Paul Edis (piano); Jo Harrop (vocals); Matt Anderson (tenor/soprano sax); Faye Thompson (alto sax, clarinet); Megan Robinson (flute, piccolo); Graham Hardy (trumpet, flugel); Jason Holcomb (trombone); Emma Fisk (violin); Michael Dunlop (bass); Matt MacKellar (drums)
The one thing that you can depend upon at Christmas is that you will, overnight, find yourself with lots of socks, toiletries and, if you're really unlucky, a jumper that you will wear once (if that!) However, on the positive side, you will also get the opportunity to enjoy Paul Edis' Jazzy Christmas featuring a line-up of top musicians both local and national. And, on top of that, the incredible voice of Jo Harrop.
(© Jerry)
Our girl was at the top of her game. She sounded even better than she looked and, take it from me, she looked fabulous! -Where were those ace snappers when you needed them? Perhaps the signs banning photography had something to do with it.*
The material was, naturally, seasonal and beautifully arranged by Paul with space for all of the soloists spread across the two sets. For me, the one number that stood tall above the rest was Paul and Jo's duo version of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas. This was magical and inspired much hand-holding among the audience.
Not far behind was What Are You Doing New Year's Eve? But, every number was a Christmas cracker with the band also at the top of their game.
Earlier, Jambone, the band that had begun life under Paul's direction back in the day when the venue was called the Sage, opened the show with a half hour set fronted by Jason Holcomb who also played trombone in the main event although, to the adoring parents in the audience this was the main event!
It was an impressive performance y the youngsters many of whom I'm sure will, in a year or two, become names in their own right.
I won't single out individuals as they all had their moments. Simply great. Lance
*The above photo of Jo Harrop was actually taken at St. Cuthbert's Centre in Crook at the previous evening's gig. Used here with the photographer's permission.
1 comment :
It's worth pointing out, in light of your comments about Jambone, that no fewer than three of the present Jazzy Christamas ensemble are Jambone "graduates" - Megan Robinson, Faye Thompson and Michael Dunlop. Their professionalism is testament to the inestimable value of giving young musicians the chance to perform: congrats to Jason Holcomb with Jambone and, having just read Russell's review, to Graham Hardy with Jazz Attack for continuing to provide those opportunities to another generation.
Post a Comment