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| (© Pam) |
In common with many jazz clubs, Blaydon Jazz Club has experienced declining numbers, particularly in these post-pandemic times. However, this evening's concert had all the makings of an 'I was there' occasion.
The star attraction here at the Black Bull was none other than tenor saxophonist Lewis Watson and by the eight o'clock down beat it was standing room only, literally standing room only.
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| (© Pam) |
John Coltrane is long gone. Sonny Rollins is still with us, although now in retirement, Lewis Watson is very much still with us. That's the lineage...Trane, Rollins, Watson.
Opening with Yes or No, Watson laid down a marker, an exceptionally high standard, a standard matched by our tenor saxophonist's bandmates - guitarist Mark Williams, bassist Andy Champion and drummer John Bradford. The applause spoke volumes. Yes, this was going to be something special.
Times Past, Song for Keith (the late Keith Morris), No Light, No Tunnel, Watson's material stood the acid test - audience approval, make that roaring audience approval. The Promise (full on Coltrane), Autumn Song (George Adams), it takes something to keep up with our tenor saxophonist. Thankfully, Williams, Champion and Bradford had it, that 'something', in spades.
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| (© Roly) |
In these post-pandemic times we have seen and heard a reinvigorated Watson, it's as though he's determined to make up for lost time. Our tenor saxophonist's magnificent take on Coltrane's Liberia encapsulated what had been a memorable evening. It's very likely Lewis Watson will be out gigging again, as and when he is, don't pass up the opportunity, it's a life-affirming experience. Russell
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