Clark Tracey (drums); Art Themen (tenor sax); Tom Marsh (bass); Gareth Williams (piano)
Clark Tracey's father, the late composer, arranger, pianist and bandleader Stan Tracey, played the original Newcastle Jazz Festival circa eleven times during its 25 year existence. More than any other UK jazz act.
These appearances ranged from solo piano to big band and various combinations in between. One of his favourite formats was that of the quartet and it made sense that his son, Clark, should pay tribute to his dad's music with a quartet. As Art Themen had played in the original Stan Tracey Quartet, the family tradition was maintained.
Or was it?
There was a certain blasé feel about the first set. Don't get me wrong, it was impeccably played but I felt there was something missing. Perhaps it was the heat but it wasn't until Pen Pals from Stan's most famous suite, Under Milk Wood, that I felt the old ennui was being shaken off and the set closer Triple Celebration confirmed it.
The second set was right on the money. Even the gloomy Starless and Bible Black held my attention with an iron fist. Rainbow at the Five Mile Road and A Funky Day in Tiger Bay helped to make the experience an enjoyable one. Lance
Other numbers: Euphony; Baby Blue; Sweet Like it Used to be; Afro Charlie Meets the White Rabbit.
Photos to follow.
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