Steve McGarvie (clarinet); Mick Shoulder (guitar); Dave Smith (rhythm guitar); Paul Grainger (string bass)
1719 is a renovated Georgian church in Hendon (Old Sunderland), '1719' refers to the date the building opened. In the late 20th century the place closed, in danger of falling into disrepair. Fast forward to 2024, thanks to significant investment the place is now a flourishing community events space. Last month's inaugural jazz session featuring the Giles Strong Quartet drew a crowd, this evening, Mick Shoulder's Swing Manouche attracted as many and more. Sunderland's Old Black Cat Jazz Club is well and truly up and running. Jazz in the heart of 'Old Sunderland', who'd have thought it?
Mick Shoulder's Swing Manouche is all about Django Reinhardt. If Django played it, there is every chance you'll hear it at a Swing Manouche gig. Opening with Bei Mir Bist du Schon, Djangologist Mick, guitar, led fellow Djangologist, the excellent Dave Smith, rhythm guitar, stalwart string bassist Paul Grainger and, wielding his licorice stick, Steve McGarvie. Django favourites peppered the set list - Douce Ambiance, Dinette (is there anything finer?), Danse Norvegienne and more.
Steve McGarvie was on his second gig with the band and he sure is getting to grips with the charts. Mick, Dave and Paul know the material inside out, credit to Steve for making a great job of it. The audience listened intently (one or two veteran Djangologists among their number). Minor Swing was in there, likewise All of Me and, of course, Nuages. The Old Black Cat Jazz Club has a good feel about it - a welcoming air, professional presentation allied to a relaxed cabaret table layout. And not forgetting bottles of Double Maxim, after all this is a jazz venue Wearside-style! Troublant Bolero (Dave Smith's immaculate rhythm work), Anniversary Song, a cracking gig ending on Dark Eyes. Très Bien!
April's Old Black Cat Jazz Club concert features Lindsay Hannon's excellent 'Tom Waits for No Man' set. Russell
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