This was more than a gig, it was more than a social occasion although it was both but, primarily, it was a chance to remember pianist Colin Haikney who died just over a year ago.
The music was provided by Classic Swing - Colin's last band - and there were many present from other bands with whom Colin had graced his musical presence.
Drummers Scotty Adair, Steve Wall, Ian Stocks. Guitarist John Wilson and trumpet player, bandleader, Bill Watson. Vocalist Maggie Miles was another - plus a hundred others looking down (and up) from some far and distant land.
The atmosphere was convivial, partly due to the (free) all-day bar and the belly-busting buffet, but mainly because of the love and warmth that was in the room.
Apologies if I appear to be ignoring the music but this was about Colin and, although it may have been my sentimental imagination (or the free bar) but it seemed to me that the band had upped their game even higher!
Tommy Moran was in the room but still not playing after a fall. However, his name was on the scoresheet by way of his two compositions - the band's theme Classic Swing and a number he wrote for Colin, The Master's Magic. Two numbers that are worthy of being in any band's pad!
Jeremy had big boots to fill and he didn't trip. I loved the way he slipped the High Society quote into his solo after Jim's vocal on Strike Up the Band. Olive, of course was Olive and her two trio numbers: It Could Happen to You and It's You or No One - I recall Doris Day singing the latter with the Page Cavanaugh Trio in the film Romance on the High Seas (aka It's Magic) - had me thinking that If Olive had been around at the time then maybe Doris would have missed out.
I had to leave around about then - Don would understand my reasons - I had a cat to feed! But let's just say thanks to Colin's family and all the friends who showed up to remember a remarkable man - Lance
Classic Swing; Strike up the Band; I Got Rhythm; Where There is Sunshine; All the Things You Are; Oh, Lady be Good!; 'S Wonderful; The Master's Magic; I'm Stepping Out With a Memory Tonight; It's You or No One; It Could Happen to You; Sweet Sue; Night Train; The Best Things in Life Are Free (!)
No comments :
Post a Comment