Mike Barry’s Uptown Gang, 28th November 2014

With MIKE BARRY’S UPTOWN GANG at Farnborough Jazz Club on Friday, 28th November 2014, we had another happy evening. I said last week, they are a very entertaining and relaxed band, with such lovely choices of music to set the dancers going. They didn’t let us down. They looked good, they were so professional and again everyone had smiles of enjoyment on their ‘boat races’.

MIKE BARRY'S UPTOWN BAND seen her at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 28th November 2014. LtoR: MIKE BARRY (leader, trumpeter (& vocals), BRIAN WHITE (clarinet), ‘WHISPERING’ MICK HOLT (trombone& vocals), TREFOR WILLIAM (d.bass), JOHN STEWART (banjo) and GRAHAM COLLICOTT (drums). Photo by Mike Witt

MIKE BARRY’S UPTOWN GANG seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 28th November 2014.  MIKE BARRY (leader, trumpeter,  vocals), BRIAN WHITE (clarinet), ‘WHISPERING’ MICK HOLT (trombone& vocals), TREFOR WILLIAMS (d.bass), JOHN STUART (banjo) and GRAHAM COLLICOTT (drums). Photo by Mike Witt

MIKE BARRY (leader, trumpeter & vocals) had booked BRIAN WHITE on clarinet, ‘WHISPERING’ MICK HOLT on trombone & vocals, TREFOR WILLIAMS on bass, JOHN STUART on banjo and GRAHAM COLLICOTT on drums. A lovely line-up. They began the evening with ‘River, Stay ‘Way From My Door’ and was sung by Mike, a number recorded by Frank Sinatra, which I loved. Oh yes Mike, don’t worry, I loved you singing it too, ha. They carried on with a foxtrot number ‘I’ve Found A New Baby’, with all of them performing fabulous solos.

 

MIKE BARRY (trumpeter & vocalist) with his Mike Barry's Uptown Gang seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 28th November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

MIKE BARRY (trumpeter & vocalist) with his Mike Barry’s Uptown Gang seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 28th November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

 

 

 

TREFOR WILLIAMS (d,bass) with MIKE BARRY'S UPTOWN BAND seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 28th November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

TREFOR WILLIAMS (d,bass) with MIKE BARRY’S UPTOWN GANG seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 28th November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JOHN STEWART on banjo with MIKE BARRY'S UPTOWN GANG at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 28th November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

JOHN STUART (banjo) with MIKE BARRY’S UPTOWN GANG at  Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK        on 28th November 2014.                Photo by Mike Witt.

GRAHAM COLICOTT (drums) with MIKE BARRY'S UPTOWN BAND seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 28th November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

GRAHAM COLLICOTT (drums) with MIKE BARRY’S UPTOWN GANG seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 28th November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Next came ‘Panama Rag’ famously recorded by the three ‘Bs’ – Barber, Ball and Bilk. This was followed on with ‘Whispering’ Mike who sang, ‘It’s Only A Paper Moon’ (both Ella and Nat had hits with it). Then Brian, who also has a super jazz voice, sang ‘Buddy Bolden’s Blues (Funky Butt)’ (remember Hugh Laurie sang it?). After a break, they played a lovely fun number called ‘The Yama Yama Man’. I could be wrong, but I don’t recall it being played here before, (I wonder if it influenced the writing of ‘The Yawning Man’ from Tom Thumb? I must show my granddaughter that one). Anyway, it was a Broadway number from a Show ‘The Three Twins’ (an odd title). Again, another number I don’t think has been played for us before, being a Sidney Bechet hit number ‘Blues in Thirds (Caution Blues)’. I loved it.  Of course I just love to hear ‘Whispering’ Mike sing and act the Bing Crosby hit song ‘Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams’, what a star. He then harmonized with Mike, to ‘Down By the Riverside (Study War No More)’, which ended another truly enjoyable evening and can tell you one for your diaries, they will be back on 13th February 2015.

Cheers as always, Diane and Keith.

‘Blues in Thirds (Caution Blues)’ – Earl Hines (1928)
‘Buddy Bolden’s Blues (Funky Butt)’ – (m) Buddy Bolden (pre 1900?), (l) Jelly Roll Morton (1905?)
‘Down By the Riverside (Study War No More)’ – traditional/Gospel song first published 1918
‘I’ve Found A New Baby’ – Jack Palmer & Spencer Williams (1926)
‘It’s Only A Paper Moon’ – Harold Arlen, (l) Yip Harburg & Billy Rose (1933)
‘Panama Rag’ –   Charles Seymour (1904)
‘River, Stay ‘Way From My Door’ (m) Harry Woods, (l) Morton Dixon (1931)
‘The Yama Yama Man’ – (m) Karl Hoschna, (l) Colin Davies (1908)
‘Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams’ – (m) Harry Barris, (l) Ted Koehla & Billy Moll (1931)

Tony Pitt’s All Stars, Friday 21st November 2014

 TONY PITT’S ALL STARS at the FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on 21st NOVEMBER 2014 was quite mediocre! Am I kidding? OF COURSE I AM! SPECTACULAR, UNBELIEVABLE, OUTSTANDING – LOST FOR WORDS!  Tony had booked another superb treat for us with none-other-than ROY WILLIAMS on trombone, DENNY ILETT on trumpet, AL NICHOLS on soprano and tenor saxes, TREVOR EVANS on double bass, JOHN ELLMER on drums and of course TONY himself, ‘solid as a rock’ on banjo.

Tony Pitt's All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 21st November 2014.(ltoR) Roy Williams (trmb), Denny Islett (trmp), (out of sight Trevor Evans (bass), Al Nichols (rds), John Elmer (drms) & Tony Pitt (bnj) Photo by Mike Witt.

Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 21st November 2014.  With (ltoR) Roy Williams (trmb), Denny Ilett (trmp), (out of sight Trevor Evans (bass),        Al Nichols (rds), John Ellmer (drms) & Tony Pitt (bnj). Photo by Mike Witt.

Tony Pitt's All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 21st November 2014 - with Tony pictured. Photo by Mike Witt.

Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 21st November 2014 – with Tony pictured. Photo by Mike Witt.

How can I explain that I am not exaggerating either? Whatever I write will not give you the full picture, you had to be there.  A great audience, with such smiling faces, enjoying this wonderful array of top notch musicians. What is so lovely, is the fact they were all unassuming and with none trying to hog the limelight.

Roy Williams (trmb) and Trevor Evans (bass) with Tony Pitt's All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 21st November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Roy Williams (trmb) and Trevor Evans (bass). two of  Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK  on 21st November 2014.    Photo by Mike Witt.

Denny Islett (trmp) with Tony Pitt's All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 21st November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Denny Ilett (trumpet),                      one of Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK       on 21st November 2014.               Photo by Mike Witt.

Al Nichols (reeds) with Tony Pitt's All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 21st November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Al Nichols (reeds),                              one of Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 21st November 2014.                       Photo by Mike Witt.

 

I think I might upset other bands if I go on anymore, so will just tell you what tunes they played. They began with a Jimmy Rogers number ‘Travellin’ Blues’, great one to start.  The next number, ‘Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gives To Me’, I had written down ‘great solo from Al on soprano sax’, but then continued to write ‘oh wowie, great solo from all of them’.

Our linedancers (Di on far right) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, with Tony Pitt's All Stars on 21st November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Our line-dancers (Di on far right) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, with Tony Pitt’s All Stars on 21st November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

When I Grow Too Old To Dream’ had six of us performing our line-dance. Mike took a photo and I now realise I just have to diet (gulp), but it is Gordon’s fault being ill – not enough dances – thank goodness for Steve. Then what about ‘Basin Street’ – they ‘stormed’ it. The front line were spectacular, being supported brilliantly by the engine ‘boys’ (Al was on tenor). But then they finished the section in the same spirit with ‘South Rampart Street Parade’ – John performed a brilliant drum solo. They changed the mood with Denny singing the next number, ‘You Always Hurt the One You Love’, lovely number. With Tony having introduced the ‘South Rampart St’ number as ‘Bourbon Street Parade’, they decided to play it. Obviously, the audience gave him some stick – ha. I noted Al played soprano sax when they played ‘Indianna (Back Home In)’ and then Denny sang ‘Just a Gigolow’, yet another great jazz voice. Everyone was begging for ‘more’, with no-one leaving the dance floor. So they played on for us, with ‘Everybody Loves My Baby’, which was just wonderful (I think there was an interjection of ‘Mood Indigo’).

John Elmer (drums), one of Tony Pitt's All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 21st November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

John Ellmer (drums), one of Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 21st November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

It resulted with them playing well over time and I’m sure it was because they were enjoying themselves just as much as we were listening to them. Another fabulous evening and such a ‘high’ to go home on. By the way, you might wonder why I list composers. I just feel without them, we would not be enjoying our Fridays, so we should not forget them (read on google about Shelly Lee Alley www.shellyleealley.com – very interesting man). We might not have met these composers, but fantastic to meet the musicians who play for us ‘live’! Keep supporting us to enjoy this moment in time. Plus we have more for you to enjoy next Friday too, with Mike Barry’s Uptown Gang.

Di and Keith

‘Basin Street Blues’ – Spencer Williams (1926)
‘Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gives to Me’ – Charles McCarron, Casey Morgan & Arthur Swanstrom (1919)
‘Bourbon Street Parade’ – Paul Barbarin (c. 1953)
‘Everybody Loves My Baby’ – (m) Spencer Williams, (l) Jack Palmer (1924)
‘Indiana (Back Home In)’ – (m) James F. Hanley, Ballard Macdonald (1917)
‘Just a Gigolo’ – Irving Caecar (1929) [adapted from ‘Schőner Gigolo, Armer Gigolo – (m) Leonello Casucci, (l) Julius Brammer (1928)
‘Mood Indigo’ – (m) Duke Ellington&Barney Biggard, (l) Irving Mills (1930)
‘South Rampart Street Parade’ – (m) Ray Bauduc & Bobby Haggart (1938), (l) Steve Allen (circa 1950)
‘Travellin’ Blues’ – Jimmy Rogers & Shelly Lee Alley (1931)
‘When I grow too Old to Dream’ – (m) Sigmund Romberg, (l) Oscar Hammerstein II (1934)

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band, Friday, 14th November 2014

‘LAURIE CHESCOE’S REUNION BAND’ certainly did excite us BIG TIME, on Friday, 14th November 2014 at the FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB.

Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 14th November 2014. With Laurie (drm, ALAN (‘Lord Arsenal’) BRADLEY (trp/p/voc), JOHN LEE (rds), MIKE POINTON (trb/voc), COLIN BRAY (p/sop-sax/xylo), JIM DOUGLAS (bj/gtr) & PETER SKIVINGTON (b-gtr/b-uke). Photo by Mike Witt.

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 14th November 2014. With Laurie (drm, ALLAN (‘Lord Arsenal’) BRADLEY (trp/p/voc), JOHN LEE (rds), MIKE POINTON (trb/voc), COLIN BRAY (p/sop-sax/xylo), JIM DOUGLAS (bj/gtr) & PETER SKIVINGTON (b-gtr/b-uke). Photo by Mike Witt.

Drummer and leader, Laurie had again reunited those fantastic musicians, ALLAN (‘Lord Arsenal’) BRADLEY on trumpet, piano & vocals, JOHN LEE on reeds, MIKE POINTON on trombone & vocals, COLIN BRAY on piano, curly soprano sax, ironing board & xylophone, JIM DOUGLAS on banjo & guitar and PETER SKIVINGTON on bass guitar & bass ukulele. Oh you bet, another fun evening is an understatement, because they were just. Everyone just gushed with telling Keith and I, just how much they loved the evening. They began appropriately for this week, dedicating their first number ‘Rosetta’ to the Rosetta Space Mission (super to think of doing it (see below). Next came a ‘Fats’ Waller number ‘Ain’t Misbehavin’, sung by Mike. I remember Allan’s solo, he interjected with a snippet of two other songs, a Hoagy one – ‘ Two Sleepy People’, plus a little of Rogers and Hart’s tune from the 1940’s show ‘Pal Joey’ – ‘Bewitched Bother and Bewildered’, what a star he is.

John Lee on tenor sax with Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK. Photo by Mike Witt.

John Lee on tenor sax with Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK on 14th November 2014.  Photo by Mike Witt.

Talking of stars, one of our favourite tenor sax players, John was featured with Django Reinhardt’s ‘Swing 42’.  He played it in his smooth Ben Webster style –  Just so beautifully.

Lovely picture of Laurie on drums, with Mike Pointon on trombone and Colin Bray on curley soprano sax in Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 14th November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Lovely picture of Laurie on drums, with Mike Pointon on trombone and Colin Bray on curley soprano sax in Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 14th November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Then we come to Colin! Oh what a man. He is fabulous. He came up to the front with his soprano sax and played ‘Avalon’ (with Allan on piano). He not only played it fantastically, he performed it the same, with legs akimbo (see photo) and even at one point, with one arm behind his back!!!! So entertaining (including his intro’ – sort of Jack Benny style).   Follow that, they did, dedicating their next number to one of our regular visitors ‘Brown Owl Pete’, with ‘I’m Nobody’s Baby’. Pete was a long-time roadie with the likes of Max Collie and including Rod Mason, whenever he was in England.  Next on my list was ‘Tishomingo Blues’, which was sung by Mike – I jotted down ‘a mean trumpet from Allan’.

Colin Bray (piano) changes to Xylerphone and Lord Arsenal (Alan Bradley) swaps to piano with Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 14th November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Colin Bray (piano) changes to ironing board & Xylophone and Lord Arsenal (Allan Bradley) swaps to piano with Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 14th November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Well next came another special …. Colin with an ironing board! No, not to play, to lean on. He produced a xylophone and I won’t tell you what he said, because I certainly don’t want to spoil his other gigs, save to say he is so funny. Not his playing though, he played a storm with ‘I Can’t Give You Anything But Love, Baby’.

Lovely pic of Laurie on drums, with Mike Pointon on trombone and Colin Bray on curley soprano sax in Laurie Chescoe's Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club on 14th November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Lovely pic of Laurie on drums, with Mike Pointon on trombone and Colin Bray on curly soprano sax in Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 14th November 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

But still the band continued to excite us with the next number ‘Hindustan’, especially with Laurie’s brilliant drum solo intro, closely followed by Allan’s also brilliant trumpet intro and everyone joined in superbly. Another number to mention was that lovely ‘Hoagie’ number, ‘Two Sleepy People’, which Mike sang [was Allan just practicing earlier] hey I’m so sorry Ron, sitting next to you and accompanying Mike, I just couldn’t help myself (singing, I mean)!

The number ‘God Bless the Child’ was a feature for Jim on guitar next, with Peter backing him. Jim is famous for his guitar playing, although he is just as marvellous on banjo. They played several songs after that, but I was too busy dancing and took no more notes. I just want to say the band enjoyed themselves as well, so played after time with one more number. I know, you think I’m also gushing too much, but it is all true.

Keep coming and we will bring you more magic.

Diane and Keith

P.S. Just to finish off, a few weeks ago, I mentioned our friend, Leslie Baguley.  Just to update you, I asked for relatives to get in touch and Leslie’s son, Craig did. He and his wife (plus two friends) came to Laurie’s evening. So these newsletters are read, thank goodness (that’s a note to myself – ha).

[Rosetta is the robotic space probe built and launched on 2nd March 2004 by the European Space Agency to perform a detailed study of comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko with both an orbiter and a lander module Philae, which landed on 12th November 2014].
‘Aint Misbehaving – (m) Thomas ‘Fats’ Waller & Harry Brooks, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)
‘Avalon’ – (m&l) Al Jolson, Vincent Rose & Buddy DeSylva (1920)
‘God Bless the Child’ – Billie Holiday & Arthur Herzog Jr (1939)
‘Hindustan’ – (m) Harold Weeks, (l) Oliver G Wallace (1917)
‘I Can’t Give You Anything But Love’ – Jimmy McHugh, (l) Dorothy Fields (1928)
                         (Although it is believed by ‘Fats’ Waller [(l) Andy Razaf], who sold it on in 1926, when broke)
‘I’m Nobody’s Baby’ – (w&m) Benny Davis, Milton Ager & Lester Santley (1921)
‘Rosetta’ – (m&l)Earl Hines & Henri Wood (1933)
‘Swing 42’ – Django Reinhardt’ (1941)
‘Tishomingo Blues’ – Spencer Williams (1917)
‘Two Sleepy People’ – Hoagy Carmichael, (l) Frank Loesser (1938)

Mardi Gras JazzBand, 7th November 2014

THE MARDI GRAS JAZZBAND came to Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 7th November 2014 and oh we sure did dance to ‘the Mardi Gras’, just like the song. Those in the band were trombonist and leader, ROB PEARCE, with LEIGH HENSON on trumpet and vocals, JOHN ELLMER on reeds, yes – not his usual drums, he’s brilliant on reeds too. Then there was TIM HUSKISSON on piano (who is also a brilliant reeds player), BRIAN BELL on drums and DAVE SILK on double bass. So a great line-up, don’t you think. Everyone raved about last week’s jazz. Likewise they raved about this week too.

Mardi Gras Band seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 7th November 2014. Literally so much dancing, just like the song. Photo by Mike Witt.

Mardi Gras Band seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 7th November 2014. Literally so much dancing, just like the song. Photo by Mike Witt.

First, let me say how I just love the way most of our bands make an effort to look good with a dress code, not a must, but fabulous when they do and this band looked great, it all adds to the whole picture. This week, they had the dance floor packed to practically every number. I recall one number, I think there was only eight people sitting. What did they play? Well, I missed the first number, with people still arriving. The first one I noted was Leigh singing ‘Sweet Sue’. He has a fabulous voice, quite romantic and it certainly pulled tons of dancers onto the floor. Rob announced John was to sing next. I heckled to John “you won’t get paid if you do”, of course I was joking, John also has a wonderful voice and sang ‘Hello Dolly’. Likewise ‘Do You Know What it means, to Miss New Orleans’ and I jotted down ‘lovely trumpet’.

Mardi Gras Band's front line, (LtoR)s John Elmer (cl), Leigh Henson (trp) and Rob Pierce (Leader & trb) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 7th November 2014. Literally so much dancing, just like the song. Photo by Mike Witt.

Mardi Gras Band’s front line, (LtoR)s John Ellmer (cl), Leigh Henson (trp) and Rob Pearce (Leader & trb) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 7th November 2014. Literally so much dancing, just like the song. Photo by Mike Witt.

Next came their signature tune ‘At the Mardi Gras’. Keith said it is huge favourite of his. We did our line-dance (about 10 of us this time).   Another number to which I wrote ‘fabulous’ against, was ‘Stevedore Stomp’. Of course a favourite played by lots of bands ‘I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream’, to which got our line-dancers going again. They then played one of Kenny Ball’s hit numbers, ‘If You Go Down to the Woods Today (Teddy bears Picnic)’ and what a brilliant job they made of it, sounded every bit as good as dear ol’ Kenny. ‘My Satin Doll’ is one of those wonderful ‘standards’ that I love and to finish the evening, they chose to play ‘Aint Misbehaving’. I particularly noted a great drum solo from Brian and also piano solo from Tim, but must say everyone played brilliantly. Of course Rob paid tribute to jazz legend, Acker Bilk, who moved on last week, to join that big jazz band in the Sky. Well, another evening finished with everyone saying “what a lovely band and you must have them again.”

Mardi Gras Band's drummer Brian Bell seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK, on 7th November 2014. Photo by Howard Leigh.

Mardi Gras Band’s drummer Brian Bell seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK, on 7th November 2014. Photo by Howard Leigh.

Mardi Gras Band with pianist Tim Huskisson at Farnborough Jazz Club on 7th November 2014. Photo by Howard Leigh.

Mardi Gras Band with pianist Tim Huskisson at Farnborough Jazz Club on 7th November 2014. Photo by Howard Leigh.

Mardi Gras Band's dbl bass player Dave Silk at Farnborough Jazz Club on 7th November 2014. Photo by Howard Leigh.

Mardi Gras Band’s dbl bass player Dave Silk at Farnborough Jazz Club on 7th November 2014. Photo by Howard Leigh.

 

That’s what I say is ‘a good night out’ and is what it is all about. See you next week with ‘Laurie Chescoe’s Re-union Band’

Keep jazzin’

Diane & Keith

‘Aint Misbehaving – (m) Thomas ‘Fats’ Waller & Harry Brooks, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)
‘At the Mardi Gras’
‘Do You Know What It means to Miss New Orleans’ – Louis Alter & Eddie DeLange (1947)
‘Hello Dolly’ – Jerry Herman (1964)
‘I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream For Ice Cream’ – Howard Johnson, Billy Moll & Robert A. K. King (1927)
‘If You Go Down to the Woods Today (Teddy Bears Picnic)’ – (m) John W. Bratton, (l) Jimmy Kennedy (1907)
‘Satin Doll’ – (m) Duke Ellington & Billy Strayhorn, (l) Johnny Mercer (1953)
‘Stevadore Stomp’ – ‘Duke’ Ellington & Irving Mills (circa 1927)
‘Sweet Sue, Just You’ – (m) Victor Young, (l) Will J. Harris (1928)

‘The Original Eastside Stompers’. A tribute to lovely man-Lennie Hodges

A couple of weeks ago, Howard Leigh sent these wonderful photos of one of our very favourite bands, ‘The Original Eastside Stompers’. Sadly the band is no longer. Dear Lennie Hodgeson passed away in May 2012. Whilst ferreting around my old newsletters, I came up with this one of 27th January 2012.  It was prior to losing my computer due to a virus (now have laptop). This newsletter is one that must be published alongside the photos, as a special tribute to ‘Luscious Lennie’, as I called him. The reference to TOES was because banjoist Brian had an accident losing a finger, hence my joke (I know – sick, but Brian and I shared many a joke on the phone about the subject). I just love the photos, taken by Howard Leigh on 21st May 2010, such a shame Lennie never saw them, but his family, I’m sure, will enjoy them.  (You will notice it was ‘Southend Bob’ Allbut playing on this date, not Brian.)  Lennie came from a very musical family.  In fact, I’m sure a lot of you will remember the band played for us for many years, when Lennie’s brother, Ernie ran the band.  Such lovely memories.  Anyway, herewith, the said newsletter:

Friday, 27th January 2012, we have that happy little band ‘The Original Eastside Stompers’, or TOES, as I call them. They originate from Essex and have been playing for us for, oh I don’t know, I will have to look it up, but it has to be at least 16years. Anyway, they are a ‘family’ band to us. The musicians will be John Shepherd on trumpet, ‘the romantic’ Ronnie Findon on clarinet&vocals, John Howlett on trombone, Roger Graham on double bass&Souza, Graham Collicott on drums and (the toes man himself) Brian Laurence on banjo. Lovely leader Lennie Hodgeson retired for just over a year ago and we still miss him and his natty intros “Here’s a lovely ol’, lovely ol’ number called ….” He was 88yrs of age 10 days ago, so “HAPPY (belated) BIRTHDAY LENNIE, FROM ALL OF US HERE IN FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB”.

Lennie Hodgeson (trombone) Leader of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (1) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo by Howard Leigh

Lennie Hodgeson (trombone) Leader of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (1) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo:  Howard Leigh

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Here's a lovely ol', lovely ol' number' - Lennie Hodgeson (trombone) Leader of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (2) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo by Howard Leigh

“Here’s a lovely ol’, lovely ol’ number, written in 1923 on  Tuesday at 2.25pm” is a line of Lennie’s (what a lovely sense of humour). Lennie Hodgeson (trombone) Leader of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (2) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo:  Howard Leigh

 

Lennie Hodgeson (trombone) Leader of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (3) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo by Howard Leigh

Lennie Hodgeson (trombone) Leader of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (3) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo:  Howard Leigh

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

John Shepherd (trumpet) of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (1) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo by Howard Leigh

John Shepherd (trumpet) of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (1) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo:  Howard Leigh

 

John Shepherd (trumpet) of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (1) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21 May 2010. Photo by Howard Leigh

John Shepherd (trumpet) of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (1) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21 May 2010.                            Photo:  Howard Leigh

 

Ronnie Findon (sax & vocals) of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (1) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo by Howard Leigh

Ronnie Findon (sax & vocals) of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (1) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK , on 21st May 2010.                         Photo: Howard Leigh

 

 

 

Ronnie Findon (sax & vocals) of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (2) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo by Howard Leigh

Ronnie Findon (sax & vocals) of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (2) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on  21st May 2010.                         Photo: Howard Leigh

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

'Southend Bob' Albutt (banjo & vocals) of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo by Howard Leigh

‘Southend Bob’ Allbut (banjo & vocals) of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010.  Photo:  Howard Leigh

 

Graham Collicotte (drums) of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo by Howard Leigh

Graham Collicott (drums) of The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010.                       Photo:  Howard Leigh

Roger Graham (double bass&Souza) The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band @ Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21 May 2010. Photo by Howard Leigh

Roger Graham (double bass&Souza) The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band @ Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 21st May 2010. Photo: Howard Leigh

 

The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (1) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo by Howard Leigh

The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (1) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo:  Howard Leigh

The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (2) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo by Howard Leigh

The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (2) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo:  Howard Leigh

The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (3) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo: Howard Leigh

The Original Eastside Stompers Jazz Band (3) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK, on 21st May 2010. Photo:  Howard Leigh

 

Red Wing Band (from Sweden) with guest Brian Carrick, 31st October 2014

RED WING BAND (from Sweden) with guest BRIAN CARRICK appeared for the first time here at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on Friday, 31st October 2014.  We were so proud another exciting band included us as part of their UK 2014 Tour.

Red Wing Band from Sweden on 2014 tour at Farnborough Jazz Club 31st October with Hans Zakrissonv (Ldr&trb), Sverker Nystron (clt&altosax), Lief Meldahl (bass), Hans Jorgensen (bj), Ingamar Wagerman (pno), Ronald Anderson (drm) &spec guest Brian Carrick (rds). Photo: Mike Witt
Red Wing Band from Sweden on 2014 Tour at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st October with Hans Zakrissonv (Ldr&trb), Sverker Nystron (clt&altosax), Lief Meldahl (bass), Hans Jorgensen (banjo), Ingamar Wagerman (piano), Ronald Anderson (drums&guitar) &spec guest Brian Carrick (reeds). Photo: Mike Witt

 

 

The band members included their leader and trombonist, HANS ZAKRISSONV, with SVERKER NYSTRON on clarinet and alto sax, LIEF MELDAHL on bass, HANS JORGENSEN on banjo, INGAMAR WAGERMAN on piano and RONALD ANDERSON (from Denmark) on drums.

They had a special guest with them, who was our very own BRIAN CARRICK on reeds. They were all exceptional together. What a band!

Brian Carrick - guesting with Red Wind Band (from Sweden)

Brian Carrick – guesting with Red Wind Band (from Sweden)

Brian is best known to most of you as leader of his own highly popular ‘Brian Carrick’s Algiers Stompers’ band and has already appeared here at Farnborough (I have found write-up for 26th October 2012, so have published it for that date!).  Of course, you may recall, Brian plays the old metal clarinet belonging to George Lewis, (given to him by George’s daughter).  Right from their first number, you knew we were in for a super evening. It began with their signature tune, ‘Red Wing’, which brought on the dancers immediately. We did not have our Gordon to start the dancing off, he being in hospital (now recovering from quadruple by-pass). However, we were delighted to have been joined by a new couple, Jane and Alan (regulars with 1066 Club at Hastings) who came especially to see the band. Keith thought they were the cabaret act with the band. [We do hope to see you both again, you were thoroughly entertaining too, although Gordon said to tell you to lay off his patch – only joking.]  The next number to mention is George Lewis’ own ‘Burgundy Street Blues’.  Brian sang it and played George’s clarinet (quite a lovely thought). Another tune I think George was associated with, was ‘Postman’s Lament’, which was great.  I think Brian sang the next one, ‘Moonlight and Roses’, but did not make any notes, as I was too busy enjoying a dance with Steve.

Ronald Andersen takes to electric guitar & Brian Carrick sings 'Muddy Road' both brilliantly - Red Wing Band from Holland on 2014 tour at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK on 31st October. Photo: Mike Witt

Ronald Anderson takes to electric guitar & Brian Carrick sings ‘Muddy Road’ both brilliantly – Red Wing Band from Sweden on 2014 Tour at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK on 31st October. Photo: Mike Witt

Now I know Brian sang the next number, because he was fantastic – like a ‘rock’ star. Ronald Anderson had come out from behind the drums to play electric guitar and the two of them were brilliant – we were all mesmerised. The number? ‘Muddy Road’.  At the end of the evening, I told Ronald I was sure I knew him. Of course I knew him, he had played for us many times with Phil Mason’s All Stars’ and including Warwick Leadlay’s Starborough Castle jazz weekends too.

SVERKER NYSTRON on clarinet and LIEF MELDAHL on bass, with leader & trombonist, HANS ZAKRISSONV. Red Wing Band from Sweden on 2014 Tour at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 31st October. Photo: Mike Witt

SVERKER NYSTRON on clarinet and LIEF MELDAHL on bass, with leader & trombonist, HANS ZAKRISSONV. Red Wing Band from Sweden on 2014 Tour at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK on 31st October. Photo: Mike Witt

A lovely number ‘June Night’ (a Tommy Dorsey ‘hit’) came next and was followed by a great Latin American number called ’Laughing Samba’.  This is a dance I just love and once again, enjoyed seeing Jane and Alan (I don’t think they missed a dance). Another favourite of a quite a few people at the club was ‘St. Philip Street Breakdown’.  After all, it has been recorded by all the greats.  So we come to the last number, aptly named ‘Till We Meet Again’. We hope we do get to see them again. What a wonderful evening.

Ingamar Wagerman on piano with Red Wing Band from Sweden, on UK 2014 Tour at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st October. Photo: Mike Witt

Ingamar Wagerman on piano with Red Wing Band from Sweden, on UK 2014 Tour at Farnborough Jazz Club on 31st October. Photo: Mike Witt

Ser fram emot att jazzing med dig Red Wing Band igen – and happy jazzin’ to our audience too.

Didn’t I tell you last week, you can get ready for a fabulous time on Friday?  Wasn’t I right?

 

Keep supporting us.

Diane and Keith

‘Burgundy Street Blues’ – George Lewis (1944)
‘June Night’ – (m) Abel Baer, (l) Cliff Friend (1924)
‘Laughing Samba’ – (m) Benny Meroff & Anne Spear (m) Vincent Rizzo & George Johnson (1948)
‘Moonlight and Roses’ – (m) Edwin Henry Lemare (1888) (l) Ben Black & Neil Moret (Chas N. Daniels) (1921)
‘Muddy Road’ – Jimmy Walker (1945)
‘Postman’s Lament’ – traditional
‘Red Wing’ – (m) Kerry Mills, (l) Thurland Chattaway (1907)
‘St. Philip Street Breakdown’ – George Lewis (1943)
‘Till We Meet Again’ – (m) Richard A. Whiting, (l) Raymond B. Egan (1918)

Limehouse Jazzband, 24th October 2014

Robert Duis Leader, 1st Cornet Limehouse Jazzband

Leader,  ROBERT DUIS, 1st Cornet
The Limehouse Jazzband from Holland

Dank Limehouse Jazzband voor een zeer plezierige tijd.

LIMEHOUSE JAZZBAND, a 10piece band from Holland, returned to play for us limeys here at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on Friday, 24th October 2014 as part of their 2014 Tour. They have included us in their tours since 2008 (possibly earlier – I’m still unable to access an old computer at present). Robert is such a great personality, with a wonderful sense of humour and super with intros.

LIMEHOUSE JAZZBAND on 2014 Tour - from Holland (Limers) play at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK (Limeys) on 24th October 2014. Band: ROBERT DUIS (cnt1&ldr), GUIDO CORNET(cnt2&tutr), RUUD PETRI(trb), HENRI GIEBELS(tnrsx, clt&vocs), WILLEM HELLBREKER(alt sx1&clt), MARTEN DE NES(alt sx2&clt), SIR WIL VAN SCHAIK(bj), LOUËS HOUET(pno), PIETER VOS(tba) & ROB BAKKER(pctn, wshb&voc). Photo: Mike Witt

LIMEHOUSE JAZZBAND on 2014 Tour – from Holland (Limers) play at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK (Limeys) on 24th October 2014. Band:  ROBERT DUIS (cnt1&ldr), GUIDO CORNET(cnt2&tutr), RUUD PETRI(trb),  HENRI GIEBELS(tnrsx, clt&vocs), WILLEM HELLBREKER(alt sx1&clt), MARTEN DE NES(alt sx2&clt), SIR WIL VAN SCHAIK(bj), LOUËS HOUET(pno), PIETER VOS(tba) & ROB BAKKER(pctn, wshb&voc).    Photo: Mike Witt

The lineup has changed a bit since their last visit. ROBERT DUIS was first cornet and leader (for the last time), with GUIDO CORNET on second cornet and tutor (what a great name for a cornetist aye). Plus RUUD PETRI on trombone, HENRI GIEBELS on tenor sax, clarinet and vocals. Also WILLEM HELLBREKER was on first alto sax and clarinet, plus MARTEN DE NES on second alto sax and clarinet. Then there was SIR WIL VAN SCHAIK on banjo, LOUËS HOUET on piano and PIETER VOS on tuba and last to mention, but by no means least, ROB BAKKER on percussion, washboard and vocals.

LIMEHOUSE JAZZBAND on 2014 Tour - from Holland (Limers) play at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK (Limeys) on 24th October 2014. Band: ROBERT DUIS (cnt1&ldr), GUIDO CORNET(cnt2&tutr), RUUD PETRI(trb), HENRI GIEBELS(tnrsx, clt&vocs), WILLEM HELLBREKER(alt sx1&clt), MARTEN DE NES(alt sx2&clt), SIR WIL VAN SCHAIK(bj), LOUËS HOUET(pno), PIETER VOS(tba) & ROB BAKKER(pctn, wshb&voc). Photo: Mike Witt

LIMEHOUSE JAZZBAND on 2014 Tour – from Holland (Limers) play at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent, UK (Limeys) on 24th October 2014. Band: ROBERT DUIS (cnt1&ldr), GUIDO CORNET(cnt2&tutr), RUUD PETRI(trb), HENRI GIEBELS(tnrsx, clt&vocs), WILLEM HELLBREKER(alt sx1&clt), MARTEN DE NES(alt sx2&clt), SIR WIL VAN SCHAIK(bj), LOUËS HOUET(pno), PIETER VOS(tba) & ROB BAKKER(pctn, wshb&voc). Photo: Mike Witt

My notes were sparse, so will not depict their whole picture. Unfortunately, the band were held up for hours at the Dartford Bridge crossing, so were unable to swing by their hotel to sign in before going to play at London’s ‘Spice of Life’. Robert asked me to get in touch with the hotel to confirm their booking, knowing they would not arrive there much before 1.00am. However, I spent an hour trying to obtain contact (trying all sorts of things, including email!). You have to realise, they had ten rooms booked and didn’t want to lose them! Save to say, I missed the first section completely! But I do know, the band did not show any tiredness from their horrible journey, remember they had also played lunchtime too.

Willem Hellbreker takes a (brilliant) solo with Limehouse Jazzband at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent (UK) on 24th October 2014. (+l2r) Henri Giebels, & Marten de Nes. Photo: Mike Witt

Willem Hellbreker takes a (brilliant) solo with Limehouse Jazzband at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent (UK) on 24th October 2014. (+l2r) Henri Giebels, & Marten de Nes. Photo: Mike Witt

Now what can I tell you of their repertoire?   I do recall Robert announcing a special dedication to the Chinese restaurant they had a meal at, here in Farnborough Village – the song? ‘Shanghai Shuffle’, of course. Lovely one boys. The next number I had noted was ‘Save It Pretty Mama’. It has a lovely beat, so certainly brought on the dancers. ‘Borneo’ is another fun number (by the way, was recorded by The Muppets), followed by another Fox Trot (yes, dancers on again) ‘Chloe, (Song of the Swamp)’. We were all asked what we wanted them to play next, ‘Three Blind Mice’, or ‘Krazy Kat’ and we yelled out ‘Krazy Kat’. Certainly a bit of fun, both Bix Beiderbecke numbers. Duke Ellington’s ‘The Mooche’ came next, with Fats Waller’s ‘Looking Good, But Feeling Bad’, which was certainly one for our line-dance (performed by three of us, yes I said three, still, it gives us a little laugh). But then the next number lured all dancers on the floor with Fletcher Henderson’s number, ‘Hot Mustard’. Then McKinneys’s Cotton Pickers’ Fox Trot ‘Plain Dirt’ certainly continued to give the dancers more enjoyment. What a nice thought from their last tune, when announced as ‘Christmas in Farnborough’, obviously Louis Armstrong’s ‘Christmas in New Orleans’. Of course, in return, ledereen bij ons Farnborough Jazz Club wenst de Limehouse Jazzband een zeer fijne feestdagen en een Gelukkig Nieuwjaar.

As an extra surprise, we had also arranged for them to appear at the Orpington Conservative Club on Saturday, 25th October 2014. Not a huge audience, but none-the-less, they performed with the same warmth and everyone enjoyed the concert. It had already been announced that Robert, after 12years as their leader, was retiring (Pieter Vos will be leader). So Robert, het was een genoegen te hebben gehad dat je speelt voor ons op onze Farnborough Jazz Club over meerdere jaren. Keith en ik, in het bijzonder, wensen u een lang en ontspannen pensioen. Blijf goed en wel om u te hebben gekend. We hopen te ontmoeten met u, als we winnen de Euro Loterij – hmmm. Liefs en kusjes van ons limeys om alles wat je Limers. xx

Listen to Marten de Nes’ recording of ‘Hushabye’ on You Tube: http://youtu.be/-Yx-H9k4yWU

‘Borneo’ – Walter Donaldson (1928)
‘Chloe (Song of the Swamp)’ – (m) Charles N. Daniels, (aka Neil Moret, (l) Gus Khan (1927)
‘Christmas in New Orleans’ – Joe Van Winkle, Richard M. Sherman (1952 ?)
‘Hot Mustard’ – Fletcher Henderson (1926)
‘Krazy Kat’ – Frank Trumbauer & Chauncey Morehouse (1927)
‘Looking Good, But Feeling Bad’ Thomas ‘Fats’ Waller & Lester A. Santly (1929)
‘Plain Dirt’ – C. Stanton (1929)
‘Save It Pretty Mama’ – Don Redman, Joseph M. Davis & Paul Denniker (1929)
‘Shanghai Shuffle’ – Larry Conley & Gene Rodemich (1924)
‘The Mooche’ – Duke Ellington & Irving Mills (1928)
‘Three Blind Mice’ – Frank Trumbauer & Chauncey Morehouse (1927)

 NB: See photos of some of them (& 100 club) in ‘page’ ‘Limehouse Jazzband, Holland, 2014 Tour’ above.

Arrangers:

PETER STOVE (NL) / MAURO PORRO (I) / ATTILA KORB (HU) / MALO MAZURIE (F) / BERT BRANDSMA (NL) / HENRI GIEBELS (NL).

Limehouse Jazzband to appear at Caveaudela Huchette, Paris 4-6 November 2014 (photo taken 16may2010)

Limehouse Jazzband to appear at Caveaudela Huchette, Paris 4-6 November 2014 (photo taken 16may2010)

 

Cheers everybody, from us Limeys

Diane and Keith

‘Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces’, 17th October 2014

‘BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES’ once again ‘delivered the goods’ at the Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on Friday, 17th October 2014. What a lovely band this is. They are so relaxed with one-another, playing everything from HOT jazz, to romantic waltzes, Latin American and rock-n-roll. Yes, music for both dancers AND the connoisseurs alike.   Leader BOB (trombone & vocals) had booked the usual band members, MAX EMMONS (trumpet, harmonica & vocals), BERNIE HOLDEN (clarinet & sax), HUGH CROZIER (piano & vocals), JOHN BAYNE (double bass & bass sax), NICK SINGER (banjo & vocals) and LAURIE CHESCOE (drums).

Bob Dywer's Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 17th October 2014. Photo by Mike Witt

Bob Dywer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 17th October 2014.     Photo by Mike Witt

Their first number was rather unusual, as it is usually played by most bands at the end!  ‘Go On Out of Here (and Go On Home)’. Now that shows confidence the audience would not comply, ha.  Next, John played bass sax, or as I call it ‘Big Bertha’ (John said he has never heard anyone else call it that).  He played ‘Fidgety Feet’, what a maestro.   Another number to mention was ‘I’m Coming Virginia’, to which Bernie gave a delightful clarinet intro’ to.

 

Bob Dwyer's Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 17th October 2014. Photo By Mike Witt

Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 17th October 2014. Photo By Mike Witt

They chose to play ‘That Da Da Strain’ in which Laurie had a special feature on drums, wow can he play, well he wasn’t with the Alex Welsh for nothing.

Laurie Chescoe (drums) (with Bob Dwyer's Bix & Pieces) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 17th October 2014. Photo By Mike Witt

Laurie Chescoe (drums) with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces                            at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 17th October 2014.                            Photo By Mike Witt

Nick joined the frontline with ‘Snag it’. He has a brilliant voice and Keith remarked how he sounded (and looked a little) like Seasick Sid. Only a little bit Nick, but you’re wonderfully entertaining too. One of my favourite numbers by this band is ‘Rebecca, Rebecca, Get Your Big Legs Off of Me’’. Max plays harmonica and also sings, well you should hear him sing it, he is super too.

 

Nick Singer (banjo) with Bob Dwyers Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 17th October 2014. Photo By Mike Witt

Nick Singer (banjo) with Bob Dwyers Bix & Pieces                                    at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 17th October 2014.                          Photo By Mike Witt

 

Keith Grant has sit-in on drums with Bob Dwyer's Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 17th October 2014. Photo by Mike Witt

Keith Grant has sit-in on drums with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces   at Farnborough Jazz Club, 17th October 2014.                           Photo by Mike Witt

During the interval, Laurie (who had never heard Keith play drums before), said to him, ‘Why don’t you have a sit-in’? Anyway, Bob called Keith up to play ‘Blues My Naughty Sweetie’. Keith did extremely well, considering he hasn’t played for a year and not on his own drum kit AND after Laurie’s special too. They even gave him solos. Thanks Laurie, for asking him. I managed to video a couple of numbers (obviously Keith’s number included, hmmm).

 

Hugh Crozier (piano) and John Bayne (double bass) with 'Bob Dwyer's Bix & Pieces' at Farnborough Jazz Club on Friday, 17th October 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Hugh Crozier (piano) and John Bayne (double bass)                                   with ‘Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces’ at Farnborough Jazz Club                             on Friday, 17th October 2014.   Photo by Mike Witt.       

I also videoed Hugh’s feature number. However, his electric piano malfunctioned.  He tried a couple of times more, but had to give up, much to my dismay, because of the video.   These videos will be dark (due to being taken with my old mobile) and will take a little while to upload on this site, but look out for them soon. Max sang the next number ‘I Had a Funny Feeling’. How brilliant he is, also playing harmonica (no, not at the same time-ha). Then I was so pleased to capture on video next the maestro in action playing Big Bertha with ‘Elephant Stomp’, a number I had always hoped to catch on film one day. Then the last number was sung by Bob and played especially for Keith and me. It is a Tommy Dorsey hit number that was written by our very dear friend, Leslie Baguley (see our tribute page for him), called ‘Nice To Know You Care’ (also video). Everyone was on the dance floor, including Keith and I (both had tears in our eyes). So once again thanks Bob, for learning it. He says he only plays it at Farnborough, but might I suggest playing it elsewhere too, it would help to keep it alive for longer.  To keep all music ‘live’, just support it. So that’s all folks, see you next week with the ‘Limers’ (Limehouse Jazzband).

Cheers (in particular Keith – ha)

Diane and Keith

Footnote:

Keith hasn’t played drums in over a year, not since falling down the stairs and hurting his foot. In the past, he has played with many bands, plus had his own band, ‘The KGB’.  Some of you will remember he was with ‘Mac White and Charlie Connor’s Spirit of Bechet’ (Mac, who could play eight different instruments, mainly clarinet, was with ‘The Temperance Seven’, ‘The Pacedena Roof Orchestra’ and ‘The Midnight Follies’. However, Keith broke his arm/hands on five different occasions, plus I gave him concussion on those five different occasions, due to hitting him – well!  Only joking.

‘Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gives to Me’ – Charles McCarron, Casey Morgan & Arthur Swanstrom (1919)
‘Elephant Stomp’ – Al Ferreri & Yannick Singery (circa 1953)
‘Fidgety Feet’ – Nick LaRocca & Larry Shields (1919)
‘Go On Out of Here (and Go On Home)’ – Buddy Bolden (need to check later if he wrote it and when)
‘I’m Coming Virginia’ – (m) Donald Heywood, (l) Will Marion Cook (1927)
‘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)
‘Snag It’ – Joe’King’ Oliver (1928)
‘That Da Da Strain’ – (m) Edgar Dowell, (l) Mamie Medina (1922)

Les Hanscombe’s Tailgate Jazz Band, 10th October 2014

LES HANSCOMBE’S TAILGATE JAZZ BAND entertained us at our Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 10th October 2014. Unfortunately, they had a horrendous journey to us, taking an hour to get over the QE2 Bridge, caused by road works. BRIAN GILES was to have been on trumpet, but did not make it due to personal problems. However, the rest of the band were band leader LES, who plays magical trombone, BRIAN HART on reeds, BRIAN STAPELY on drums (yep, would have been three Brian’s!), DEREK PRING on sousaphone, plus OLLIE BENSON on banjo & guitar. Although our old friend Brian Giles was missing, the band were superb.

LES HANSCOMBE’S TAILGATE JAZZ BAND at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent), 10th October 2014. leader LES, who plays magical trombone, BRIAN HART (reeds) BRIAN STAPEL (drums) (yep, with Brian Giles, it would have been 3 Brian’s!), DEREK PRING (sousaphone) and OLLIE BENSON (banjo & guitar.

LES HANSCOMBE’S TAILGATE JAZZ BAND at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent), 10th October 2014. leader LES, who plays magical trombone, BRIAN HART (reeds) BRIAN STAPEL (drums) (yep, with Brian Giles, it would have been 3 Brian’s!), DEREK PRING (sousaphone) and OLLIE BENSON (banjo & guitar. Photo by Mike Witt

It was very difficult for them, because they had chosen the repertoire to include a trumpet, but you wouldn’t have guessed, they were so relaxed. The numbers they chose to play instead (at short notice) was wonderful and again, has made it difficult for me to choose what not to include in this newsletter (I don’t like to give too much of their repertoire away). However, here is a little insight into the evening. I missed the name of their first number, so I begin with ‘Saratoga Swing’, a super Duke Ellington number. This was followed by ‘Exactly Like You’ sung by Ollie. I noticed Brian (H) played tenor sax and with Derek on sousaphone, made it a fabulous number. As for ‘Georgia’, Les sang it beautifully and was a lovely one to include. It brought on a few dancers. Then Les sang ‘I’ve Got a Feeling, I’m Falling’, which brought practically everyone onto the dance floor, being a lovely 1920’s tempo. ‘All God’s Chillun Got Rhythm’ was another fabulous 1920’s sound and on came our line-dancers, well, all three of us! But then ‘My Dear Mr Shane’ (Oops sorry, that is my title for the song) or to give its correct name ‘Bei Mir Bist Du Shon’ did bring on our line-dancers, excluding me (are they trying to tell me something, ha). I was jiving with Steve – phew, pretty fast stuff, especially as it was featuring Brian (S) on drums (fabulous).

LES HANSCOMBE’S TAILGATE JAZZ BAND at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent), 10th October 2014. leader LES, who plays magical trombone, was joined by BRIAN HART (reeds) BRIAN STAPEL (drums) (yep, with Brian Giles, it would have been 3 Brian’s!), DEREK PRING (sousaphone) and OLLIE BENSON (banjo & guitar). Trumpeter John Longley kindly 'sat in' on a few numbers. Photo by Mike Witt.

LES HANSCOMBE’S TAILGATE JAZZ BAND at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent), 10th October 2014. leader LES, who plays magical trombone, was joined by BRIAN HART (reeds) BRIAN STAPEL (drums) (yep, with Brian Giles, it would have been 3 Brian’s!), DEREK PRING (sousaphone) and OLLIE BENSON (banjo & guitar). Trumpeter John Longley kindly ‘sat in’ on a few numbers. Photo by Mike Witt.

Trumpeter John Longley was in our audience, who has his own band, the ‘Halstead Hotshots’ and plays regularly (this and every 2nd Tuesday each month, 2.00-4.00pm) at the Cock Inn, Halstead, Kent. Anyway, he joined the band for a few numbers, one being ‘When It’s Darkness on the Delta’. John sang and showed he also has a super voice. I just loved the following Glen Miller number, ‘Little Man Who Wasn’t There’. What a fabulous number, sung by Les. We were nearing the end of the evening, so they chose to play ‘Get Out Of here and Go On Home’ (again sung by John) and if the band thought they were going on home, they had another think coming, because the audience yelled for “more”. Of course they did give more, playing their hearts out with ‘Dallas Blues’. So there, you’ve got it, another Friday evening of ‘live’ jazz which was certainly enjoyed by everyone present. We do have so much fun dancing which keeps one fit AND you can forget all problems of the week, so why not join us next Friday. We have that hugely popular band ‘Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces’ back again.

Signing off –

Your hosts,

Diane & Keith.

‘All God’s Chillun Got Rhythm’ – Walter Jurmann, Gus Kahn & Bronislau Kaper (1937)
‘Bei Mir Bist Du Shon’ – (m) Sholom Secunda, (l) Jacob Jacobs (1937).
                                                             Re-written by Sammy Cahn & Saul Chaplin (1937)
‘Dallas Blues’ – Hart A. Wand (1912)
‘Exactly Like You’ – (m) Jimmy McHugh, (l) Dorothy Fields (1930)
‘Georgia on My Mind’ – (m) Hoagy Carmichael, (l) Stuart Gorrell (1930)
‘Go On Out Of Here’ – Buddy Bolden (need to check later if he wrote it – anybody tell me?)
‘I’ve Got a Feeling I’m Falling’ – Fats Waller (1929)
‘Little Man Who Wasn’t There’ – Harold Adamson and Bernie Hanighen (1939)
Adapted from poem ‘Antigonish’ by Prof.Hughes Mearns (1899)
‘Saratoga Swing’ – Duke Ellington (1929)
‘When It’s Darkness on the Delta’ – (m) Jerry Levington, Marty Symes, (l) Al J.Neiburg) (1932)

Bill Phelan’s Muskrat Ramblers, 3rd October 2014

‘BILL PHELAN’S MUSKRAT RAMBLERS’ provided our entertainment at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on Friday, 3rd October 2014. The musicians with band leader BILL PHELAN (trumpet & flugabone) were ALAN CRESSWELL (clarinet), JOHN HOWLETT (trombone), ANDY LAWRENCE (double bass), JOHNNY MCCALLUM (banjo), plus PAUL NORMAN (drums).

This happy band has been a big favourite with you on previous appearances and once again, they maintained that popularity contest. Lovely to see the party of ten new people arrive, brought by a couple who visited us a few weeks ago. We’d love to see you again, you are great dancers. The band usually starts off with their signature tune, but for a change, they decided to play ‘Royal Garden Blues’, an equally happy number. The next number I wish to mention is ‘See See (or CC) Rider’. It was the number to bring out plenty of dancers. ‘Bugle Boy March’ followed on and was another great tune to dance to.

Bill Phelan's Muskrat-Ramblers, featuring Alan Cresswell playing 'Petite Fleur' at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent. 3rd October 2014. Photo by Mike-Witt.

Bill Phelan’s Muskrat-Ramblers, featuring Alan Cresswell playing ‘Petite Fleur’ at the Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent.
3rd October 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Alan was featured next, playing his wonderful rendition of ‘Petite Fleur’, what a player. They finished the first section with a brilliant performance of ‘Hiawatha Rag’. I was glad they chose to do ‘Ciribiribin’ again, (see my notes about their gig with us on 15 November 2013), because they do play it with great feeling and what about ‘Bourbon Street Parade’! It was sung by Johnny and is such a grand number, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces. A must to mention is Bill’s feature on flugabone, namely ‘Star Dust’, so melodic. Bill plays it how it should be done, beautifully (sorry not to have a picture of him too).  It is so difficult to decide to cut out numbers that have been played so well, but my last choice is ‘Canal Street Blues’. I’m sure they were playing over time, we were all enjoying ourselves I didn’t notice the time and no-one wants to end a happy evening. The number is such a jaunty one, we were all up dancing, so ending on a high.

Bill Phelan's Muscrat Ramblers at the Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent. 3rd October 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Bill Phelan’s Muscrat Ramblers at the Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent. 3rd October 2014.
Photo by Mike Witt.

Bill Phelan's Muskrat Ramblers, again featuring Alan Cresswell at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent. 3rd October 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Bill Phelan’s Muskrat Ramblers, again featuring Alan Cresswell at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent. 3rd October 2014. Photo by Mike Witt.

Thanks again guys for entertaining us.

Next Friday’s band is Les Hanscomb’s Tailgate Jazz Band, so see you all then.

Trad jazz – always fun – keep it ‘Live’.

Diane and Keith

P.S. ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ is back and although enjoyable, it is still irritating to hear them play pop music for Latin American dances. How do they expect the stars to learn to dance and put the oomph into a dance with the wrong rhythm or even the tempo! Please organisers, you obviously tell the band to play pop, you’ve got it wrong. Also, can you show your audience how to clap ‘OFF THE BEAT’? Now I know how irritating I was to band leader, Jeff Hatton, who many years ago, taught me how to clap ‘off the beat’. (There, I’ve got that off my chest!)

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

‘Bugle Boy March’ – Francis Meyers ((1907)

‘Canal Street Blues’ – Joe ‘King’ Oliver (1923)

‘Ciribiribin’ – (m&l) Harry James&Jack Lawrence (1939) (based on melody by Alberto Pestalozza -1889)

‘Hiawatha Rag’ – (m) Chas N Daniels aka Neil Moret (1901), (l) James O’Deo (added 1903)

‘Petite Fleur’ – Sidney Bechet (1952)

‘Royal Garden Blues’ – Clarence & Spencer Williams (1919)

‘See See Rider’ (or ‘C.C. Rider’) – Traditional [see Ma Rainey & Lena Arant (1924)]

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