. Go hear the band and
buy a copy of Stepping Out with a Memory - it'll make the
ideal Christmas present!
Russell
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