Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, aged 90years today, 21st April 2016

To Your Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, may we please join the many millions of huge wishes sent World Wide to congratulate You, Ma’am on reaching your 90th birthday? We could not let today go by, without adding the wishes from all at Farnborough Jazz Club. How sorry I feel that Your Majesty is unable to lie about Your Majesty’s age. One cannot even get away with ‘stand-ins’, Your Majesty being instantly recognisable, even from a distance. I have remained thirty-several and a bit more, for at least ten years (even though most laugh at that – those that dare). However, the years have been visibly very kind to You, Ma’am. May they be so, as well as physically, for many more years to come?

Diane & Keith

Farnborough Jazz Club

Martyn Brother, 15th April 2016

MARTYN BROTHER (singular) played here at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on Friday, 15th April 2016. Brother, Emile is back in New Orleans visiting their Dad (Barry Martyn) again. BEN, who plays double bass and sings, had booked for us FINLAY MILNE on trumpet (new to the club, I think), GEORGE SIMMONDS on trombone, IAN BEETLESTONE on piano, JOHN ‘flashback radio’ RUSCOE on guitar and DOMINIQUE COLES on drums. I told you with this young band, you can expect some exciting and energetic jazz, how right I was. They play plenty of wonderful New Orleans jazz, after all, these brothers lived there, were brought up on it, but Ben, I’m so cross with you, because you have given me a hell of a job, trying to decide what numbers to mention and what to leave out as they were all good.

Martyn Brothers play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 15th April 2016. Ben Martyn (double bass), Finlay Milne (trumpet), George Simmonds (trombone), Ian Beetlestone (piano), John ‘flashback radio’ Ruscoe (guitar) and Dominique Coles (drums). Photo by Mike Witt.

Ben Martyn (double bass) leads his own band ‘Martyn Brothers’ (Dominique Coles on drums) at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 15th April 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

‘Help Me Make It Through The Night’ is a beautiful song of Kris Kristofferson’s, sung by Ben and although not exactly jazz, was so good, it was definitely worth a mention, one to be entertained with. Ben certainly has one hell of a voice and everyone loved it. My next one is ‘Summertime’ (from Porgy & Bess), played with a difference. They gave it a cha-cha-chá tempo. Steve and I made an attempt to dance it. We both knew how to, though a bit rusty, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The next one to follow, they have played before, but this time, sung by Finlay (another great jazzy voice), namely ‘Shake That Thing’. Of course they again as before, enticed everyone onto the dance floor.

Ian Beetlestone features on piano, Dominique Coles (drums) with Martyn Brothers at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 15th April 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

The following number, joined by George, was a feature of Ian’s on piano. Such a lovely number, played and sung with such sensitivity, the tune ‘Miss Otis Regrets’. I have always loved Ella’s rendition. Fabulous Ian. Their next choice was sung by George, ‘The Sheik From Araby’ a Preservation Hall Jazz Band number. It was the one we did our line-dance to. Not quite like the original dancers – ha. Another ‘must’ to include is ‘St. Louis Blues’, certainly a Louis Armstrong favourite and again sung by Finlay, in the same style – just brilliant. Oh, also Finlay is just one super trumpeter – I wrote it by practically every number!!!!!

Part engine of Martyn Brothers at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 15th April 2016. John ‘flashback radio’ Ruscoe (guitar), Ian Beetlestone (piano) and Dominique Coles (drums). Photo by Mike Witt.

Martyn Brothers at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 15th April 2016. Leader, Ben Martyn on double bass, Dominique Coles on drums, Finlay Milne on trumpet and George Simmonds on trombone. Photo by Mike Witt.

Friend Norman Grodentz (clarinet) joins Martyn Brothers for couple of numbers (here with Finlay Milne on trumpet) here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 15th April 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

A friend of the band, Norman Grodentz (clarinet) joined them for a couple of numbers, one of them being ‘Isle of Capri’. This one has been recorded by so many stars in the past, one such, being Kenny Ball and his Jazz Band. Ben’s Band were marvellous. Finlay sang again, the tune was ‘Wont You Come Home Bill Bailey’, yep, another fantastic number (terrific guitar John) – great jazz.

Finlay Milne (trumpet) and George Simmonds (trombone) with Martyn Brothers at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 15th April 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

The next number, backed by Ian on piano, was a feature for George. Such an amazing young man – only 25yrs old, but showing a maturity beyond his years. He sang ‘I Got It Bad and That Aint Good’, with such feeling. I do hope it wasn’t from personal experience and only talent. Such feeling in his trombone playing too, well done George, you are a star. You should record this one Ben, this one and Ian’s too. They wound the evening up with ‘I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream’, giving their all, each one performing solos superbly (great drums Dom) and just the right number to finish on leaving, everyone feeling happy.

Sorry some of you regulars missed it. Laurie is back next week, so pleasedon’t miss that one.

Live’ jazz for your enjoyment.

Diane and Keith

‘Bill Bailey’ – Hughie Cannon (1902)

‘Help Me Make It Through The Night’ – Kris Kristofferson (1969)

‘I Got It Bad and That Ain’t Good’ – (m) Duke Ellington, (l) Paul Francis Webster (1941)

‘I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream’ – Howard Johnson, Billy Moll & Robert King (1927)

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

‘Miss Otis Regrets’ – Cole Porter (1934)

‘Saint Louis Blues’ – W.C. Hanley (1914)

‘Shake That Thing’- ‘Papa’ Charlie Jackson (1925) (Kid Ory’s Creole Jazz Band)

‘Summertime’ – (m) George Gershwin, (l) DuBose Heyward (1933/34)

‘The Sheik of Araby’ – (m) Ted Snyder, (l) Harry B. Smith & Francis Wheeler (1921)

Mike Barry’s Uptown Gang, 8th April 2016

MIKE BARRY’S UPTOWN GANG played on Friday, 8^th April 2016 here at the Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent). MIKE BARRY (leader, trumpeter & vocals) had his usual band with him, namely GOFF DUBBER on reeds, ‘WHISPERING’ MIKE HOLT on trombone & vocals, JOHN STUART on banjo & guitar, ROGER CURPHY on double bass and GRAHAM COLLICOTT on drums. The week prior, I advertised the evening by saying Mike is a wonderful band leader and this bunch of guys together will be for great entertainment, of that you can be sure. They didn’t let me down. I also said ‘Whispering Mike’ is such a funny guy, so him just on his own, would give you a warm happy glow inside you on leaving the club. I added that together they would have you in peals of laughter throughout the evening, plus you would certainly love the music they produced! Again, I wasn’t wrong. Almost a full house can verify this (nice to see Mary and Bob back from Australia – with Beverley, a pretty young Japanese friend with them).

Mike Barry’s Uptown Gang at Farnborough Jazz Club on 8th April 2016. (LtoR) ‘Whispering MIke’ Holt (tmb), Mike Barry (trp), Graham Collicotte (drms), Goff Dubber (alto sax), (hidden, Roger Curphey (d.bass), John Stuart (bnjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

The band’s repertoire started with a couple of fast numbers and then, my first number to mention (sung by Mike, with Goff on alto sax) is ‘Beale Street Mama’, ‘Louis Armstrong’s version and just such a cool number.

The 'Engine' of Mike Barry's Uptown Gang at Farnborough Jazz Club. (LtoR) Graham Collicotte - drums, Roger Curphey, double bass and John Stewart - banjo on 8th April 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

The ‘Engine’ of Mike Barry’s Uptown Gang at Farnborough Jazz Club. (LtoR) Graham Collicotte – drums, Roger Curphey, double bass and John Stuart – banjo on 8th April 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

They all showed off their ‘stuff’ with my next choice ‘Kid’ Ory’s ‘Creole Song’. Fabulous solos from everyone, showing that the ‘engine’ doesn’t just drive a band, but can hold their own, when playing solo – luverly! We chose to dance our ‘Charlton style’ line-dance to Bix Beiderbecke’s ‘Oh Baby’, obviously, I was too busy to make notes – certainly fun for us dancing – ha.

Goff Dubber plays clarinet with Mike Barry’s Uptown Gang at Farnborough Jazz Club on 8th April 2016. (Goff to centre, Mike Barry & Graham Collicotte to left, John Stuart to right.) Photo by Mike Witt.

I loved Goff singing next (in true ‘Louis Armstrong’ style) to ‘Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans’. They played it beautifully and brought everyone onto the dance floor (such a romantic lot). Next they played a wonderful rendition of ‘Everybody Loves Friday Night’. Oh what a certainly fun for us dancing – ha. Oh what a marvelous bit of fun and with everyone in the audience joining in singing at the top of their voices. Yes, really, oh, what was that? Yes, you’re right, it was actually ‘Everybody Loves Saturday Night’ – ha. Then came a brilliant swinging number ‘Clarinet Marmalade’, fabulous.

Mike Barry’s Uptown Gang (Front Line) at Farnborough Jazz Club on 8th April 2016. (LtoR) ‘Whispering MIke’ Holt(tmb), Mike Barry (trp), Goff Dubber (alto sax). Photo by Mike Witt.

‘Whispering Mike’ had everyone in fits of laughter with his party piece, singing to ‘March Dominique’. He sings it in pigeon French (complete with beret). Oh he is wonderful. I had a hard time finding who wrote this tune, only finding ‘Dominique’- Jeannine Deckers’ (‘Sister Smile’ or ‘The Singing Nun’) tune, not believing it could be this tune, being a Nun. But if I had listened to it on You Tube, I would have realised it was the same tune. However, Mike shows his wonderful talent, because he added a New Orleans ‘marching’ touch to it and hence a fantastic result. His talent didn’t end there, because the following tune was his own composition. He took the idea from pianists, during the Great Depression of 1929, who (unable to get band work) took individual jobs and to jazz things up, ‘Boogie’ was invented. Mike wrote this tune and called it ‘Bluin’ the Eighths’ (musicians will understand how and what that means). I absolutely loved the result and strongly believe Mike should record it – it was super.

Smiley John Stewart on Banjo with Mike Barry's Uptown Gang at Farnborough Jazz Club on 8th April 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Smiley John Stuart on Banjo with Mike Barry’s Uptown by Mike Witt.

Before I mention my last number, I want to point out how most musicians suffer aches and pains in silence, playing their hearts out. One such person is John Stewart (capture here by Mike Witt) was suffering with severe back pain, but this photo doesn’t show a note of this (the only notes he showed were musical ones!). Well done John. Plus cannot leave out this photo of our loveable Roger.

Roger Curphey plays double bass with Mike Barry’s Uptown Gang at Farnborough Jazz Club on 8th April 2016. (just showing John Stewart on banjo. Photo by Mike Witt.

They finished up in style with ‘Bourbon Street Parade’ a splendid way to go home – wow! I need say no more ……. just brilliant!

Diane and Keith

‘Beale Street Blues’ – W.C. Handy (1916)

‘Bluin’ the Eighth’s’ – Mike Barry (2016)

‘Bourbon Street Parade’ – Paul Barbarin (c. 1953)

‘Clarinet Marmalade’ – Larry Shields & Henry Ragas (1918)

‘Creole Song’ – Edward ‘Kid’ Ory (1944)

‘Dominique’ – Jeannine Deckers [sold 2mil copies] (1961)

‘Do You Know What It means to Miss New Orleans’ – Eddie DeLange (1947)

‘Everybody Loves Saturday Night’ – Nigerian Folk (made famous Aldwyn ‘Kitch’ Roberts (1940’s)

‘Oh Baby’ – (m) Walter Donaldson & Owen Murphy, (l) Buddy DeSylva (1924)

Diane and Keith

WARNING FOR TRAVELLERS

Eight 430-tonne electrical transformers to descend on Dartford Crossing. Go to ‘Page’ above for more information.

George Tidiman’s All Stars, 1st April 2016

GEORGE ‘KID’ TIDIMAN’S ALL STARS returned on Friday, 1^st April 2016 at our FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB. What a brilliant evening we had. GEORGE (our ‘Kid’) had that brilliant trumpeter, DENNY ILETT with him. Did you see the write-up in Just Jazz Magazine (April 2016 issue – on sale here)? Also completing a top-class front line, he also had that superb clarinettist, TIM HUSKISSON, what a trio! He also had his usual and great ‘engine’, namely fabulous bass singer and banjoist ‘SOUTHEND BOB’ ALLBUT, super double bassist JOHN SIRETT and great drummer BILL FINCH. Last week I told you that you probably needed to get rid of those pounds (weight) gained from Easter eggs and what better way, but to bring your dancing shoes and dance those inches away. Some of you couldn’t get out of the chair could you – too heavy aye? Those who came had a wonderful evening and you just have to know me to know I don’t tell fibs, or exaggerate!

George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 1st April 2016. (LtoR) Tim Huskisson (clt), John Sirett (d.bass), Denny Ilett (trp), Bill Finch (drms), George ‘Kid’ Tidiman (trmb) & ‘Southend Bob’ Allbut (bnj). Photo by Mike Witt.

Here’s a little insight of the beauty we enjoyed. ‘Southend Bob’ sang the first number ‘You Always Hurt The One You Love’, with an echo from the rest of the band of ‘at all, at all, at all’, great fun. George sung the next number (sporting sea captain’s hats) ‘Down by the Sheltering Palms’. Absolutely fabulous and then an equally marvellous number was a tune called ‘San’. They played ‘Kid’ Ory’s version and I gave it three ticks and wrote that everyone performed solos fantastically! George mentioned it was in a ‘Zeigfeld Follies’ Broadway Show back in the 1920’s.

George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 1st April 2016. (LtoR) Tim Huskisson on clarinet, with Denny Ilett (trumpet) and George ‘Kid’ Tidiman (trombone). Photo by Mike Witt.

I do have to mention the next one, ‘Hiawatha Rag’. It is such a wonderful tune, made famous by Chris Barber. George, what a band – you were all brilliant, lovely playing by everyone. Oh, we did our line dance to the following number (sung by Bob) ‘Move Your Body Over’ and yes we did move our bodies over – ha. I know, I was aching so much afterwards. Next choice to mention was sung by ‘Southend Bob’ and the number was ‘My Little Bimbo Down on Bamboo Island’. George also played ‘swanee whistle’ and of course he is so gifted at playing it too. George mentioning dear Bill Brunskill and the Lord Napier Pub, where he played for years. [I have found and also acquired some old photos recently, some of Bill, so soon, I shall be starting up a special ‘page’ for old photos of the jazz world (please email any you might wish to be displayed).] Their next tune was ‘Ace In the Hole’ again sung by Bob and with audience participation in all the right places. Again such fun.

‘Southend Bob’ Allbut on banjo. One of George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 1st April 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Bill Finch (drummer) takes a breather (probably enjoying one of George’s jokes) with George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 1st April 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

John Sirett plays double bass and enjoys the fun with George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on1st April 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Denny Ilett plays trumpet with an intro' to 'Starlight'. enjoyed by George 'Kid' Tidiman. George 'Kid' Tidiman's All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 1st April 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Denny Ilett plays an intro’ to ‘Stardust’. enjoyed by George ‘our Kid’ (with his George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars band) at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 1st April 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

I requested their next one, because the last time they played it here, it was breathe-taking, the number was ‘Stardust’. Denny did it again, with a wonderful intro and they all joined in with such sensitive playing. Gorgeous … and then the next number! What a one to go out on – awesome – it was ‘South Rampart Street Parade’, with brilliant solos by everyone. Keith said it was the very first record he ever bought.

Before I close, I wish to say how very sad to learn of the passing of the fabulous Ronnie Corbett, one of our great British comedians of all times, whom I had the great pleasure of a brief meeting. I told him that he made me laugh so very much, it gave me a pain at the base of my head. I’m sure he must have wondered what I meant – ha!

Always your hosts for the evening of ‘live jazz’ – all are welcome

Diane and Keith

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

‘Down By The Sheltering Palms’ – (m) Abe Olman, (l) James Brockman and Leo Wood (1914)

‘Hiawatha Rag’ – (m) Charles Neil Daniels, (l) James O’Dea (1901) from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s poem (1855)

‘Move Your Body Over’ – traditional

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

‘San’ – Walter Michaels & Lindsay McPhail (1920)

‘South Rampart Street Parade’ – (m) Ray Bauduc & Bobby Haggart (1938), (l) Steve Allen (circa 1950)

‘Stardust’ – (m) Hoagy Carmichael (1927), (l) Mitchell Parish & Hoagy (1929)

‘You Always Hurt the One You Love’ – (m) Doris Fisher, (l) Allan Roberts (1944)

Pedigree Jazzband – Chris Walker’s ‘ A Salute to Trad Jazz’, Easter Friday 25th March 2016

Last Friday, 25^th March 2016 was Good Friday and we had CHRIS WALKER’s ‘A Salute to Trad Jazz’ with PEDIGREE JAZZBAND to make it good. We were the last event of theirs on this tour to the South East. It is surely nice to know they still wish to include Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on these tours. Leader, CHRIS (clarinettist) has a slightly different line-up from the 2015 gang. This time, it was GRAHAM TREVARTON on trumpet, cornet, vocals, TONY MANN on trombone, KEN AMES on double bass, (new man) JOHN NODDINGS on banjo & guitar and COLIN LARN on drums. It was nice to welcome John to Farnborough), in fact to see them all again, to what was a thoroughly enjoyable evening. A great big thanks must go out to their Sponsors, The Marsdon’s Brewery, for again sending us a pack of their Pedigree Beer, for our raffle, very thoughtful. Chris makes these tributes interesting by giving little bits of obscure info’ about the tunes they play. Their first number was ‘Bourbon Street’ and I recall the front line boys singing together, wonderfully too. I am not always able to hear everything said, being ‘on the door’, but I did hear Chris say the next tune, ‘Livery Stable Blues’, was possibly the first recording (by The Original Dixieland Jass Band) to sell a million copies, establishing jazz as popular music. Now I recall we did a line-dance next, well two of us did – well it was a very fast number and but Jackie and I enjoyed being tested – ha. Sorry, I missed what it was called. Chris was featured next and he dedicated his number to Monty Sunshine, which, of course, was ‘Petite Fleur’. Chris did a beautiful job too. [Keith and I saw Monty at Fort Halstead (just up the road to us), some 25 or so, years ago, when a friend of ours (Dick) arranged for him to guest with a band there, does anyone remember the band?]. Monty died November 2010. Obviously being Easter, they had to play ‘Easter Parade’, a song (& film) I just loved and sang (as a little girl), harmonising with my sister, June. ‘Sukiyaki’ came next and a dedication to Kenny Ball, what a wonderful number and delightfully played by Graham too. Tony was featured next, with that lovely tune made famous by Nat King Cole, ‘Autumn Leaves’ and yes, he was superb. I think we were all quietly singing it. Another two numbers were dedicated to Kenny Ball and gave Graham a chance to show again what he could do. The first number was ‘I Love You, Samantha’ and what a lovely job he did The next number has to be possibly their best number of the evening – the next morning, Keith and I still recalled how amazingly they played it. The number was ‘Midnight In Mosco’. Kenny died in March 2013 and it seems like yesterday. Their dedication to Acker Bilk was ‘Summer Set’, played so lovely. Chris said he had the wonderful memory of visiting Acker in his home, just two weeks before he died in November 2014 (again that seems like yesterday). They finished the evening with ‘The World is Waiting for the Sunshine’. Oh Chris – great clarinet solo – well just wonderful solo’s played by all of you and a fantastic moment (or ten) of Ken playing his drums, what a mind-blowing solo by him. Thanks Chris and all of you, for a marvellous tribute show. Play on……….. It is a shame a great many of our regulars missed the evening, I’m sure being Easter and family commitments. So sorry, unfortunately no photos, as Mike was away too. At least we have their own photo, to show who they are.

Your hosts for an evening of ‘live’ jazz,

Diane and Keith

‘Autumn Leaves’ – Joseph Kosma, (l) Jaques Pravért (1945)

‘Bourbon Street Parade’ – Paul Barbarin (c. 1953)

‘Easter Parade’ – Irving Berlin (1933) he originally composed it in 1917 as ‘Smile and Show Your Dimple’

‘Livery Stable Blues’ – © Ray Lopez & Alcide Nunez (1917) – (disputed by Original Dixieland Jazz Band

‘Midnight In Mosco’ – Vasili Solovyov-Sedoi, (l) Mikai Matusovsky (1955)

‘Petite Fleur’ – Sidney Bechet (1952)

‘I Love You, Samantha’ – Cole Porter (1956)

‘Sukiyaki’ – (m) Hachidai Nakamura, (l) Rokusuki Ei (1961)

‘Summer Set’ – Acker Bilk & Dave Collett (1960)

‘The World is Waiting For Sunrise’ – (m) Ernest Seitz, (l) Gene Lockhart (1919) Seitz conceived in (1904)

Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces, 18th March 2016

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 in front) play in Bob Dwyer's Bix &Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 18th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

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)

Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band, 11th March 2016

PHOENIX DIXIELAND JAZZ BAND gave us a terrific time here at Farnborough Jazz Club on Friday 11^th March 2016.

Paul Higgs & Charles Sherwood with Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 11th March 2016. Robin Coombs and Pauline watch on. Photo by Mike Witt.

They’re a wonderful 7-pce band who certainly know how to enjoy themselves and so always ensures we do too – a brilliant evening. We had the usual musicians, PAUL HIGGS on trumpet, CHARLES SHERWOOD on clarinet, BILL TODD on trombone, ALAN CLARKE on drums, DAVE BARNES on piano, ROGER CURPHEY on double bass and JOHN STUART on banjo & guitar. Robin and Pauline were in the audience and I know he was really proud of his band.

Dave Barnes of Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band, plays at Farnborough Jazz Club on 11th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Their repertoire had such numbers as ‘Pennies From Heaven’ sung by Dave. [This Bing Crosbie number has an historic ‘first’, being recorded twice by Frank Sinatra and has been recorded by dozens of top stars since 1936, until present day!] Paul gave a fabulous rendition of ‘Cornet Chop Suet’ – great finger-tapping from Dave on piano too. Of course the same happened with ‘Big Butter and Egg Man’ – everyone excelled.

John Stuart of Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band playing at Farnborough Jazz Club on 11 Narch 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

John Stuart of Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band playing at Farnborough Jazz Club on 11th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Then John played a super guitar solo in ‘You Took Advantage of Me’, a lovely Rosemary Clooney number. And what about ‘South Rampart Street Parade’, brilliant – we (nine of us – not bad considering several of our usual people were away at jazz festivals) got up for a line-dance. Quite a fast number for us, especially with Alan’s drum solo, and the number lasted a long time too! Phew.

Bill Todd (trb) & Paul Higgs (trp) of Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band play at Farnborough Jazz Club on 11th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt

Bill Todd, Paul Higgs & Charles Sherwood enjoy playing with Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 11 March 2016.. Photo by Mike Witt.

Charles Sherwood (reeds) of Phoenix Dixieiland Jazz Band plays sax at Farnborough Jazz Club on 11th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Charles Sherwood (reeds) of Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band plays sax at Farnborough Jazz Club on 11th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club with (LtoR)(hidden-John Stuart (bnj), Bill Todd (trb), (hidden Alan Clake (drms), Paul Higgs (trp), (hidden Roger Curphey (d.bass) Charles Sherwood (rds) & Dave Barnes (pno). 11th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Now the next number had a wonderful intro from Paul and Dave to one of the most beautiful of songs ’Stardust’. Charles played a lovely bit of sax, as did Bill on trombone and John on guitar. I love the calypso, played next ‘On a Coconut Island’, it’s a lovely one to dance to. They also played John Williams’ ‘Cantina Band’, played last time they were here and I requested they play it again. Last time it had a Charleston thread, this time with a ‘Black Bottom’ thread (if I know what I mean – ha).

Roger Curphey (double bass) of Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Club plays a strong part of the ‘engine’ at Farnborough Jazz Club on 11th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Alan Clarke of Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Bamd, plays at Farnborough Jazz Club on11 March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Alan Clarke of Phoenix Dixieland Jazz Band, plays great drums at Farnborough Jazz Club on 11th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

My last number to mention was played by the ‘engine’ only, very impressive and that was ‘Please Don’t Talk About Me When I’m Gone’. There were many great numbers and this all made up for a marvellous evening. I told you they could follow on from the fantastic evening produced the week before – thanks boys for another exciting evening of ‘Live’ jazz.

Diane and Keith

‘Big Butter and Egg Man’ – Percy Venable (1926)

‘Cantina Band’ – John Williams (1977)

‘Cornet Chop Suet’ – Louis Armstrong (1926)

‘On a Coconut Island’ – Robert Alexander Anderson (1936)

‘Pennies From Heaven’ – (m) Athur Johnston, (l) Johnny Burke (1936)

‘Please Don’t Talk About Me When I’m Gone’ – (m) Sam H Sept & Bee Palmer, (l) Sidney Clare (1930)

‘South Rampart Street Parade’ – (m) Ray Bauduc & Bobby Haggart (1938), (l) Steve Allen (circa 1950)

‘Stardust’ – (m) Hoagy Carmichael (1927), (l) Mitchell Parish (with Hoagy) (1929)

‘You Took Advantage of Me’ – (m) Richard Rodgers, (l) Lorenz Hart (1928)

JONNY BOSTON’S HOT JAZZ, 4th March 2016

I said we had some great news for you, in the shape of internationally famous star, JONNY BOSTON, award-winning saxophonist, clarinettist & vocalist extraordinaire and I wasn’t exaggerating. Jonny, who now lives in Amsterdam, had planned a tour here in England for March 2016 and we were lucky to be included. The date was Friday, 4th March 2016, playing here at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB. He arranged to have GARY WOOD on trumpet&vocals, DAVE HEWITT on trombone, TIM HUSKISSON on piano), TREFOR ‘FINGERS’ WILLIAMS on double bass and JOHN PETTERS on drums – what a line-up aye? Although John Petters was not able to play due to illness, we had the brilliant MARTIN GUY to play drums for us. (Sylvie Hewitt filmed some numbers, which we hope to show here at a later date.)

‘Jonny Boston’s Hot Jazz’ on tour at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK. (LtoR) Dave Hewitt (trombone), Gary Wood (trumpet), Jonny Boston (reeds), Tim Huskisson (piano) (out of view: Martin Guy (drums) & Trefor ‘Fingers’ Williams (d.bass)). 4th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

We first met Jonny years ago, when he played with Phil Mason’s New Orleans All Stars. They played for us at Badger’s Mount Hotel and then here at Farnborough (when the club house was razed to the ground). Phil discovered Jonny whilst he was busking in London’s underground. Since then, Jonny has played with so many greats, such as Max Collie, John Dankworth, Georgie Fame, Jamie Cullum and Eddie Izzard. See video below as a guest with The Pasadena Roof Orchestra. He was also with The Philharmonic Orchestra, Barry Martyn & the Young Bloods, TJ Johnson’s Bourbon Kick and oh so many others. Awarded Yorkshire’s TV Young Player of the Year, Chris Barber, who was a judge, invited Jonny & his ‘Boston Tea Party Band’ to play with his own ‘Jazz & Blues Band’? As for 4^th March, It WAS, as I predicted, a humdinger (sorry I seem to love that expression) of an evening – a show and a half, to say the least. Each and every one of these musicians are brilliant in their own right and together, they were nothing short of dynamic. Here, I could swear, because I cannot decide what tunes NOT TO INCLUDE!! They were all wonderful. We’ve had some pretty amazing evenings over the years, but this evening was certainly amongst one of the best. They started off with a hot rendering of ‘JellyRoll’ Morton’s jazz composition, ‘Wolverine Blues’ which set the tone of a great evening of Dixieland jazz. (‘JellyRoll’ is said to have published the very first jazz composition). Their next number ‘Higher Ground’ was sung by Jonny. By the way, he has a marvelous voice and has published a beautiful gospel CD, well worth a listen (although this one is not included, he plays the tunes with great jazz hand-clapping warmth – see below for details).

Jonny Boston plays clarinet on tour with ‘Jonny Boston’s Hot Jazz’ at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 4th March 2016 (Gary Wood &Martin Guy on left). Photo by Mike Witt.

Jonny played clarinet beautifully to ‘At the Jazz Band Ball’, (Kenny Ball & Ted Heath both recorded) which enticed our visiting dancers (Jane and Alan) onto the floor. Alan said to me midway through the evening, that he had read my write-up and thought I was probably exaggerating, but said I definitely wasn’t – ha). ‘Stairway to the Stars’ was probably my most favourite number of the evening (if I really had to choose). Tim played a beautiful intro and Jonny sung it with such feeling. I had remarked in my notes ‘gorgeous’, with ‘lovely trumpet’ and ‘fab sax’.

Tim Huskisson plays piano with ‘Jonny Boston’s Hot Jazz’ band on tour at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK 4th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Gary Wood on trumpet (Dave Hewitt (tromb) to his left & Trefor ‘Fingers’ to his right) with ‘Jonny Boston’s Hot Jazz’ on tour here at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK 4th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Next, a ‘King’ Oliver number (recorded by Louis Armstrong), ‘Dippermouth Blues’, with Gary singing this time. He used a muted trumpet, oh and of course, we (the audience) did ‘our bit with calling out in the right place “Oh play that thing”. We had a go at our line dance (not too many of us this week, but still lots of fun for us) to ‘Panama’. Although we should have done so to ‘Dancing Cheek to Cheek’, sung by Jonny. ‘It Don’t Mean a Thing If It Aint Got That Swing’ was sung by Gary, with some fabulous drumming from Martin.

Martin Guy on drums with ‘Jonny Boston’s Hot Jazz’ on tour at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK 4th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt

Trefor ‘Fingers’ Williams with ‘Jonny Boston’s Hot Jazz’ on tour play at Farnborough Jazz Club 4th March 2016. Photo by Mike Wit

Following on, Jonny sung ‘Deep River’. It was a tune sung in many films, including ‘Show Boat’. Trefor ‘Fingers’ excelled on double bass, with some lovely trumpet sounds from Gary too. I’m still fighting choosing what not to write about, but must mention Dave’s fabulous trombone tones with ‘T’Aint What You Do, It’s the Way that You Do It’ and then ‘Sweet Georgia Brown’ with Jonny on clarinet.

‘Jonny Boston’s Hot Jazz’ front line (LtoR Dave Hewitt plays trombone, with Gary Wood (trumpet) & Jonny Boston (sax)) on tour at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK 4th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Dave Hewitt on trombone (Martin Guy (drums) & Gary Wood (trumpet) on left) with ‘Jonny Boston’s Hot Jazz’ on tour here at Farnborough Jazz Club, 4th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Their last tune that sent us all off into the night with a warm glow, was a genuine foot-stomping, hand clapping gospel tune made famous by ‘Acker’ Bilk, ‘Let The Light (from the Lighthouse) Shine on Me’. Hopefully this evening will all be repeated again soon! Sorry guys to have told about almost your whole evening – I still left off some brilliant numbers, but I haven’t spoilt the rest of your tour as we were your last gig. Oh and by the way Jonny, I think Phil must be bursting with pride with his protégé from way up high.

Jonny Boston plays tenor sax ( d.bassist Trefor ‘Finger’ Williams just behind) with ‘Jonny Boston’s Hot Jazz’ on tour at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK 4th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Jonny Boston plays tenor sax with his ‘Jonny Boston’s Hot Jazz’ on tour at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK 4th March 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Jonny Boston plays tenor sax with his 'Jonny Boston's Hot Jazz' on tour at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK 4mar2016

Jonny Boston plays tenor sax with his ‘Jonny Boston’s Hot Jazz’ on tour at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK. 4th March 2016. Photo By Mike Witt.

Your hosts and Jazz lovers, Diane and Keith

P.S. I told you last week, the tour also included Sylvie’s Place on 2^nd and Sidcup Jazz Club on 3rd March, but hadn’t realised they played during the afternoon at the ‘Spice of Life’ and then onto us in the evening, what stars they are. You lucky people.

‘At The Jazz Band Ball’ – (m) Nick LaRocca, Larry Shields (1917), (l) added 1950 by Johnny Mercer.

‘Cheek to Cheek’ – Irving Berlin (1935)

‘Deep River’ – anonymous spiritual

‘Dippermouth Blues’ – Joseph ‘King’ Oliver (1923) (Bud Scott originated calling out ‘Oh play that thing’)

‘Higher Ground’ – Johnson Oatman Jnr (circa 1898)

‘It Don’t Mean a Thing (If it Ain’t Got That Swing)’ – (m) Duke Ellington, (l) Irving Mills (1931)

‘Let the Light (from the Lighthouse) Shine on Me’ – Cleavant Derricks (1929)

‘Panama’ – William H. Tyer (1911)

‘Stairway to the Stars’ – (m) Matty Malneck & Frank Signorelli, (l) Mitchell Parish (1936)

‘Sweet Georgia Brown’ – (m) Ben Bernie & Maceo Pinkard, (l) Kenneth Casey (1925)

‘T’Aint What You Do (It’s the Way That You Do It’ – Melvyn ‘Sy’ Oliver & James ‘Trummy’ Young (1939)

‘Wolverine Blues’ – ‘JellyRoll’ Morton (1923)

New album “Psalms, Hymns & Spiritual Songs” OUT NOW! €15,-

Order your copy at: www.jonnyboston.com

Lord Napier Hot Shots, 26th February 2016

We had the ‘LORD NAPIER HOT SHOTS’ on Friday 26th February 2016, here at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB. Let me remind you, they have been playing at the Lord Napier Pub in Thornton Heath for many, many years now, which shows how well loved they are. I mentioned last time, this pub has been one of London’s most favourite jazz venues since the early 1960’s. Leader, MIKE JACKSON (trumpet), had booked MIKE DUCKWORTH (trombone), PAT GLOVER (reeds & vocals), LYNN SAUNDERS (banjo & vocals), MICK SCRIVEN (double bass, bass sax & vocals) and BILL TRAXLER (drums).

Lord Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on Friday 26th February 2016. (LtoR) Bill Traxler (drums) Pat Glover (clarinet), Mike Jackson, (trumpet), Lynn Saunders (banjo) and Mike Duckworth (trombone) (luv the yellow&black striped socks). [Mick Scriven (double bass & bass sax) is out of picture]. Photo by Mike Witt.

Lord Napier Hotshots play at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th February 2016. (LtoR) Lynn Saunders (banjo), Pat Glover (clarinet), Mike Jackson (trumpet) and Mike Duckworth (trombone). Photo by Mike Witt.

Once again, you all asked for us to get them back as they play such lovely happy trad jazz and their first number didn’t disappoint anyone, being ‘Down In Honky Tonk Town’. Mike (J) sang it for us (rather nicely, as well as super trumpet) and Mike (D) blowing a great ‘bone too. My next mention is ‘Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gives To Me’, with Pat giving us a turn with his vocals and can he sing this fast. Keith and I go back a long way with Pat and have always loved his vocals, playing (and whistling, when he could do it). Our turn for a line-dance comes next on my list, that being to the ‘Charleston’ – not too many of us, but doesn’t matter, because their playing was ‘fab’. Great drumming Bill.

Bill Traxler on drums and Lynn Sauders on banjo play for Lord Napier Hotshots at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th February 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Here is the front line of the Lord Napier’s Hotshots, seen playing at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent on Friday, 26th February 2016. (LtoR) Mick Scriven joins front line on bass sax, with Pat Glover on clarinet, Mike Jackson on trumpet and Mike Duckworth on trombone. Photo by Mike Witt.

Now you all know I just love a bass sax (which a long time ago, I nicknamed ‘Big Bertha’). Well my next choice of number, I noted Mick chose to play his bass sax to, which was ‘At Sundown’. What a wonderful Artie Shaw number and how fantastically played by everyone. Mick stayed on ‘Big Bertha’ with their following tune, being Bix Beiderbecke’s famed number, ‘Royal Garden Blues’. Yes, here I had given those three ‘ticks’ in my notes. Then I have to make mention to ‘Mama Inez’, a rhumba, although Steve and I probably performed a mambo – oh well! I just love the Cuban and Latin American dances.

Mick Scriven on double bass playing for the Lord Napier Hotshots at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on Friday 26th February 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Band leader Mike Jackson on trumpet and Lynn Saunders on banjo playing here for Lord Napier Hotshots at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th February 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

The next number was a feature of Lynn’s and that was ‘When The Midnight Choo Choo Leaves For Alabam’. Of course he sang it as well as playing banjo and does he excel in both. Keith and I go back a long way with Lynn too, so I just love him. I must include the next tune, ‘Dream A Little Dream Of Me’, because Mike (J) played a lovely trumpet. This song is such a beautiful song and if you go ‘on line’, you will find a recording of it by Doris Day, looking and singing possibly at her very best. Mick sang their last number, ‘Porter’s Love Song to a Chamber Maid’. Gosh another marvellous singer, aye! Such a lovely evening. Hope you all enjoyed it and hopefully we’ll see you next week.

Keep jazzin’ red hot

DIANE & KEITH

‘At Sundown’ – Walter Donaldson – (1927)

‘Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gives To Me’ – Charles McCarron, Casey Morgan & Arthur Swanstrom (1919)

‘Charleston’- (m) James Price Johnson, (l) Cecil Mack (1923)

‘Down In Honky Tonk Town’ – (m) Chris Smith, (l) Charles Mccarron (1916)

‘Dream a Little Dream Of Me’ – (m) Fabian Andre & Wilbur Shcwandt, (l) Gus Kahn (c.1931)

‘Mama Inez’ – (m) Elise O Grenet, (l) Louis Wolfe Gilbert (1931)

‘Porter’s Love Song to a Chamber Maid’ – (m) James Price Johnson, (l) Andy Razaf (1930)

‘Royal Garden Blues’ – Clarence Williams & Spencer Williams (1919) (not related)

‘When the Midnight Choo Choo Leaves for Alabam’ – Irvin Berlin (1912)

Mardi Gras JazzBand, 19th February 2016

The MARDI GRAS JAZZBAND did spread a little happiness at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on Friday, 19^th February 2016. In fact, they spread a lot! Leader/trombonist, ROB PEARCE was joined by LEIGH HENSON on trumpet &vocals, JOHN ELLMER on reeds, TIM HUSKISSON on piano, MARC EASENER on double bass & sousaphone and PAUL BAKER on drums.

Mardi Gras JazzBand play at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 19th February 2016. (LtoR) Marc Easener (d.bass &sousaphone), John Ellmer (clarinet), Paul Baker (drums), Leigh Henson (trumpet), Tim Huskisson (piano) and Rob Pearce (trombone &band leader). Photo by Mike Witt.

They began the evening with ‘Clarinet Marmalade’ and if you know how that one goes, you will know they ‘hit it’, right from the start. Oh, I do love an exciting first number. First of all, people are possibly still arriving and it is nice for them to hear excitement from outside, before they come in, they then know they ARE going to hear some pretty great jazz! Plus they are not quite ready to get on the dance floor (needing perhaps a drink – or two). But then the next number, we had two visiting dancers immediately up on the dance floor, Jane and Alan – brilliant they are too. The number was ‘Blues My Naughty Sweetie’, to which Leigh sang to (I’ve already told you in the past how great he sings). I made a quick note that Mark was on sousaphone and John on alto sax.

Leigh Henson sings and John Ellmer plays vibes with Mardi Gras JazzBand at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 19th February 2016. (LtoR) Marc Easener (sousaphone), John Ellmer (vibes), Tim Huskisson (piano), Rob Pearce (band leader) and Leigh Henson (trumpet). Photo by Mike Witt.

They played ‘Leighs Gotta Right To Sing The Blues’ next. I have to confess I’m not sure if it was announced that way, or if Leigh sang it with his own name – a bit of inner band humour I think – I never had the chance to ask, perhaps he NEARLY won the lottery. However, I jotted down that John played vibes, with Mark, again, on sousaphone – lovely stuff. ‘Stevedore Stomp’ came next, with everyone up dancing (especially Jane and Alan). I particularly noted Paul’s fabulous drumming again and I also noted – clarinet and tenor sax? Must have been John changed mid-stream, he’s so talented.

Rob Pearce, band leader of Mardi Gras JazzBand, plays trombone at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 19th February 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Now onto the next one, Rob was able to really show his trombone talent with this next number, ‘South Rampart Street’. Yes, he is terrific and that is why he has a super band to lead. John was featured next and I think he played just about everything – I noted whistle, iron and bass clarinet, plus he sang, the tune was ‘Lulu’s Back In Town’, just brilliant.

Mardi Gras JazzBand play at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 19th February 2016. (LtoR) Marc Easener (sousaphone), John Ellmer (tenor sax) and Paul Baker (drums) Photo by Mike Witt.

Marc Easener on sousaphone and Paul Baker on drums with Mardi Gras JazzBand at Farnborough Jazz Club(Kent) on 19th February 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Lovely pic of John Ellmer on tenor sax with Tim Huskisson on piano, Rob Pearce on trombone and Leigh Henson on trumpet part of the Mardi Gras JazzBand at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 19th February 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Such concentration on the face of Tim Huskisson, playing piano for the Mardi Gras JazzBand at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 19th February 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

It was Tim’s turn to excel, playing some absolutely beautiful piano notes with ‘I’m Crazy ‘Bout My Baby’. He’s another highly talented musician – being a reed player too. It makes me feel so inadequate – can’t play anything, except the fool! On with the news … It was John, who sang to this next tune, ‘Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans?’. He has a lovely voice – sounding very 1920’s/30’s/40’s and gorgeous. He also played vibes and tenor sax.

However, I need to tell you about Leigh, who was superb on trumpet. What a rendition from them all – what an ‘engine’. Oh Rob, you have a wonderful band and cannot wait for your next gig – 13th May 2016, to be precise. This was not their last number, but I don’t want to give too much away for that next gig.

Leigh Henson (trumpet) and Rob Pearce (tombone) with Mardi Gras JazzBand play at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 19th February 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

‘Engine’ of Mardi Gras JazzBand at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 19th February 2016. (LtoR) Marc Easener (sousaphone), Paul Baker (drums) and Tim Huskisson (piano). Photo by Mike Witt

Don’t forget ‘Keep jazz live’ and keep on supporting us!

Your hosts,

Diane and Keith