Tony Pitt’s All Stars, Friday 9th October 2015

We had some of Britain’s top jazz musicians with TONY PITT’S ALL STARS at FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on FRIDAY, 9th October 2015. Banjoist TONY was joined by DENNY ILETT (SNR) on trumpet (he has a famous guitarist son), DAVE HEWITT on trombone, AL NICHOLS on reeds, ANDY LAWRENCE on double bass and JOHN TYSON on drums.

Tony Pitt's All Stars at Farnborouh Jazz Club (Kent) on 9th October 2015. (LtoR) Andy Laurence (d.bass), Dave Hewitt (trombone), Denny Ilett (trumpet), John Tyson (drums), Al Nichols (tenor sax) and Tony Pitt (banjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 9th October 2015. (LtoR) Andy Laurence (d.bass), Dave Hewitt (trombone), Denny Ilett (trumpet), John Tyson (drums), Al Nichols (tenor sax) and Tony Pitt (banjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

They looked and played brilliantly and just to show you, here is a sample of what they played. The first number was ‘When You’re Smiling’ and in my notes, I had written ‘you should hear that trumpet’. Says a lot, doesn’t it! They were all absolutely amazing – there’s playing and there’s playing, if you know what I mean. These guys ‘have it’. Gushing? Of course! Denny sang the next tune, ‘Look Down That Lonesome River’ and I noted that Al played tenor sax. Denny also sang ‘When You and I were young Maggie’ and of course a great jazz voice.

Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 9th October 2015. (LtoR) John Tyson (drums), Al Nichols (tenor sax) and Tony Pitt (banjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

Denny Ilett sings, seen here with John Tyson (drums), Al Nichols (tenor sax) and Tony Pitt (banjo) with ‘Tony Pitt’s All Stars’ at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 9th October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Here’s the man! Tony plays banjo for his own band ‘Tony Pitt’s All Stars’ at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 9th October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

John Tyson plays drums for Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 9th October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

We were all ‘flying’ (dancing I mean) to their wonderful rendition of ‘Bourbon Street Parade’, with fabulous changing of key. Tony’s banjo playing shows why he has the best wanting to play with him. John was featured on drums next, and what terrific drumming to ‘I Found A New Baby’. He is a brilliant drummer and I had written in my notes ‘fab-u-lous’, so no need to write anything else.

Great action photo of Dave Hewitt, Denny Ilett, Andy Laurence and John Tyson four of Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 9th October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Next they featured Denny with ‘Bad Penny Blues’. Denny is such an exciting player and with this number, he also added some playing on his mouthpiece only. Not many would be able to achieve doing that so brilliantly. I must mention ‘Sweet Georgia Brown’ and how wonderful Al was, playing tenor sax.

What an ‘engine’ aye? Andy Laurence on double bass, John Tyson on drums and the man himself, Tony Pitt on banjo with ‘Tony Pitt’s All Stars’ at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 9th October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Al Nichols plays alto sax with Denny Ilett on trumpet and Tony Pitt on banjo, all seen here with ‘Tony Pitt’s All Stars’ at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 9th October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Dave Hewitt playing trombone (Denny Ilett just in view) two stars of ‘Tony Pitt’s All Stars’ at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 9th October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Several ‘ticks’ against the next number, meant I mustn’t miss this out either. The wonderful Hoagy Carmichael’s ‘Riverboat Shuffle’ being the tune (recoded first by Bix Beiderbecke). Al played alto and I had no other notes because we were all out on the dance floor, having tons of fun. As for their last number, if we had to all go home, it was exhilarating to go with ‘West End Blues’ still ringing in our ears. Denny played a stunning intro and Dave was fabulous on trombone. I personally cannot wait for their next gig here.

Diane and Keith

Farnborough Jazz Club enjoy ‘Tony Pitt’s All Stars’ on 9th October 2015. Seen playing are Denny Ilett (trumpet), Dave Hewitt (trombone) and John Tyson (drums). Photo by Mike Witt.

Seen here are Keith and Diane, Colin Dobson (of Billy Cotton Band Show fame), his wife Jo and their son-in-law having just enjoyed ‘Tony Pitt’s All Stars’ at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 9th October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

‘Bad Penny Blues’ – Humphrey Lyttelton (1956)—

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

‘I Found a New Baby’ – Jack Palmer and Spencer Williams (1926)

‘Look Down That Lonesome Road’ – (m) Nathaniel Shilkret, (l) Gene Austin (1927)

‘Riverboat Shuffle’ – (m) Hoagy Carmichael, (l) Irving Mills, Mitchell Parish & Dick Voynow (1924)

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

‘West End Blues’ – Joe ’King’ Oliver, (l) Clarence Williams (1928) (famed by Louis Armstrong)

‘When You and I Were Young Maggie’ – (m) James Butterfield (1866), (l) George W Johnson (1864) [derived from George Johnson’s poem (1820)]

‘When You’re Smiling’ – Larry Shay, Mark Fisher & Joe Goodwin (1929)

Prague Astronomical Clock – 605years old today

Today, 9 October 2015, Google celebrated the clock’s 605th anniversary with a Google Doodle. Click on Google Doodle to go to Wikipedia free encyclopaedia. You will see all the interesting details of it’s history.

Diane

Bill Phelan’s Muskrat Ramblers, 2nd October 2015

‘BILL PHELAN’S MUSKRAT RAMBLERS’ made a return journey to our FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on Friday, 2^nd October 2015. It was exactly a year ago they were exciting us (see back to that newsletter). You were all having such fun and screaming for more at the end of that evening, likewise the same this time. Band leader, BILL PHELAN (trumpet & flugelhorn) had joining him ALAN CRESSWELL (clarinet), along with JOHN FINCH (trombone/vocals), ANDY LAWRENCE (double bass), JIM HEATH (banjo/vocals) and PAUL NORMAN (drums). I said last week, all the more reason for joining us – being you called out for more last time! Well, our audience was a little thin on the ground, but that didn’t deter this lovely band from playing their hearts out.

Bill Phelan’s Muscrat Ramblers played at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on Friday, 2nd October 2015. (LtoR) Andy Lawrence (double bass), John Finch (trombone&vocals), Paul Norman (drums), Bill Phelan (trumpet&flugalhorn), Alan Cresswell (clarinet) and Jim Heath (banjo&vocals). Photo by Mike Witt

Those who came, enjoyed every minute, because the band played many favourite tunes. Bix Beiderbecke’s ‘Royal Garden Blues’ for one, with some great trumpet and clarinet playing from Bill and Alan. We performed our line-dance to Alan’s fabulous clarinet notes and ‘Hiawatha Rag’ – we were exhausted afterwards, ha! Then we continued dancing with the band’s rendition of ‘Magnolia’s Wedding Day’ – as we were still on the dance floor.

Bill Phelan on trumpet, John Finch on trombone, Alan Cresswell on clarinet, Andy Laurence on double bass and Paul Newman on drums playing as Bill Phenan’s Muscrat Ramblers at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on Friady, 2nd October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Bill Phelan’s ‘engine’ to his band ‘Bill Phelan’s Muscrat Ramblers’ seen here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on Friday, 2nd October 2015. (LtoR) Andy Lawrence (double bass), Paul Norman (drums) and Jim Heath (banjo&vocals). Photo by Mike Witt.

Here’s Andy Lawrence playing double bass for Bill Phelan’s Muscrat Ramblers at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on Friday, 2nd October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Alan Cresswell is featured on clarinet, backed by Andy Lawrence on double bass, Paul Norman on drums and Jim Heath on banjo with Bill Phelan’s Muscrat Ramblers at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on Friday, 2nd October 2015. Photo by Mike Wit

Then Alan was featured next to George Lewis’ composition of ‘St Phillips Street Breakdown’ (George renamed it ‘Burgundy Street Blues’). Lovely job Alan. Their next tune chosen was ‘Ciribiribin’, to which I have a special warm feeling about, having written to one of the composers, Jack Lawrence. Bill played it beautifully.

Here is Jim Heath, playing for Bill Phelan’s Muscrat Ramblers at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on Friday, 2nd October 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Their next tune they dedicated to me, hmmm, the number was ‘Dinah’, sung by Jim – thanks Jim. My next choice to mention is Louis’ ‘That’s My Home’, such a lovely tune and I had put three ticks against it, which meant everyone excelled playing it.

John Finch on trombone, Paul Norman on drums and Jim Heath on banjo play with Bill Phelan’s Muscrat Ramblers here at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on Friday, 2nd October 2015. Photo By Mike Witt.

We were up with a line-dance again to the next tune, ‘Move The Body Over’, sung by John (another great singer of the band), such a ton of fun again. Their last number of the evening was ‘Buena Sera’, yes a lovely up-tempo number to ‘go out’ on. Thanks for entertaining us so wonderfully boys – lovely jubbly

P.S. I wrote the following, when I advertise this week’s gig, so still wish to include it: “You probably will have read it was the first time last year for ‘Strictly Come Dancing’. Yes and here I am moaning. I watched once more to my horror, either the Band, or the Producers have chosen the wrong music again. The very first number of the competition, was for a Tango – what did they use for the music? Namely THE KINKS “You Really Got Me Now” – not even a real tango beat AND IT’s NOT EVEN A POP NUMBER NOW! I so want to watch the programme, but I fear I shall have to give it up! (Oh, I know… I won’t though, but see you this Friday, for some real music.

Your hosts, Diane and Keith

‘Buena Sera’ – Peter DeRose & Carl Sigman (1950)

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

‘Dinah’ – (m) Harry Akst, (l) Sam M. Lewis & Joe Young (1923)

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

‘Magnolia’s Wedding Day’ – (m) Jimmy McHugh, (l) Dorothy Fields (1928) (Chris Barber)

‘Move The Body Over’ – traditional (composer unknown, possible ‘Fats’ Waller or George Lewis?)

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

‘St Phillips Street Breakdown’ – George Lewis (circa 1944) (re-named Burgundy Street Blues)

‘That’s My Home’ – Otis René, Leon René & Ben Ellison (1932)

‘Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces’, 25th September 2015

‘BOB DWYER’S BIX & PIECES’, came on Friday, 25th September 2015 to our Farnborough Jazz Club.

Bob Dwyer's Bits & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 25th September 2015. With Bob on trombone, Max Emmons on Trumpet, John Lee on reeds, Hugh Crozier on piano, John Bayne on d.bass& bass sax and Bert Butler on banjo, Photo by Mike Witt.

Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club on 25th September 2015. With Bob on trombone, Max Emmons on Trumpet, John Lee on reeds, Hugh Crozier on piano, John Bayne on d.bass & bass sax and Burt Butler on banjo, Photo by Mike Witt.

Trombonist & vocalist, BOB had MAX EMMONS on trumpet, JOHN LEE on clarinet & tenor sax, JOHN BAYNE on double bass & bass sax, HUGH CROZIER on piano, BURT BUTLER on banjo and CHRIS MARCHANT on drums. The evening began with a few horrors, including a huge traffic jam on the M25, so the band arrived after an horrendous journey. As one would expect, the first number was a little strained, but they soon got into stride and the whole evening’s music took charge of us and we certainly danced the evening away. I first took note of ‘Sunday’, a lovely happy tune, with a good tempo for dancing and sung by Bob. This was followed by ‘Creole Love Song’, giving more of a slower tempo for a waltz. However, the next tune was ‘Fidgety Feet’, very much ‘up tempo’ to which we performed our line-dance – wowie, another exhausting choice. Then what about ‘South’, another swinging tune – wonderful.

Bob Dwyer's Bits & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club 25Sep2015. Bob (pic) -trombone, Max Emmons (pic) trumpet, John Lee (reeds), Hugh Crozier (piano), John Baine (d.bass &bass sax), Chris Marchant (pic) drums & guest Burt Butler (banjo).

Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces at Farnborough Jazz Club 25Sep2015. Bob (pic) -trombone, Max Emmons (pic) trumpet, John Lee (reeds), Hugh Crozier (pic) piano, John Bayne (d.bass &bass sax), Chris Marchant (pic) drums & guest Burt Butler (banjo). Photo by Mike Witt.

John Lee (t.sax) & Hugh Crozier (pno) at Farnborough JC with Bob Dwyer's Bits & Pieces 25Sept2015.

John Lee (tenor sax) and Hugh Crozier (piano) at Farnborough Jazz Club with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces. 25th September 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Hugh also has a super voice ‘Hard Hearted Hannah’ being one of his special songs he enjoys singing and did so with much gusto. Next came Max, doing his bit’ with ‘Snag It’ and again, another super voice, PLUS adding his performance on harmonica – what a wonderful show.

Burt Butler (bnj) & John Bayne (bsax) at Farnborough JC with Bob Dwyer's Bits & Pieces, 25 Sep2015

Burt Butler (banjo) & John Bayne (bass sax) at Farnborough Jazz Club with Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces, 25th September 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

The next tune was brilliantly implemented by John (B) on ‘Big Bertha’ (Bass Sax). He played solo with the first verse of ‘Blue Skies’. Oh I just love him. Then came ‘My Little Bimbo’. Our guest player Burt sang it and of course he is quite a favourite character and known in these parts with his own band “Burt Butler’s Jazz Pilgrims”.

They continued on with ‘Diggin’ My Potatoes’, Max is just brilliant with this one and I think the rest of the band all joined in with harmonizing. We had another go (oh, just four of us!) at a line-dance to ‘Puttin On the Ritz’, well it is just a perfect tune for our ‘Charleston’ effort to it. Finally, once again, Bob asked them all to play ‘Nice To Know You Care’ for Keith and me, the music being written by our dear late-friend Leslie Baguley (a big hit from the ‘40’s).

Diane and Keith‘

‘Blue Skies’ – Irving Berlin (1926)

‘Creole Love Song’ – dispute between Joe ’King’ Oliver (1923) and Duke Ellington, (l) Billy Strayham (1927)

‘Diggin My Potatoes’ – Huddie Ledbetter (1948)

‘Fidgety Feet’ – Nick LaRocca & Larry Shields (1919)

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

‘Nice To Know You Care’ – (m) Leslie Baguley, (l) Norman Newell (1947)

‘Puttin’ On The Ritz’ – Irving Berlin (1929)

‘South’ – Thamon Hayes & Bennie Moten (1924)

‘Hard Hearted Hannah’ – (m&l) Jack Yellen & Milton Ager, Bob Bigelow & Charles Bates (1924)

‘Sunday’ – Ned Miller & Chester Cohn (1926)

‘Snag It’ – Joe’King’ Oliver (1928)

Diane and Keith

P.S. Sorry, I’m still way behind on newsletters, although I have caught up on some – see Tony Pitt’s All Stars, 19^th May 2015 and Barry Palser’s Super Six, 27th February & 19th June 2015, plus Bob Dwyer’s Bix & Pieces, 10 July 2015

N.B. Today (23rd September 2015) is the first day of the Autumn Equinox. The South Pole will see a glimpse of daylight for the first time in six months and the North Pole enters six months of dark – hmmm. Here in Kent, it is a beautiful morning – sunny and hot, with not a cloud in the wonderful blue sky. I had been swimming early this morning. Stopped off at Holwood Farm, Shire Lane (near Biggin Hill) for some tea and scones. I sat outside in the sun and enjoyed a lone Spitfire, with its Black & white striped D-Day markings on its wings, obviously enjoying himself and still around after Monday’s commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain How I wish I had been up there with him. However, I feel lucky to be alive on such a glorious day, one to remember.

Xtra…. This was all repeated this morning (25th September). The Spitfires are from Biggin Hill Heritage Hanger – see their website: Fly A Spitfire.co.uk – you can hire a flight with them – think of this if you need an idea to give a very special present to that someone who has everything. I also found out that Wednesday’s pilot was Don Sigourney and today’s was Richard Verral, who both flew on the D-Day Commemorations.

George Tidiman’s All Stars, 18th September 2015

We were expecting another brilliant evening ahead of us again with GEORGE ‘KID’ TIDIMAN’S ALL STARS’ on Friday, 18th September 2015 at our FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB. George is so full of fun and he and his band are so talented and so we were not disappointed. I had missed all the fun last time they were here, so I was expecting some special treatment from all of them this time (those extra kisses etc., hmmm!). Those poor stars who had to oblige me were obviously GEORGE (our ‘Kid’), plus DENNY ILETT on trumpet, TIM HUSKISSONon clarinet, ‘SOUTHEND BOB’ ALLBUT on banjo, JOHN SIRETT on double bass and BILL FINCH on drums. There was not too many of you in the audience, but none-the-less, those of you who came, created such an atmosphere with your whooping and dancing. We all loved ‘Southend Bob’ singing ‘Salty Dog Blues’. He has such a wonderful deep velvet voice and the song being such a fun song – I love how he finds them (a bit saucy though).

George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 18th September 2015. (LtoR) Tim Huskisson (cl), just hidden – John Sirett (d.bass), Denny Ilett (trmp), George ‘Kid’ Tidiman (trmb) and Bill Finch (drms), (also hidden – ‘Southend Bob’ Allbut (bnj). Photo by Mike Witt.

George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 18th September 2015. LtoR) just hidden-John Sirett (d.bass), Tim Huskisson (cl), Denny Ilett (trmp), Bill Finch (drms), George ‘Kid’ Tidiman (trmb), ‘Southend Bill’ Allbut (bnj). Photo by Mike Witt.

George (our ‘Kid’) sang brilliantly the next number, ‘I Want A Little Girl To Call My Own’, probably made famous mostly by Harry James. This was followed by ‘Kid’ Ory and Louis Armstrong’s ‘Canal Street Blues’, they certainly played their socks off to this one – all with fabulous solos. That lovely Latin number ‘Spain’ came next (I just love a Latin/American beat) certainly shows great playing by the ‘engine’ boys, John, Bill and ‘Southend Bob’.

Bill Finch on drums and ‘Southend Bill’ Allbut on banjo with George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 18th September 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

John Sirett plays double bass with George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 18th September 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

George entertained us next by singing ‘The Old Spinning Wheel’ and of course we all joined in (mostly with ‘lah lah-ing, of course) and I noted a bit of ‘Hi Ho – Hi Ho’ echoed after George (not quite sure what I meant – will have to ask him to repeat it next time they are here!). We had a real treat with someone in our audience – namely Jan Smith. [Keith used to play drums with Jan’s hubby, Barney Smith (guitar) and Nobby Willett (banjo – which he played it sounding just like a mandolin)]. Jan sang a couple of songs, one being ‘Bill Bailey (Wont You Come Home)’, what a voice Jan has (a fantastic dancer too).

Jan Smith sings a couple of song with George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 18th September 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Jan Smith sings a couple of song with George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 18th September 2015. George & ‘Southend Bob’ Allbut seen in background. Photo by Mike Witt.

Our next bit of entertainment came from Bob (singing with his rich deep voice again) another one of his brilliant choices, ‘Alcoholic Blues’ – a song written during America’s prohibition time. George was fabulous on trombone (I’m not a musician, so could have been a joke about having to match Bob’s voice – but it was mentioned they played it in lowest register – Bbflat).

Tim Huskisson on clarinet and Denny Ilett on trumpet with George ‘Kid’ Tidiman’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club on 18th September 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Probably my favourite song of the evening has to be ‘Stardust’. Denny excelled on trumpet of course. He played a wonderful introduction and then they all joined in with this fabulous ‘Hoagy Carmichael’ number. I will finish off with a mention of a lovely solo from Tim with ‘The Girls Go Crazy About The Way I Walk’, which was sung by George – of course the girls do George! Thanks for another delightful evening.

Diane and Keith

‘Salty Dog Blues’ – traditional African/American song (1900’s)

‘Alcoholic Blues’ – (m) Albert Von Tilzer, (l) Edward Laska (1919) sung by Bill Murray-prohibition song

‘Bill Bailey (Wont You Come Home)’ – Hughie Cannon (1902)

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

‘I Want A Little Girl To Call My Own’ – (m) Murray Mencher, (l) Bill Moll (1930)

‘Spain’ – (m) Isham Jones, (l) Gus Khan (1924)

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

‘The Girls Go Crazy about the Way I Walk’ – Edward ‘Kid’ Ory (1945) disputed earlier by Buddy Bolden (1944)

‘The Old Spinning Wheel’ – Williams J ‘Billy’ Hill (1933)

Barry Palser’s Super Six, 11th September 2015

BARRY PALSER’S SUPER SIX, entertained us again at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on Friday, 11^th September 2015. Well, that was certainly an understatement, because they were all tremendous. BARRY, on trombone &vocals, was joined by PETE RUDEFORTH on trumpet, JOHN CROCKER on clarinet & tenor sax, TONY PITT on banjo and JOHN TYSON on drums. Unfortunately, HARVEY WESTON couldn’t make it. However, Barry managed to get the brilliant ANDY LAURENCE (with his double bass), to hotfoot over to join us.

Barry Palser’s Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, with Barry (trombone), John Crocker (reeds), Pete Rudeforth (trumpet), Tony Pitt (banjo), Andy Laurence (double bass) and John Tyson (drums) on 11sep2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Phew, what a band – John (C) was 35yrs with The Chris Barber Band, with Pete still currently playing with them. John (C) has also played for Elton John, plus guested with Kenny Ball and Ken Colyer Trust Bands. Also, Pete’s career has included working with such bands as Kenny Ball, Acker Bilk, The Pasadena Roof Orchestra, The Temperance Seven and George Melley, just to mention a few. Tony has played with Alex Walsh, Acker Bilk, Kenny Ball, Alan Elsdon, Mike Cotton, Phil Mason, Laurie Chescoe and Terry Lightfoot Bands and, of course, Andy was also with the latter Band.

BarryPalser at Farnborough Jazz Club 11sep2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Barry Palser (presents his Super Six Band) at Farnborough Jazz Club 11sep2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Barry, who has always run his own band, is such a strong and likeable character and has always produced the best out of his ‘Stars’. He also has a special ‘extra’ that gives him a band to be proud of and that is Bridget, his wife. I believe Bridget travels to all the gigs, helping with the sound equipment and makes sure everything runs smoothly. Quite an asset.

Now to get back to the evening. It was so hard to choose what to mention, from so many wonderful tunes (I don’t like to give a band’s complete repertoire away for playing at other places).

Anyway, our evening began with that rousing popular tune, ‘Bourbon Street Parade’, a must to mention. Another fabulous number to add is ‘Black and Blue’ – oh wow, so beautifully played.

John Crocker (clarinet), Tony Pitt (banjo) and John Tyson (drums) – three of Barry Palser’s Super Six at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent on 11Sep2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Then John (C) sang ‘All Of Me’, obviously he did it proud. Not to be out-done came Pete singing ‘Nagasaki’, Actually, I shouldn’t have said that, because no one tries to outdo anybody! We then had John (C) performing his special – ‘Honeysuckle Rose’, yes a honey of a performance (John mentioned it was his second favourite tune, his first being ‘happy birthday’ ha.) As it happened, we had two birthday boys in the audience! The next number was requested by one of them (Bob), being ‘Kate Walking Baby’, sung by Barry. He apologised to me for not being able to perform it as well as he had done in the past, in other words, legs akimbo, much to our audiences’ laughter, but he can’t get his legs too far off the ground now-a-days. We all did our line-dance to the next song, being ‘Riverboat Shuffle’ (originally named ‘Freewheeling’). So many of us joined in this week, including male participants (much to the enjoyment/amusement of one chap’s other half).

Giants play at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent 11sep2015. John Crocker (clarinet) and Pete Rudeforth (trumpet), with John Tyson (drums) on 11th September 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Next came Pete’s special, which was ‘Stardust’. He plays a beautiful trumpet and we heard some superb banjo solos from Tony too. ‘Ace In The Hole’ is one that is always loved by our audience – joining in with such gusto (I think even Pete was surprised at this and enjoyed hearing us all). We also enjoyed the next number, ‘Mama Don’t ‘low’. Everyone excelled with playing their solos and this is when I can give special mention to the ‘engine boys’. The exciting drums of John (T) – wow – and of course Andy on d.bass – tremendous and of course Tony on banjo. They tagged on a bit of ‘When the Saints Go Marching In’ for a little bit of fun. I know I have mentioned too many of their tunes (sorry Barry, but you did sing it – Satchmo style)), but I must mention your last number, ‘What a Wonderful World’ and yes, you were all given such an ovation. No wonder these guys were chosen to play with our famous bands, they are all individually brilliant themselves.

Andy Laurence (d.bass) plays for Barry Palser’s Super Six at Farnborough JC, Kent 11sep2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

I said I was really looking forward to Friday, as had I missed the band the last time they were here, (said I had actually missed three weeks, which hadn’t happened in 25yrs). Well I hadn’t missed it. However, I have decided to complete newsletters as they come, beginning with this week and then backtrack on the others, otherwise I shall begin to lose the plot. I am starting to get forgetful (I get Keith to tell me his name everyday – ha). Actually, I do believe it is due more to doing too much and hopefully not due to old age, well that’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it!

Keep jazz ‘live’ and you also help keep yourselves young too.

Your hosts, Diane and Keith

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

‘All Of Me’ – (m&l) Gerald Marks & Seymour Simons (1931)

‘Black and Blue’ – (m) Thomas ‘Fats’ Waller & Harry Brooks, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)

‘Bourbon Street Parade’ – Paul Barbaran (1949)

‘Cake Walkin’ Babies’ – (m) Chris Smith & Clarence Williams, (l) Henry Troy (1925)

‘Honeysuckle Rose’ – (m) Thomas ‘Fats’ Waller, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)

‘Mama Don’t ‘low’ – American Folk Song

‘Nagasaki’ – (m) Harry Warren, (l) Mort Dixon (1928)

‘Stardust’ – (m) Hoagie Carmichael, (l) Mitchell Parish (1928)

‘What a Wonderful World’ – (m&l) George David Weiss & Bob Theile (1967)

Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II

Farnborough Jazz Club would like to join the many millions of huge wishes sent World Wide to congratulate Her Majesty, The Queen, becoming the longest reigning British Monarch. How young Her Majesty looks too and makes everyone so envious of her obvious fitness. Both Her Majesty and His Royal Highness, Prince Phillip are unbelievably hard working and long suffering, representing us on all our behalf and warrant our total admiration and thanks. God bless you both.

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band, Friday, 4th September 2015

‘LAURIE CHESCOE’S REUNION BAND’ were here at the FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB, Kent on 4^th September 2015. Drummer and leader (smiling from ear to ear) Laurie, was joined by ALLAN (‘Lord Arsenal’) BRADLEY on trumpet & vocals, JOHN LEE on reeds, MIKE POINTON on trombone, COLIN BRAY on piano, JIM DOUGLAS on banjo & guitar and PETER SKIVINGTON on bass guitar & bass ukulele. These guys are all top of the range musicians and play brilliantly together.

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 4th September 2015. (LtoR) Colin Bray (piano), Jim Douglas (guitar/banjo), Mike Pointon (trombone), Allan ‘Lord Arsenal’ Bradley (trumpet), Laurie Chescoe (drums), John Lee (reeds), Peter Skivington (bass-guitar/bass ukelele). Photo By Mike Witt.

They began with ‘When Somebody Thinks You’re Wonderful’, which was sang with plenty of feeling by Mike. He also sang the next number, ‘Ja-Dah’ and although I didn’t make a note of it, I’m sure Pete would have played his bass ukulele. Then Mike was ‘featured’ with the next one ‘Gee Baby Aint I Good To You’, just a brilliant trombonist and, of course, singer. The dance floor took a bashing for the next one, with everybody up dancing. The number was ‘All Of Me’ (good job we are on the ground floor!).

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 4th September 2015. (LtoR) Colin Bray (piano), Jim Douglas (guitar/banjo), Mike Pointon (trombone), Laurie Chescoe (drums), Photo By Mike Witt.

It was Colin’s turn to be featured next. He began with one of his funny stories – this about waiters – oh, he is so straight-faced and dry-humoured. When he tells one of his stories, you’ll find yourself crying with laughter. The song he played was ‘When You’re Smiling’. Such a lovely pianist and as you know, he is very talented at playing many other instruments too.

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 4th September 2015. (LtoR) Allan ‘Lord Arsenal’ Bradley (trumpet), John Lee (reeds), Jim Douglas (guitar/banjo), Laurie Chescoe (drums), Peter Skivington, (bass guitar&bass ukelele). Photo By Mike Witt.

John took to the stage next, with his ‘feature’ and played Al Jolson’s ‘Avalon’. [tit-bit: Jolson was born in Lithuania, Russian Empire] John is just one great saxophonist and clarinetist – say no more!!!!! Keith and I just love him. Jim came next with his ‘feature’ with a beautiful song – ‘Embraceable You’. Of course, Jim is a master of the guitar. Next came along a ‘Slow Boat To China’ with great singing from ‘Lord Arsenal’ (great trumpeter too) and he is brilliant fronting and announcing all their programmes.

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 4th September 2015. (LtoR) Mike Pointon (trombone), Allan ‘Lord Arsenal’ Bradley (trumpet), Jim Douglas (guitar/banjo), Laurie Chescoe (drums), John Lee (reeds)). Photo By Mike Witt.

The next tune is a fun one and the dance floor took a beating again with ‘Snake Rag’. Throughout the evening, Laurie played fabulous drums with his wonderful face full of smiles, well he loves what he does ….. And what a band he put together to do it with. Louis Armstrong’s ‘Strutting With Some Barbeque’ (written by wife Lilian) is such a great tune to end an evening with and they all played it with such gusto. I for one, went home exhilarated. Thanks boys, for learning to play when you were little.

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band at Farnborough Jazz Club (Kent) on 4th September 2015. (LtoR) Jim Douglas (guitar/banjo), Mike Pointon (trombone), Allan ‘Lord Arsenal’ Bradley (trumpet), Laurie Chescoe- hidden (drums), John Lee (reeds) Peter Skivington (bass-guitar/bass ukelele). Photo By Mike Witt.

Your hosts, Diane and Keith

‘All of Me’ – Gerald Marks & Seymour Simons (1931)

‘Avalon’ – Al Jolson, Vincent Rose & Buddy DeSylva (1920)

‘Embraceable You’ – (m) George Gershwin, (l) Ira Gershwin (1928)

‘Gee, Baby, Aint I Good to You’ – (m) Don Redman, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)

‘Ja-Da’ – Bob Carleton (1918)

‘Slow Boat To China’ – Frank Loesser (1948)

‘Snake Rag’ – (m) Joe ‘King’ Oliver & Armand A J Piron (1923)

‘Strutting With Some Barbeque’ – (m) Lilian Hardin Armstrong, (l) Don Raye (1941)

‘When Somebody Thinks You’re Wonderful’ – Harry M Woods (1935)

‘When You’re Smiling’ – Larry Shay, Mark Fisher & Joe Goodwin (1929)

Laurie Chescoe’s Reunion Band, Friday, 4th September 2015 A Slice of Cake

I’m leaving this newsletter published, because it’s my bit of fun………………………………………………….. “FRIDAY AT FARNBOROUGH” – Get ready to be thrilled by ‘LAURIE CHESCOE’S REUNION BAND’ here at the FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB, Kent on 4^th September 2015. Drummer and leader, Laurie, returns with ALLAN (‘Lord Arsenal’) BRADLEY on trumpet & vocals, JOHN LEE on reeds, MIKE POINTON on trombone, COLIN BRAY on piano, JIM DOUGLAS on banjo & guitar and PETER SKIVINGTON on bass guitar & bass ukulele. We have been enjoying some pretty spectacular Fridays at our Farnborough Jazz Club and it has been because of some pretty wonderful ingredients. Those ingredients have been a little bit of this and a little more of that. Firstly, a huge spoonful of some super bands, who enjoy a huge spoonful of appreciation from our audience and our audience, who enjoy a spoonful of action on our dance floor. Sounds soppy, doesn’t it, but WHAT A CAKE! Of course a spoonful of our bar staff, making you all warm and welcome – I know that makes Keith feel especially welcome– ha. What I enjoy most of all (the icing on the cake), is the warm feeling I get, when everyone leaves with huge smiles on their faces – both band and audience alike. Well, this Friday will be no exception, so hurry on over for a lovely ‘slice of cake’ to set you up for the week.

Of course, live Jazz is the main ingredient aye!

Diane and Keith

Storyville Jassband (from Holland), 28th August 2015

STORYVILLE JASSBAND from Holland gave us a wonderful evening on 28^th August 2015 at our Farnborough Jazz Club. Last time they were here, they ‘brought the house down’. That was back in April 2013. This Friday, was every bit as good. Their leader and cornet player then, was Ruud Nieuwenhuijzen. Unfortunately he is ill with ALS and is unable to play with the band from now on. This brilliant optimist, his wife Paula and two friends were at the gig, to support the band. Ruud is a fantastic man and replaced himself – most would have done so with a lesser player – ha, but not him – he found a great cornet player, namely PETER VAN DE GEIJN. Peter was joined by HENK VAN DE VEN on clarinet, PETER DOBBE on trombone, vocals & guitar, BERRY SCHUURING on drums, HEIN VAN ROOIJEN on double bass and HENK VAN MULLIGEN on banjo & guitar.

Storeyville Jazz Band from Holland with Henk Van De Ven (clarinet), Peter Van De GeIin (cornet) & Peter Dobbe (trombone) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK on 28th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Storyville Jassband from Holland with Henk Van De Ven (clarinet), Peter Van De GeIin (cornet) & Peter Dobbe (trombone) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK on 28th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Storeyville JB, PETER DOBBE (trombone) & HEIN VAN ROOIJEN (double bass) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK 28aug2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Storyville Jassband, PETER DOBBE (trombone) & HEIN VAN ROOIJEN (double bass) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK 28aug2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

It certainly was another top quality treat for you. I was having such a great time myself, so again I had trouble writing my notes – but here goes. My first note is of the Gershwin boys number, ‘The Man I Love’, featuring Peter (D) on trombone – fabulous.

Storeyville Jazz Band from Holland with Henk Van De Ven (clarinet) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK on 28th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Storyville Jassband from Holland with Henk Van De Ven (clarinet) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK on 28th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Followed on with another feature for Henk on clarinet, called ‘Summer Set’ (the number Acker Bilk wrote for his daughter). Next, I jotted down Henk’s performance of Django Reinhardt’s ‘Nuage’, a hard act to follow, but Peter (D) managed easily, singing ‘Doin’ the New Low-Down’, vocally backed by all of them (what singing – great). ‘Why Should I Hesitate’ was brilliant with Peter (Van D.G) playing Louis Armstrong style, plus Peter (D) again singing – what a lovely number. We enjoyed our Charleston-style line-dance when they played ‘St. Philip Street Breakdown’.

Storeyville Jazz Band, HENK VAN MULLIGEN (banjo) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK 28Aug2015. Photo by Mike Witt

Storyville Jassband, HENK VAN MULLIGEN (banjo) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK 28Aug2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Storeyville Jazz Band from Holland with BERRY SCHUURING (drums) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK on 28th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Storyville Jassband from Holland with BERRY SCHUURING (drums) at Farnborough Jazz Club, Kent UK on 28th August 2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Then we had a real treat watching a lovely couple (Jane and Alan) who are fantastic dancers, visiting from the Hastings 1066 Jazz club. They danced to the band’s brilliant performance of ‘Running Wild’. Berry gave a super drum solo (yes, Jane and Alan kept up with him too). Their last number was spectacular as it involved three numbers in one! (I had a hard job writing the names down as was busy dancing, but Ruud has since helped me with them). The first piece was ‘Joseph, Joseph’ (with Henk Ven leading on clarinet), the second piece was Edith Piaf’s ‘Padam padam’ and third piece was Kenny Ball’s ‘I Still Love You All’. Very impressive and certainly completed a fabulous evening with a great bunch of guys from Holland. We hope they will be back to us another year. Meanwhile, our very best wishes and love go to Ruud and Paula. ‘Keep your peckers up’.

Cover for CD of Storeyville Jassband's 2011 UK Tour with Ruud Nieuwenhuijzen (trumpet & Leader)

Cover for CD of Storyville Jassband’s 2011 UK Tour with (center) Ruud Nieuwenhuijzen (trumpet & Leader)

Your hosts

Diane and Keith

‘Bad Penny Blues’ – Humphrey Lyttelton (1956)—

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

‘I Found a New Baby’ – Jack Palmer and Spencer Williams (1926)

‘Look Down That Lonesome Road’ – (m) Nathaniel Shilkret, (l) Gene Austin (1927)

‘Riverboat Shuffle’ – (m) Hoagy Carmichael, (l) Irving Mills, Mitchell Parish & Dick Voynow (1924)

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

‘West End Blues’ – Joe ’King’ Oliver, (l) Clarence Williams (1928) (famed by Louis Armstrong)

‘When You and I Were Young Maggie’ – (m) James Butterfield (1866), (l) George W Johnson (1864) [derived from George Johnson’s poem (1820)]

‘When You’re Smiling’ – Larry Shay, Mark Fisher & Joe Goodwin (1929)

‘Buena Sera’ – Peter DeRose & Carl Sigman (1950)

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

‘Dinah’ – (m) Harry Akst, (l) Sam M. Lewis & Joe Young (1923)

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

‘Magnolia’s Wedding Day’ – (m) Jimmy McHugh, (l) Dorothy Fields (1928) (Chris Barber)

‘Move The Body Over’ – traditional (composer unknown, possible ‘Fats’ Waller or George Lewis?)

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

‘St Phillips Street Breakdown’ – George Lewis (circa 1944) (re-named Burgundy Street Blues)

‘That’s My Home’ – Otis René, Leon René & Ben Ellison (1932)

‘Salty Dog Blues’ – traditional African/American song (1900’s)

‘Alcoholic Blues’ – (m) Albert Von Tilzer, (l) Edward Laska (1919) sung by Bill Murray-prohibition song

‘Bill Bailey (Wont You Come Home)’ – Hughie Cannon (1902)

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

‘I Want A Little Girl To Call My Own’ – (m) Murray Mencher, (l) Bill Moll (1930)

‘Spain’ – (m) Isham Jones, (l) Gus Khan (1924)

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

‘The Girls Go Crazy about the Way I Walk’ – Edward ‘Kid’ Ory (1945) disputed earlier by Buddy Bolden (1944)

‘The Old Spinning Wheel’ – Williams J ‘Billy’ Hill (1933)

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

‘All Of Me’ – (m&l) Gerald Marks & Seymour Simons (1931)

‘Black and Blue’ – (m) Thomas ‘Fats’ Waller & Harry Brooks, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)

‘Bourbon Street Parade’ – Paul Barbaran (1949)

‘Cake Walkin’ Babies’ – (m) Chris Smith & Clarence Williams, (l) Henry Troy (1925)

‘Honeysuckle Rose’ – (m) Thomas ‘Fats’ Waller, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)

‘Mama Don’t ‘low’ – American Folk Song

‘Nagasaki’ – (m) Harry Warren, (l) Mort Dixon (1928)

‘Stardust’ – (m) Hoagie Carmichael, (l) Mitchell Parish (1928)

‘What a Wonderful World’ – (m&l) George David Weiss & Bob Theile (1967)

‘All of Me’ – Gerald Marks & Seymour Simons (1931)

‘Avalon’ – Al Jolson, Vincent Rose & Buddy DeSylva (1920)

‘Embraceable You’ – (m) George Gershwin, (l) Ira Gershwin (1928)

‘Gee, Baby, Aint I Good to You’ – (m) Don Redman, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)

‘Ja-Da’ – Bob Carleton (1918)

‘Slow Boat To China’ – Frank Loesser (1948)

‘Snake Rag’ – (m) Joe ‘King’ Oliver & Armand A J Piron (1923)

‘Strutting With Some Barbeque’ – (m) Lilian Hardin Armstrong, (l) Don Raye (1941)

‘When Somebody Thinks You’re Wonderful’ – Harry M Woods (1935)

‘When You’re Smiling’ – Larry Shay, Mark Fisher & Joe Goodwin (1929)

‘Doin’ the New Low-Down’ – (m) Jimmy McHugh, (l) Dorothy Fields (1928)

‘Hesitating Blues (Why Should I Hesitate)’ – W.C. Handy (1915)

‘I Still Love You All’ – Don Raye, Norbet Glanzberg (1961)

‘Joseph, Joseph’ – (m) Samual Steinberg, (l) Nellie Casman (1923) & (l Eng) Sammy Cahn & Saul Chaplin (1938)

‘Nuage’ – Django Reinhardt (1940)

‘Padam padam’ – (m) Norbet Glanzberg, (l) Henri Contet (l Eng Mann Holiner Alberta Nichols (1951)

‘Running Wild’ – (m) A. Harrington Gibbs, (l) Joe Grey & Leo Woods (1922)

‘St. Philip Street Breakdown’ – George Lewis (1944)

‘Summer Set’ – Acker Bilk & Dave Collett (1956)

‘The Man I Love’ – (m) George Gershwin, (l) Ira Gershwin (1924)