Zach Sewell Quintet @ Queen's Hall, Hexham - Sept. 27

Zach Sewell (alto sax); Lara Hopper (trumpet); Tom Shooter (keyboards); Jesse Penny (double bass); Finlay Mackenzie (drums)

September's Sunday Jazz concert at Queen's Hall, Hexham afforded an opportunity to check out some of Trinity Laban's many talented undergraduates. One of bandleader Zach Sewell's bandmates we knew, trumpeter Lara Hopper. The others, Sewell included, were an unknown quantity. 

Two sets would showcase Sewell's original compositions. An adherent of the 'cool school' rather than a firebrand soloist, alto saxophonist Sewell unveiled a series of lyrical numbers. Bandmates Hopper, depping pianist Tom Shooter, bassist Jesse Penny and drummer Finlay Mackenzie interpreted Sewell's charts with the utmost sensitivity. 

Tynesider Lara Hopper's intro to Walking on Clouds reminded us of her measured, rounded tone. Assured, that's for sure. Band Anthem, if that was the title, closed the first set, drummer Mackenzie taking it out.

Sanctuary, Sewell's agility in evidence, an element of swing too, bassist Jesse Penny (consistently) impressive. Sewell introduced Dreamer as a feature for Lara Hopper. And a feature it was! Marvellous, focussed trumpet playing. To bring to a close this afternoon's concert, Sewell and co went out on a blues of sorts, all five musicians pitching in. Russell  

                      

Set list: Icarus; Walking on Clouds; Lament; Band Anthem ?; Sanctuary; Dreamer; Requiem; Dollars.