Michael Young (piano); Paul Grainger (double bass); Tim Johnston (drums)
The Engine Room adjoining Sunderland's Fire Station once again hosted the Michael Young Trio. The former fire station on High Street West - minus its fire tenders! - is the ideal setting for pianist Michael Young. A piano on the premises is a bonus (cafes, pubs and restaurants take note!) and the amiable Young made best use of it, ably assisted by bassist Paul Grainger and short notice depping drummer Tim Johnston.
The trio's set list included numbers by the likes of Freddie Hubbard (Little Sunflower), Abdullah Ibrahim (Soweto and Blues for a Hip King) and George Harrison (Here Comes the Sun). Fluent, swinging, at times bluesy, pianist Young turned his hand to a wide variety of tunes: a bossa, a waltz, a funky Ticket to Ride, a swinging Night and Day, Lullabies (an original composition), varying the mood, something for everyone.
Bassist Paul Grainger is, seemingly, gigging more than ever and is as dependable as ever. Tim Johnston pops up here and there, this Engine Room gig a first for the Tyneside based drummer. Getting a feel for the room, Johnston chose to use sticks for much of the session. I Wish I Knew How it Would Feel to be Free closed the show in style. The Michael Young Trio at the Engine Room is an occasional Monday evening engagement. Stay tuned to BSH for details of the next one. Russell
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