Michael Bede Dunlop (double bass); Albert Hills Wright (alto saxophone); Finn Carter (piano); Dillon Harrison (drums)
Another full house at Millennium Place greeted the return of London-exiled bassist and composer Michael Bede Dunlop. The Bede Quartet is on a short tour of the region and Durham's Gala Theatre, but a stone's throw from Durham Cathedral, was on the itinerary. Three familiar names and faces - Dunlop, Albert Hills Wright, alto sax, and Finn Carter, piano - were joined by a new name to the Durham audience, drummer Dillon Harrison.
Bede, the Bede Quartet's debut album, was recorded almost two years ago in Thropton, Northumberland, and tracks from it would feature prominently during the one hour hour set. Most of the material performed here in the Gala's studio space was composed by bandleader Dunlop, and the quartet opened with MBD's arrangement of Derwentwater's Farewell, hence 'trad. arr. Michael Bede Dunlop'.
Dunlop's music favours a collaborative approach, largely eschewing the head-solo-head format often heard at jazz gigs up and down the land. A Northumbrian folk element is evident in Dunlop's writing and it made for a pleasant change, perhaps challenging the expectations of some. Eye contact, a nod, a smile, the four musicians on stage knew exactly what they were about. Highlights were many, not least MDB's Bog.
The Gala's monthly (Friday lunchtime) concerts frequently sell out in advance. Don't miss out, book online (www.galadurham.co.uk), by phone (03000 266 600) or in person at the box office. April's concert (Friday 24th) features the brilliant Noel Dennis Trio. Top tip...already it's not far short of being a full house. Grab your ticket(s) now! Russell
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