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| (© B. Ebbatson) |
Zoë Gilby (vocals); Mark Williams (guitar); Andy Champion (double bass); John Bradford (drums)
The first lunchtime jazz concert of the year attracted a full house. The Gala's studio space has hosted many performances featuring Zoë Gilby and this afternoon's concert sold out some time ago. The concert programme listed nine selections: four standards, three re-titled Tom Harrell numbers with lyrics by Zoë, and a brace of Zoë Gilby-Andy Champion compositions. The quartet - Mark Williams, guitar, Andy Champion, bass, and drummer John Bradford - opened with Travelin' Blues.
From the opening Brubeck number to Zoë's Your Dear Heart, My Dear Heart (Tom Harrell reworked with lyrics) to Zoë and Andy's Your Words. The co-written chart, like much of the material, is, perhaps, heard to best effect in quartet format with Mark, Andy and John the most empathetic of musicians. Monk's Rhythm-a-ning never fails, likewise Zoë and Andy's The Midnight Bell (the number could/should be considered a modern standard). The unassuming John Bradford was momentarily let off the leash bringing in Caravan, Mark standing by to reel off yet another flawless solo. To close the set, Zoë's introduction set up Some Cats Know. It's a swinger in more ways than one!
Catch the Zoë Gilby Quartet up the road in Newcastle at the Lit and Phil on Friday April 21 (seat reservations on 0191 232 0192). And next month here at the Gala (February 24) it's Jo Harrop and Paul Edis. The concert is a sell out, however, call the box office on 03000 266 600 to enquire about returns and/or to add your name to the waiting list. Russell
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