Ian Bosworth (guitar); Richie Emmerson (tenor sax); Dave Archbold (keys); Ron Smith (bass); Mark Hawkins (drums).
Led by Ian Bosworth, Just Friends, a group of well known and respected local jazz musicians, have now been playing together for a number of years. As expected by the audience a night of interesting and entertaining jazz was forthcoming.
Starting the first set with the aptly titled Just Friends, a lively number showing how tight an ensemble they were, with excellent sax intro and solo from Richie followed by Ian and Dave coupled with great bass and drums backing from Ron and Mark respectively setting the style for the night.
The popular Stanley Turrentine number Sugar again showed how well they all played together and included a nice bass solo from Ron.
A change in style then followed by featuring Richie on God Bless the Child giving him the chance to play beautiful and moving tenor sax.
Ian was featured on the George Benson arrangement of Affirmation, with solid support from the band for a well-honed version.
Oliver Nelson's Stolen Moments, based on a minor blues sequence, produced some inventive improvised solos before the set closed with Sonny Rollins' St Thomas. Mark made his presence felt on this one.
The second set opened with Bobby Timmons' Moanin' which included impressive sax intro/outro moments and excellent keyboard work from Dave. A swinging take on Herbie Hancock's Cantaloupe Island was followed by Buddy Johnson's Since I Fell For You featuring Ian's fine guitar work and moving sax and keys on this beautiful ballad.
Bringing the night to a close the jazz fusion number from the pad of the Crusaders Put It Where You Want It was a great choice. Driven on by drums and bass, with excellent solos all round it showed the band at its best.
Another successful guest band night pleasing both audience and band members. The usual thanks go to the staff of Dorman's Club for their help and support. Ron Hampton
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