Mardi Gras JazzBand, 21st August 2015

MARDI GRAS JAZZBAND!  This was the band who had the tough job of following on from our two special Friday celebrations.  Well, I said they would certainly be able to fill that role and I told you that should you not believe me, then you must turn up and see/hear for yourselves.  That was Friday, 21st August 2015.  You all knew it was here at our Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent), because you did turn up.   The band’s leader, trombonist ROB PEARCE, was joined as usual, by LEIGH HENSON on trumpet &vocals, JOHN ELLMER on reeds (John played drums here last week), TIM HUSKISSON on piano, BRIAN BELL on drums and DAVE SILK on double bass &tuba.  I reminded you of the last couple of times they played for us, how you didn’t want them to end, so they were certainly back again by popular demand.  How do I tell you just how great they were, well you really should be here on nights like this.

Mardi Gras Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 21August2015. (LtoR) John Elmer on alto sax, with Leigh Henson singing and Rob Pierce on trombone Photo by Mike Witt. (LtoR) John Elmer on alto sax, with Leigh Henson singing and Rob Pierce on trombone.

Mardi Gras Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 21August2015.         (LtoR) John Ellmer on alto sax, with Leigh Henson singing and Rob Pierce    on trombone . Photo by Mike Witt.

Ok, here goes … the first number was sung by Rob and was ‘If I had You’, with John giving a touch of ‘007’ flavour to it – smashing.  Leigh sang ‘I’ve Gotta Right To Sing the Blues’ and yes – he’s got a great voice too.  My next starter for ten ‘Don’t Get Around Much Anymore’ was wonderful.  John played tenor sax and how they all excelled.

 

Mardi Gras Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 21st August 2015. (LtoR) Dave Silk on d.bass, John Elmer on alto sax, Brian Bell on drums, Leigh Henson on trumpet, Rob Pierce on trombone and (not pictured) Tim Husskison on piano. Photo by Mike Witt.

Mardi Gras Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 21st August 2015. (LtoR) Dave Silk on d.bass, John Ellmer on alto sax, Brian Bell on drums, Leigh Henson on trumpet, Rob Pierce on trombone and (not pictured)     Tim Husskison on piano.  Photo by Mike Witt.

The next number I wish to comment on was that Duke Ellington number ‘It Don’t Mean a Thing (If You Aint Got that Swing)’, was sung by Leigh.   Oh, it was just brilliant.  I had written ‘great trumpet, great bass and great drums’ – well, they were all fabulous, but I’m getting so repetitive – sorry, can’t help it!  Then we come to a Louis number, ‘Swing that Music’, oh boy, oh boy, great stuff.  We performed our line dance to my next choice ‘Some Of These Days’, a lovely samba.  Then snakes alive, Keith actually asked me to dance and he was fabulous too – ha.  The dance? To ‘Panama Rag’, wonderful.  My last mention must be ‘Frim Fram Sauce’ of Nat King Cole fame.  I don’t recall it having been played here before and just loved it (but then I am a Nat King Cole fan, big time).

Mardi Gras JazzBand at Farnborough Jazz Club on 21st August 2016. (LtoR) Leigh Henson (trumpet), Rob Pierce (trombone) and Tim Huskisson (piano). Photo by Mike Witt.

Mardi Gras JazzBand at Farnborough Jazz Club on 21st August 2016.   (LtoR) Leigh Henson (trumpet), Rob Pierce (trombone) and Tim Huskisson (piano).  Photo by Mike Witt.

Mardi Gras, we just love you and love seeing you enjoy playing together.  Bookings will be on-going, we hope.  See you back here 20th November 2015.

Diane and Keith

‘Don’t Get Around Much Anymore’ – (m) Duke Ellington, (l) Bob Russell (1942)
‘Frim Fran Sauce’ – (m) Joe Ricardel, (l) Redd Evans (1945)  (Nat King Cole hit)
‘I’ve Gotta Right To Sing the Blues’ – (m) Harold Arlen, (l) Ted Koehler (1932)
‘If I had You’ – Ted Shapiro, James Campbell & Reg Connelly (1927)
‘It Don’t Mean a Thing (If it Ain’t Got That Swing)’ – (m) Duke Ellington, (l) Irving Mills (1931)
‘Panama Rag’- Cy Seymour (1904) This version William H. Tyer (1911)
‘Some of These Days’ – Shelton Brooks (1909)
‘Swing that Music’ – Horace Gorlach & Louis Armstrong (1936)

Tony Pitt’s All Stars, Friday 14th August 2015

Oh yes, it was certainly another exciting party on FRIDAY, 14th August 2015 at our FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB with TONY PITT’S ALL STARS.  It was Keith’s second celebratory birthday ‘do’.  Last week was a practice run (and oh boy, what a practice), his birthday was actually on the glorious 12th and this Friday was booked ‘because he had made it’!  TONY (banjo), gave Keith a brilliant present by obtaining fab stars DENNY ILETT on trumpet, GRAHAM HUGHES on trombone, AL NICHOLLS on saxes, ANDY LAWRENCE on double bass and JOHN ELLMER on drums to play for him – and of course, all of us.

Tony Pitt's All Stars play for Keith's Special birthday at Farnborough Jazz Club, 14 August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Tony Pitt’s All Stars played on our second celebration for Keith’s Special birthday at the Farnborough Jazz Club, on 14 August 2015.   Photo by Mike Witt.

I said it would be a humdinger of an evening and it definitely was.  You will have to take my word for it, the evening was (just like last week), well actually, words cant describe just how terrific it was, although I will try.  Obviously, the beginning of the evening was busy for me, with so many people arriving, wanting to join in with making Keith’s party go with a swing.  A few numbers had been played before my first chosen number, ‘Blues My Naughty Sweetie’, however, what a number. I had written “fabulous”, an asterisk and two ticks (to make sure I chose the number) and had also noted Al was brilliant on soprano sax.  I also wrote “drums – Denny – oh everyone”!!!!  Then came ‘Tishamingo Blues’ (with Al using tenor).

Saxophonist All Nicholls on tenor, one of Tony Pitt's All Stars at Keith's special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club on 14th August 2015. Photo by Chrissie Nicholls.

                  “JAZZ JIANTS”                                       Al Nicholls (tenor) & Denny Ilett (trumpet) two of Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Keith’s special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club on 14th August 2015. Photo by Chrissie Nicholls.

 

Saxophonist All Nicholls on alto and trumpeter Denny Ilett, two of Tony Pitt's All Stars at Keith's special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club on 14th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

                                             “JAZZ JIANTS”                                             Al Nicholls (on soprano)  AND  Denny Ilett (trumpet), two of Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Keith’s special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club on 14th August 2015.  Photo by Mike Witt.

 

Graham Hughes (trombone), one of Tony Pitt's All Stars at Keith's special birthday at Farnborough Jazz Club, 14th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Graham Hughes (trombone), one of Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Keith’s special birthday at Farnborough Jazz Club, 14th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

The next number was ‘All of Me’ and must mention some super trombone playing  from Graham, as well as great bass from Andy. Then Denny sang ‘When You and I Were Young, Maggie’, quite a favourite, with plenty of dancing (I’m sure I caught a bit of him singing ‘Lucile’).

Denny was then featured with ‘Bad Penny Blues’, to which he performed his speciality – playing just the mouth piece (good golly miss molly – he sure is a beautiful trumpeter).  Tony was fabulous on solo banjo too.  ‘You Always Hurt The One You Love’ followed and Tony added some playing on the mouth organ – clever clogs.  Then Graham sang ‘Way Down Yonder In New Orleans’ (with Al playing soprano sax), always brilliantly played.  Next came Al, featured with ‘Lady Be Good’ Oh boy, what superb playing.  Tony really knows how to pick ‘erm aye.

Tony Pitt's All Stars (Tony on banjo) at Keith's special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club 14th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Tony Pitt’s All Stars (Tony on his hand-made banjo) at Keith’s special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club 14th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Tony then had them play his favourite number, ‘Blue Turning Grey Over You’.   I was told Tony made this fabulous banjo himself, even inlaying his name on the ‘head’ – see photo showing this (yes Chrissie, he’s not just a pretty face).   So another evening bites the dust – yes, a mind-blowingly good one too.  We were once again so overwhelmed – so many smiling faces, of course no-one wanting it to end.  Keith (and I) will always remember this birthday, that’s for sure – thanks boys (from both weeks).

Andy Laurence (d.bass) one of Tony Pitt's All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 14th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Andy Laurence (d.bass) one of Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Keith’s special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club on 14th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

 

 

Denny Ilett (trumprt) one of Tony Pitt's All Stars at Keith's special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club on 14th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Denny Ilett (trumprt) one of Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Keith’s special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club on 14th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

 

Tony Pit Pitt's All Stars (Tony-(banjo, Al Nicholls (soprano sax) and John Elmer (drums) at Farnborough JC, 14Aug2015. Photo by Mike Witt

Tony Pit Pitt’s All Stars (Tony-(banjo, Al Nicholls (soprano sax) and John Ellmer (drums) (Keith’s special birthday  at Farnborough Jazz Club, 14Aug2015. Photo by Mike Witt

 

Our Jazz Jiants - Our Jazz Jiants - Denny Ilett (trumpet) & Al Nicholls (tenor) (Keith's special birthday) at Farnborough Jazz Club, 14th August 2015. Photo by Chrissie Nicholls.

                        Our Jazz Jiants                  Denny Ilett (trumpet) & Al Nicholls (tenor) (Keith’s special birthday) at Farnborough Jazz Club, 14th August 2015.                   Photo by Chrissie Nicholls.

 

 

Tony Pitt's All Stars Crest showing Al Nicholls (tenor & soprano saxes) and Denny Ilett (trumpet (Designed & photos taken by Chrissie Nicholls at Farnborough Jazz Club 14th August 2015).

Tony Pitt’s All Stars showing Al Nicholls (tenor & soprano saxes) and Denny Ilett (trumpet) (Designed & photos taken by Chrissie Nicholls) at Farnborough Jazz Club 14th August 2015.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Al Nicholls (alto) and Denny Ilett (trumpet), two of Tony Pitt's All Stars, playing for Keith's special birthday at Farnborough Jazz Club on 14th August 2015. Photo by Chrissie Nicholls.

Al Nicholls (alto) and Denny Ilett (trumpet), two of Tony Pitt’s All Stars, playing for Keith’s special birthday at Farnborough Jazz Club on 14th August 2015. Photo by Chrissie Nicholls.

Al Nicholls (tenor sax) a star of Tony Pitt's All Stars for Keith's special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club, 14th August 2015. Photo by Chrissie Nicholls.

Al Nicholls (tenor sax) a star of Tony Pitt’s All Stars for Keith’s special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club, 14th August 2015. Photo by Chrissie Nicholls.

There are far more photos than usual, but couldn’t leave any out – too good.  However, I am requesting if any of you took some pics of Keith, I would  love to receive them please.  Plus if they are good enough, would also use on the website. with your permission – your name would be added (or not if you so prefer). Thanks.

Diane and Keith

‘All of Me’ – Gerald Marks & Seymour Simons (1931) (Ruth Etting Song)
‘Bad Penny Blues’ – Humphrey Lyttelton (1956)
‘Blues My Naughty Sweetie’ – Charles McCarron, Casey Morgan & Arthur Swanstrom (1919)
‘Blue Turning Grey Over You’ – (m) Fats Waller, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)
‘Lady Be Good’ – (m) George Gershwin, (l) Ira Gershwin (1924)
‘Tishamingo Blues’ – Spencer Williams (1917)
‘Way Down Yonder In New Orleans’ – (m) John Turner Layton Jr, (l) Henry Creamer (1922)
‘When You and I Were Young, Maggie’ – (m) J.A. Butterfield (1866) & (l) George Washington Johnson (1864)
‘You Always Hurt The One You Love’ – (m) Doris Fisher, (l) Allan Roberts (1944)

Harry Strutters Hot Seven, 7th August 2015

We promised you would have some fun with HARRY STRUTTERS HOT SEVEN who were to be our treat for Friday, 7th August 2015.  They were the first of two celebrations for Keith’s birthday and we certainly did not disappoint you, did we!   The band leader, MAURICE DENNIS (banjo/guitarist) had with him MARTIN LITTON (piano), MIKE ‘MEGS’ ETHERINGTON (trumpet/vocals), reeds), PAUL TAYLOR (trombone), ALLAN SOKELL (sousaphone) and GRAHAM COLLICOTT (drums).  At the last minute, Maurice phoned to say they were bringing a singer. As if this band was not enough, we had the beautiful and delightful young American vocalist, MARLENE HILL – wowie, she was lovely.  This was their first appearance at the FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB.  They usually play as an orchestra in theatres across the Country.  When I booked them, I had tried hard to keep it between the band, myself and my immediate family.  I had so wanted it to be a surprise for Keith, but he read the name of the band whilst I was typing an email to Maurice.  Keith is a Luddite – hates computers and doesn’t particularly have that good an eyesight – I was stunned.  As it happens, he had known Martin since he was a young m–an, playing piano just for drinks, at the Steering Wheel Club (the club Keith had run with David Capstick).  So for that reason, Keith’s eyes had picked up quickly!  Anyway, my surprise was now out of the bag.  The evening also had a couple of other birthdays, namely June’s (pictured) and Mike Witt the other, some celebrating was definitely the order of the evening.  We had asked for fancy dress 1920’s/30’s dress style and wow, you certainly made an effort and did us proud.  I should also mention the band were brilliantly dressed in style themselves (striped blazers).  I was so busy greeting everyone on arrival, plus having too good a time myself and unable to list numbers being played, but luckily, they gave me a list they might play, so I was able to make my remarks. I had chosen so many numbers to tell you about and had difficulty cutting down.  I recall their first number was ‘S’ Wonderful’, a great number to kick-start us off immediately.  I’ve skipped some fabulous songs by Marlene – Oh she was super – onto ‘The Charleston’, did our line-dance here, with so many joining in.  Then must mention ‘Jambalaya’, which was super to dance to.  One of my all-time favourites, ‘Christopher Columbus’ – mind-boggling good.  Now we come to Marlene. She was featured next with her wonderful rendition of ‘No Mans Mama’.  What a brilliant voice and she’s looks good too …spit…  Next came another line-dance (we did three!) this time to ‘Bill Bailey’.  Wow, this was powerfully sung by Marlene, what an exciting singer!  The next number was sung by ‘Megs’ (so many great singers around today) and he sang to that popular number ‘Bei Mir Bist Du Shon’, with everyone performing some brilliant solos (trumpet muted with bowler hat)  Next up was to feature super Martin on piano – who was absolutely fab-u-lous, playing ‘Dream a Little Dream’.  I have to mention ‘Mr Sandman’, because Keith actually danced with me!!!!  Well it was his birthday!  And my last choice of number is one Keith and I often harmonise to one-another (ah, how romantic) ‘It Don’t Mean a Thing (if it Aint Got That Swing)’, s’ wonderful.  Oh, and I must mention, Keith added a couple of his limited edition jazz studies to the raffle as a ‘thank you’ to complete an absolutely brilliant evening (great photos are at the end).  Thanks HARRY STRUTTERS HOT SEVEN.

Ain’t jazzers great?

Your hosts, Diane and Keith

‘Bei Mir Bist Du Shon’ – (m) Sholom Secunda, (l) Jacob Jacobs (1932). Re-written by Sammy Cahn &Saul Chaplin (1937)
‘Bill Bailey’ – Hughie Cannon (1902)
‘Christopher Columbus’ – Glen Miller, Joe Garland & Andy Razaf (1959)
‘Dream a Little Dream Of Me’ – (m) Fabian Andre & Wilbur Shcwandt, (l) Gus Kahn (c.1931)
‘It Don’t Mean a Thing (If it Ain’t Got That Swing)’ – (m) Duke Ellington, (l) Irving Mills (1931)
‘Jambalaya (On the Bayou)’ – Hank Williams (1952)
‘Mr Sandman’ – Pat Ballard (1954)
‘No Man’s Mama’ – (m) Lew Pollack, (l) Jack Yellen  (1925)
‘S’ Wonderful’ – (m) George Gershwin, (l) Ira Gershwin (1927)
‘The Charleston’ – (m) James P. Johnston, (l) Cecil Mack (1923)

 P.S  Before closing, I just need to thank ‘the two Ronnie’s’ filling in for me (Len and John that is) during my recent absence these previous weeks.  I’m told they did a fantastic job on the ‘mike’ – and having been away for three weeks, I may have lost my position on raffle duty- ha.  Also, thanks to everyone for sorting out Keith at the end (clearing up), he certainly came home full of how everyone had helped during my absence. Di xx

The 'engine' of Harry Strutters Hot Seven - Martin Litton ( piano), Leader Maurice Dennis (banjo), Graham Collicott (drums), Allan Sokell (sousaphone) for Keith's special birthday at Farnborough Jazz Club, 7th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

‘Engine’ of Harry Strutters Hot Seven – Martin Litton (piano), Maurice Dennis (banjo), Graham Collicott (drums), Allan Sokell (sousaphone) at Farnborough Jazz Club on 7th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt (his birthday too).              

Marlene Hill (vocs) with Paul Taylor (trmb), Mike ‘Megs’ Etherington (trmpt&vocs) and Tony Carter (reeds&vocs), front line of Harry Strutters Hot Seven at Farnborough Jazz Club 7th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Front line of Harry Strutters Hot Seven – Marlene Hill (vocs), Paul Taylor (trmb), Mike ‘Megs’ Etherington (trmpt&vocs) and Tony Carter (reeds&vocs), at Farnborough Jazz Club on 7th August 2015.                Photo by Mike Witt (his birthday too).

 

 

Tony Carter on clarinet with Harry Strutters Hot Seven at Keith's special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club, 7th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Tony Carter (clarinet), Harry Strutters Hot Seven for Keith’s special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club,       7th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt (his birthday too.

Harry Strutters Hot Seven at Farnborough Jazz Club 7th August 2015. (LtoR) Maurice Dennis (banjo), Marlene Hill (vocals), Paul Taylor (trombone) & Mike 'Megs' Etherington. Photo by Mike Witt.

Harry Strutters Hot Seven at Farnborough Jazz Club, 7th August 2015. (LtoR) Maurice Dennis (banjo),     Marlene Hill (vocals), Paul Taylor (trombone)  and Mike ‘Megs’ Etherington (trumpet).  Photo by Mike Witt (his birthday too.

 

 

Harry Strutters Hot Seven at Farnborough Jazz Club, Keith's special birthday party. (LtoR) Tony Carter (reeds&vocs), Martin Litton (piano), Maurice Dennis (banjo), Graham Collicott (drums) & Allan Sokell (sousaphone). 7th August 2015. Photo by Jill Alexander.

Harry Strutters Hot Seven at Farnborough Jazz Club, celebrating Keith’s special birthday party. (LtoR) Tony Carter (reeds&vocs), Martin Litton (piano), Maurice Dennis (banjo), Graham Collicott (drums) & Allan Sokell (sousaphone).          7th August 2015. Photo by Jill Alexander.

 

Graham Collicott with Harry Strutters Hot Seven at Farnborough Jazz Club at Keith's special birthday, 7th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Graham Collicott with Harry Strutters Hot Seven at Farnborough Jazz Club for Keith’s special birthday,          7th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt (his birthday too).

Allan Sokell (sousaphone) with Harry Strutters Hot Seven at Farnborough Jazz Club for Keith's special birthday, 7th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Allan Sokell (sousaphone) with Harry Strutters Hot Seven at Farnborough Jazz Club for Keith’s special birthday 7th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt (his birthday too).

 

Susan (Sandy just in view), behind are (LtoR) Geoff & Ron, (behind) Linda & Richard) at Keith's special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club with Harry Strutter's Hot Seven on 7th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Susan (Sandy just in view), behind are (LtoR) Jeff & Ron, (behind) Linda & Richard) at Keith’s special birthday, Farnborough Jazz Club with Harry Strutter’s Hot Seven on 7th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt (his birthday too)

Sandy & Len (behind them are John, Jackie, June (her birthday too) & Jeff- behind them, Trudie plus Linda) at Farnborough Jazz Club for Keith's special birthday party with Harry Strutters Hot Seven, 7th August 2015 Photo by Mike Witt (his birthday too).

Sandy & Len (behind them are John, Jackie, June (her birthday too) & Jeff- behind them, Trudie plus Linda & Richard) at Farnborough Jazz Club for Keith’s special birthday party with Harry Strutters Hot Seven, 7th August 2015 Photo by Mike Witt (his birthday too).

 

Steve & Gordon at Keith's special party, Farnborough Jazz Club with Harry Strutters Hot Seven, 7th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt (his birthday too)..

Steve & Gordon at Keith’s special party, Farnborough Jazz Club with Harry Strutters Hot Seven, 7th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt (his birthday too).

 

George Tidiman’s All Stars, 31st July 2015

GEORGE ‘KID’ TIDIMAN’S ALL STARS’ apparently played brilliantly, with lots of fun and laughter on Friday, 31st July 2015 at our FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB.  The stars with GEORGE (our ‘Kid’) were his usual line-up, namely DENNY ILETT on trumpet, TIM HUSKISSON on clarinet, ‘SOUTHEND BOB’ ALLBUT on banjo, JOHN SIRETT on double bass and BILL FINCH on drums.  I was so very disappointed, as again, I was not there and so missed all the fun (I had already missed two previous Fridays). Keith was left again to hold the fort and as expected, on his return, he told me all about the excitement I had missed (I had some unrepeatable words under my breathe, hmmm). However, Mike took some photos as usual and at least I can show you these.

Diane

 

George singing with his George 'Kid' Tidiman's All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. (LtoR) hidden Tim Huskisson (cl), John Sirett (d.bass), Denny Islett (trp), Bill Finch (drms), George 'Kid' Tidiiman (trb) & 'Southend Bob' Allbut (bnj). Photo by Mike Witt.

George ‘Kid’ Tidiman,  playing a swanee whistle, with his ‘All Stars’ at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015.   (LtoR)   hidden Tim Huskisson (cl), John Sirett (d.bass), Denny Ilett (trp), Bill Finch (drms), George ‘Kid’ Tidiiman (trb) & ‘Southend Bob’ Allbut (bnj).  Photo by Mike Witt.

 

Denny Islett (trumpet) with George 'Kid' Tidiman's All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Denny Ilett (trumpet) with George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Our George 'Kid' Tidiman plays trombone with his 'All Stars' at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Our George ‘Kid’ Tidiman plays trombone with his ‘All Stars’ at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

 

George 'Kid' Tidiman sings with his All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. Photo by MIke Witt.

George ‘Kid’ Tidiman sings with his All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. Photo by MIke Witt.

 

Tim Huskisson (clarinet), Denny Islett (trumpet) & George 'Kid' Tidiman's (trombone) with his 'All Stars' at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Tim Huskisson (clarinet), Denny Ilett (trumpet)   & George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s (trombone) with his ‘All Stars’ at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015.                 Photo by Mike Witt.

 

Bill Finch (drums) & 'Southend Bob' Allbut(banjo) with George 'Kid' Tidiman's All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Bill Finch (drums) & ‘Southend Bob’ Allbut (banjo) with George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

 

Bill Finch on drums with George 'Kid' Tidiman's All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Bill Finch on drums with George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

John Sirett (double .bass) with George 'Kid' Tidiman's All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

John Sirett (double .bass) with George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

 

‘Millennium Eagle Jazz Band’, Friday, 24th July 2015

MILLENNIUM EAGLE JAZZ BAND (from the Midlands) were back to entertainment everyone here at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on FRIDAY 24th JULY 2015.  Band leader, MATT PALMER (reed player and vocalist) had his regular band members, PETER BROWN (trumpet/cornet/valve trombone/vocals), TERRY WILLIAMS (trombone/vocals), BRIAN LAWRENCE (double bass/sousaphone), DAVID MOORWOOD (guitar/banjo) and JULYAN ‘BABY JOOLS’ ALDRIDGE (drums).  They certainly ‘brought the house down’ last time they were here, so I told you, you would surely have another exciting evening.  Well, I surely was disappointed – only because I wasn’t there!! Yes, another week I missed, so no info about the evening, save to say Keith let me know it was great.  But as last week, I can at least publish the photos Mike kindly took for us.  So again – enjoy.

Diane and Keith

Millenium Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 24th July 2015. (LtoR) Brian Lawrence (double bass),Terry Williams (tombone), Julyan 'Baby Jools' Aldride (drums), Peter Brown (trumpet), David Moorwood (banjo) and missing from picture is band leader (reeds). Photo by Mike Witt.

Millenium Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 24th July 2015. (LtoR) Brian Lawrence (double bass),Terry Williams (tombone), Julyan ‘Baby Jools’ Aldride (drums), Peter Brown (trumpet), David Moorwood (banjo) and missing from picture is band leader (reeds). Photo by Mike Witt.

Band leader Matt Palmer playing clarinet (with just in view) Dave Moorwood on banjo with Millenium Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 24h July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Band leader Matt Palmer playing clarinet (with just in view) Dave Moorwood on banjo with Millenium Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 24h July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

 

Julyan 'Baby Jools' Aldridge (drums) and Dave Moorwood (banjo) with band leader Matt Palmer (clarinet) with Millenium Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 24th July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Julyan ‘Baby Jools’ Aldridge (drums) and Dave Moorwood (banjo) with band leader Matt Palmer (clarinet) with Millenium Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 24th July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Peter Brown on trumpet, Julyan 'Baby Jools' Aldridge on drums and clarinetist Matt Palmer - band leader of Millenium Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 24th July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Peter Brown on trumpet, Julyan ‘Baby Jools’ Aldridge on drums and clarinetist Matt Palmer – band leader of Millenium Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 24th July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

 

 

Brian Lawrence on sousaphone and Terry Williams on trombone with Millenium Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 24th July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Brian Lawrence on sousaphone and Terry Williams on trombone with Millenium Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 24th July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

 

Millenium Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 24th July 2015. (LtoR) Brian Lawrence (double bass), Peter Brown (trumpet), Matt Palmer (band leader and clarinet) and Dave Moorwood (banjo). Missing from photo: Terry Williams (trombone) and Julyan 'Baby Jools' Aldridge (drums). Photo by Mike Witt.

Millenium Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 24th July 2015. (LtoR) Brian Lawrence (double bass), Peter Brown (trumpet), Matt Palmer (band leader and clarinet) and Dave Moorwood (banjo). Missing from photo: Terry Williams (trombone) and Julyan ‘Baby Jools’ Aldridge (drums). Photo by Mike Witt.

 

Golden Eagle Jazz Band, 17th July 2015

The GOLDEN EAGLE JAZZ BAND’s leader KEVIN SCOTT (tenor banjo) I’m told, played brilliantly for us on Friday, 17th July 2015 at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB (Kent),  Playing with him were MIKE SCROXTON on trumpet, ALAN CRESSWELL on clarinet, ROY STOKES on trombone & vocals, MIKE BROAD on double bass and PETE JACKMAN on drums.  We always have a laugh with Kevin and the boys, so I was so disappointed to have missed the fun.  I cannot recall ever missing an evening before, although I must have done, but it would have been years ago.  Keith returned home with all the details of the fun I had missed, some great trad’ jazz to be sure.  I cannot tell you anything they played, but at least I can publish the photos kindly taken by Mike (thanks Mike).  One of them was numbered 007, that one happened to be of John and Len with our raffle draw (Keith said they were a laugh on the ‘mike’), so must now call them both a ‘James Bond’ – ha.  Enjoy the photos.

See you soon.

Diane and Keith

Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 17th July 2015. (LtoR) Roy Stokes (trombone), Pete Jackman (drums), Mike Scroxton (trumpet), Alan Cresswell (clarinet), Mike Broad (double bass) and Kevin Scott (tenor banjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club     (Kent) on 17th July 2015. (LtoR) Roy Stokes (trombone), Pete Jackman (drums), Mike Scroxton (trumpet),          Alan Cresswell (clarinet), Mike Broad (double bass)      and Kevin Scott (tenor banjo). Photo by Mike Witt

Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 17th July 2015. (LtoR) Roy Stokes (trombone), Mike Scroxton (trumpet), Pete Jackman (drums), Alan Cresswell (clarinet), Mike Broad (double bass) and Kevin Scott (tenor banjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 17th July 2015. (LtoR) Roy Stokes (trombone),         Mike Scroxton (trumpet), Pete Jackman (drums),          Alan Cresswell (clarinet), Mike Broad (double bass)      and Kevin Scott (tenor banjo). Photo by Mike Witt

 

John and Len (our two James Bonds) handled the raffle in Diane's absence on the evening of the Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 17th July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

John and Len (our two James Bonds) handled  raffle in Diane’s absence on the evening of the Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 17th July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 17th July 2015. (LtoR) Roy Stokes (trombone), Pete Jackman (drums), Mike Scroxton (trumpet), Alan Cresswell (clarinet), Mike Broad (double bass) and Kevin Scott (tenor banjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club          on 17th July 2015. (LtoR) Roy Stokes (trombone),         Pete Jackman (drums), Mike Scroxton (trumpet),          Alan Cresswell (clarinet), Mike Broad (double bass)      and Kevin Scott (tenor banjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

 

 

 

Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 17th July 2015. (LtoR) Roy Stokes (trombone), Pete Jackman (drums), Mike Scroxton (trumpet), Alan Cresswell (clarinet), Mike Broad (double bass) and Kevin Scott (tenor banjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

Golden Eagle Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club          on 17th July 2015. (LtoR) Roy Stokes (trombone),         Pete Jackman (drums), Mike Scroxton (trumpet),          Alan Cresswell (clarinet), Mike Broad (double bass)     and Kevin Scott (tenor banjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

‘Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces’, 10th July 2015

‘BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES’ was at the Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent (BR6 7BA), On Friday, 10th 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 (1st 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 Stewart (banjo & guitar)& pianist Chris Newman. Photo by Mike Witt.

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 - 10Jul2016

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 10Jul2015

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.

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 10Jul2015.

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 10Jul2015

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

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band, Friday, 3rd July 2015

Never a boring moment with ‘LAURIE CHESCOE’S REUNION BAND’, they always entertain us with some great choices of songs. Friday, 3rd July 2015 was no exception here at the FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB.  The musicians with drummer LAURIE, were ALLAN (‘Lord Arsenal’) BRADLEY on trumpet, piano & vocals, JOHN LEE on reeds,COLIN BRAY on piano & sax, JIM DOUGLAS on banjo & guitar and PETER SKIVINGTON on bass guitar & bass ukulele. JACKIE FREE was on trombone, who kindly stepped in at the last minute, for Mike Pointon.  I think it is the first time Jackie has played here and what a super player he is.  Aren’t you lucky to find a club like this, so you can always enjoy listening to the best of traditional jazz, plus enjoy dancing too.

Another great picture of smiling Laurie Chescoe with his Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 3rd July2015 (John Lee bottom right). Photo by Mike Witt.

Another great picture of smiling Laurie Chescoe with his Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 3rd July2015 (John Lee bottom right). Photo by Mike Witt.

Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough JC 3jul2015. (LtoR) Jim Douglas (guitar), Jackie Free (trmb), Alan (‘Lord Arsenal’) Bradley (trmp) and John Lee (tenor sax). Photo by Mike Witt.

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 3rd July 2015. (LtoR) Jim Douglas (guitar), Jackie Free (trmb), Allan (‘Lord Arsenal’) Bradley (trmp) and John Lee (tenor sax). Photo by Mike Witt.

They began with a pretty great up-tempo number, ‘Chicago (That Toddlin’ Town)’, with Jackie singing (sorry to gush, but he is also a marvellous singer), not forgetting Laurie’s wonderful drumming and with his infectious smile too.  I am usually busy at the start, but managed to have a dance straight off.  We knew we were in for some fun, for sure.  They featured Jackie in the next number, ‘Here’s That Rainy Day’, really lovely.

The mood changed for the next number, with Allan singing ‘I Scream, You Scream Ice Cream, jointly sung by audience and obviously such fun, that number.   What an ‘engine’ too.

Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 3rd july 2015. (LtoR) Colin Bray (piano&alto sax) Jackie Free (trmb), (hidden) Jim Douglas (bnjo&guitar), Laurie Chescoe (drms), Alan (‘Lord Arsenal’) Bradley (trmpt &piano),Peter Skivington (bass guitar/bass Ukelele), John Lee (clnt/tenor sax). Photo by Mike Witt.3jul2015

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, on 3rd july 2015. (LtoR) Colin Bray (piano &alto sax) Jackie Free (tromb), (hidden) Jim Douglas (bnjo&guitar), Laurie Chescoe (drums), Allan (‘Lord Arsenal’) Bradley (trumpet &piano), Peter Skivington (bass guitar/bass ukelele), John Lee (clnt/tenor sax). Photo by Mike Witt.

Colin Bray (pianist) plays alto sax with Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 3rd July 2015. Photo by Krystof Jelinek (from the Czech Republic)

Colin Bray (pianist) plays alto sax with Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 3rd July 2015. Photo by Krystof Jelinek (from the Czech Republic)

Next, Colin left the piano and played alto sax to ‘Roses of Picardy’, with Allan taking over on piano (Oh the talent that is around!).  As per usual, Colin came out with a joke, in his usual extremely dry humoured wit.  No, I won’t tell you what the joke was – I’ll leave that to Colin, for his next audience. [Just a little added info for you, it was recorded for the soundtrack of ‘Downton Abbey].

Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club 3 July 2015. What an 'engine' aye? (LtoR) Colin Bray (Piano), Jim Douglas (bnjo)), Laurie Chescoe (drms) and Pete Skivington (bass ukulele). Photo by Mike Witt.

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 3rd July 2015. What an ‘engine’ aye?(LtoR) Colin Bray (Piano), Jim Douglas (banjo)),       Laurie Chescoe (drums) and Pete Skivington (bass ukulele). Photo by Mike Witt.

Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 3rd July 2015. Colin Bray plays wonderful piano, with Jim Douglas accompanying him on guitar. Photo by Mike Witt.

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 3rd July 2015. Colin Bray plays wonderful piano, with Jim Douglas accompanying him on guitar. Photo by Mike Witt.

Peter Skivington (bass ukulele) and John Lee (tenor sax) playing with Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 3rd July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Peter Skivington (bass ukulele) and John Lee (tenor sax) playing with Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 3rd July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

John was featured next on tenor sax, with Pete playing bass Ukulele. They played Al Johnson’s ‘Avalon’.  What a fabulous sax player he is.  I must mention John again, when they played ‘Basin Street’ his clarinet was especially good.

ohn Lee on clarinet with Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 3rd July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

John Lee on clarinet with Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 3rd July 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

‘(Fall In Love) Says My Heart’ was a number we danced our line-dance to, fabulous (a Fox Trot actually).  Then I recall Jim’s solo with ‘Body & Soul’.  He really is a star.  Well they all are, especially when Allan sang ‘Sunshine & Showers’.  What a lovely job he also makes of singing.

Krystof Jelinek (from the Czech Republic) plays Straus for us (whilst Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Jazz Band took a break) at Farnborough Jazz Club (here in England) on 3rd July 2015. Photo by Jana (also from the Czech Republic).

Krystof Jelinek (from the Czech Republic) plays Straus for us (whilst Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Jazz Band took a break) at Farnborough Jazz Club (here in England) on 3rd July 2015. Photo by Jana (also from the Czech Republic).

A friend of mine (Patricia) brought a lovely young couple, Jana and Krystof Jelinek to the club.  They were visiting her from the Czech Republic.  Jana is an interpreter for N.A.T.O. and Krystof is a music teacher.  He plays piano brilliantly, especially Straus, his favourite composer.  Colin kindly allowed the use of his piano, so Krystof was able to play some Straus for us, during our first interval.  His first piece was ‘Voices of Spring’ and the second was ‘Morning Papers’.  How beautifully he played and was such a delightful change.  Thank you Krystof.  I believe they are planning to make a return visit to England next year, so hopefully he will again give us a treat.

Diane & Keith Grant, promoters of Farnborough Jazz Club,Kent, UK, 3rd July 2015 with Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Jazz Band. Photo by Krystof Jelinek (from the Czech Republic).

Diane & Keith Grant, promoters of Farnborough Jazz Club,Kent, UK, 3rd July 2015 with Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Jazz Band. Photo by Krystof Jelinek (from the Czech Republic).

 

 

Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 3rd July 2015. Seen here - Janu (from the Czech Republic) and Patricia(right). Photo by Krystof Jelinek (also from the Czech Republic)

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 3rd July 2015. Seen here – Janu (from the Czech Republic) and Patricia (right). Photo by Krystof Jelinek (also from the Czech Republic)

 

 

Your hosts, Diane & Keith

‘Aint Misbehaving – (m) Thomas ‘Fats’ Waller & Harry Brooks, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)
‘Avalon’ – (m&l) Al Jolson, Vincent Rose & Buddy DeSylva (1920)
‘Body & Soul’ – (m) Johnny Green, (l) Edward Heyman, Robert Sour & Frank Eyton (1930)
‘Chicago (That Toddlin’ Town)’ – Fred Fisher (1922)
‘Here’s That Rainy Day’ – (m) Jimmy Van Heusen, (l) Johnny Burke (1953)
‘I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream’ – Howard Johnson, Billy Moll & Robert King (1927)
‘Roses of Picardy’ – (m) Haydn Wood, (l) Frederick Weatherly (1916)
‘Says My heart’ – (m) Burton Lane, (l) Frank Loesser (1930)
‘The Clouds Will Soon Roll By’ – Harry Woods & George Brown (1932)
‘Voices of Spring’ (Op.410) (1882) and ‘Morning Papers’ Op.279 (1862) both by Johann Strauss II

Yerba Buena Celebration Jazz Band, 26th June 2015

“Sweet, sweet jazz, all night long, that was what we heard from the amazing ‘YERBA BUENA CELEBRATION JAZZ BAND’. I don’t think there was a moment when the place wasn’t buzzing. Every number they played was fabulous and with dancers galore out on the floor, everyone enjoying the fabulous tempos. Probably my most memorable number was that great tune, ‘Ring Dem Bells’ (composed by Duke Ellington in 1930)”. These were my words describing the night they played for us on 20th May 2011 – my write-up for their next visit on 7th October 2011, has unfortunately been trapped in a ‘frozen’ computer.

I thought the above write-up would impress you enough, to encourage many of you to turn up for our Friday, 26th June 2015 evening and enjoy their talents again at Farnborough Jazz Club. The musicians were DAVE RANCE – band leader, vocals &1st trumpet, MIKE BARRY – vocals &2nd trumpet, GOFF DUBBER – clarinet, GRAHAM WISEMAN – trombone, HUGH CROZIER – piano, PETE LAY – drums, JOHN ARTHY – tuba and NICK SINGER – banjo.

At last, I have found my notes, so can give you a résumé of their evening to go with the photos published earlier.  I recall I had missed what was first played (with people arriving), but jotted down second number being ‘Fidgety Feet’, a lively number, no-one can deny.  They certainly gave it all they had got and then some, with those perfectly timed breaks, wonderful.  I’m sure their next tune allowed them to get a breather, with Mike singing ‘River Stay Away From My Door’, a lovely slower number.  Then came their spectacular party piece – ‘Chimes Blues’, fantastic!  I recall Hugh playing a lovely rendition of bells, all just brilliant.  I’ve chosen to include ‘Big Bear Stomp’ as it was such a jaunty number.  I thought it had an American Indian flavour (some think it sounds Russian), anyway, good fun.  ‘Johnson Rag’ seems to be quite a jazz favourite, so am including it here.  They certainly made it sound almost like a full orchestra – with eight of them.  Lovely to dance to, which we certainly did.  Then we had the pleasure of Graham’s lovely singing with ‘Dreaming The Hours Away’.   Then came along that fabulous ragtime number ‘Smokey Mokes’ You may have to look it up on You Tube, to remind yourself which one it is, but I promise you will know it well.  What an incredible eccentric the following song was composed in memory of.  I just have to tell you.  He was an Englishman, named Joshua Norton from the 19th century.  He received quite a decent inheritance from his parents, decided to immigrate to America and became a citizen of San Francisco. He made an even bigger fortune, lost it and then disappeared.  He returned to the scene and proclaimed himself Emperor of America.  He made some bequeaths in the mid-1850’s, one being for a bridge and a tunnel to be made across the bay!  This came to fruition and was built in 1930’s, namely the San Francisco & Oakland Bridge (incidentally the Yerba Bueno Island now has a tunnel between two of its spans!)  There is currently a campaign to have the bridge re-named the Emperor Norton Bridge.  The song was ‘Emperor Norton’s Hunch’, played as fantastic as this man must surely have been, even though he was an eccentric….  Continuing, we enjoyed a ‘line-dance’ bit of fun with ‘Copenhagen’, I could hear Louis, Mike, and so you certainly must have played it well.  I hope you musicians don’t get too embarrassed with our leaping about in front of you, but sorry, we just love it.  ‘San Francisco Bay Blues’ is my last choice to mention, it was a number played by Lu Watters, so they love to play it as well and I’m sure chosen because of the ‘Emperor Norton Hunch’ flavour. Lovely stuff. Sorry you waited for this write-up, hope you enjoyed my little bit of extra info.  We all certainly enjoyed the band.  Hope to have them back soon. (Photos are below.)

Diane & Keith

‘Big Bear Stomp’ – Lucius ‘Lu’ Waters (1944)
‘Chimes Blues’ – Joe ‘King’ Oliver (1923) (one of the first jazz compositions issued in sheet music by Melrose Brothers Music Company in Chicago)
‘Copenhagen’ – (m) Charlie Davis, (l) Walter Melrose (1924) (foxtrot)
‘Dreaming The Hours Away’ – Will E. Dulmage (1927)
‘Emperor Norton’s Hunch’ – Lu Watters (1944)
‘Fidgety Feet’ – Nick LaRocca & Larry Shields (1919)
‘Johnson Rag’ – (m) Guy Hall, (l) Henry Kleikauf (1917) & updated Jack Lawrence (1940)
‘River Stay Away From My Door’ – Mort Dixon & Harry Woods (1931)
‘San Francisco Bay Blues’ – Jesse Fuller (1954)
‘Smoky Mokes’ – Abe Holzmann (1899)

 

 

Yerba Buena Celebration Jazz Band seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th June 2016. (LtoR) Hugh Crozier (piano), Goff Dubber (clarinet), Mike Barry (2nd trumpet &vocals), Dave Rance (1st trumpet &vocals), Pete Lay (drums), Graham Wiseman (trombone), John Arthy (tuba) and Nick Singer (banjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

Yerba Buena Celebration Jazz Band seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th June 2016. (LtoR) Hugh Crozier (piano), Goff Dubber (clarinet), Mike Barry (2nd trumpet &vocals), Dave Rance (1st trumpet &vocals), Pete Lay (drums), Graham Wiseman (trombone), John Arthy (tuba) and Nick Singer (banjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

 

Yerba Beuna Celebration JBYerba Buena Celebration Jazz Band seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th June 2016. (LtoR) Hugh Crozier (piano), Goff Dubber (clarinet), Pete Lay (drums), Mike Barry (2nd trumpet &vocals), Dave Rance (1st trumpet &vocals). Nick Singe (banjo), Graham Wiseman (trombone) and John Arthy (tuba). Photo by Mike Witt.

Yerba Beuna Celebration JBYerba Buena Celebration Jazz Band seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th June 2016. (LtoR) Hugh Crozier (piano), Goff Dubber (clarinet), Pete Lay (drums), Mike Barry (2nd trumpet &vocals), Dave Rance (1st trumpet &vocals). Nick Singe (banjo), Graham Wiseman (trombone) and John Arthy (tuba). Photo by Mike Witt.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Graham Wiseman (trombone) and John Arthy (tuba), just two of the eight musicians in the 'Yerba Buena Celebration Jazz Band' seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th June 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Graham Wiseman (trombone) and John Arthy (tuba), just two of the eight musicians in the ‘Yerba Buena Celebration Jazz Band’ seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th June 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Yerba Buena Celebration Jazz Band seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th June 2016. (front row LtoR) Hugh Crozier (piano), Pete Lay (drums) and Nick Singer (banjo). (Back row, LtoR) Goff Dubber (clarinet),Mike Barry (2nd trumpet &vocals), Dave Rance (1st trumpet &vocals), Graham Wiseman (trombone) and John Arthy (tuba). Photo by Mike Witt.

Yerba Buena Celebration Jazz Band seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th June 2016. (front row LtoR) Hugh Crozier (piano), Pete Lay (drums) and Nick Singer (banjo). (Back row, LtoR) Goff Dubber (clarinet),Mike Barry (2nd trumpet &vocals), Dave Rance (1st trumpet &vocals), Graham Wiseman (trombone) and John Arthy (tuba). Photo by Mike Witt.

 

Yerba Buena Celebration Jazz Band seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th June 2016. (LtoR) Dave Rance (band leader, 1st trumpet &vocals), Graham Wiseman (trombone), John Arthy (tuba) (front) Pete Lay (drums) and Nick Singer (banjo). (also pictured - wives Barbara Barry, Heather Lay and Sue Wiseman). Photo by Mike Witt.

Yerba Buena Celebration Jazz Band seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th June 2016. (LtoR) Dave Rance (band leader, 1st trumpet &vocals), Graham Wiseman (trombone), John Arthy (tuba) (front) Pete Lay (drums) and Nick Singer (banjo). (also pictured – wives Barbara Barry, Heather Lay and Sue Wiseman). Photo by Mike Witt.

Band leader Dave Rance (1st trumpet &vocals), plus Pete Lay (drums), Graham Wiseman (trombone),Graham Wiseman (trombone), John Arthy (hidden by his heavy tuba) and Nick Singer (banjo), 5 of the 8 musicians in the 'Yerba Buena Celebration Jazz Band' seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th June 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

Band leader Dave Rance (1st trumpet &vocals), plus Pete Lay (drums), Graham Wiseman (trombone),Graham Wiseman (trombone), John Arthy (hidden by his heavy tuba) and Nick Singer (banjo), 5 of the 8 musicians in the ‘Yerba Buena Celebration Jazz Band’ seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 26th June 2016. Photo by Mike Witt.

 

Barry Palser’s Super Six, 19th June 2015

We were thrilled to bring you BARRY PALSER’S SUPER SIX for your enjoyment at Farnborough Jazz Club (BR6 7BB) on Friday, 19th June 2015!  BARRY (trombone&vocls) had booked ALLAN (Lord Arsenal) BRADLEY (trumpet/vocals), TIM HUSKISSON (clarinet), TONY PITT (banjo), HARVEY WESTON (d.bass) and JOHN TYSON (drums).

Barry Palser's Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent (Barry, trombone, Allan 'Lord Arsenal' Bradley,trumpet, Tim Huskisson, reeds, Tony Pitt, banjo, Harvey Western, d.bass & John Tyson) 19June2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Barry Palser’s Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent (Barry, trombone, Allan ‘Lord Arsenal’ Bradley,trumpet, Tim Huskisson, reeds, Tony Pitt, banjo, Harvey Western, d.bass & John Tyson) 19June2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

I said they would be lovely jubbly and I wasn’t wrong. They began the evening with Hoagy Carmichael’s ‘Darktown Strutters Ball’, what a ‘hot’ starter for ten. Followed on with Scott Joplin’s ‘Ole Miss Rag’, (referring to the Mississippi River and brilliantly played without a piano), then ‘Aint Misbehaving’, another terrific one, with plenty of dancing by everyone showing their appreciation. We knew you were in for some excitement. We certainly enjoyed our line-dance, sorry I didn’t manage to write the tune down, because I was having so much fun.

‘His Lordship’ sang the next number, ‘Back in Your Old Back Yard’ in his usual super brilliance. I remember they all put different hats on, when they played ‘Exactly Like You’, for a little fun and then Barry sang a Tommy Dorsey hit, ‘Music, Maestro, Please’. Now there’s a nice romantic one to dance to.

Tim Huskisson, reeds, one of Barry Palser's Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 19June2015

Tim Huskisson, reeds, one of Barry Palser’s Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 19June2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Allan 'Lord Arsenal' Bradley, trumpeter, one of Barry Palser's Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 19jun2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Allan ‘Lord Arsenal’ Bradley, trumpeter, one of Barry Palser’s Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 19jun2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Of course I just loved the next number, being Tim’s special, ‘Running Wild’ – I loved Marilyn Monroe singing it, (I’m sure you male species loved her performing it in the film, ‘Some Like It Hot’ aye?), although Django Reinhardt’s version is a knock-out one too).

Harvey Western (d.bass), one of Barry Palser's Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 19jun2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Harvey Western (d.bass), one of Barry Palser’s Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 19jun2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Tony Pitt,(banjo) & John Tyson (drums),, two of Barry Palser's Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 19June2015, Photo by Mike Witt.

Tony Pitt,(banjo) & John Tyson (drums),, two of Barry Palser’s Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 19June2015, Photo by Mike Witt.

 

 

 

 

Glowing drummer John Tyson, one of Barry Palser's Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 19June2015

Glowing drummer John Tyson, one of Barry Palser’s Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 19th June 2015. Photo By Mike Witt.

I have to say they all played their socks off the whole evening, but I must give special mention to the drum solo by John (with his wonderful iridescent drum sticks too!) with ‘Everybody Loves My Baby’, fantastic.

Glowing drummer John Tyson, one of Barry Palser's Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 19June2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

3. Glowing drummer John Tyson, one of Barry Palser’s Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 19June2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

21.Glowing drummer John Tyson, one of Barry Palser's Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 19June2015

2. Glowing drummer John Tyson, one of Barry Palser’s Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 19June2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

 

Barry Palser's Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 19jun2015

Barry Palser’s Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, 19jun2015.                               Photo by Mike Witt

Barry sung the last number ‘Deed I Do’ to complete another wonderful evening of jazz, sending us all home on a high and all looking forward to their next date here on 11th September 2016.

Diane and Keith

‘Aint Misbehaving’ – (m) Fats Waller, Harry Brooks, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)
‘Back In Your Old Back Yard’ – (m&l) Al Jolson, Dave Dreyer & Billy Rose (1927)
‘Deed I Do’ – W. Hirsch & F. Rose (1926)
‘Darktown Strutters Ball’ – Hoagy Carmichael (1917)
‘Everybody Loves My Baby’ – (m) Spencer Williams, (l) Jack Palmer (1924)
‘Exactly Like You’ – Jimmy McHugh, (l) Dorothy Fields (1930)
‘Music Maestro Please’ – (m) Allie Wrubel, (l) Herb Magidson (1938)
‘Ole Miss Rag’ – W.C. Hanley (1916)
‘Running Wild’ – (m) A. Harrington Gibbs, (l) Joe Grey & Leo Woods (1922)