The MARDI GRAS JAZZBAND returned with their first class presentation to Farnborough Jazz Club on Friday, 20th November 2015. Trombonist ROB PEARCE (leader) was joined by LEIGH HENSON on trumpet &vocals, with JOHN ELLMER on reeds, JOHN STUART on banjo, MARC EASENER on bass and BRIAN BELL on drums. They really love playing together, showing such flair. I was right about needing your dancing shoes, wasn’t I?
Mardi Gras JazzBand at Farnborough Jazz Club on 20th November 2015. (LtoR) John Ellmer (bass clarinet), Marc Easener (sousaphone), Leigh Henson (trumpet), Rob Pearce (trombone), (hidden) Brian Bell (drums) and John Stuart (banjo). Photo by Pete Marr
Anyway, here’s a little bit of how the evening went. Leigh sang ‘You’re Driving Me Crazy’, a great one that encouraged everyone on the dance floor. Then we had some Lindy Hoppers on the dance floor (I’m not sure of their names – will update later) and again Leigh sang ‘It Don’t Mean a Thing’. The next number, I actually wrote ‘fabulous sultry trumpet’ from Leigh to ‘Tin Roof Blues’. We danced our line-dance to ‘Perdido’, all great playing. Then Leigh sang ‘Louisiana Fairytale,’ wonderful clarinet. Seems like it was Leighs night, but oh no, everyone played beautifully. Then John sang ‘Lulu’s Back In Farnborough’ – he meant ‘Town’ of course- ha’. Then Rob mentioned there was to be a memorial for Alan Tewson? And played ‘Just A Closer Walk With Thee’, played with great feeling. Then at this point, Rob called to a friend to join them and sing a song. His name was Barry Vegas and what a good singer! He sang ‘Route 66’, always a favourite. They finished up with ‘Darktown Strutters Ball’, a cracking one to end with. Everyone was up on the floor dancing. Plus fabulous solos from everyone in the band and what a Ball!
Mardi Gras JazzBand at Farnborough Jazz Club on 20th November 2015. Photo of John Ellmer’s musical collection of saxes & clarinets – shows his wonderful talent aye? (sousa belongs to Brian). Photo by Liz.
Our photographer Mike (and Ann) were away on a much needed cruise. However, Peter Marr took the photo of the band, plus I asked Liz to take this photo of John’s line-up of saxes and clarinets. I thought it showed his amazing talent (he is just the same with the line-up of his percussion instruments – when playing drums here).
This certainly was ‘live’ music.
Diane and Keith