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 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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Diane and Keith

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

‘Bad Penny Blues’ – Humphrey Lyttelton (1956)

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

‘Blue Turning Grey Over You’ – (m) Fats Waller, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)

‘Lady Be Good’ – (m) George Gershwin, (l) Ira Gershwin (1924)

‘Tishamingo Blues’ – Spencer Williams (1917)

‘Way Down Yonder In New Orleans’ – (m) John Turner Layton Jr, (l) Henry Creamer (1922)

‘When You and I Were Young, Maggie’ – (m) J.A. Butterfield (1866) & (l) George Washington Johnson (1864)

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

Tony Pitt (banjo) presents his All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club 29may2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

TONY PITT’S ALL STARS appeared FRIDAY, 29^th MAY 2015 here at our FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB. Oh well done Tony, for getting the following stars, ‘cos they were brilliant. We had DENNY ILETT on trumpet, AL NICHOLS on reeds, DAVE HEWITT on trombone& baritone horn, ANDY LAWRENCE on double bass, JOHN ELLMER on drums (well percussion) and of course, Toeknee himself on banjo. What a session. We, of course, had a great turn-out, so a fantastic evening to report.

Some of Tony’s stars: Al Nichols (rds), Denny Ilett (trmpt), Dave Hewitt (trmb) & Andy Lawrence (db). Photo by Mike Witt. 29may2015

Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Farnborough Jazz Club, High St, Farnborough, Kent, UK 29may2015, with Denny Ilett (trmpt), Al Nichols (rds), Dave Hewitt (trmb), Andy Lawrence (db), John Ellmer (drms) and Tony (bnj). Photo by Mike Witt.

My first number to mention is ‘Hello Central, Give me Doctor Jazz’ sung by Tony, not sure I have heard him sing before, what a great voice.  Next came ‘Travelling Blues’, certainly a one to mention, it was absolutely fabulous – brilliantly played by all of them.

Denny Ilett (trmpt) with Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Farnborough JC, Kent 29may2015. Photo by Mike Witt

Denny sang next ‘I’d Like to Get You on a Slow Boat to China’, which brought out the dancers in full. Then he sang ‘Gee Baby, Ain’t I Good To You’, another great favourite.

Al Nichols (tenor sax) & Tony Pitt (banjo) Farnborough JC 29may2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

This brings me to mention Al’s brilliant feature on tenor sax with ‘Avalon’.  He was backed by some pretty wonderful solos from each of the engine boys – excellent banjo, excellent double bass and excellent drums.

Dave Hewitt plays baritone horn, with Tony Pitt’s All Stars at Farnborough JC, Kent 29may2015. Photo by Mike Witt.

Another feature tune was from Dave with ‘Some of These Days’. For this he played the baritone horn, what a star he is. We all got up to dance our (Charleston) line dance to ‘You Always Hurt The One You Love’, great fun for us dancers. The last number to mention was superb. They all played with so much oomph. The number was ‘Blue, Turning Grey Over You’. What a heart-thumping evening we all had, everyone was thrilled and left with huge ‘Cheshire cat grins’ on our faces. You can look forward to them returning for Keith’s second birthday celebration on 15^th August 2015 (no presents please, just pay to come in – £10).

Di and Keith

P.S. So sorry to be dreadfully behind with newsletters AND photos – they will be downloaded in due course, I promise – Di.

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

‘Blue, Turning Grey Over You’ – (m) Fats Waller, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)

‘Doctor Jazz’ – Joe ‘King’ Oliver, Walter Melrose (1926)

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

‘I’d Like to Get You On a Slow Boat to China’ – Frank Loesser (1947)

‘Some of These Days’ – Shelton Brooks (1909)

‘Travellin’ Blues’ – Jimmy Rogers & Shelly Lee Alley (1931)

‘You Always Hurt The One You Love’ – (m) Doris Fisher (1944)

 TONY PITT’S ALL STARS at the FARNBOROUGH JAZZ CLUB on 21^st 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.  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.

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). two of  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),                              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 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 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)

TONY PITT’S ALL STARS certainly is a most exciting band and entertained us here ‘big time’ at the Farnborough Jazz Club on Friday, 15^th August 2014. Wherever you see this band advertised, definitely go see them, you won’t regret it. Tony always books some of the top musicians in British Jazz.  This evening Tony brought with him ALAN GRESTY on trumpet, GRAHAM HUGHES on trombone, AL NICHOLS on soprano and tenor saxes, ANDY LAWRENCE on double bass, JOHN ELMER on drums and of course TONY again ‘solid as a rock’ on banjo. Tony does a wonderful job of introducing everything, quite a natural on the ‘mike’. The band began the evening with Graham singing ‘All of Me’, such a great start. My next choice of song was ‘Tishomingo Blues’, with Graham playing harmonica and Al on soprano sax. ‘Alice Blue Gown’ gave us the chance to do our line dance (including a few jivers on the floor too). Alan has a wonderful voice and sung to ‘When I Grow Too Old to Dream’. I wrote ‘fab clarinet’, although I know they were all fabulous (am I gushing too much, sorry can’t help it). ‘Bourbon Street Parade’ was certainly a temptation for a brolly parade, so Steve, one of our regulars, got out his collection of ‘umbrellas’ from the car, which produced another bit of fun. Al (Nichols of course) featured on sax with an Al Jolson hit, ‘(I met my love in) Avalon’, Oh what a performance, just superb. Talented Graham was next to be featured with ‘Just a Gigolo’ he played harmonica and also sang. I remember dancing, when John played a magnificent drum solo (you don’t forget drum solos if you are dancing – and I love to dance to drum solos!), anyhow a lovely number. ‘Everybody Loves My Baby’ must be mentioned, with Alan playing flugelhorn (I just love that instrument), plus he also sang. They once again played way past time and finished up with ‘Dixie (I Wish I was in)’ intermingled with a rendition of ‘When the Saints Go Marching In’. Oh what an ending. Certainly everyone left with huge smiles of appreciation and plenty of praise, not wanting it to end. That is how we love it, everyone leaving wanting more, so see you next Friday, with ‘Baby’ Jools’ Jazzaholics.

Nothing like ‘live’ music, especially jazz.

Diane & Keith

‘Alice Blue Gown’ – (m) Harry Tierney, (l) Joseph McCarthy (1919)

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

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

‘Bourbon Street Parade’ –

*‘Dixie (I Wish I was in Dixie)’ – Daniel Decatur Emmett (circa 1860)

‘Everybody Loves My Baby’ – (m) Spencer Williams, (l) Jack Palmer (1924)

‘Just a Gigolo’ – Irving Caecar (1929) [adapted from ‘Schőner Gigolo, Armer Gigolo – (m) Leonello Casucci, (l) Julius Brammer (1928)

‘Tishomingo Blues’ – Spencer Williams (1917)

‘When I grow too Old to Dream’ – (m) Sigmund Romberg, (l) Oscar Hammerstein II (1934)

*‘When the Saints Go Marching In’ – origins unknown (derived from (l) Katherine Purvis, (m) James Milton Black 1896) re-publ 1927.

           *played together!

TONY PITT’S ALL STARS at Farnborough Jazz Club on 16^th May 2014, was truly a night to remember. In Keith’s words, this superb band featuring some of the top musicians in British Jazz. The line-up included the powerful trumpet of DENNY ILETT, the top class trombone playing of DAVE HEWITT and the fabulous soprano and tenor sax of AL NICHOLS. A great front line, driven along by a swinging rhythm section, which included ANDY LAWRENCE’s strong double bass playing, JOHN ELLMER’s fantastic drumming and leader Tony Pitt- solid as a rock- on banjo. This was a memorable performance at the Farnborough Jazz Club, with the band looking smart and professional, bringing back visions of the great Alex Welsh band of the 70’s and 80’s (we should have recorded it). I missed jotting down their first number as people were pouring in, but recall John produced a fabulous drum solo in ‘Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans’. Also Denny sang ‘Tin Roof Blues’ (with Al playing soprano sax). Then Denny performed a beautiful solo intro to the next number ‘Maggie’. He also sang it and then ended it in the same way, so wonderful. Dave had a feature, playing ‘If I had My Way Dear’, what a performer, obviously brilliantly backed by the ‘engine’. They also backed Denny, who featured with ‘Bad Penny Blues’ (Denny sang it too). I don’t need words to describe Denny, he’s just the best. ‘Big Butter and Egg Man’ was another great number to which they all excelled. Al also had a feature number, ‘Avalon’, playing tenor sax, another brilliant musician. Nobody wanted the evening to end, but they chose ‘When the Saints Go Marching In’ to do so, obviously just the right number AND I did manage to record it on my old mobile phone. I did say last week, to expect some incredible jazz, I also said, one definitely NOT to be missed as these musicians are certainly top-notch. I was right, what a night. The band were steaming. They enjoyed what they were producing themselves, so much so, they forgot to stop and played on till 11.45pm and I’m sure they could have played on and on. Tony’s band is back with us on 15^th August 2014, to celebrate Keith’s birthday.

This week, Friday 23^rd May 2014, we will be featuring a band of similar quality and style – BARRY PALSER’S SUPER SIX, so come along and enjoy a great evening of Happy Jazz!

Diane and Keith

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

‘Bad Penny Blues’ – Humphrey Lyttelton (1956)

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

‘Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans’ – Louis Alter & Eddie DeLange (1947)

‘If I had My Way Dear’ – (m) James Kendis, (l) Lou Klein (1913)

‘Tin Roof Blues’ – George Brunies, Paul Mares, Ben Pollack, Leon Roppolo & Mel Stitzel (1923)

‘When the Saints Go Marching In’ – origins unknown (derived from (m) James Milton Black, (l) Katherine Purvis 1896) re-publ 1927.

‘When You and I Were Young, Maggie’ – (p) George W. Johnson (1820), (m) James A. Butterfield (1866)

TONY PITT’S ALL STARS ‘blew everybody minds’ here at Farnborough Jazz Club on 18^th October 2013.  TONY (banjo) obtained those brilliant stars, DENNY ILETT on trumpet, ADRIAN COX on clarinet, DAVE HEWITT on trombone, PETE ‘Dave’ BAKER on double bass and JOHN ELLMER on drums.  Howzat!  I said last week that we were definitely in for an exciting evening of jazz.  What an understatement!  I have to tell you they were so much more than brilliant, well Ken in the audience said to me, and I quote “There is only one word for it, matchless!  Then he said” unbelievable”, that’s two words Ken.  Tony chose to put this line-up together for the first time and pretty amazing they were.  I will not decry the previous bands or line-ups, but together were certainly among the crème de la crème.  Those of you who witnessing the evening, please post your comments on our website.  It would show my darling Keith (who is a Luddite) that you ARE reading these newsletters.  Hmmm, are you?  Just in case you are reading this, let me remind you of some of the numbers played.  They started the evening with that rip-roaring number called ‘Jazz Me Blues’.  Not sure why it should have been called a blues, it is such a happy number.  ‘Original Dixieland One Step’ had brilliant solos.  First solo by Adrian was incredible, but then each in turn came Denny, Dave and then John (all incredible too), all backed by Pete and Tony – fantastic.  Denny sang the next number ‘When Somebody Thinks You’re Wonderful’ loved by plenty of dancers.  Adrian sang the next couple of songs ‘Nobody Loves You When You’re Down and Out’ and ‘The Curse of the Aching Heart’ (nearly fainted dancing to it – hmmm getting old – who said that!).  ‘Panama Rag’ was another amazing number (I didn’t want them to stop playing it), followed by another old standard called ‘When You and I were young Maggie’.  I managed to film next couple of numbers.  The filming is very dark (club atmosphere) and the music is never as good as being there ‘live’, but still great for a memory boost.  First number captured was ‘Shimmy Like my Sister Kate’, sung by Adrian. Then ‘Bad Penny Blues’ featured Denny on trumpet, he also sang, plus played mouth piece only, what a talent. Then came ‘Blue Turning Grey Over You’, ‘South Rampart Street Parade’ and ‘When the Saints Go Marching In’.  There was plenty of dancing throughout the evening and that says it all, so don’t be shy if you want to join us and enjoy yourselves, it doesn’t matter how well or badly you can dance, we don’t watch you, were too busy dancing ourselves.  Of course all are welcome, don’t stay lonely at home, we have such fun.

Keep jazz ‘live’ in Farnborough!

Diane and Keith

N.B.  Sorry, still not able to download videos, it seems they are too long – I will try to find a way at a later date!

‘Bad Penny Blues’ – Humphrey Lyttelton (1956)

‘Blue, Turning Grey Over You’ – (m) Fats Waller, (l) Andy Razaf (1929)

‘Jazz Me Blues’ – Tom Delaney (1921)

‘Nobody Loves You When You’re Down and Out’ – Jimmy Cox (1923)

‘Original Dixieland One Step’ (First jazz record known as ‘Dixie Jass Band One Step’ by Original Dixieland Jazz Band (1917).  After court case – changed to ‘That Teasing Rag’ (ragtime song by Joe Jordon-1909)

‘Shimmy Like my Sister Kate’ – (composers?) © Clarence Williams & Armand Piron (1915)

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

‘The Curse of the Aching Heart’ – (m) Al Piantadosi, (l) Henri Fink (1913)

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

‘When the Saints Go Marching In’ – origins unknown (derived from (l) Katherine Purvis, (m) James Milton Black 1896) re-vamped & published 1927

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

TONY PITT’S ALL STARS, here last Friday, 30^th August 2013, was as expected, BRILLIANT.  TONY PITT, a fabulous banjo player (as mentioned last week), had put together a fantastic bunch of musicians, some of the best names in British jazz and we did not exaggerate.  ROY WILLIAMS was on trombone and as written, was voted No.1 jazz trombonist of the year, on four consecutive years during 1980’s.  He has played with Terry Lightfoot, Alex Welsh and Humphrey Littleton Bands and has guested with many more international stars such as Bud Freeman, Wild Bill Davison and Ruby Braff, it certainly shows.  We were very proud he agreed to play for us – his first and we certainly hope not the last.   ALAN GRESTY was on trumpet.  He has played with Monty Sunshine’s Band for many years.  AL NICHOLLS on soprano & tenor sax (also his first time at Farnborough and hope he returns too).  He has played with Paul Gelato and Blue Harlem.  ANDY LAWRENCE was on double bass and (as previously said last week) was also with Terry Lightfoot for many years.  JOHN ELLMER was on drums.  We found, no CV for him, but Keith and I could vouch for him –he’s brilliant, but what I didn’t tell you, was he is also a marvellous clarinet player (not that he played it last Friday).  Tony’s CV is with such great bands as Alex Welsh, Mike Cotton, Acker Bilk, Kenny Ball, Alan Elsdon, Laurie Chescoe, Terry Lightfoot and our old friend, Phil Mason.  Right at the start, it was full-on hot, hot jazz with their first number ‘I Found a New Baby’.  Next was ‘Lily of the Valley’, with great solos and sung by Alan and of course audience participation (fabulous sax).  ‘Some of These Days’ was superb, with the front line playing a little bit of ‘bells’ (similar to that number ‘Chimes Blues).  Then they played ‘Chinatown, My Chinatown’, with amazing solos from everyone.  The next number was Roy’s feature, called ‘I Love You, Samantha’.  Roy said he hadn’t played it in years.  You wouldn’t have guessed it though, he played it with such sympathy, so beautiful.  Fats Waller’s number ‘Keeping out of Mischief’ was followed with ‘S Wonderful’, which was Alan’s feature.  What a great young player he is – wow.  ‘Davenport Blues’ was Alan’s feature (I was dancing and hadn’t written a remark, except “so pure”, I think that says it all!   They finished off with ‘Blues My Naughty Sweetie’.  What an excellent ending – brilliant.

Look out for Tony’s next date with us, being 18^th October 2013.  I wonder who he will book for that date.  Whoever they will be, they cannot better last week, but if it is as good, DON’T MISS IT!

Nice to be able to write such words – but they are all true!!!!

Diane and Keith

Farnborough Jazz Club

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

‘Chinatown, My Chinatown’ – (m) Jean Schwartz, (l) William Jerome (1910)

‘Davenport Blues’ – Bix Beiderbecke (1925) – named after his hometown.

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

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

‘Keeping out Of Mischief Now’ – Thomas ‘Fats’ Waller (circa 1920’s, r.1937)

‘Lily of the Valley’ – hymn written by William Charles Fry (1837–1882) in London for the Salvation Army.  Ira D. Sankey arranged the words to the music of “The Little Old Log Cabin in the Lane” composed by Will Hays

‘Some of These Days’ – Shelton Brooks (1909)

‘S Wonderful’ – (m) George Gershwin, (l) Ira Gershwin (1927)

The website is still undergoing re-construction, so please be patient during the interim.  Meanwhile, here is our write-up for next Friday.

TONY PITT’S ALL STARS are appearing here at our Farnborough Jazz Club on Friday, 30^th August 2013.  Once again, Tony has put together a fantastic bunch of musicians, with some of the best names in British jazz.  You can’t get better than ROY WILLIAMS on trombone (Jazz Journal voted him No: 1 jazz trombonist on four consecutive years during 1980’s).  He has played with the likes of Terry Lightfoot, Alex Welsh and Humphrey Littleton Bands and has guested with many more international stars such as Bud Freeman, Wild Bill Davison and Ruby Braff.  As if that isn’t enough, Tony has booked ALAN GRESTY on trumpet (with Monty Sunshine’s Band for many years), AL NICHOLLS on saxes (was with Paul Gelato and Blue Harlem), ANDY LAWRENCE on double bass (who was also with Terry Lightfoot for many years), JOHN ELLMER on drums (no CV found, but Keith and I can vouch for him –he’s brilliant) and of course, TONY PITT on guitar/banjo (Tony’s CV reads such great bands as Alex Welsh, Mike Cotton, Acker Bilk, Kenny Ball, Alan Elsdon, Laurie Chesco, Terry Lightfood and our old friend, Phil Mason).  No wonder Tony can obtain such an incredible line-up.  We are so thrilled and know it will be a knock out and magical evening, so don’t miss it.

Nice to be back, although the club has continued without fail, every Friday during our black out!

Diane and Keith