Preview: Lewis Watson in Newcastle & Darlington, tomorrow (Friday 22)!

Friday marks the return to action of Lewis Watson. And what a return it promises to be as Lewis will be playing two gigs in a day! Lewis is one of the leading tenor saxophonists of his generation. Bop, post bop, modern jazz, contemporary jazz, Lewis has long since been a commanding figure on the regional jazz scene. Over many years Lewis has done it all: band leader (trio, quartet), occupying the tenor chair in the much-missed Voice of the North Jazz Orchestra, working alongside many established names (including Keith Morris, Steve Waterman, Don Weller and Jason Yarde), Free Spirits, the trio Watson Walker Edis, Mick Shoulder's superb hard bop quintet, whatever the context or occasion, Lewis has long since been the 'first call' tenor saxophonist.    

At one o'clock on Friday, Lewis will be in concert at the Lit & Phil in Newcastle working with Mark Williams (guitar), Mick Shoulder (bass) and drummer John Bradford. The Westgate Road venue (pictured) is all but certain to be at capacity. Book now at: www.litandphil.org.uk or call 0191 232 0192. In the evening Lewis, Mark, Mick and John will be playing at the Traveller's Rest in Darlington. No advance reservations or sales for this one, simply turn up on the night and pay at the door. This Opus 4 Jazz Club gig starts at 8:00pm. If you want to be sure of getting in, arrive early and form/join an orderly queue! Russell