I must admit to a liking for the baritone sax although I have never played one but I do enjoy listening to people like Gerry Mulligan, Pepper Adams, Nick Brignola and anyone else who can get around the larger horn. I was very pleased to see John Hallam had brought along a baritone sax tonight together with tenor sax and clarinet.. He chose an interesting selection of tunes which included some Ellingtonia, a Mingus number, one by Basie and some lesser known standards making a total of twelve for the two sets.
The opening tune, Fine and Dandy, sounded good and Hallam played a fiery solo well supported by Paul Hartley and his colleagues. This was followed by Hushabye, a number most jazz fans will recall was a big feature for Monty Sunshine when he was with the Chris Barber Band. I always thought this was a Scandinavian folk song and I’m sure Johnny Griffin played this sometimes and I think he recorded it on the Black Lion label.
The first time John featured his baritone was on Bernie’s Tune and he displayed a big modern sound taking it at a fast lick with energetic solos from the rest of the band.
During the second set things took on a different sound when local pianist/arranger Brian Pendleton sat in on the house upright and contributed some fine solos especially during the Ellington numbers.
Next jazz gig at the Railway is Sunday Jan. 16 with harmonica man Robin Sunflower - Mike Farmer
Fine and Dandy; Hushabye; I Would Do Anything For You; Jelly Roll Blues; Bernie's Tune; A Hundred Years From Today; 9-20 Special; Mr Gentle and Mr Cool; Do Nothing Till You Here From Me; What is This Thing Called Love?; In A Mellow Tone; Times A Wastin’\,
2 comments :
Heard John Hallam many times at Blaydon Jazz Club when it was held in the working men's club. He played all of the three horns mentioned and some of the same tunes too. I got to talk to him at one gig and found him to be very approachable. Good to know he's still blowing as well as ever.
Yes, I too heard John at Blaydon and most recently at Darlington New Orleans Jazz Club. And, how about John Marley? Newcastle born and bred!
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