Father's Day in New Orleans w. Haruka, Z2, Nobu Ozaki and Shouta

Haruka Kikuchi (trombone); Z2 (piano); Nobu Ozaki (bass).

Musicians face many hazards on gigs: Out of tune pianos, indifferent, even hostile audiences, impossible requests ... if you've gigged you can add many more to the list.

Today's trio had a hazard of their own - literally - in the form of Shouta, HK and Z2's lovable and yet precocious toddler. He caused mayhem! It didn't detract from the music but was, in itself, distracting. A cameo appearance would have been fine but, just as Haruka and Z wouldn't allow it on a proper live gig, a little goes a long way even on a livestream.

However, the music was, as ever, great and this time, enhanced by the addition of the socially distanced, face-masked, bassist Nobu Ozaki.

Sunday was an appropriate number to start with and the trombone sounded as beautiful as always - Kid Ory and Jack Teagarden rolled up in one! Rosetta and then Wabash Blues. The "bash" in Wabash came when it sounded as though Shouta had emptied the cutlery draw onto the kitchen floor!

Unperturbed, C Jam Blues followed then Haruka sneezed - the house could be quarantined! Way Down Yonder in New Orleans had Shouta running back and forward in between mummy's legs and, for once doing something useful like holding the plunger to the bell of the trombone.

It's Father's Day so Z2 played the appropriate Horace Silver tune for the occasion - Song For My Father. When I Grow Too Old To Dream had the plunger back in action.

Another number followed - I could sing it backwards but could I remember the title?*

Finally, I think, My Bucket's Got a Hole in it with Shouta "on piano" as well as attempting to destruct the bass.

What can I say that W.C. Fields hasn't said already?

Nevertheless, a splendid hour by my favourite trombone player.

Lance.

*  Louisiana Fairytale - thanks Patti!