Bill Phelan’s Muskrat Ramblers, 11th December 2015

We have ‘BILL PHELAN’S MUSKRAT RAMBLERS’ to play for us at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on Friday, 11th December 2015.  Band leader BILL PHELAN (trumpet & flugelhorn) has booked ALAN CRESSWELL on clarinet, JOHN FINCH on trombone, CHRIS THOMPSON on bass, JOHNNY McCALLUM on banjo&guitar and PAUL NORMAN will be on drums.  Don’t we always bring you fabulous bands, so Friday is a date, yes?  We bring you ‘live’ jazz to dance to, as well as to listen to.

Diane and Keith

P.S.  Change of plans for next week’s Party, Entrance £15, bring your own food (& candelabras if you want). Plus temporary times just  for the day – music 8:30pm till 11:30pm.

Hershey and the Hot Shots, 5th December 2015

This was ‘HERSHEY AND THE HOT SHOTS’ very first visit to  FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on 5th December 2015.  The guys in the band who played were PETER LEONARD (trumpet &vocals), TIM HUSKISSON (clarinet &alto sax), PAUL TAYLOR (trombone), ANDREW CLANCY (piano), ROGER CURPHEY (string bass) and GRAHAM COLLICOTT (drums).

Hershey and the Hotshots play for the first time at Farnborough Jazz Club on 4th December 2015. (LtoR) Paul Taylor (trombone), Graham Collicott (drums), Peter Leonard (trumpet&vocs), Roger Curphey (double bass), Tim Huskisson (clarinet&alto sax) and Andrew Clancy (piano). Photo by Jill Alexander.

Hershey and the Hotshots play for the first time at Farnborough Jazz Club on 4th December 2015. (LtoR) Paul Taylor (trombone), Graham Collicott (drums), Peter Leonard (trumpet&vocs), Roger Curphey (double bass), Tim Huskisson (clarinet&alto sax) and Andrew Clancy (piano). Photo by Jill Alexander.

It was Andrew’s first time here, but the rest have all played here before with other bands.  Peter played here a long time ago, with George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s band.  It was back in 2014 (4th April and 4th July 2014) and he remember it too – nice one.  Paul was here for Keith’s birthday in last August with ‘Harry Strutters Hot Seven’.  The rest of the band you know well.   I have to apologise too, for being so late with this newsletter, especially being their first time together.  I had mislaid my notes (well, it was Christmas time) to remind me of what they played and is no reflection on how they played.  They certainly played some exciting jazz, great for dancing, as well as listening to … getting us in the festive spirit (that included my bah humbug, Keith ha).  Here goes to let you know what was played and my first choice of song is ‘Baby Wont You Please Come Home’, sung beautifully by Peter and everyone played well, with particular mention of Andrew.

'Hershey and the Hotshots' play for the first time at Farnborough Jazz Club on 4th December 2015. Peter & Graham play fab duet. Photo by Jill Alexander.

‘Hershey and the Hotshots’ play for the first time at Farnborough Jazz Club on 4th December 2015. Peter & Graham play fab duet. Photo by Jill Alexander.

Graham’s partner, Jill (as promised) led us into some swinging line-dancing with their next tune, being the ‘Charleston’.  I believe Jill was a dance teacher and she certainly got us going.  As for the next one, ‘Hyawatha Rag’, they were all brilliant and I particularly loved the excellent bit of trumpet and drumming duet from Peter and Graham in the middle.  As already mentioned, it was Andrew’s first time here and we all thoroughly enjoyed his playing especially to ‘Do I Want You (Indeed I Do)’.  Then I can remember the dance floor was highly used with everyone singing when they played ‘All Of Me’, as was too with the next number, ‘Bye Bye Blackbird’.  We obviously love a song or two in the audience – ha).   Our photographer friend Mike was still away and luckily Jill Alexander and Peter Marr took these photos of the band to make the evening.  It certainly makes a difference to see some photos, even when the lighting isn’t so good (a bit atmospheric, don’t you agree?)  Anyway, Keith had a sit-in next, whilst Graham had a dance with Jill (foxtrot I think).  The tune being ‘My September In The Rain’, with Peter playing lovely muted trumpet and also singing.

'Hershey and the Hotshots' playing for the first time at Farnborough Jazz Club on 4th December 2015. (LtoR) Paul Taylor (trombone), (Keith Grant has sit-in on drums), Roger Curphey (double bass), Peter Leonard (trumpet&vocs), Tim Huskisson (clarinet&alto sax) and (out of view) Andrew Clancy (piano) and drummer Graham Caulicott dances with Jill. Photo by Peter Marr.

‘Hershey and the Hotshots’ playing for the first time at Farnborough Jazz Club on 4th December 2015. (LtoR) Paul Taylor (trombone), (Keith Grant has sit-in on drums), Roger Curphey (double bass), Peter Leonard (trumpet&vocs), Tim Huskisson (clarinet&alto sax) and (out of view) Andrew Clancy (piano) and drummer Graham Caulicott dances with Jill. Photo by Peter Marr.

 

Harry Warren (composer &lyricist) and Alexander 'Al' Dubin (lyricist) of ‘My September In The Rain’.

Harry Warren (composer &lyricist) and Alexander ‘Al’ Dubin (lyricist) of ‘My September In The Rain’.

What a super Louis hit tune came next, ‘Swing That Music’, with part of it being played only by Peter, Paul and Mar…no, I mean Tim, the front liners only, absolutely wonderful.  Graham gave a great drum solo too.  They finished off with Glen Miller’s ‘In The Mood’, just fabulous, everyone played their socks off – Paul on trombone, Peter on trumpet, Tim on clarinet, our Roger on string bass, Graham on drums and our newcomer Andrew.  Another fantastic night. Those who were there listening, thoroughly enjoyed themselves thanks boys.

Your hosts of the evening of ‘live’ jazz,

Diane and Keith

‘All of Me’ – Gerald Marks & Seymour Simons (1931)
‘Baby Won’t You Please Come Home’ – (m) Charles Warfield, (l) Clarence Williams (1919)
‘Bye Bye Blackbird’ – (m) Ray Henderson, (l) Mort Dixon (1926)
‘Charleston’- (m) James Price Johnson, (l) Cecil Mack (1923)
‘Do I Want You (Indeed I Do)’ – Frank Edward Wilson (1965)
‘Hiawatha Rag’ – (m) Chas N Daniels aka Neil Moret (1901), (l) James O’Deo (added 1903)
‘In The Mood’ – (m) Joe Garland, (l) Andy Razaf (1939)
‘My September In The Rain’ – (m) Harry Warren, (l) Alexander ‘Al’ Dubin (1937)
‘Swing that Music’ – Horace Gorlach & Louis Armstrong (1936)

‘Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces’, 27th November 2015

On Friday, 27th 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.

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 18th 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)

Mardi Gras JazzBand, 20th November 2015

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 Elmer (bass clarinet), Marc Easener (sousaphone), Leigh Henson (trumpet), Rob Pearce (trombone), (hidden) Brian Bell (drums) and John Stuart (banjo). Photo by Pete Marr.

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 Elmer's musical collection of saxes & clarinets - shows his wonderful talent aye? (sousa belongs to Brian). Photo by Liz.

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

‘Darktown Strutters Ball’ – Shelton Brooks (1917)
‘It Don’t Mean a Thing (If it Ain’t Got That Swing)’ – (m) Duke Ellington, (l) Irving Mills (1931)
‘Just a Closer Walk With Thee’ – Traditional Gospel (pre-1860’s – possibly Afro-American)
‘Louisiana Fairytale’ – J. Fred Coots (1935)
‘Lulu’s Back In Town’ –  Al Dubin and Harry Warren (1935)
‘Perdido’ – (m) Juan Tizol (1941), (l added) Ervin Drake & Hans Lengsfelder (1944)
‘Route 66’ – Bobby Troup (1946)
‘Tin Roof Blues’ – George Brunies, Paul Mares, Ben Pollack, Leon Roppolo & Mel Stitzel (1923)
‘You’re Driving Me Crazy’ – Walter Donaldson (1930)

Brian Carrick’s Algiers Stompers, 13th November 2015

That extremely popular band from the North, BRIAN CARRICK’S ALGIERS STOMPERS, will be returning to Farnborough Jazz Club tonight, Friday 13th November 2015.  They were last here in April 2013, although Brian was also here October, last year, guesting with Red Wing Jazz Band from Sweden.  BRIAN is a reed man and joining him will be PETER WRIGHT on trumpet, CHAS HUDSON on trombone, CHRIS PERRIN on piano, BILL COLE on string bass, plus BOB MACDONALD on banjo and RAY BOWDEN on drums.  Let’s roll up the carpet for them, because they certainly know how to ‘play them ivories’!

Cheers from us jazzers, Diane and Keith

Mahogany Hall Stompers, 6th November 2015

MAHOGANY HALL STOMPERS have been appearing at our FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on and off for many years now and were back to play again for us on Friday 6th November 2015.   Band leader, BRIAN GILES (cornet) had booked TIM HUSKISSON on reeds, LES HANSCOMBE on trombone & vocals, ‘SOUTHEND BOB’ ALLBUT on banjo & vocals, CHRIS MARCHANT on drums and DEREK PRING on double bass.  I did tell you this was another line-up who would delight you and they did just that.  Let me tell of some of the wonderful tunes they chose to entertain you with.  One of their first numbers was ‘All the Girls Go Crazy About the Way I Walk’, which certainly put smiles on everyone’s faces.  They followed up with a great dancing tune (of King Oliver’s Creole Jazz Band & Louis Armstrong’s fame), namely ‘Buddy’s Habits’, certainly lots of fun.  There was plenty of dancing to ‘Cushion Feet Stomp’, followed by that foot-stomping number of Ken Colyer’s, ‘Postman’s Lament’ (sung by Bob).  What about ‘Hiawatha Rag’ made famous by Acker Bilk and Terry Lightfoot – I must mention that one.  The place was buzzing by that time and Bob, with his rich baritone voice sang ‘I Gotta Right To Sing The Blues’, what a great voice he has.  A few of us had fun with ‘The Charleston’, which is one of the favourite tunes for the gang to perform our ‘Charleston’ style line-dance.  Maybe not all of our audience enjoy us doing it, but they put up with it because everyone who takes part have so much fun (you don’t even need to know how to do it, we just all try – ha!)  The band actually intermingled the tune with ‘Please Don’t Talk About Me When I’m Gone’ – which is a number that Keith and I often sing to each other (perhaps just the title line only, ha) I wonder why.  The last number to mention is a good old favourite of many bands who play here, the one I call ‘My Dear Mr Shane’, actually called ‘Bei Mir Bist Du Shon’.  They all played fantastically, but I particularly jotted down that Les was great on trombone and Chris on drums – what a number to end on.  Unfortunately, Mike was away on holiday, so no photos this week.  Sorry Mahogony’s, there will be some next time.  Next week we have Brian Carrick’s Algiers Stompers.

Your hosts,

Diane & Keith

‘All the Girls Go Crazy about the Way I Walk’ – Kid Ory (1945) disputed earlier by Buddy Bolden (1944)?
‘Bei Mir Bist Du Shon’ – (m) Sholom Secunda, (l) Jacob Jacobs (1932). Re-written by Sammy Cahn &Saul Chaplin (1937)
‘Buddy’s Habits’ – Arnet Nelson & Charles T Straight (1923)
‘Cushion Feet Stomp’ – Clarence Williams & Louis Katzman (1927)
‘Hiawatha Rag’ – (m) Chas N Daniels aka Neil Moret (1901), (l) James O’Deo (added 1903)
‘I Gotta Right To Sing The Blues’ – Harold Arlen Ted Koehler (1933)
‘Please Don’t Talk About Me When I’m Gone’ – (m) Sam H Sept & Bee Palmer, (l) Sidney Clare (1930)
‘Postman’s Lament’ – Jonny Wiggs (1952/1961?)
‘The Charleston – (m) James P. Johnson, (l) Cecil Mack (1923)

 

Golden Eagle Jazz Band, 30th October 2015

Hey, it was the GOLDEN EAGLE JAZZ BAND who turned up to play on Friday, 30th October 2015 at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB.  Band leader KEVIN SCOTT (tenor banjo) had brought with him MIKE SCROXTON on trumpet, ALAN CRESSWELL on clarinet, ROY STOKES on trombone & vocals, MIKE BROAD on double bass and PETE JACKMAN on drums.  Before I begin telling you about all the fun making of this evening, I must stop for a while and tell you, the band played their second tune, ‘In The Sweet Bye and Bye’, especially for a lovely trombonist.  It was such a shock to hear that on 17th October 2015, Russell Bennett had sadly died.  He was an especially talented musician, as is his family, whom we all have such sympathy and feeling for – including his very personal friends.  In his terribly short life, Russell gave so much enjoyment to so many, with his talent and tremendous sense of humour.  Russell (aged just 43yrs) was snatched from this world, but grabbed into the next place we go to (I’m sure with much glee) to join that huge band of all ages in the sky.  ‘You won’t need an audition Russell, you left your ‘stamp; here for all to see’.   I know he would love me to follow on with what we got up to tonight– he was so full of fun.  Hey Russell, I think Kevin chose ‘In The Sweet Bye and Bye’ because could the lyricist perhaps have been a distant relative?

Last week, when telling you of this week, I said we’ll have Trad’ jazz at its best, because it is sure to include lots of smiling faces on people having fun.  It was just that, with all the fun of Halloween fancy dress.  I’m sure the ‘Golden’ boys won’t mind me putting us girls’ pictures here first – you better not, we might put a hex on you – ha.

Don't we have beautiful Witches in this Coven! It's actualy Anita having fun in fancy dress at our Halloween Party on 30th October 2015. Golden Eagle Jazz Band came to entertain us here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent). Photo by Mike Witt.

Don’t we have beautiful Witches in this Coven! It’s actually Anita having fun in fancy dress at our Halloween Party on 30th October 2015. No wonder Golden Eagle Jazz Band came to entertain us here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent). Photo by Mike Witt

Here's one of our beautiful Witches, photographed at our Coven. It's actually June having fun in fancy costume. No wonder Golden Eagle Jazz Band didn't mind entertaining us at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) for our Halloween Party on 30th October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Here’s one of our beautiful Witches in our Coven. It’s actually June having fun in fancy costume. No wonder Golden Eagle Jazz Band didn’t mind entertaining us at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) for our Halloween Party on 30th October 2015.  Photo by Mike Witt.

This is me (Diane) Sorry I have spoilt the scene, but I did have to tell them who's boss. Well, we did have some beautiful Witches at our fancy dress Holloween Party and I couldn't let them get too big for their boots! Party was here at Farnborough Jazz Club on Friday 30th October 2015. Golden Eagle Jazz Band entertained us. Photo by Kevin Scott

This is me (Diane) Sorry I have spoilt the scene, but I did have to tell them who’s boss. Well, we did have some beautiful Witches at our fancy dress Halloween Party and I couldn’t let them get too big for their boots! Party was here at Farnborough Jazz Club on Friday 30th October 2015. Golden Eagle Jazz Band entertained us. Photo by Kevin Scott

Here's a couple more beautiful Witches we had in our Coven, who are the Witches from Gillingham. Actually, it is Phil and Sandra in fancy dress enjoying the fun. No wonder Golden Eagle Jazz Band didn't mind entertaining us at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) for our Halloween Party on 30th October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Here’s a couple more beautiful Witches we had in our Coven, who are the Witches from Gillingham. Actually, it is Phil and Sandra in fancy dress enjoying the fun. No wonder Golden Eagle Jazz Band didn’t mind entertaining us at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) for our Halloween Party on 30th October 2015.                   Photo by Mike Witt.

To continue, I think these ‘Golden’ boys decided they had better keep the smiles on our faces, so they played extra nice, beginning with ‘Bourbon Street Parade’.  Had Kevin played it to parade us up and down to perhaps even tempt us to ‘fly now’?  We liked it – ha.  As for ‘It’s A Sin To Tell A Lie’, would we ever, I mean.  Their next tune was beautifully sung by Kevin, on behalf of Keith (who is bald), but for me (who is a bottle-fed brunette – well a young witch cannot be silver really, can she! What are you all laughing for?).  The tune was ‘Silver Threads Among The Gold’ and joking apart, what a lovely song.  Alan featured next and being so soft hearted, he played the next one for our cats, called ‘Wild Cat Blues’.  The boys couldn’t get them off their laps, purring so much – the cats I mean.  Mike (S) sang to us next and being under our spell, he sang to us ‘There’s Yes, Yes In Your Eyes’, don’t worry Mike, you’ll feel better soon – we are dreadful, aren’t we?  That’s why they had to quickly sing the next one, to wrap our knuckles, or something – he he.  The tune?  ‘Up Jumped The Devil’!  Kevin does find them, doesn’t he, I don’t think it has been played here before, well it wasn’t needed before, was it!  As for the next tune, did they really think we could be ‘sweet’?  – arhh.  Well, I suppose playing it helped … ‘In The Sweet By and By’ – and the dance floor was absolutely packed.  Then, a good 10 or 12 of us got up to enjoy our line-dance to ‘The Sheik Of Araby’.  I suppose we thought we could lure back into the mood, well you men were all getting syrupy.  I think our mood had slipped though, because we found ourselves singing at the top of our voices to ‘It’s A Long Way To Tipperary’, such comradery, aye?  Being near the bewitching hour, we forgot and joined in with the band, singing their last song, ‘Smiles’.  What a wonderful evening and thanks to everyone for making it so much fun, especially Kevin & the boys,  for choosing such fun numbers.

It's Halloween Party time. The guys are trying so hard to avoid our gaze. (LtoR) Roy Stokes (trombone), Pete Jackman (drums), Mike Scroxton (trumpet), Alan Cresswell (clarinet), Mike Broad (d.bass), & Kevin Scott (banjo) who are the Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 30th October 2016. Photo taken by Mike Witt.

It’s Halloween Party time. The guys are trying so hard to avoid our gaze. (LtoR) Roy Stokes (trombone), Pete Jackman (drums), Mike Scroxton (trumpet), Alan Cresswell (clarinet), Mike Broad (d.bass), & Kevin Scott (banjo) who are the Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 30th October 2016. Photo taken by Mike Witt.

It's still Halloween Party time. The guys are still trying so hard to avoid our gaze. (LtoR) Roy Stokes (trombone), Pete Jackman (drums), Mike Scroxton (trumpet), Mike Broad (d.bass), Alan Cresswell (clarinet) & Kevin Scott (banjo) who are the Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 30th October 2016. (LtoR) Photo taken by Mike Witt.

It’s still Halloween Party time and the guys are still trying so hard to avoid our gaze. (LtoR) Roy Stokes (trombone), Pete Jackman (drums), Mike Scroxton (trumpet), Mike Broad (d.bass), Alan Cresswell (clarinet) & Kevin Scott (banjo) who are the Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 30th October 2016. (LtoR) Photo taken by Mike Witt.

 

It's Halloween at Farnborough Jazz Club. We are nearing the bewitching hour and Golden Eagle Jazz Band can resist us no longer, we have them under our spell! he he, Photo taken by Mike Witt.

It’s Halloween at Farnborough Jazz Club. We are nearing the bewitching hour and Golden Eagle Jazz Band can resist us no longer, we have them under our spell! he he, Photo taken by Mike Witt.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And that’s Jazz – cheers from

Witchy poo Diane – and Keith too!

‘Bourbon Street Parade’ – Paul Barbarin (c. 1953)
‘In The Sweet Bye and Bye’ – (m) Joseph P. Webster, (l) Sanford Filmore Bennet (1868) recorded by Louis
‘It’s A Long Way to Tipperary’ – (m/l) Henry James ‘Harry’ Williams, (l) Jack Judge (1912)
‘It’s A Sin to Tell a Lie’ – Billy Mayhew (1936
‘Silver Threads Among The Gold’ – Hart Pease Danks, (l) Ebon Eugene Rexford (1873)
‘Smiles’ – (m) Lee S. Roberts, (l) J. Will Callahan (1917)
‘The Sheik of Araby’ – (m) Ted Snyder, (l) Harry B. Smith & Francis Wheeler (1921)
‘There’s Yes! Yes! In your Eyes’ – (m) Joseph H. Santly, (l) Cliff Friend (1924)
‘Up Jumped The Devil’
‘Wild Cat Blues’ – Clarence Williams & Thomas ‘Fats’ Waller (1923)

Please Note:  See above Page about internationally famed saxophonist & vocalist, Jonny Boston, with a wonderful array of stars, who will be on tour here in England next year – March 2016 (to include us on 4th) .

Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band, 23rd October 2015

PHOENIX DIXIELAND JAZZ BAND played for us at the Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2015..  The band is usually led by ROBIN COOMBS, but Robin, who was here tonight (with his wife Pauline) and thankfully recovering from what was a very serious illness (flown home by emergency jet from Cuba).  However, CHARLES SHERWOOD replaced him on clarinet, alto and tenor sax.  PAUL HIGGS was on trumpet, BILL TODD on trombone, DAVE BARNES on piano, ROGER CURPHEY on double bass, JOHN STUART on banjo & guitar and ALAN CLARKE on drums.

Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2015. (LtoR) John Stewart (guitar), Bill Todd (trumbone) seen singing, Alan Clarke (drums), Paul Todd (trumpet), Roger Curphey (double bass) and Charles Sherwood (tenor sax).( just out of picture is Dave Barnes piano). Photo by Mike Witt.

Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2015. (LtoR) John Stuart (guitar), Bill Todd (trombone) seen singing, Alan Clarke (drums), Paul Todd (trumpet), Roger Curphey (double bass) and Charles Sherwood (tenor sax), (just out of picture is Dave Barnes piano). Photo by Mike Witt.

The band was obviously suffering with shock, yet you would not have guessed by the evening’s entertainment.  ‘Struttin’ With Some Barbecue’ – what a number to start the evening off with – even being a Louis Armstrong hit, Paul was marvellous on trumpeter and certainly entertained us.  The whole band were great, as with their next tune, ‘Wabash Blues’, we had the dancers out in full.  It was such a great jaunty number and mid-tempo, so good fun.  But the next number I will mention was the opposite, being fast number, with no dancers at all, we just listened to their brilliant playing to ‘I Found A New Baby’ – wow, so enjoyable, with a superb drum solo (all brilliant solos actually).

W.C. Handy, known as "Father of the Blues". Composer of Saint Louis Blues'. Born 16th November 1873 - Died 28 March 1958

W.C. Handy, known as “Father of the Blues”. Composer of Saint Louis Blues’. Born 16th November 1873 – Died 28th March 1958.

The next tune has quite a story attached to it.  One I’ve already told to you a couple of years ago, but is worth another mention.  It is about Dave, who is somewhat of a composer.

Dave Barnes plays piano for Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Dave Barnes plays piano for Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

A number of years ago, Dave met up with an old friend, Ian Grant, who was the lyricist of ‘Let There Be Love’ (1940).  He showed Dave some lyrics he’d written fifty years before, called ‘We’re Handing it to You Mr Handy, for Handing us the St. Louis Blues’, (referring to W.C. Handy, composer of St. Louis Blues.)  Ian asked Dave if he could put some music to it.  The end result is they played it for us and AGAIN, I wished I had recorded it. It had a lovely beat and certainly packed the dance floor again. I might be back to add a photo of Ian (if Dave can find one).

Charles Sherwood is featured here on clarinet, with Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2016. (LtoR) John Stuart (guitar), Alan Clarke (drums), Roger Curphey (double bass), Charles Sherwood (clarinet) and Dave Barnes (piano). Photo by Mike Witt.

Charles Sherwood is featured here on clarinet, with Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2016. (LtoR) John Stuart (guitar), Alan Clarke (drums), Roger Curphey (double bass), Charles and Dave Barnes (piano). Photo by Mike Witt.

The next one was a special feature for Charles, ‘Strangers On The Shore’ and what a wonderful job he made of it – certainly tons of applause too.  ‘Chinatown, My Chinatown’ is another number I love to hear and they all played terrific solos.  They changed key on their last chorus (and I remember John and Dave somehow played a chimes chorus).

 

 

 

Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band play for Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2015. (LtoR) Bill Todd (trombone), Paul Higgs (trumpet), Allan Clarke (drums), Charles Sherwood (clarinet) and Roger Curphey (double bass). (out of picture-John Steward (banj&guit) and Dave Barnes (piano). Photo by Mike Witt.

Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band play for Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2015. (LtoR) Bill Todd (trombone), Paul Higgs (trumpet), Alan Clarke (drums), Charles Sherwood (clarinet) and Roger Curphey (double bass). (out of picture-John Stuart (banj&guit) and Dave Barnes (piano). Photo by Mike Witt.

Paul featured next with his lovely iridescence green trumpet and super-duper he was with ‘Stardust’. It is a beautiful song and Paul plays with such feeling, so of course, brilliant to listen to.  We performed our ‘Charleston style line-dance to their next tune, ‘At The Jazz Band Ball’.  Certainly a fast one, so we were quite exhausted at the end, goodness how the musicians felt – ha. My last number to mention is ‘S’Wonderful’.  Charles played tenor sax (such a lovely player), with Dave singing and must mention Alan on drums and our Roger on double bass – they have a lovely rapport.

Bill Todd takes a solo for Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2015. (LtoR) Bill Todd (trombone), John Stuart (banjo) and Paul Higgs (trumpet). Photo by Mike Witt.

Bill Todd takes a solo for Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2015. (LtoR) Bill Todd (trombone), John Stuart (banjo) & Paul Higgs (trumpet). Photo by Mike Witt.

Charles Sherwood on tenor sax, backed by Roger Curphey on double bass with Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Charles Sherwood on tenor sax, backed by Roger Curphey on double bass with Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

 

'Front line' of Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band are pictured here at Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2015. (LtoR) Bill Todd (trombone), Paul Higgs (trumpet) and . Charles Sherwood (tenor sax). Founder of the band, Robin Coombs & wife Pauline are enjoying watching. Photo by Mike Witt.

‘Front line’ of Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band are pictured here at Farnborough Jazz Club on 23rd October 2015. (LtoR) Bill Todd (trombone), Paul Higgs (trumpet) and . Charles Sherwood (tenor sax). Founder of the band, Robin Coombs & wife Pauline are enjoying watching.  Photo by Mike Witt.

 

Just have to finish up, with wishing Robin absolutely everyone’s huge special wishes for his continued recovery and also our thanks for giving us Charles as his replacement.

‘Live’ music’s the best.

Your hosts, Diane and Keith

‘At The Jazz Band Ball’ – (m) Nick LaRocca, Larry Shields (1917) (l’s added 1950 by Johnny Mercer)
‘Chinatown, My Chinatown’ – (m) Jean Schwartz, (l) William Jerome (1910)
‘I Found a New Baby’ – Jack Palmer and Spencer Williams (1926)
‘S’Wonderful’ – (m) George Gershwin, (l) Ira Gershwin (1927)
‘Stardust’ – (m) Hoagy Carmichael (1927), (l) Mitchell Parish & Hoagy (1929)
‘Strangers On the Shore’ – (m) Acker Bilk (1961), (l) Robert Mellin (1962)
‘Strutting With Some Barbeque’ – (m) Lilian Hardin Armstrong, (l) Don Raye (1941)
‘Wabash Blues’ – (m) Isham Jones, (l) Dave Ringle & Fred Meinken (1921)
‘We’re Handing it to You Mr Handy, for handing us the St. Louis Blues’ – (l) Ian Grant (c1940), (m) Dave Barnes (c1985)

Lord Napier Hot Shots, 16 October 2015

The LORD NAPIER HOT SHOTS appeared on Friday 16th October 2015, here at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB.  They have been a hot favourite for a long time at the Lord Napier and I’m sure most of us have frequented this lovely pub at one time, or another.  Keith played (drums) there many years ago, with the Manhatton Jazz Band (‘standing in’ for Bill Brunskill’s Jazzmen, when they played abroad) – in the days of Trish and Doris (do you remember them?).  The Lord Napier Pub has been one of London’s most favourite jazz venues since the early 1960’s.  That certainly takes most of you back, doesn’t it?

Lord Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 16th October 2015. (LtoR) Mick Scriven (d. bass & bass sax), Pat Glover (reeds), Bill Traxler (drums), Mike Jackson (trumpet), Lyn Saunders (banjo) and Mike Duckworth (trombone). Photo by Mike Witt.

Lord Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 16th October 2015. (LtoR) Mick Scriven (d. bass & bass sax), Pat Glover (reeds), Bill Traxler (drums), Mike Jackson (trumpet), Lynn Saunders (banjo) and Mike Duckworth (trombone). Photo by Mike Witt.

The musicians were  MIKE JACKSON (trumpet),   MIKE DUCKWORTH (trombone), PAT GLOVER (reeds), LYNN SAUNDERS (banjo), MICK SCRIVEN (double bass & bass sax) and BILL TRAXLER (drums).  Many of you asked for us to get them back as they play such lovely happy trad jazz.Here’s a smattering of what they played.  Their first number of the evening was sung by Mike (J) being ‘Don’t Give Up The Ship’.  Mike is another jazz musician with a super voice.

 

Lord Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 16th October 2015. (LtoR) Mick Scriven (d. bass & bass sax), Pat Glover (reeds), Bill Traxler (drums), Mike Jackson (trumpet), (not pictured- Lyn Saunders - banjo) and Mike Duckworth (trombone). Photo by Mike Witt.

Lord Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 16th October 2015. (LtoR) Mick Scriven (d. bass & bass sax), Pat Glover (reeds), Bill Traxler (drums), Mike Jackson (trumpet), (not pictured- Lynn Saunders – banjo) and Mike Duckworth (trombone). Photo by Mike Witt.

Lord_Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 16oct2015. Wot about those fab socks of Mike Duckworth (trombone)! Photo By Mike Witt.

Lord_Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 16oct2015. Wot about those fab socks of Mike Duckworth (trombone)! Photo By Mike Witt.

Lord_Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 16th October 2015 with Mick Scriven on double bass & bass sax (Big Bertha as I call it), with Bill Traxler on drums and Lyn Saunders on banjo. Photo by Mike Witt.

Lord_Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 16th October 2015 with Mick Scriven on double bass & bass sax (Big Bertha as I call it), with Bill Traxler on drums and Lynn Saunders on banjo. Photo by Mike Witt.

Then came a beautiful Fat’s Waller number ‘A Porter’s Love Song To A Chamber Maid’ and sung by Mick, yes, ANOTHER great singer.  Would you believe it, Lynn also has a top-notch voice, but didn’t sing tonight – unless I was out of the room at the time. Their third number was ‘Is It True What They Say About Dixie’, (Tommy Dorsey had a Number 1 hit with it).  Our Pat sang this one (I call him ‘our Pat’, because Keith and he played together in the Manhatton Jazz Band).  He also did a little scat vocalising too! Fabulous.

Lord_Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 16th October 2015. with Bill Traxler on drums and Lyn Saunders on banjo (both showing lovely tans!). Photo by Mike Witt.

Lord_Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 16th October 2015. with Bill Traxler on drums and Lynn Saunders on banjo (both showing lovely tans!). Photo by Mike Witt.

Lord Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 16th October 2015 with Pat Glover (reeds) and Mick Scriven (d. bass & bass sax). Photo by Mike Witt.

Lord Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 16th October 2015 with Pat Glover (reeds) and Mick Scriven (d. bass & bass sax). Photo by Mike Witt.

Here’s one I don’t recall having been played here before – ‘Floating Down to Cotton Town’.  A great one to dance to, the way they played it – up beat.  Now of course my next choice to tell you about is a good ol’ favourite of mine – my sister and I (aged 8 & 10) used to perform (harmonising it) to all the kids in the street – and they paid to see us!! Ha.  The number is ‘For Me and My Gal’, a great Judy Garland and Gene Kelly number.  I had noted that Mick played Big Bertha (bass sax to you) to this one.  Our line dancers came on the floor next for ‘When Your Hair Has Turned to Silver’, obviously played a bit more up tempo than usual. What came next was a number that Red Nichols and his Five Pennies made famous in 1930 – what a fabulous tune – ‘Shim-Me-Sha-Wabble’ and these guys did it proud too.  Mick got out ‘Big Bertha’ (Bass sax) for ‘You Always Hurt the One You Love’.  Pat sang, as only he can – romantically.   Sorry, I’ve probably embarrassed Pat now – ha.  I must finish on a note – the notes that make up ‘Shake That Thing’.  It was a lovely evening, which left us with a wonderfully happy feeling to go home with.  Lord Napier, you are one lucky pub.  Still, we have them back here on Friday 26th February 2016.

Your hosts,

DIANE & KEITH

‘A Porter’s Love Song To A Chamber Maid’ – (m) James P. Johnson, (l) Andy Razaf (1930)
‘Don’t Give Up The Ship’ – (m) Harry Warren, (l) Al Dubin (1935)
‘Floating Down To Cotton Town’ – (m) F. Henri Klickmann, (l) Jack Frost (1919)
‘For Me and My Gal’ – George W. Meyer, Edgar Lesley & E. Ray Goetz (1917)
‘Is It True What They Say About Dixie’ – Gerald Marks, Irving Caesar & Sammy Lerner (1936)
‘Shake That Thing’ – traditional
‘Shim-Me-Sha-Wabble’– Spencer Williams (1917)
‘You Always Hurt The One You Love’ – (m) Doris Fisher, (l) Allan Roberts (1945)
‘When Your Hair Has Turned to Silver’ – (m) Peter De Rose, (l) Charlie Tobias (1930)