Steve Oakes (guitar); Ray Butcher (trumpet/flugel) ; Ed Kainyek (alto/tenor
sax); Elliot Roffe (bass); Tim Franks (drums).
Before the start of this concert, Steve and I were discussing the sad
news of the untimely death of guitar legend Pat Martino who I never got to see
live, although I had the opportunity on two occasions to do so.
Steve chose to begin the first set with a tribute to the late genius by playing Alone Together featuring heartfelt solos from the whole band.
Tonight’s guest from Birmingham, Ray Butcher, made an impact right from
the start on trumpet and then later on flugelhorn to great effect. Reminded me
of a night when I drove down the M1 motorway to Ronnie Scott’s to see Woody
Shaw with his quintet - I miss those days!
Ed Kainyek was sounding better than ever on both alto and tenor and it was hard to decide which I liked best.
Holding things together with some great bass work was a newcomer to the Railway, Leeds-based Elliot Roffe, standing in for Steve’s regular bassist Gavin Barras. Tim Franks, who was here only two days ago with his own band, was taking care of the business and I liked what he did on that difficult Chick Corea number Spain.
At the end of the gig I was chatting to Ed Kainyek and he mentioned that he had been blowing at The Old Boars Head in Middleton, North Manchester - a venue that used to hold jazz sessions on the first Monday of the month but had to stop activities due to the organiser - guitarist Dave Chamarette - having health problems.
Anyway, Ed tells me that things are up and running again and, having been there a few times myself, I can recommend the place - sitters in are welcome. The address is 116 Long Street, Middleton, Manchester M24 6UE. - 0161-643-3520.
Next jazz at the Railway is the great Munch Manship Group Sunday Oct 7. 9:00pm – 11:00pm. Mike Farmer
Alone Together; My Favorite Things; Wild Life; How Insensitive; Au Privave’
Sunny; Have You Met Miss Jones?; Hello Little Sunflower; Autumn Leaves; Spain
3 comments :
I’m in Stoke these days bud!
Sorry Ray for saying you were based in Birmingham. Stoke used to have a great jazz scene and hope things are still happening there.
Nope it’s terrible- for jazz. I’m looking to move soon!
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