Bernie Ranson (saxes, vocals); Alan Law (keys); Harry Husaini (bass, ukulele); Alan Wann (drums).
Since the spring when the new lessee took over at the Exchange, local people have watched with interest wondering what changes will be made. There is a revamped patio area, some new furniture, a lick of paint and refurbished toilets but fortunately no change to the jazz programme. 4B continue to do their thing on Wednesday evening and Sunday afternoon; blues, bossas and cool jazz with a little humour thrown in for good measure.
Tonight Alan Law was sitting in on keyboard for Barbara Wilcox so there were less vocal arrangements but Bernie sang several numbers including his own witty lyrics to Polka Dots and Moonbeams. 4B’s repertoire is certainly eclectic as they segued from that little bit of nonsense into Lester Young’s Blue Lester and a blistering sax solo.
Alan Law brought his own kind of magic to the proceedings, little wonder that he appears in several local ensembles, and his inventive solos delighted both audience and fellow band members, while Harry and Alan acquitted themselves with their usual quiet aplomb.
Let’s hope the new regime at the Exchange continues to support live Jazz. If there is a better place to spend a Wednesday evening in North Shields I’ve yet to find it.
Unfortunately I had to leave before the end but not before I enjoyed: Beatrice; Footprints; Polka Dots and Moonbeams; Bye Bye Blackbird; I’m Old Fashioned; Blue Lester; The Theme From Black Orpheus; I’m Just Fooling Myself; Alone Together; Misty; Black Coffee. Sylvia T
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