Noel Dennis Quartet @ Bishop Auckland Methodist Church - Feb. 13

Noel Dennis (trumpet, flugelhorn); Dean Stockdale (piano); Mick Shoulder (double bass); Tim Johnston (drums)

Bishop Auckland Jazz is on the up. This afternoon's concert drew a record attendance and little wonder with trumpeter Noel Dennis the main attraction. Working alongside Dean Stockdale (piano), Mick Shoulder (bass) and drummer Tim Johnston, the quartet opened with The Good Life. 

A longtime admirer of fellow trumpeter Tom Harrell, it wasn't surprising Teesside's trumpet ace, switching to flugelhorn, chose to revisit Moon Alley. Warm-toned, measured, it's a staple in Dennis' set. Military medium swing brought in Nostalgia in Times Square. Foot-stomping Mingus! 

This being the eve of Valentine's Day, Dennis thought it apposite to play a couple of numbers supposedly associated with the occasion. My Funny Valentine (Dennis on flugelhorn) passed muster, Love for Sale, in terms of sentiment, didn't, the latter's lyrics addressing a wholly different subject! Moving swiftly on...

All Blues, as suggested by a loyal Bishop Auckland Jazz supporter, worked well - Dean Stockdale inventive, Mick Shoulder quietly effective, likewise Tim Johnston.The hour was almost up. The Noel Dennis Quartet went out on a sparkling Au Privave. 

The next Bishop Auckland Jazz concert is a last minute 'special'. On Friday 27 February, the great Alan Barnes will be in town. One o'clock start, a tenner on the door (card or cash). The bookies aren't taking any more bets, they reckon it'll be another record attendance. Russell

Set list: The Good Life; Moon Alley; Nostalgia in Times Square; My Funny Valentine; Love for Sale; All Blues; Au Privave.