Jambone: Jason Holcomb (director) + 18 piece ensemble
It's MOBO time here on Tyneside. The 2025 Music of Black Origin awards are a big deal in the music world. This year, Newcastle Arena, Gateshead's Glasshouse and sundry other satellite venues either side of the Tyne are on board. The Glasshouse, Gateshead, Sunday lunchtime, noon. The concourse a hive of activity, an event was about to begin. Its full title...MOBO Song: Jambone, Jazz Attack, Quay Voices, Step Up Singing, Newcastle Youth Choir Project (NYCP).
BSH was in attendance, primarily to listen to Jambone and Jazz Attack. It transpired the latter, James Birkett's junior ensemble, Jazz Attack, wouldn't be appearing. Oh, well. Over the course of three quarters of an hour or so, junior vocal ensembles and Jambone entertained a sizeable audience. Quay Voices, Step Up Singing and Newcastle Choir Project impressed the seated and the standing.
Jason Holcomb has been working wonders with Jambone. In recent times, ensemble numbers had dwindled, calling into question the viability of the region's youth jazz orchestra. Somehow or other, Holcomb has revitalised the outfit, pulling together something like a full size big band. A showcase performance of little more than ten minutes comprised two numbers - Cissy Strut and Victor Lopez's A Night in Havana. Solo spots were spread across the band, Holcomb directing, cajoling, the ensemble sounding just fine.
The 2024-25 edition of Jambone suggests things are on the up. Keep an ear open - and an eye on BSH - for forthcoming performances. Russell
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