BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES (a seven piece band) is one of our favourites, will be back at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB tonight, Friday, 9th September 2016.  Trombone player BOB, will have with him young ALLEN BEECHEY on trumpet, and special guest PETE CURTIS will be on reeds, HUGH CROZIER on piano &vocals, JOHN BAYNE on double bass &bass sax, DAVE PRICE on banjo &guitar and GRAHAM CAULICOTTE on drums.  That line-up should be super, so get your glad-rags on and come on down to happy Farnborough.  See you all tonight.

Diane and Keith

It was lovely to have BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES (a seven-piece band) back at our FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB.   They were here on  Friday, 8th July 2016.  Leader & trombonist BOB, had booked BERNIE HOLDEN on clarinet & alto sax, HUGH CROZIER on piano & vocals, JOHN BAYNE on double bass & bass sax and DAVE PRICE on banjo & guitar.  He also had a couple of guests joining them, namely CHEZ CHESTERMAN on trumpet and GRAHAM CAULICOTTE on drums.  Unfortunately, I had a back problem and so Keith had to go without me to sort out the club … no red table cloths, no refreshments for the band – well that’s not true, they helped themselves and Keith had to kiss everybody (ha – not really).  I eventually scrambled myself down to the club, I think about 9.00pm.  However, I hadn’t brought anything with me to write my notes, so I can’t tell you what tunes they played.  Although, I can say (after a couple of drinks) I did manage to dance a little (even if rather stiffly), that’s the power of their playing.  Oh, I must tell you of the youngster who was bought along by John (I think) and who had a few sit-ins with the band.  His name is MIKE PRESTAGE and he played a ‘mean’ trumpet.  I think he will, or should have a brilliant musical career ahead of him (if he wants).  I am sorry we have no photos again (still no Mike) and although I took some with my old mobile, I have been unable to transfer them to my laptop.  Hopefully, I can get it to work at a later date.  Anyway, Good ol’ favourite’s, ’Barry Palser’s Super Six’ are back this Friday (15th July), so see you all then.

Your ‘Live’ Jazz Hosts,

Diane & Keith (yes we are alive too – ha)

BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES were back here at our FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on Friday, 18th March 2016.  Leader and trombonist BOB DWYER, chose to have join him, BERNIE HOLDEN on clarinet & alto sax, HUGH CROZIER on piano & vocals, JOHN BAYNE on double bass & bass sax and DAVE PRICE on banjo & guitar, TONY O’SULLIVAN was on trumpet and CHRIS WELCH was on drums.  Both Tony and Chris had played at the club before (Tony some ten years back with the Delta Jazz Band).

Bob Dwyer’s Bix &Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club. (LtoR) Dave Price (banj), Hugh Crozier (pno), Bob Dwyer (trb), Chris Welch (drms), Tony O’Sullivan (trp), John Bayne (dbass) & Bernie Holden (rds). Photo by Mike Witt.

Here are a few notes about the music.  My first mention is of ‘Barefoot Boy’.  It was sung by Bob and had a wonderful easy-going tempo for everyone to dance to and, I’m sure, to play too, because they all gave some lovely solos.

Hugh Crozier (piano) and Dave Price (banjo) with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club 18mar2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Bob Dwyer on trombone, Tony O’Sullivan on trumpet and Bernie Holden on alto sax front line of Bob Dwyer’s Bix &Pieces playing at Farnborough Jazz Club on 18mar2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Hugh played a beautiful intro and then sang the next one, ‘2:19 Blues’ (also known as ‘Mamie’s Blues’).  Hugh very rarely chooses the same number, but I understand this is a favourite of his.  [He also tells me that although it is credited to Jelly Roll Morton, Jelly Roll himself is said to have told it was composed by Mamie Desdumes, who was a prostitute friend of his godmother – ahem].  Onwards … ‘Fidgety Feet’ was the number we chose for our line-dance – wow, we are gluttons for punishment, well it is a great number – but fast aye – there were some fabulous solos played by everyone.  Hugh sang the next, ‘Thou Swell’, again some brilliant playing by everyone, with John on bass sax and Bernie on alto sax.  ‘June Night’ was then sung by Bob.  A number I certainly remember from the 50’s (obviously from Tommy Dorsey’s recording), but I don’t recall this one having been played at the club before.  It is certainly a lovely number.

Bernie Holden (alto sax), Chris Welch (drms) and John Bayne (d.bass-with bass sax at side) play in Bob Dwyer’s Bix &Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 18th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

We had some new people, who hadn’t heard John play his special, so again I requested him play ‘Elephant Stomp’.  I‘m sure no-one finds it boring, just about everyone loves it.  I always hear people say they are amazed how John can have the lungs to cope – he’s not much more than 5’ 5’ and not 18 anymore either!  You are brilliant John.  Next came ‘Royal Garden Blues’ (a Fox Trot), quite a favourite with traditional jazz lovers, as is the following number and oh, another lovely singer too! Tony that is.  He sang ‘Tishomingo Blues’.  Bob again sang ‘Nice To Know You Care’ for Keith and me and it had the dance floor full – romantic yes?  Tony and Chris played marvellously too, wonderful considering they hadn’t played it before.  Their finishing number was ‘Panama Rag’ (Bernie on alto) what a number to go out on – such an exciting one.  Again thanks for a lovely evening.

Bernie Holden plays alto sax with Bob Dwyer’s Bix &Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 18th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Tony Tony O’Sullivan plays trumpet with Bob Dwyer (just hidden) and Bernie Holden with Bob Dwyer’s Bix &Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club 18th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Your hosts, Diane and Keith

N.B.  Chris is a music journalist, reviewer and critic with Melody Maker, plus he and Geoff Nichols co-wrote the book entitled ‘John Bonham: A Thunder of Drums’, available from Amazon’s Book Store – ISBN: 0073999308563,

‘Barefoot Boy’ – The Harlem Hamfat n (1938)

‘2:19 Blues’ (also known as ‘Mamie’s Blues) – (composer(s) &year unknown (pre 1902) (l) Jelly Roll Morton (1937)

‘Elephant Stomp’ – Al Ferreri & Yannick Singery (circa 1953)

‘Fidgety Feet’ – Nick LaRocca & Larry Shields (1918)

 ‘June Night’ – (m) Abel Baer, (l) Cliff Friend (1924)

‘Nice To Know You Care’ – (m) Leslie Baguley, (l) Norman Newell (1947)

‘Panama Rag’- Cy Seymour (1904). This version William H. Tyer (1911)

‘Royal Garden Blues’ Clarence Williams & Spencer Williams (1919) (no relation)

‘Thou Swell’ – (m) Richard Rogers, (l) Lorenz Hart (1927)

“Here we are at the FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB again, at the end of the first month of 2016 already!  Friday, 29th January 2016 to be precise.  Weather holding its own thank goodness (apart from a couple of days of bitterly cold raw ones last week)”.  That was how I advertised we were to have BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES back.  It was good to hear MAX EMMONS was well again and on trumpet & harmonica (even though Andy Woon was super – thanks to him for filling in during previous gigs).    BERNIE HOLDEN was on clarinet & alto sax, with JOHN BAYNE on double bass & bass sax, HUGH CROZIER on piano & vocals, DAVE PRICE on banjo & guitar and GRAHAM COLLICOTE was be back again on drums (likewise thanks to John Elmer for his filling in, prior).   Of course we had BOB DWYER on trombone.  This band is one of our club’s favourite.  Bob always does his best to please us and our crowd and here are some of the tunes they chose to perform.

Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 29th January 2016. (LtoR) Dave Price (bnj), (hidden-Graham Collicote drms), Bob Dwyer (trb),    Max Emmons (trp), Bernie Holden (sax).( hidden-John Bayne dbass) &        Hugh Crozier (pno). Photo by Mike Witt.

Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 29th January 2016. (LtoR) Graham Collicote (drms), Bob Dwyer (trb), Max Emmons (trp), Bernie Holden (sax) & Hugh Crozier (pno). hidden Dave Price (bnj) & John Bayne (dbass). Photo by Mike Witt.

Bernie Holden on sax and John Bayne on double bass with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 29th January 2016. Photo by Mike Witt

Dave Price on banjo and Graham Collicote on drums     with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club  on 29th January 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Let’s see, well Bernie played clarinet with ‘Buddy’s Habits’, (I jotted down ‘Dave on banjo and John on double bass’ – must have been great).  Next to mention is Max, who sang ‘Shimmy Like My Sister Kate’ and everyone excelling.  Then a lovely tango with a great solo from Dave on banjo and the song – ‘Isle of Capri’.

Hugh Crozier (piano) with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough JC 29th January 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Hugh featured next with some boogie woogie.  He is a brilliant pianist, who comes up with different numbers every time and this time, it was a ‘Pine Top’ Smith number, ‘Jump Steady Blues’.  He is so talented.  Now Keith doesn’t dance as much as he did years ago, but I can usually get him up with this song, ‘Change Partners and Dance With Me’, it is so lovely (just thought, perhaps it’s because he wants to change his partner, ha.  No – never!).

John Bayne on bass sax (I call it ‘big Bertha’) with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 29th January 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Moving on, once again, I just had to ask John to play ‘Elephant Stomp’. We had some new people in the audience and he is absolutely brilliant playing ‘big bertha’ (my name for bass sax) and as usual, he received huge applause, of course.

Max Emmons plays trumpet & harmonica with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 29th January 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Graham Collicotte plays drums with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 29th January 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

‘Folsam Prison Blues (I Hear The Train a Comin)’ has to have a mention, with Max on harmonica and singing (plus Graham on drums).  Everybody just loves this, he is brilliant and puts so much effort into it – wowie – fantastic.  Then to follow on with a ‘gentle one’ and allow everyone to catch their breathe, is a must!

Bob Dwyer with his Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 29th January 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.29Jan2016 2148

But then, Bob is so thoughtful and always plays (and sings romantically) our dear friend, Lesley Baguley’s number, ‘Nice to Know You Care’.  It is a very romantic one to dance to, so plenty of takers on the dance floor.  My last number to mention (although not their last) is ‘Puttin’ on the Ritz’ – yes, our line-dance and sung brilliantly by Hugh.  I daren’t mention any more.  But all this surely will tempt you to come and enjoy yourselves here on a Friday.

Diane and Keith (your hosts)

‘Buddy’s Habits’ – Arnet Nelson & Charles T Straight (1923)

‘Change Partners and Dance with Me’ – Irving Berlin (1938)

‘Elephant Stomp’ – Al Ferreri & Yannick Singery (circa 1953)

‘Folsam Prison Blues (I Hear The Train a Comin)’ – Johnny Cash (1955)

‘Isle of Capri’ – (m) Wilhelm Grosz (aka Hugh Williams), (l) by Jimmy Kennedy (1934)

‘Jump Steady Blues’ – Clarence ‘Pine Top’ Smith, (1929)

‘Nice To Know You Care’ – (m) Leslie Baguley, (l) Norman Newell (1947)

‘Puttin On the Ritz’ – Irving Berlin (1929)

‘Shimmy Like my Sister Kate’ – (composers?) © Clarence Williams & Armand Piron (1915)

‘BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES’ 7pce band gave us a fabulous Christmas party at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on Friday, 18^th December 2015.  It was our last celebration of the year and beforehand, I mentioned we would have a special surprise guest star for you, a rare occasion, whom I said was not to be missed. Well, that surprise was Santa Claus himself.  He was lovely too.  Well, he wasn’t tired, because he had a whole week before his busy time, bless him.  Thank you Santa, for stopping by.

Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club’s Xmas Party,18th December 2015.  Photo by Mike Witt (glad to have you back).

Band leader, BOB (trombonist & vocalist) was to be joined by MAX EMMONS, but Max was still unwell (hope you get well soon, Max).

Andy Woon, trumpet & Bob (trombone) in Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club’s Xmas Party 18th December 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

However, Bob managed to get us another treat, namely ANDY WOON on trumpet.  Take a moment to listen and read about him (see contacts below).  BERNIE HOLDEN was on clarinet & alto sax, with JOHN BAYNE on double bass & bass sax, HUGH CROZIER on piano & vocals, DAVE PRICE on banjo & guitar and JOHN ELLMER on drums, all brilliant, as usual.

Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough JC’s Xmas Party 18th December 2015.  LtoR  Andy Woon (trumpet), Bernie Holden (sax), John Ellmer (drums) & John Bayne (d.bass). Photo by Mike Witt.

Hugh Crozier (piano) with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club’s Xmas Party 18th December 2015. Photo by Mike Witt

John Bayne, bass sax Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club’s Xmas Party 18th December 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Dave Price (banjo&guitar) with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club’s Xmas Party,18th December 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

We certainly did have lots of fun, letting our hair down, and yes, smiles and laughter coming out of the rafters, I said before hand, it was to be the order of the day, although no one needed to be forced.  We enjoyed a couple of line-dances, plus a brolly parade (thanks to Steve).  Of course I had told everyone to bring their own food and candelabras and that gave me a chance to enjoy the evening too.  I was too busy dancing, I’m afraid I made no notes of what was played, or any little tit bits of what the band got up to, which makes for good reading.  However, I must mention (for my own memory) is what Keith got up to!  Having had two falls recently (October, to be precise – we both had two falls, for that matter), he had been unable to dance and hadn’t done for a long, long time.  So when they played ‘Change Partners and Dance with Me’, I was shocked to the core, when he asked for a dance.  Not only that, but he danced ‘Fred Astaire fashion’.  I felt sure he was going to do something funny and I would end up on the floor in a heap, but no!  He has been watching too much ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.  What a night for me to remember.  He certainly is an entertainer.  (he’s just said “thanks for telling me, I cant remember it”!  Before I wrap this up, I must thank everyone in the band for doing such a brilliant job and especially a big ‘thank you’ to Andy Woon for giving his all, at a venue he has never played at – we hope you come again.   Now to all our wonderful audience, most of whom are huge regulars, a great big ‘thank you’ from Keith and me for your support throughout.  Plus finally, a special thanks to Ian (President of Sports Club), who does so much for us – unlocking and locking up for us and well as bar  (thanks for Xmas decorations too).  Also bar staff Val, Cathy, Barb and Harry for serving with smiles.

Hope you all had a lovely Christmas everyone.  See you next year.  We shall re-start on 8^th January 2016 with the Golden Eagle Jazz Band

From Your hosts, Diane & Keith

‘Change Partners and Dance with Me’ – (m&l) Irving Berlin (1937)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sY2DArt-9uw

www.leagraham.com/entertainment/jazz-bands/andy–woon

On Friday, 27^th November 2015, we had ‘BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES’ at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent.  Unfortunately our lovely trumpeter, MAX EMMONS was taken ill and had to pull out at the last minute (that afternoon).  However, BOB (trombonist & vocalist) managed to find a replacement and wowie, what a replacement.  We had such a treat, it was the highly popular trumpeter, ENRICO TOMASSO.  The rest of the line-up were BERNIE HOLDEN on clarinet & alto sax, JOHN BAYNE on double bass & bass sax, HUGH CROZIER on piano & vocals, DAVE PRICE on banjo & guitar and GRAHAM COLLICOTT on drums.  Here are my notes about tunes played.

Enrico Tomasso (7years old) seen here playing for Louis Armstrong.

I start off with Louis Armstrong’s ‘Apex Blues’.  Louis is Enrico’s idol and when aged just seven, he played for Louis himself.  So as you can imagine, Enrico played some great trumpet.  Their next number was ‘Dinah’ and was sung by Enrico in a good jazz style.  Then Bob gave his usual singing performance, showing such feeling, to ‘No Regrets’.  Next came Hugh, who was, as usual, great playing piano and sang ‘Little Coquette’ – another great voice.  He comes up with fabulous tunes to surprises us and I don’t think he has sung this one here before.  It took a bit of searching for the writers cos I got the name of the song wrong! (However, I ferreted it out, Hugh – ha).  The next one was a favourite of Keith’s, namely ‘Cornet Chop Suey’.  Yes, written by Louis – fab-u-lous.   Then came ‘West End Blues’ and as you can imagine, Enrico played that super intro’ and with everyone joining it, it almost brought tears to your eyes.  Enrico also sang scat vocals – to Bernie, whilst he played his clarinet solo – another bit of fun.  They completed the evening with ‘Dippermouth Blues’ and is the number you get to hear solos from everyone, so let me tell you about the ‘engine’.  First of all, Dave, playing guitar, well it was his first appearance at the club too.  He was wonderful (he teaches guitar), who fitted in superbly and helped drive it all along, also with Graham (his first time with this band), such a great solid swinging drummer and what about lovely John, who played double bass fantastically – so powerful.  This is the number where the audience get to shout out ‘Oh Play That Thing’. Bless him, Bob tried to lead us all in with shouting it, which actually put us off – we do always know when and where to yell it, Bob.  No prompting is needed, trust me, a great audience participation we all pride ourselves with -ha.  Well done Bob, what another super evening.  Just one pointer, yes, we performed our ‘Charleston’ style line-dance – twice, but with two songs not mentioned. I haven’t given too many tunes out this time, as they are back in a couple of weeks on 18^th December 2015, for our Christmas party.  Please try to pre-book, thank you.

Diane and Keith

P.S. I emailed to Bob to ask if he had mentioned Enrico appearing on TV with PRO and he responded:  Yes!  A few weeks ago, browsing through numerous TV channels I discovered a documentary entitled “The Pasadena Roof Orchestra 40th year celebration” and good it was too.

Rico was one of the featured guest musicians. (He had been member at one time) He played “Sleepy time down south” Louis would have been proud of him.

P.P.S.  I have published 7th August 2015 Newsletter about ‘Harry Strutter’s Hot Seven’ evening, (complete with photos – including one of Graham Collicott) of Keith’s birthday bash.  Sorry to be so behind with newsletters, due to personal (family) reasons, plus computer (Windows 10) aggravations.  I shall work on bringing all up-to-date in due course.  Don’t forget, to view photos in an enlarged and clearer state, just ‘double click’ on them.

‘Apex Blues’ – (conflicting) Hoagy Carmichael, Sidney Arodin & Joe Poston OR Earl Hines & Jimmie Noone (1928)

‘Cornet Chop Suey’ – Louis Armstrong (1926)

‘Dinah’ – (m) Harry Akst, (l) Sam M. Lewis & Joe Young (1923)

‘Dippermouth Blues’ – Joe ‘King’ Oliver & Louis Armstrong (1923)

‘Little Coquette’ – (m) Guy Lombardo & Johnny Green, (l) Gus Kahn (1928)

‘No Regrets’ – (m&l) Harry Tobias & Roy Ingram (1935)

‘West End Blues’ – Joe ’King’ Oliver, (l) Clarence Williams (1928)

‘BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES’, came on Friday, 25th September 2015 to our Farnborough Jazz Club.

Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 25th September 2015. With Bob on trombone, Max Emmons on Trumpet, John Lee on reeds, Hugh Crozier on piano,  John Bayne on d.bass & bass sax and Burt Butler on banjo, Photo by Mike Witt.

Trombonist & vocalist, BOB had MAX EMMONS on trumpet, JOHN LEE on clarinet & tenor sax,  JOHN BAYNE on double bass & bass sax, HUGH CROZIER on piano, BURT BUTLER on banjo and CHRIS MARCHANT on drums. The evening began with a few horrors, including a huge traffic jam on the M25, so the band arrived after an horrendous journey. As one would expect, the first number was a little strained, but they soon got into stride and the whole evening’s music took charge of us and we certainly danced the evening away. I first took note of ‘Sunday’, a lovely happy tune, with a good tempo for dancing and sung by Bob. This was followed by ‘Creole Love Song’, giving more of a slower tempo for a waltz. However, the next tune was ‘Fidgety Feet’, very much ‘up tempo’ to which we performed our line-dance – wowie, another exhausting choice. Then what about ‘South’, another swinging tune – wonderful.

Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club 25Sep2015. Bob (pic) -trombone, Max Emmons (pic) trumpet, John Lee (reeds), Hugh Crozier (pic) piano, John Bayne (d.bass &bass sax), Chris Marchant (pic) drums & guest Burt Butler (banjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

John Lee (tenor sax) and Hugh Crozier (piano) at Farnborough Jazz Club with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces.  25th September 2015.  Photo by Mike Witt.

Hugh also has a super voice ‘Hard Hearted Hannah’ being one of his special songs he enjoys singing and did so with much gusto.  Next came Max, doing his bit’ with ‘Snag It’ and again, another super voice, PLUS adding his performance on harmonica – what a wonderful show.

Burt Butler (banjo) & John Bayne (bass sax) at Farnborough Jazz Club with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces, 25th September 2015.  Photo by Mike Witt.

The next tune was brilliantly implemented by John (B) on ‘Big Bertha’ (Bass Sax). He played solo with the first verse of ‘Blue Skies’. Oh I just love him. Then came ‘My Little Bimbo’. Our guest player Burt sang it and of course he is quite a favourite character and known in these parts with his own band “Burt Butler’s Jazz Pilgrims”.

They continued on with ‘Diggin’ My Potatoes’, Max is just brilliant with this one and I think the rest of the band all joined in with harmonizing. We had another go (oh, just four of us!) at a line-dance to ‘Puttin On the Ritz’, well it is just a perfect tune for our ‘Charleston’ effort to it. Finally, once again, Bob asked them all to play ‘Nice To Know You Care’ for Keith and me, the music being written by our dear late-friend Leslie Baguley (a big hit from the ‘40’s).

Diane and Keith‘

‘Blue Skies’ – Irving Berlin (1926)

‘Creole Love Song’ – dispute between Joe ’King’ Oliver (1923) and Duke Ellington, (l) Billy Strayham (1927)

‘Diggin My Potatoes’ – Huddie Ledbetter (1948)

‘Fidgety Feet’ – Nick LaRocca & Larry Shields (1919)

‘My Little Bimbo Down On The Bamboo Isle’ – (m) Walter Donaldson, (l) Grant Clarke (1920)

‘Nice To Know You Care’ – (m) Leslie Baguley, (l) Norman Newell (1947)

‘Puttin’ On The Ritz’ – Irving Berlin (1929)

‘South’ – Thamon Hayes & Bennie Moten (1924)

‘Hard Hearted Hannah’ – (m&l) Jack Yellen & Milton Ager, Bob Bigelow & Charles Bates (1924)

‘Sunday’ – Ned Miller & Chester Cohn (1926)

‘Snag It’ – Joe’King’ Oliver (1928)

Diane and Keith

P.S. Sorry, I’m still way behind on newsletters, although I have caught up on some – see Tony Pitt’s All Stars, 19^th May 2015 and Barry Palser’s Super Six, 27th February & 19th June 2015, plus Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces, 10 July 2015

N.B.  Today (23rd September 2015) is the first day of the Autumn Equinox.  The South Pole will see a glimpse of daylight for the first time in six months and the North Pole enters six months of dark – hmmm.  Here in Kent, it is a beautiful morning – sunny and hot, with not a cloud in the wonderful blue sky.  I had been swimming early this morning.  Stopped off at Holwood Farm, Shire Lane (near Biggin Hill) for some tea and scones.  I sat outside in the sun and enjoyed a lone Spitfire, with its Black & white striped D-Day markings on its wings, obviously enjoying himself and still around after Monday’s commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain   How I wish I had been up there with him.  However, I feel lucky to be alive on such a glorious day, one to remember.

Xtra…. This was all repeated this morning (25th September). The Spitfires are from Biggin Hill Heritage Hanger – see their website: Fly A Spitfire.co.uk – you can hire a flight with them – think of this if you need an idea to give a very special present to that someone who has everything.  I also found out that Wednesday’s pilot was Don Sigourney and today’s was Richard Verral, who both flew on the D-Day Commemorations.

‘BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES’ was at the Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent (BR6 7BA), On Friday, 10^th July 2015, BOB on trombone & vocals, had MAX EMMONS on trumpet, BERNIE HOLDEN on clarinet & alto sax, JOHN BAYNE on double bass & bass sax, JOHN STUART on banjo & guitar, LAURIE CHESCOE on drums and guest pianist, CHRIS NEWMAN. Remember Chris played last time (1^st May), fares from GOSPORT, Hampshire, where he is on the Committee of the Gosport Jazz Club. It was great to see/hear him again. I advertised that night, by saying its good here, isn’t it – we are always having brilliant Fridays, aren’t we? I wasn’t wrong either. We had a decent turnout and as usual, faces were beaming from ear to ear.

Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough JC, Kent 10Jul2015. Bob (trombone), Max Emmons (trumpet & harmonica), Bernie Holden (clarinet&alto sax), Laurie Chescoe (drums), John Bayne (d.bass& bass sax), John Stuart (banjo & guitar)& pianist Chris Newman. Photo by Mike Witt.

They played one of Keith’s favourite, ‘A Hundred Years From Today’, with Bob singing every bit as good as Jack Teagarden. This was followed on with ‘I Found a New Baby’, with some brilliant sax from Bernie, banjo from John (S) and fabulous bass sax (‘big bertha’) from John (B). Max thrilled us all with his harmonica playing and singing of ‘Diggin’ My Potatoes’ and we performed our line-dance to this – phew, we were all exhausted! I remember Ken Colyer’s band playing the next one – ‘Black Cat On the Fence’, a lovely choice and everyone excelled. Bob sung the next number, ‘Kansas City Kitty’, just fabulous.

Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough JC, Kent ( Bernie , Max, Bob & Laurie) – 10th July 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces’, with Bob (trmb), Max Emmons (trmp), Bernie Holden (clarnt) & Laurie Chescoe (drms), Farnborough JC, Kent 10th July 2015.  Photo by Mike Witt.

John Bayne plays ‘Elephant Stomp’ with Laurie Chescoe (drums) and John Stuart (banjo) in ‘Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces’ at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 10th July 2015.  Photo by Mike Witt.

But then no ‘let down’ with the next one, I put three ticks and ‘yes, yes, yes’ on my notes. Well, the number was ‘Elephant Stomp’. Everyone just loves John playing it, we can never tire hearing him play it either. (see Newsletter 1st May 2015 for our recording of him playing on Youtube, not the best recording as just recorded (17oct2014) on my old mobile !)

This was followed with Max singing ‘Down By the Riverside’. Of course, there was some marvellous harmonising from the audience. Bob always sings Keith and my friend’s song (a big hit from the ‘40’s), ‘Nice To Know You Care’. It is a very romantic song and everyone gets up on the dance floor, even Keith dances with me – ha. I will end this write-up with Max’s great performance to ‘Rebecca, Get Your Big Legs Off of Me’. What a fabulous evening again. You just can’t beat ‘live’ music, especially when you have musicians with the experience and talent of the likes of these guys.

Chris Newman plays at Farnborough JC seen here with John Bayne (b.sax) with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces 10th July2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Laurie Chescoe (drms) and John Stuart (bnj) – ‘Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces’ at Farnborough JC Kent on 10th July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Make a date to come next Friday.

Diane and Keith

‘A Hundred Years from Today’ – (m) Victor Young, (l) Ned Washington & Joe Young (1933)

‘Black Cat On the Fence’ – (l) Frank Sinatra, (m) Charlie Love (circa 1949 – debatable)

‘Kansas City Kitty’ – (m) Walter Donaldson, (l) Edgar Leslie (1929)

‘Diggin My Potatoes’ – Huddie Ledbetter (1948)

‘Down By the Riverside (Study War No More)’ – traditional/Gospel song first published 1918

‘Elephant Stomp’ – Al Ferreri & Yannick Singery (circa 1953)

‘I Found A New Baby’ – Jack Palmer, Spencer Williams (1926)

‘Nice To Know You Care’ – (m) Leslie Baguley, (l) Norman Newell (1947)

‘Rebecca, Rebecca, Get Your Big Legs Off of Me’ – Pete K.H. Johnson & Big Joe Turner (circa 1938

‘BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES’, those likely – oh no I mean lovely – lads were back to play for us again. Where? Here of course, at the Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent (BR6 7BA). When? Last Friday, 1^st May 2015.  (click on photos for a larger and clearer view),

BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES at Farnborough Jazz Club on 1st May 2015. With BOB (tromb&voc) MAX EMMONS (trump), BERNIE HOLDEN (clar&sax), CHRIS NEWMAN (piano), JOHN BAYNE (d.bass &b.sax), NICK SINGER bnj&voc) and LAURIE CHESCOE (drms). Photo by Mike Witt.

Leader, BOB (trombone & vocals) was joined by MAX EMMONS on trumpet, BERNIE HOLDEN on clarinet & alto sax, JOHN BAYNE on double bass & bass sax, NICK SINGER on banjo & vocals, drummer LAURIE CHESCOE and guest pianist, CHRIS NEWMAN.

CHRIS NEWMAN, piano and JOHN BAYNE, on ‘Big Bertha’ (baratone sax) with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 1st May 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Chris comes from GOSPORT, Hampshire, where he is on the Committee of the Gosport Jazz Club. He is a wonderful pianist, very melodic and full of personality. He gave an explanation about my first choice of song and the fact that there are two tunes with almost the same name. One being ‘Panama Rag’, composed by Charles Seymour (1904), obviously a Ragtime and the one they played for us, ‘Panama’, by William Tyers (1911). We thoroughly enjoyed this one, although I am sure we would have enjoyed the other version anyway, because they were playing ‘hot’. Likewise with ‘St. Louis Blues’. Max sang, with John playing double bass and Bernie on alto sax. What an exciting rendition from all the band.  My next choice to tell you about was a completely different tune. It was a beautiful number sung by Bob, called ‘Spain’. I hope he doesn’t mind me saying, but he has a romantic voice, quite similar to the 1930-40’s sound and everyone loves it.

Nick Singer sings ‘Ace In The Hole’. BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES at Farnborough Jazz Club on 1st May 2015. With BOB (tromb&voc) MAX EMMONS (trump), BERNIE HOLDEN (clar&sax), CHRIS NEWMAN (piano), JOHN BAYNE (d.bass &b.sax), NICK SINGER bnj&voc) and LAURIE CHESCOE (drms). Photo by Mike Witt.

Nick was next on vocals with his good ol’ tradie voice to ‘Ace In The Hole’, with another one for us to all dance to. Oh they were on fire, because they followed on with Max’s great intro on harmonica to ‘Freight Train’. I can just see them now, all flat out, what a performance (sorry, you have to put up with me gushing again!). The next number got our line dance going, now quite regularly a dozen or so of us, all having fun! The number was ‘That DaDa Strain’ , with fabulous drums from Laurie and enjoyably they played every bit as good as Bob Crosby & The Bob Cats did.  Another wonderful number to enjoy (requested by Gordon), with John bringing out ‘Big Bertha’ (bass sax) and everyone giving us brilliant solos to ‘Weary Blues’. Calming down, let me lead you into the next number ‘Love Nest’. Bob’s gentle dulcet tones brought on a full house of our dancers to the floor. [Oh by the by, I found 1 and 1/2 hour free b&w romantic film on You Tube ( www.youtube.com/watch?v=SU-1D8p50h4) with Marilyn Monroe.]   Just two regular numbers they do for us left to mention, one being ‘Elephant Stomp’ with our superb John, playing ‘Big Bertha’ and everyone backing him to the hilt, what a unit. Oh yes, see below our video recording of him, recorded 27^th October 2014.  Plus the last number, only played here, because composer Leslie was a huge friend of ours. The number being a Tommy Dorsey hit, ‘Nice To Know You Care’. [I have located more info about Leslie, showing his music was produced by Forsythe, Seaman & Farrell, plus Dorothy Squires, Diana Dors, Ann Shelton, Jack Watson & Tony Brent, Charlie Chester and Dick James.].  Bob’s next date here, being 10^th July 2015.

Now I hope that has wet your appetites to come for some more jazz next Friday, for the Pedigree Jazz Band.

JOHN BAYNE plays ‘Elephant Stomp’ on baratone sax accompanied by MAX EMMONS on trumpet and BERNIE HOLDEN on alto sax with the Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent). 1st May 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Bob Dwyer sings ‘Nice To Know You Care’ with Max Emmons (trmp) and Bernie Holden (clt). BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES at Farnborough Jazz Club on 1st May 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Good listening – and don’t forget, keep jazz ‘live’.

Diane and Keith

‘Ace in the Hole’ – Louis Panico & Elmer Schoebel (1926)

‘Elephant Stomp’ – Al Ferreri & Yannick Singery (circa 1953)

‘Freight Train’ – Elizabeth ‘Libba’ Cotton (circa 1906)

‘Love Nest’ – (m) Louis A. Hirsch, (l) Otto Harbach (1920)

‘Nice To Know You Care’ – (m) Leslie Baguley, (l) Norman Newell (1947)

‘Panama Rag’ – William Tyers (1911)

‘Spain’ – (m) Isham Jones (l) Gus Kahn (1924)

‘St. Louis Blues’ – W.C. Handy (1914)

‘That Dada Strain – Edgar Dowell (1922)

‘Weary Blues’ – (m) Artie Matthews, (l) George Cates & Mort Green (1915)

It had been ages since ‘BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES’ had entertaining us – at least three weeks before this evening, Friday, 30^th January 2015! Just in case you were missing them, they returned to us here at the Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent. You might ask why? Seriously, the reason was they were kind enough to accept the date, being prepared to take a chance of last minute cancelation, should we be snowed out (as all these early bands had agreed to). So far the weather has been kind to us. I’m told they were at Hastings the night before and were given plenty of cheers. I must say I’m sure they are cheered wherever they go though, just as they are here. Leader BOB (trombone & vocals) was joined by DAVE RANCE on trumpet, BERNIE HOLDEN on clarinet & sax, HUGH CROZIER on piano & vocals, JOHN BAYNE on double bass & bass sax, NICK SINGER on banjo & vocals and drummer LAURIE CHESCOE.

Bob Dwyer, trombonist & leader        of ‘Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces’ at Farnborough Jazz Club on 30th January 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

‘Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces’. Bob (leader & trombonist) seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club 30Jan2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Front-line: Bob (trmb), Dave Rance (trmp) & Bernie Holden (clrn) of Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club, 30jan2015.  Photo by Mike Witt.

Dave Rance, trumpet with                Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club 30jan2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Bernie Holden, clarinettist (with pianist Hugh Crozier & drummer Laurie Chescoe) in Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club, 30jan2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Another great phonto of smiling Laurie Chesco, seen here with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club, 30jan2015. Photo by Mike Witt

 My first note was of Hugh singing ‘Too Busy’, fabulously (although was he singing it for me? Ha!). They followed on with Bob singing a lovely number, ‘Spain’. I know I’ve said it before, but repeating it, they both have great voices. I cannot recall why I popped over to the Bob at the start of the next number, save to say I trod on his foot. He said he was just going to announce ‘Fidgety Feet’! Anyway, brilliantly played by everyone.

Nick Singer (banjo) with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 30th January 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Then Nick came forward to sing ‘Tishomingo Blues’. Now Nick has a wonderful (dare I say gravel) voice so suited to the trad world, don’t ever stop singing Nick.  Quite a contrast with Hugh’s, who sang ‘Aint Misbehaving’. He played a super intro first, plus I noted Dave played muted trumpet with Bernie playing sax, all just great. I ticked twice and wrote ‘Fab’ next to ‘Magnolia’s Wedding Day’, I was obviously dancing, so no other comment.

Hugh Crozier with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 30th January 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Next came a feature number for Hugh on piano and singing ‘(Oh Darling) Ain’t No Pleasing You’. He just had the accompaniment of John on bass sax [big Bertha] and Bernie on alto sax, plus drums – abso-lutely fab-u-lous. There were so many great numbers in their repertoire, too many to mention, all with huge ticks against them too, but must mention Dave singing ‘Lilly of the Valley’, because he is another lovely singer (and of course, we were all singing along with him).

Bernie Holden (alto) & John Bayne (bass) & Laurie Chescoe on drums (accompanying Hugh Crozier’s feature) with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club, 30jan2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

John Bayne plays ‘Elephant Stomp’ with the ‘Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces’ at Farnborough Jazz Club, 30jan2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

I must also mention our favourite number of John’s, featuring with ‘Elephant Stomp’. You blow our minds every time John and can never play it too often for us – so talented.   I can only follow that on with ‘Puttin’ On the Ritz’, because it’s one of my favourites and we did our line-dance. Although the weather is inclement, I said last week you would soon warm up at the club, especially if you like dancing and said to get your glad rags on and turn up for some fun and join your hosts, Diane and Keith, plus our bar staff, Ian, Val, Harry, Barb and Kath too. This you did and I know you all enjoyed yourselves. Now before closing, we must pay tribute to one of our Country’s greatest leaders of all time. Namely Sir Winston Churchill, as Saturday (24^th) was the 50^th anniversary of his funeral.   He was someone who helped to keep our freedom (thereby to enjoy our music) and who gave us great pride in this Country and United Kingdom.   We both feel such pride and thanks to have been born in his era.

Diane & Keith

‘Aint Misbehaving – (m) Thomas ‘Fats’ Waller & Harry Brooks, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)

‘Aint No Pleasing You’ – (Chas ‘n’ Dave) Charles Hodges & Dave Peacock (1982)

‘Elephant Stomp’ –  Al Ferreri & Yannick Singery (circa 1953)

‘Fidgety Feet’ – Nick LaRocca & Larry Shields (1919)

‘Lily of the Valley’ – hymn by William Charles Fry (1837–1882) in London for Salvation Army.  

               Ira D. Sankey arranged words to music of “The Little Old Log Cabin In The Lane“ by Will Hays

‘Magnolia’s Wedding Day’ – (m) Jimmy McHugh, (l) Dorothy Fields (1928)

‘Puttin’ On The Ritz’ – Irving Berlin (1929)

‘Spain’ – Armando ‘Chic’ Corea (1971)

‘Tishomingo Blues’ – Spencer Williams (1917)

‘Too Busy’ (recorded by Ken Colyer (1954) Anyone help with who wrote pls ???)