The Central Bar Quintet @ The Central Bar, Gateshead - June 13

Jamie Toms (tenor sax); Mark Williams (guitar); Alan Law (piano); Mick Shoulder (double bass); John Bradford (drums)

The best laid plans and all that should take account of Covid. At short notice Mark Williams stepped-in, ensuring this evening's monthly session went ahead as a quintet, although not quite as intended. The advertised Blue Note album performance was shelved (it'll be rescheduled) and in its place, a straight forward gig would entertain the Central Bar audience on Half Moon Lane.    

From Out of Nowhere came Gateshead-resident guitarist Mark Williams, making it look so easy, as a dep they don't come any better. Have You Met Miss Jones? featured ace solos across the band - front man Jamie Toms on tenor sax, Alan Law, piano, bassist Mick Shoulder and drummer (and MC), John Bradford. There'll Never Be Another You as a samba worked well and a real highlight of the evening came in the form of My One and Only Love. 

Next month (Monday 11 July) normal service will (hopefully!) be resumed. 7:30pm start, £5.00. admission, free to jam session (9:00pm start) sitters-in (bring your horn!). Russell