Rico Tomasso (cornet, vocals); Andy Schumm (clarinet) ; Natalie Sharf (tenor sax); Charlie Halloran (trombone); Ulf Johansson Werre (piano, vocals); Félix Hunot (guitar, banjo); Henry Lemaire (double bass); Richard Pite (drums); Nicolle Rochelle (vocals)
The 2024 Classic Jazz Party - formally Mike Durham's International Classic Jazz Party - sold out several months ago. This evening at the Village Hotel, North Tyneside, the annual Welcome Concert got things underway at ten o'clock. The Village Pub and Grill was standing room only as Rico Tomasso led the charge.
Ring Dem Bells rang out across the room, solos cheered to the rafters. Tomasso (cornet and vocals), representing the home contingent along with drummer Richard Pite, three newbies would feature throughout the set.
Tea for Two introduced pianist Ulf Johansson Werre to the CJP audience. Taking on Art Tatum requires confidence and an abundance of technique. Werre possesses both - in abundance!
Our American debutants, trombonist Charlie Halloran (New Orleans) and tenor saxophonist Natalie Sharf (Chicago) made a big impression, instantly acquiring a whole host of new fans.
Star vocalist Nicolle Rochelle (Eurostar, Paris to St Pancras, King's Cross to NCL) wowed the packed room with a fabulous take on What is This Thing Called Love? And then there was rhythm section - wow! Frenchmen Félix Hunot et Henry Lemaire swung non-stop, none better, aided and abetted by Londoner, Monsieur R. Pite.
To close the opening session of CJP 2024 (three full days and nights were ahead of us) Tomasso and co went out on a blistering Farewell Blues. Russell
No comments :
Post a Comment