JAZZ AT THE 'CON' CLUB
Doncaster
Conservative Club
South Parade
DN1 2DJ
01302 349898
Doncaster
Jazz Club |
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JAZZ AT THE 'CON' CLUB Doncaster
Conservative Club
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| Bob Ludlam | Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra |
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'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 9th February 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Exciting news for the 'Jazz into Doncaster' voluntary committee is that their efforts in promoting 'live' jazz at the Conservative Club and over many years at various previous venues may possibly be recognised by an award from 'Yorkshire Jazz' in the promotion/club category, thanks to trombonist/band leader Eugene Farrar for his kind nomination!! The committee stalwarts aren't holding their breath...but 'one never knows, does one!!' Further exiting news comes from DYJA Stageband and Swing Orchestra Manager Brenda Proctor, who informs that a fund raising event recently took place in support of the Association at the world famous Ronnie Scott Club in London—hosted by former DYJO pianist Andy Cato (now with Groove Armada), who arranged for a group of young Doncaster musicians to play the opening set...which-as you can imagine—caused great excitement for them!! Watch out for local Doncaster Youth Jazz Association concerts and give your valuable support whenever possible!! Stuart Currie of ‘Barnsley Jazz’ informs that despite the loss of the Silkstone Lodge venue (under new management and discontinuing the live jazz policy!!), it’s business as usual on Mondays at their new venue—The Fairway Hotel (formerly The Bluebell Inn)-just ‘up the road apiece’ from Silkstone Lodge. (Directions from Junction 37 of the M1: Take the A628 towards Manchester-go through 3 roundabouts-at the 4th take 3rd exit Elmhirst Lane, which leads to the Fairway Hotel (S75 4LS/ Phone 0871-200-2289)…Call 01226-281805 / 290105 / 383135 for gig information. Paying a more than welcome return to the ‘Con’ Club (DN1 2DJ)
tonight (9th Feb) is the sensational four-piece band The Djangonauts (‘Quartet
du Hot Club de Donny’ perhaps!!), who will magically conjure the
Parisian atmosphere originally created by the likes of the massively influential
guitar genius Django Reinhardt and jazz violin supremo Stephane Grappelli
with their own unique brand of ‘Gypsy Swing’!! Leading the group
is nimble-fingered and imaginative guitarist CHRIS WALKER—who may
contribute an odd vocal or two also—Canadian born PIERO TUCCI on
accordion; PHIL JOHNSON (rhythm guitar); and KEVIN WALKER (double bass). Also coming up at the ‘Con’ Club on Thursday 23rd February
is a special concert featuring the formidable trumpet talents of multi-award
winning BRUCE ADAMS along with the dynamic band of trombonist EUGENE FARRAR—a
popular regular visitor to the venue, who was recently in action with
Winston’s Pennine Jazz at the opening session of the new season.
Bruce is very much ‘His own man’…however don’t be
surprised if his confident bravura performances bring to mind the likes
of jazz legends Roy ‘Little Jazz’ Eldridge / Bunny Berrigan
and other trumpet luminaries!! Advance tickets are available at £7
from The Blue Building, 38-40 High Street, Doncaster DN1 1DE (01302-734309)
or £8 on the night…NOT TO BE MISSED!! Happy jazzin'!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 2nd February 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Regular readers of ‘Jazz Scene’ articles will surely excuse the absence of last week’s contribution, due to understandable preoccupation with the recent joyful arrival of a beautiful baby grandson Samuel Joseph, to our daughter Karen and husband Michael naturally taking precedence above music matters!! Whilst staying at their home however, I overheard chat at their local pub of the recent success of a ‘pilot’ New Orleans Jazz Night which included Jambalaya and Cajun dishes in the £10 admission charge….’Food for thought’ for Yorkshire jazz promoters, perhaps!! Forthcoming live events on the ‘Donny’ scene include this Saturday’s (4th Feb) lunchtime session by guitar maestro Terry Alllonby’s Trio ( with Nigel Chapman-keyboards and Mark Kerrigan-drums) plus likely guest ‘sitters-in.’ The gig takes place between 12noon to 3pm and admission is free…A fine way to while away the afternoon and enjoy equally fine music, tasty food and drinks and the welcoming hospitality of landlord Francie and his friendly staff…If you’ve not yet sampled the ‘Allonby Experience,’ why not drop in to give it a try? On Thursday 9th February, fans of Django Reinhardt inspired ‘Hot Club of France’ styled Gypsy Swing are expected to gravitate to the ‘Con’ Club ( South Parade DN1 2DJ ) to thrill to the stimulating wizardry of The Djangonauts, who are making a most welcome return to the popular venue. Leading the group is nimble fingered guitarist Chris Walker (who may offer up the odd vocal or two also!!)—ably abetted by the multi-talented Piero Tucci on accordion, Phil Johnson (rhythm guitar) and Kevin Walker on double bass, who will jointly transport the audience to Montmartre and the atmosphere of the Paris ‘Left Bank’ nightlife by way of their breath taking instrumental acumen!! The session stomps-off at 8.30pm / Admission £5 at the door. Also at the ‘Con’ Club on Monday 13th February will be the
duo of guitarist/vocalist Dickie Emmerson—with Robert Baker on keyboards
who is settling in nicely after replacing Tony Spragg. The pair will be
offering a varied mix of swingin’ standards / ballads / rock n’
roll and much more, no doubt assisted by guest singers Eddie Kell / Bob
Quinn/ Happy jazzin’!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 12th January 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Whilst recently attempting a long over-due 'tidy-up' of my extremely cluttered 'jazz den' that suffices for my 'office', I came across several photographs of the late-great British clarinettist Sandy Brown, which I took at The Daily Mail International Jazz Festival at Belle Vue-Manchester – back in June 1963, where he was appearing with The Fairweather-Brown All-Stars and guest star Tony Coe.’ Shortly afterwards –having spotted an 'ad' in Jazz Journal—I
forwarded copies to The Sandy Brown Society, which is edited and produced
by John Latham at 2 Church Meadow, Reynoldston, Swansea SA3 1AF (www.sandybrownjazz.co.uk
) ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ launch the 2012 season of live gigs at The Conservative Club on Thursday 26th January, with the more than welcome return of the boisterous ‘Trad’ / Dixieland / Swing band Winston’s Pennine Jazz, who are guaranteed to drive away the Winter Blues with their infectious brand of foot-tapping-swingin’ jazz!! Stomp-off time is 8.30pm / Admission £5 at the door. Following on at the ‘Con’ Club venue are The Djangonauts –featuring Chris Walker ( lead guitar )/ Phil Johnson ( rhythm guitar ) / Piero Tucci ( accordion )/ and Kevin Walker ( double bass ) –on Thursday 9th February, who were rapturously received at their debut session at the club last year and are fully expected to be equally sensational this time also with their unique slant on the ‘Gypsy Jazz’ Hot Club of France style of the great Django Reinhardt. Trumpet ace Bruce Adams is star guest of the dynamic Eugene Farrar Band at the ‘Con’ Club on Thursday 23rd February in a special concert jointly presented by ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ and John Sheppard of the former NCB Lodge Jazz Club. Tickets are available at £7 advance from The Blue Building, 38-40 High Street DN1 1DE ( Phone 01302-734309 ) or at £8 at the door. Also in the pipeline are gigs by The Roy Norton Jazz Band (8th March),
The Southside Jazz Band ( 22nd March ) plus sessions by The Reunion Jazzband, ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 5th January 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Here’s wishing a hearty ‘Swinging New Year’ to all ‘Donny’ area jazz followers—and those who visit our town from further afield also!!—with plenty of diverse and stimulating live gigs to attract all tastes over coming months. Laying claim to first off the ‘New Year Blocks’ is the eclectic Terry Allonby Trio—fronted of course by boss man Terry on guitars and with Nigel Chapman (keyboards) plus Mark Kerrigan (drums), who will jointly be ‘holding court’ at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) on Saturday 7th January between 12noon and 3pm, with various guest musicians also likely to ‘sit-in’ on several numbers throughout the free admission session. On the musical menu will be contemporary jazz, blues, rock, swing, Latin, Allonby/Chapman originals, takes on popular songs by the likes of Simon & Garfunkel / The Beatles / Ray Charles / Dusty Springfield and many more surprises too!! A great way to brighten a dreary winter’s afternoon and launch 2012 in memorable fashion. Following closely on the Allonby heals will be the much loved and admired talents of guitarist / singer Dickie Emmerson’s Duo, who will be in action at the ‘Con’ Club (South Parade DN1 2DJ) for their first monthly ‘Monday Date’ session of the new season at the popular venue on Monday 9th January. The music kicks-off at 8.30pm / admission £3-50 at the door and will no-doubt also include welcome swingin’ contributions by Bob Quinn, Eddie Kell, Sue Fisher and Johnny Noble, who are regular vocal guests at the monthly gigs. The ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ voluntary committee launch their
new season’s live events on Thursday 26th January at the ‘Con’
Club, when the popular attraction is the vibrant six piece band Winston’s
Pennine Jazz—led as ever (from the rear!!) by founder and double
bassist Keith Shone…with all-star support from trumpeter Dave Kendall,
Eugene Farrar ( trombone/harmonica/vocals), Andy Wallis (reeds), Brian
Herbert Set for February ‘Con’ Club sessions in February is the sensational Hot Club du France styled group The Djangonauts (Thurs 9th)—featuring Chris Walker (lead guitar) / Piero Tucci (accordion) / Phil Johnson (rhythm guitar) / and Kevin Walker ( double bass)…..Followed on Thurs 23rd by a ‘Special’ featuring multi-award winning trumpet star BRUCE ADAMS with the dynamic EUGENE FARRAR BAND. ( Advance tickets £7 available from The Blue Building, 38-40 High Street, DN1 1DE / Phone 01302-734309….or £8 at the door)….Watch out for news of Sunday afternoon sessions with trombone super-star Dennis Rollins and superlative sax man Mark Ellis etc at Bawty’s Coco Ice venue (www.cocoice.co.uk ) 31 Market Place DN10 6JL / Phone 01302-711766….and Sunday Jazz sessions at Doncaster’s Bistro venue. Happy jazzin’!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 22nd December 2011 from C.J.Worsdale. A 'jolly good time' was had by all at the closing 'Jazz into Doncaster' Christmas Party night by youthful band Tradtastic and also at the final 'Monday Date' gig of 2011 by The Dickie Emmerson Duo, both of which took place at the 'Con' Club venue. York based Tradtastic—who are usually a busking band—made a
big impression on their first visit to an actual 'Jazz Club', delighting
from the start with a 'spectacular' march-on—plus extra press-ganged
'volunteers' who augmented the visiting band on a variety of inflatable
instruments along with two 'brolly-dollies', much to the amusement of
the receptive audience, followed It was great to see such young talented musicians performing Traditional
Jazz and hopefully, as they eventually move on to respective colleges
and universities, Local treasure Dickie Emmerson ( guitar / vocals) and piano man Robert
Baker The Terry Allonby Trio kick-off their monthly Saturday lunchtime gigs at The Horse & Groom on 7th January ( 12 noon to 3pm )....And 'Jazz into Doncaster' start the new year on Thursday 26th January at the 'Con' Club with the popular attraction Winston's Pennine Jazz—followed by The Djangonauts ( 9th Feb) and a 'Special' on 23rd February when trumpet star BRUCE ADAMS joins forces with the dynamic Eugene Farrar Band.....Silkstone Lodge / Barnsley have The Yorkshire Stompers ( 9th Jan ) / Winston's Pennine Jazz ( 16th Jan ) / and Millennium Eagle Jazz Band (23rd Jan) : 01226-281805 / 290105 . A 'Real Cool Yule' and 'Swinging New Year' to All—HAPPY JAZZIN'!!
'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 8th December 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. According to the old adage, 'Variety is the spice of life'--a sentiment most who attended the recent contrasting concert attraction by Sheffield based band Steel City Bones would unreservedly agree with, judging by the enthusiastic response of the audience for the superlative performance of the five trombone fronted nine piece outfit, expertly led by Lee Hallam on ( yes, you've guessed it-TROMBONE!!). Any misgivings regarding the perception of an overwhelming barrage of
sound from the five trombones, quickly evaporated as the band settled
into their varied programme of intricately swingin' jazz standards, ballads,
Latin flavoured numbers and familiar favourites—such as Basin Street
Blues—all delivered with colourful aplomb by the gifted musicians....with
special regard for the polished rhythm section In keeping with the policy of varied 'Jazz into Doncaster' attractions,
the 2011 series of live events is set to go out with a foot-tapping and
fun-packed 'bang' when boisterous youthful band TRADTASTIC entertain 'Con'
Club regulars at the annual Jazz Party 'Bash on Thursday 8th December,
with many favourite 'Trad' flag-wavers plus lots of surprises AND a free
buffet-generously provided by Jazz Committee members and members of the
'Con' Club also. The line-up will consist of James Lancaster (cornet/tuba)/
Charlie Lancaster (trombone)/ Grace Lancaster (vocals/clarinet/alto) /
Alasdair Simpson ( banjo/tuba)/ Andrew Cox (clarinet/alto/ Looking forward New Year 'Jazz into Doncaster' dates at the 'Con' Club,
Winston's Pennine Jazz launch the season on Thursday 26th January....Followed
by The Djangonauts ( Thurs 9th Feb) / The Eugene Farrar Band plus star
guest trumpeter BRUCE ADAMS (Thurs 23rd Feb) / Roy Norton Band (Thurs
8th March ); with sessions by The New Jazz Messengers and Shirley Patterson
/ Alligator Gumbo Also lined up for their Pre-Christmas session at the 'Con' Club on Monday
12th December is THE DICKIE EMMERSON DUO—featuring Dickie on guitar
and vocals plus guest singers Bob/ Eddie/ Sue / Johnny expected to be
in attendance also!! ( 8.30pm / Admission £3-50 at the door). 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 1st December 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. First of the Yuletide season 'Live Jazz Blocks' is The Terry Allonby Trio, who will be in lunchtime action at The Horse & Groom ( East Laithegate ) on Saturday 3rd December between 12noon to 3pm...though those who know Terry and the boys well, will no to expect only the briefest fleeting musical nods to matters of Christmas...So better keep those ears wide open, just in case!! The absence of seasonal tunes will not however mar the session , which is always packed with humour, surprises and fine solos from messrs Allonby / Nigel Chapman (keyboards) / and Mark Kerrigan ( drums )...Also it's always likely that several 'musos' may drop in to join the threesome on a number or two, which can be enjoyed along with the jovial hospitality, fine Irish cuisine and ales, courtesy of landlord Francie and his amiable staff!! 'Jazz into Doncaster' hold their annual 'Christmas Bash' at the Conservative
Club (South Parade DN1 2DJ )on Thursday 8th December, when the attraction
is youthful York based outfit 'TRADTATASTIC' –fronted by versatile
musician James Lancaster ( cornet / trumpet / sousaphone ), who will be
expertly and vigorously accompanied by a team of fellow 'jazzers' selected
from the talented pool of dedicated traditionalists : Andrew Cox ( clarinet
/ banjo / washboard )/ Unlike most 'Trad' bands, Tradtastic perform totally un-amplified, and will play their infectious foot-tapping jazz in all corners of the venue, ensuring that every on in the audience is treated to their own close-up attendance from James and his happy gang!! Admission is £5 at the door and a buffet of tasty snacks will be on hand thanks to 'Jazz into Doncaster' committee members , 'Con' Club members and generous regular patrons!! Don't miss out such a memorable occasion!! Also set for their own pre-Christmas Monday date at the 'Con' Club is
The Dickie Emmerson Duo, who will be in action at the venue on 12th December
with their inimitable renditions of swingin' jazz standards / ballads
/ rock n' roll / and Christmas songs....and will no doubt will also feature
guest singers Sue Nixon / Bob Quinn / Eddie Kell and Johnny Noble—who
are often present at the gigs. Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge ( Enquiries: 01226-281805 / 290105 ) present The White Eagles Jazzband ( 5th Dec) & Bob Ludlam Band ( 12th Dec). HAPPY JAZZIN' !! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 17th November 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Although 'Jazz into Doncaster' voluntary committee does not always 'get it right' when selecting live bands to perform at it's events, few could accuse it of not providing a wide variety of attractions!! Most recent of which was a new band to the 'Con' Club, 'Swingamathing' who refreshingly base there vibrant style on the Swing Era and the 'Jump-Jive' of Louis Jordan, Louis Prima and other 'greats' of the genre. Led by lead singer and founder Suzanne Tomlinson, the seven piece outfit offered up two infectious sets of varied and lively numbers, including Swing is the thing / Is you is or is you ain't my baby / Peggy Lee's hit OK, alright, you win / Pennies from heaven/ Boogie-woogie bugle boy of company 'B' ( with Suzanne joining vocal forces with the band's two girl sax players, evoking the pioneering harmonies of The Andrew Sisters) , all of which delighted the responsive audience and even attracted pairs of jivers to 'strut their stuff' on the dance floor!! Suzanne and company are certain to be invited back to the 'Con' Club for a return gig pretty soon...And if plans come to fruition, will be among the attractions at Doncaster Markets Jazz Day in May....Meanwhile, why not 'check 'em out' on their website www.swingamathing.co.uk ? And maybe purchase one ( or more!! ) of their CD's, which will make ideal stocking-fillers for fans of Swing Music!! In keeping with the policy of offering variety, the next concert at the 'Con' Club venue on Thursday 24th November brings another new attraction in the starkly contrasting form of Sheffield based nine-piece band 'Steel City Bones', which is led by trombonist Lee Hallam and boasts a powerfully swinging front-line of no less than five 'kid-shifters' ( that's trombones to the 'uninitiated'!!), plus a four man rhythm section. The full personnel will be Lee himself, Stuart Garside, Brian Archer, Dave Pearce, Danny Hammerton ( all on trombones and perhaps with Danny also on trumpet ); Andy Dressler (piano ), Derek Harris ( guitar ), Paul Baxter ( bass ) and Peter Fairclough ( drums ). The rare combination of a five trombone led band should by no means deter jazz fans from turning out in force ( others who have famously succeeded with similar outfits include Roy Williams' 'Five A Slide' / local trombonist Mike Mackinder's 'Spice Bones' / and the late-great 'Basieite' Dickie Wells with his ground-breaking multi-trombone recording 'Bones for the King.' Expect expertly swingin' interpretations of tunes ranging from 'Basin Street Blues' to J.J.Johnson & Kai Winding compositions , Ellington , Basie and beyond!! The cation starts at 8.30pm / admission for the special gig is ONE POUND EXTRA THAN USUAL at £6 ( pay at the door ). Lined up for Jazz into Doncaster's Christmas 'Bash' on Thursday 8th December is a band of committed young traditionalists TRADTASTIC, who are bound to get everyone in the Yuletide mood with their vigorous approach....Make a note of the date and don't miss it!! Next Horse & Groom gig by The Terry Allonby Trio is on Saturday 3rd
December – Happy Jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 17th November 2011. (two) From C.J.Worsdale. A very hearty 'well done' to former DYJO trombonist Stuart Garside and
all concerned for organising the recent successful session by Los Angeles
based blues Gregg, who has notably toured with the late Michael Jackson no less,
and has also worked with many of the 'greats' of Blues and Rock, including
Albert and Freddie King / Mick Fleetwood / Ike Turner / and Jimmy McCracken,
certainly didn't disappoint the enthusiastic crowd with his soulful vocals
and dazzling high octane guitar wizardry—which included salutes to
Muddy Waters ( 'Hoochie Coochie Man') There's another great chance to catch Stuart Garside in local action on Thursday 24th November, when he teams with Lee Hallam's Sheffield based band 'Steel City Bones'at the Conservative Club for an extra special concert arranged by 'Jazz into Doncaster.' Steel City Bones—which has a mighty five trombone 'front-line' plus four piece rhythm section—have previously impressed and delighted fans at the Northern Jazz Centre on Beckett Road and fully deserve to attract a full house for the 'Con' Club gig!! The star-studded line-up comprises of leader Lee Hallam (currently working on a CD in the mode of Jay Jay Johnson and Kai Winding),Stuart Garside, Danny Hammerton ( also a fabulous trumpeter who many will recall playing in Big Bands such as The Squadronaires at 'Donny' Civic and with various 'Trad' bands),Brian Archer, and Dave Pearce on trombones; with Andy Dressler (piano)/ Paul Baxter (bass)/ Derek Harris (guitar) / Peter Fairclough (drums). The action begins at 8.30pm/ admission is £6 at the door ( £1 extra than usual, due to nine-piece band). Not to be missed!! Lined up for the annual 'Jazz into Doncaster' Christmas 'bash' at the 'Con' Club on Thursday 8th December is sensational young band 'Tradtastic' ( look 'em up on Google!!) , who promise to get everyone's feet uncontrollably tapping with their vigorous rafters-raising brand of 'Trad' Jazz!! The Terry Allonby Trio are in lunchtime action at The Horse & Groom-East
Laithegate from 12noon to 3pm on Saturday 3rd December. Sitting in at
the threesome's November gig were Rhythm Oil guitar man Richard Holland
( exchanging dare-devil 'licks' with Terry); Blues singer/ guitarist Ken
'Smiffy' Smith and tenor saxist Rae Kang—who will be missed locally
when he jets back to South Korea for three months, but promises to come
back to 'Donny' on his return to the UK.....Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone
Lodge have Denis Armstrong's Great Northern Jazzband ( 21st Nov)/ Spirit
of New Orleans (28th Nov); White Eagles Jazzband (5th Dec) ; and Bob Ludlam's
Band (12th Dec)--01226 281805 / 290105 / 383135..... Happy Jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 10th November 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Following on from the recent successful and musically gratifyingly diverse
'Con' Club session by multi-reed man Matt Palmer's Quartet, spanning several
eras of jazz from early New Orleans styles ( George Lewis / Bechet etc
to Be-bop and beyond The sparkling array of talent in the band consists of Suzanne Tomlinson: vocals, who has explored a variety of music genres including Folk and 'Trad' Jazz and has trained with jazz divas Tina May and Anita Wardell, also teaches singing and piano and runs the Opus School of Music alongside band member sax player Helen Madden. On trumpet and flugel horn ( also a gifted trombonist and keyboards player ) is Simon James; the afore mentioned Helen Madden-a graduate of Leeds College of Music-- plays saxophones / clarinet / and flute alongside fellow saxophonist Penny Millen-- who also studied jazz singing with Tina May, and has recorded a jazz session for Radio Two. Taking charge of 'The Engine Room' is the rhythm section of Dave Kirkwood on guitar—who has a love of American 'Roots' music / West Coast Blues / 40's -50's RnB and Jazz and cites Charlie Christian, Freddie Green, Tiny Grimes and 'T' Bone Walker as major influences.... With Mark Lakesvics on double bass ( who jokes that his father was 2nd thimble in Derek Guyler's Washboard Allstars and his mother sang in the bath!!)...... and Jonathan Rawson-Tetley on drums and percussion, who's main influences are Gene Krupa / Billy Cobham and Steve White. Collectively, Swingamathing are expected to 'raise the rafters' with their vibrant approach to Jazz and Swing, with such show-stoppers as I got rhythm / It don't mean a thing—if it ain't got that swing / Oh baby / Undecided / Choo Choo Cha Boogie / It's a sin to tell a lie / I'm confessin' that I love you and other gems!! The action kicks off at 8.30pm / admission £5 at door---BE THERE OR BE 'SQUARE'!! Another debut band entitled Steel City Bones-- which sports a five trombone
front-line plus four man rhythm section is set to 'blow up a storm' at
the 'Con' Club on Thursday 24th November ( £6 admission for this
one, to cover the nine piece band!!) HAPPY JAZZIN'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 27th October 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. The name of Nottingham based multi-reed playing musician MATT PALMER
is synonymous with a healthy wide-ranging approach to jazz, which is plainly
reflected in Matt's exuberant and eclectic choice of material when performing
'live'--covering many styles from early New Orleans, through the 'Swing
Era' to Be-bop and beyond, his many influences including George Lewis
/Sidney Bechet/ 'Stomp-off' time is 8.30pm / admission £5 at the door, when the dynamic four-piece band is expected to match the enviable reputation of the famed John Kirby Band...which was billed throughout the Swing Era has “ The Biggest Little Band in The Land!!” Harking back to the recent Winston's Pennine Jazz 'Con' Club gig, initial
concern regarding three unexpected 'deps' soon evaporated when it was
made clear that standing in were no less than Trevor Vincent on trumpet
and fluglehorn, Jon Taylor ( tenor sax... & 'crocodile' shoes!! )
and Chris Howse (banjo / guitar / vocals), who gelled seamlessly with
band 'regulars'--'raising the rafters' in true Pennine Jazz fashion and
deserving of a swift return!! (Perhaps former N.C.B. Lodge Jazz Club regulars
will fondly recall Trevor Vincent's collaboration (also on valve trombone)
with baritone saxist AlWood in their memorable salute to messrs Gerry
Mulligan and Chet Baker at the venue... Meanwhile, set for November gigs at the 'Con' Club is young seven-piece
band 'SWING-A-MA-THING'--making their 'Donny Debut' on Thursday 10TH and
promising a lively night of vigorously swinging sounds---probably with
more than a splash or two of 'Jiving Lindy-Hop' inspiring style jazz!!
( £5 at door).... 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 20th October 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Fans of popular Lincoln based band The Blues Connection will no doubt be intrigued to learn of changes in personnel of the talented outfit, which sadly no longer includes Bob (Lightnin' Lips) Read on harmonica and vocals...however lead guitarist and vocalist Pete Wray informs that the group has been enlarged to a quartet and is confident that followers will be delighted with the results!! On bass guitar is Graham and supplying added impetus on percussion is
Steve... Further positive news is that next year's Markets Jazz Day has been given the 'green-light' for May Bank Holiday Saturday and Pete, Helen and Co are expected to be among the varied attractions.. hopefully joining forces with Blues n' Boogie piano maestro Bob Hall and famed Blues guitarist / singer Dave Peabody—if plans by 'Jazz into Doncaster' come to fruition—also with a possible session with the same combination at the 'Con' Club....Watch out for up-dates!! Mention of the 'Con' Club brings to mind the recent debut session by
renowned local guitarist / vocalist Dickie Emmerson with Robert Baker
at the keyboards- Next 'Jazz into Doncaster' session at the 'Con' Club is set for Thursday 27th October, when the attraction will be a new Quartet line-up headed by multi-reed maestro Matt Palmer ( a driving force on the jazz scene—particularly for his tireless work for the famed-long-running Nottingham Rhythm Club ), who will be joined on stage by the double bass 'slapping' male counterpart of Annie Hawkins-Jim Swinnerton no less!!—making the long trip from Blackpool, with Jack 'the lad' Cotterhill on drums and 'Donny' newcomer Don Gwinette set to dazzle at the piano!! The session kicks-off at 8.30pm / admission £5 at the door. Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge (S75 4LY) have The Reunion Jazz Band
(fronted by trumpeter Alan Hippsley) on Mon 24th October and Jeff Milner's
Delta Friends on Mon 31st October. ( 01226-281805 / 383135 / 290105 )....Next
Terry Allonby Trio gig at Horse & Groom ( East Laithegate ) is on
Saturday 5th November: 12noon to 3pm . FREE admission....Relish Bar &
Grill –also on East Laithgate—have regular Thursday night jazz
/ blues sessions (Free admission )... Happy jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 13th October 2011 . From C.J.Worsdale. Firstly, apologies to masterly double bassist Emlyn Vaughan, who's surname was wrongly spelled as Baughan in my previous article!!...With such a remarkable ability on the instrument, Emlyn's name will most certainly adorn the Jazz and wider general music scene for many years to come and deservedly assure a successful career—so at the very least we should get his name right!! Sorry-Emlyn!! ( Catch The Mark Ellis Quartet every 3rd Thursday—usually featuring Emlyn / Andy Dressler (keyboards) / Ian West (drums)/ and of course Mark on alto and soprano saxes—at Relish on East Laithegate...with varied attractions on other Thursdays). 'Jazzers' with a taste for the more 'Trad' and Mainstream Swing style
should head for The 'Con' Club (South Parade DN1 2DJ ) on Thursday 13th
October, when the attraction is the more than welcome return of the widely
popular six-piece band WINSTON'S PENNINE JAZZ, led-as ever- by bassist
/ founder / and mentor Keith Shone and featuring Dave Kendall (trumpet)
; Eugene Farrar Whilst on the subject of 'Con' Club gigs, the previous 'Jazz into Doncaster'
session by The Yorkshire Stompers attracted a 'reasonably' sized and slightly
increased audience of enthusiastic fans, who were treated to vigorous
sets of traditional jazz favourite 'flag wavers,' laced with lesser known
numbers and humorous banter from the all-star line-up of trumpeter Dave
Pogson ( standing in for absent leader Tony Smith--who is temporally unable
to play, due to a broken tooth!! / Frank Brooker ( reeds/vocals ) / Eugene
Farrar (trombone/vocals)/ Richard Speight (banjo/guitar/vocals); Terry
Binns (drums/ Further ahead, the young band 'Swing-a-ma-thing' make their 'Donny' debut on 10th November...followed by the thrilling five trombone led front-line nine piece band Steel City Bones (24th Nov) and yet another zestful youthful outfit 'Tradtastic' to end the current season with a party atmosphere bang on 8th December at the 'Con' Club. The October session by The Terry Allonby Trio at The Horse & Groom
(East HAPPY JAZZIN!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 8th September 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. During the 'hey-day' of the former Lodge Jazz Club, ranking among the
club's most popular attractions was The High Society Jazz Band from the
Grimsby area-- Although Ted is no longer with us, the fiery spirit of the talented two-some will surely be evoked by clarinettist Geoff Patterson, who joins forces with trumpeter Roy TONIGHT at Doncaster Conservative Club (DN1 2JD) at a specially arranged extra Jazz into Doncaster session -expected to welcome an influx of St.Leger week racegoers along with regulars for a night of foot-tapping 'Trad' and Dixieland jazz!! (Also strongly featured will be Jim Wright -banjo and vocals-who will no doubt regale 'punters' with several rib-tickling George Formby style ditties-- plus 'Rim-Shot' Rod McManara (drums) and Graham Jones-double bass). Stomp-off time is 8.30pm and admission is £5 at the door—don't be late!! (And don't miss out on performances at the venue by Bob Ludlam's Band - 15th Sept and The Yorkshire Stompers -29th Sept). This coming Saturday (10th Sept) marks the 5th birthday celebration of 'Uncle Henry's Sausage-Beer-and Jazz Festival at Grayingham Grange Farm, near Gainsborough (DN21 4JD)--featuring trumpeter Alan Hippsley's Deep South New Orleans Jazz Quartet with Frank Brooker (reeds/vocals) / Jim Wright (banjo/vocals) / Phil Kampon (sousaphone/double bass). The attractive event takes place between 11.30am to 3.30pm. At Rotherham Show in Clifton Park on Sunday 11th September, jazz fans will gravitate to the Music Marquee (behind Clifton Museum S65 2AA) from 1pm to 5.15pm approx for the annual Jazz Festival featuring The Swing Commanders/ Colin Yates Big Band/ and Dave Brennan's Jubilee Jazz Band. Admission is FREE. The inimitable Emmerson-Spragg Combo ( featuring Dickie on guitar and
vocals) 'Jazz into Doncaster' October dates at the 'Con' Club are Winston's Pennine Jazz (Thurs 13th) and multi-reed maestro Matt Palmer's Band (Thurs 27th)...Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge (S75 4LY) have The Rae Brothers New Orleans Band (12 Sept) / Peter Franks' Dixieland All-stars (19th Sept) / The Phoenix Jazzmen & Shirley Patterson (26th Sept). HAPPY JAZZIN' 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 1st September 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. No doubt eager fans will be clamouring to attend Jazz into Doncaster's opening live session of the new season, which takes place this very evening at The Conservative Club on South Parade and features star guest trumpeter DIGBY FAIRWEATHER - who is also a highly renowned and respected band leader / author / radio presenter / jazz 'pundit' and- in the words of Reginald Brace of the Yorkshire Post “ An all round good-egg”!! Digby will be masterfully accompanied by the delectable double bassist
and jazz singer NICOLA FARNON'S QUARTET—featuring Piero Tucci:piano
/ sax ; Chris Walker: guitar; Phil Johnson Hearty congratulations to Jazz UK magazine, which recently issued it's
100th edition, after keeping British jazz enthusiasts so well informed
over the past 16 years—including a superb nationwide 'gig guide'
to keep us abreast of events in the jazz world!! The essential 'mag' is
usually available at Doncaster area gigs, but to ensure receiving your
copy, why not consider subscribing? For details contact: Jazz UK, First
Floor, 132 Southwark Street, London SE1 OSW This coming Saturday ( 3rd Sept) sees THE TERRY ALLONBY TRIO in lunchtime action from 12noon to 3pm at The Horse & Groom – East Laithegate-featuring 'boss-man' Terry on guitars with Nigel Chapman ( keyboards) and Alex Smith (drums)....And The EMMERSON-SPRAGG COMBO play their Monday-date 'Con' Club gig on 12th September. ( 8.30pm / admission £3-50 at door). Scarborough Jazz Festival is set to take place form 23rd to 25th September—included in the numerous attractions are: Alan Barnes and William Ellis / Jacque Loussier Trio / Mark Nightingale Quintet / Orcherstre National de Jazz / Christine Tobin Quartet / and National Youth Jazz Orchestra. For further info phone 01723 – 357869 or visit www.scarboroughjazzfestival.co.uk Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge (S75 4LY ) have The Second Line Jazz Band ( 5th Sept ) / and The Rae Brothers New Orleans Band ( 12th Sept ) --01226 281805 / 290105 / 383135. THE DEEP SOUTH NEW ORLEANS JAZZ QUARTET –featuring Alan Hippsley
(trumpet )/ Happy jazzin'!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 18th August 2011. From C.J.Worsdale.
First to be ‘piped ashore’ on Thursday 1st September is much admired and respected trumpeter / author / broadcaster / and jazz authority DIGBY FAIRWEATHER, an always welcome visitor to the town, who as ‘star guest’ will be accompanied by the ebullient double bassist and vocalist Nicola Farnon’s Quartet ( featuring Piero Tucci-piano / Chris Walker-guitar / Phil Johnson-drums ), plus dynamic local reed-men Gerry Nugent and Pete Moxon on saxes and clarinets!! Tickets for the special event are currently available at £6 advance ( £7 at door) from The Blue Building, 38-40 High Street, Doncaster ( 01302-734300 ) or can be reserved by calling 01302-349898 / 822741 / 780574 / 789257 . The following Thursday ( 8th Sept ) welcomes Grimsby / Cleethorpes based trumpeter ROY NORTON’S Jazz Band—featuring Geoff Patterson ( clarinet ) and the hugely entertaining banjo and guitar playing Jim Wright—who is fully expected to regale regulars and visiting St.Leger week racegoers alike with several rib-tickling numbers associated with George Formby no-less!! ( 8.30pm / admission £5 at the door )….Rapidly followed on Thursday 15th September by Roy’s good mate and fellow trumpeter BOB LUDLAM’S Jazz Band ( 8.30pm / £5 at the door)….And closing the month in true ‘Trad’ fashion on Thursday 29th September with the irrepressible YORKSHIRE STOMPERS—led by yet another hot trumpet man TONY SMITH and featuring Frank Brooker ( reeds / vocals ) and hopefully the legendary Annie Hawkins on double bass—if fully recovered from her recent indisposition!! Fans who plan to attend all four sessions can save £5 by purchasing a ‘multi-ticket’ from the Blue Building at £16….seems like ‘an offer that can’t be refused’ !! Local ‘guitar-hero’ TERRY ALLONBY’S TRIO are back in action at The Horse & Groom East Laithgate on Saturday 3rd September for their regular monthly lunchtime session from 12 noon to 3pm / Free admission—where just about anything can happen musically and the warm and amiable welcome of jovial landlord ‘Francie’ and his equally jovial staff is guaranteed to please regulars and newcomers alike!! Coming up on Saturday 10th September is the 5th Birthday Celebration of Uncle Henry’s Sausage-Beer-and Jazz Festival at Grayingham Grange Farm, Grayingham, near Gainsborough DN21 4JD, between 11.30am to 3.30pm. Capturing the style of New Orleans will be DEEP SOUTH –featuring leader ALAN HIPPSLEY on trumpet / Frank Brooker ( reeds / vocals )/ Jim Wright ( banjo / vocals )/ and Phil Kampon ( sousaphone / double bass). For further info email Alan at: wahyyorkshire@btinternet.com Scarborough Jazz Festival takes place from 23rd to 25th September, with among the many attractions: The Jacque Loussier Trio / National Youth Jazz Orchestra / Alan Barnes & William Ellis / Christine Tobin Quartet / Mark Nightingale Quintet / Tommy Evans Orchestra / and Kate Williams Quartet. For further details phone Box Office on 01723-357869 or visit www.scarboroughjazzfestival.co.uk HAPPY JAZZIN’ !! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 11th August 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. I wonder how many enthusiasts owe a great deal of their passion for jazz
to the influence of Northern Ireland born blues and jazz singer Ottilie
Patterson, who first came to widespread prominence to UK fans after joining
the Chris Barber Band in 1955 and sensationally appearing Sadly, Ottiilie- who's Bessie Smith influenced emotionally charged style
was hugely popular with fledgling jazz fans- passed away in June and will
certainly be greatly missed by legions of fans... Jazz fans of my own generation, may also fondly recall Ottilie's spell-binding appearance back in the 60's at Brodsworth Hall and her later re-union concert with Chris Barber at Barnsley Civic Theatre during the town's Festival week, as well as countless recordings, radio and TV appearances with artistes as diverse as Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Sonny Boy Williamson, Long John Baldry, Rod Stewart, Eric Clapton, The Yardbirds and The Spencer Davis Group...Though of course best remembered by 'jazzers' for her electrifying team-ship with old 'boss' Chris Barber's famed Jazz & Blues Band. Adieu, Ottilie. Whilst on the subject of vocalists—and though straying a little outside my jazz 're-mit'-- I venture the opinion ( echoed by 'jazz-pal' Colin Brett of Barnby Dun!!) that soul-blues-jazz singer Sally, who energetically 'strutted her stuff' on no-less than 33 numbers at Relish ( East Laithegate ) rrecently—ranging from a sultry version of ' It's a new day' to 'Cry me a river' and 'Rollin' on the river'--must surely be heading for widespread stardom, judging from her stunning performance at the popular venue, at which she was dynamically supported by an all-star band including Stuart Garside on trombone and Mark Kerrigan ( drums ). Watch out for more news of Sally's progress!! 'Jazz into Doncaster'--in association with John Sheppard of the former
Lodge Jazz Club-- embarks an ambitious four gig programme during September
at The Conservative Club.. ..Starting on Thursday 1st with the star guest
appearance of Digby Fairweather with The Nicola Farnon Quartet plus Gerry
Nugent and Pete Moxon on saxes and clarinets; followed on Thurs 8th by
The Roy Norton Jazzband ( St. Leger week racegoers welcome for great evening's
entertainment to celebrate their wins...or console their losses!! ); Bob
Ludlam Jazz Band (15th); Live on The Capital FM Champagne Lawn Stage at Doncaster Racecourse on Friday 12th August is 'Summer Jazz & Blues'...featuring Rhythm Oil / Doncaster Jazz Orchestra / and Dennis Rollins' Badbone & Co. Several 'Hospitality Packages' are available—for further info call 01302-304200 or book online at www.doncaster-racecourse.co.uk. HAPPY JAZZIN' !! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 4th August 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Seven years ago I first encountered the remarkable talents of tenor saxophonist Nadim Tiemoori—who was the tender age of fourteen at the time—and even back then was playing in an imaginative and assured manner, sitting in with Mark Ellis, Simon Nixon and The CJ Jazz Sextet at Central Park 's Wednesday session. The chance encounter led to a picture and report in The Entertainer,
which may have helped to spur the then teenager onto pursuing a career
in music and leading to his now enviable rapidly growing reputation as
stand-out pupil at The Royal Academy of Music and a sought
Nadim, his parents and family—and Doncaster itself—can be justifiably proud of his achievements ( of which there will surely be many-many more ) and for which he is sincerely grateful to all who have supported an encouraged him along the way—with extra special thanks to mentors John Ellis ( Founder & Musical Director of Doncaster Youth Jazz Association ) and John's highly gifted saxophonist son Mark for his invaluable tuition and guidance. ( Catch Mark's own thrilling band in action most Thursday evenings at Relish on East Laithegate from around 8pm ). Locally, The Terry Allonby Trio ( usually with guest musicians ) will be in lunchtime action at The Horse & Groom ( East Laithegate ) on Saturday 6th August from 12noon to 3pm—Admission free...... And on Monday 8th August, The Emmerson-Spragg Combo hold their regular monthly 'Monday Date' at The Conservative Club. ( Usually with guest vocalists Sue Fisher / Eddie Kell / Bob Quinn / and occasionally John Noble also ). The musis kicks-off at 8.30 / admission £3-50 at the door. 'Jazz into Doncaster' presents no-less than four gigs at The 'Con' Club
in September!!--Starting with guest star trumpeter Digby Fairweather with
The Nicola Farnon Quartet plus Gerry Nugent & Pete Moxon ( reeds ):
Tickets £6 advance from Information Centre, The Blue HAPPY JAZZIN' !! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 28th July 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. If accolades came in the form of feathers – as earned in battle by Red Indian 'Braves' , certainly by now Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra ( under the leadership of Musical Director and founder John Ellis ) would have gained enough to adorn the head-dresses of legendary 'Big Chiefs' Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse themselves!! And still DYJO continue to gather plaudits wherever they perform, with one of the most recent coming from Music Education Manager of Yamaha Music Europe GmbH UK, Bill Martin, who publicly acknowledged the work the work of Doncaster Youth Jazz Association and went on to congratulate the Orchestra for their outstanding performance in the Open Jazz category at The National Festival of Music for Youth The Adrian Boult Hall event in Birmingham, for which the orchestra was presented with the Yamaha Jazz Award...Followed up by complimentary remarks by Charles Alexander ( Jazzwise magazine Founder/Managing Director ), who stated that “Every pro jazz musician in this country is likely to know a jazz musician from Doncaster, so many amazing players hailing from that area of South Yorkshire!!” Doncaster's forthcoming live jazz events include the Terry Allonby Trio—who
will be in Saturday lunchtime action at The Horse & Groom-East Laithegate-on
6th August from 12noon to 3pm ( Free Looking forward to September, 'Jazz into Doncaster' have no less than
four exciting gigs lined up, Silkstone Lodge—near Barnsley—presents The Le Harpe Steet Jazz Band ( Mon 1st Aug ) / New Orleans Wiggle (8th Aug ) / Spirit of New Orleans ( 16th Aug ) / Yorkshire Stompers ( 22nd Aug ) / and Bill Bailey All-stars (29th Aug). Happy jazzin' !! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 14th July 2011. Two. From C.J.Worsdale. Looking forward to next month, Doncaster Racecourse is set to present 'Summer Jazz & Blues' live on The Capitol FM Champagne Lawn Stage on Friday 12th August, with the sparkling attractions including Rhythm Oil / Doncaster Jazz Orchestra / and multi-award winning internationally renowned jazz trombonist DENNIS ROLLINS with his band Badbone &Co. 'Jazz on the Lawn' presents an opportunity to kick back on a summers' evening to enjoy a musical extravaganza enhanced by picturesque surroundings with Gourmet quality cuisine and excellent Champagne available to tempt the most jaded of appetites!! Several packages are available, starting at £15 per person for General Admission; The Lawn Hospitality Package at £35—including admission, live entertainment, Lawn Marquee Assess and exclusive use of the Lawn Marquee Bar, together with a selection of delicious food options from the Sizzling Summer BBQ!! Or why not treat yourselves to The Gourmet Premier Package at £50 per person?--Which includes early admission / mouth-watering 3 course Gourmet Meal / exclusive access to the private Pavilion Bar / plus a snack later on / and a sumptuous sharing platter for two!! Suitably tempted? Then book online at www.doncaster-racecourse.co.uk or call the friendly sales team on 01302 304200. Meanwhile, don't forget that The Terry Allonby Trio and probable guest 'musos' will be in lunchtime action at The Horse & Groom ( East Laithegate/ 01302-367329 ) between 12 noon to 3pm on Saturday 6th August with their broad ranging variety of offerings—at which fans can enjoy everything from contemporary jazz to swing / be-bop / Latin / Rock and Blues to original compositions and versions of popular pieces associated with The Beatles – Simon & Garfunkel -Ray Charles- Dusty Springfield and many more besides!1 Added bonus is that admission is FREE and delicious Irish cuisine and fine ales are on hand along with the amiable hospitality of landlord Francie and his friendly staff!! Following on rapidly is the regular monthly 'Monday Date' session at the 'Con' Club by The Emmerson-Spragg Combo on 8th August, featuring Dickie ( back in the drivin' seat, after recent health problems—much to the joy of his ardent followers!! ) on guitar and vocals and maestro Tony on keyboards. The music kicks-off at 8.30pm / admission £3-50 at the door....with the added bonus of contributions by messrs Sue Fisher / Bob Quinn/ Eddie Kell /and John Noble, who are often on hand to sing a few numbers in their inimitable fashion!! Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge presents Peter Franks' Dixieland All-Stars (Mon 18th July) and The Savannah Jazzband ( Mon 25th July )....The Knights of Jazz have a weekly slot at The Butcher's Arms-Braithwell on Monday evenings....Dave Brennan's Jubilee Jazzband play each Wednesday at The Three Horseshoes-Wickersley....And there is live jazz at Relish on East Laithegate on Thursdays. 'Jazz into Doncaster' open their new season on Thursday 1st September
with a 'special' event at the 'Con' Club-- featuring Digby Fairweather
with The Nicola Farnon Quartet plus Gerry Nugent & Pete Moxon on reeds
( Tickets £6 advance / £7 at door)...followed by The Roy Norton
Jazzband (8th Sept / £5 at door—St.Leger Week race goers welcome!!)....Bob
Ludlum Jazzband Uncle Henry's at Grayingham Grange Farm-Nr Gainsborough DN21 4JD hold their 5th Sausage-Beer-& Jazz Festival on Sat 10th Sept ( 11.30am to 3.30pm ) featuring Deep South New Orleans Quartet –with Alan Hippsley (trumpet) / Frank Brooker ( reeds/vocals) / Jim Wright ( banjo / vocals) and Phil Kampon ( sousaphone / string bass ). Last—but certainly not least!!--Popular regular attraction in 'Donny' –Nicki Allan, who appeared at the 'Con' Club and Doncaster Markets Jazz Day in May—sends news that her recent foray with her All-Star Sextet at The Glastonbury Festival was a tremendous success, with Nicki and the boys 'having a ball –though the mud was 'A nightmare' she says' playing twice to audiences of 1000 plus in The Bourbon Jazz & Blues Marquee, just before Clare Teal....We're fortunate and privileged to enjoy such sought after talent in our own town—plans are in motion to bring Nicki's superb band back at the 'Con' Club in the New Year!! Happy jazzin' !! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 30th June 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Exciting news for 'Donny's' numerous fans of Leeds based jazz singer Nicki Allan , (winner of the 'Jazz Yorkshire' Best Vocalist Award) is that the vivacious and ebullient performer—who recently thrilled audiences at Doncaster Conservative Club and at Doncaster Markets Jazz Day—announced during a BBC Radio Leeds interview that she band her All-Star Sextet are set to prestigiously appear at The Glastonbury Festival (on the Bourbon Street Jazz & Blues Stage) prior to Clare Teal and will also be among the diverse attractions at The Garforth Festival (which runs to 9th July) on Wednesday 29th June. (www.garforthartsfestival.co.uk) Further good news is that Nicki's second CD release was recently completed (on the Jazz 33 Label) and will be available from now on (email: info@nickiallan.com) ….which reflects—though certainly does not attempt to clone—the inspiration of present day influences Claire Martin /Clare Teal/ Dianna Krall / and Liane Carroll (who like Nicki also plays piano-- “Though much- much better!!--she modestly states) and past 'greats' Ella / Sarah/ Billie/ Anita O'Day etc....and perhaps responsible for her unique approach maybe the bi-lingual influence of her Russian dad and a touch of the 'blarney' from her Irish mum!! I recently had the pleasure of attending a very different type of jazz gig at Harrogate's Redhouse Originals ( www.redhouseoriginals.com ) in the form of an exhibition of superb photographs—entitled Fleet Street Hooligan—by Terry Cryer, which included intimate portraits of Louis Armstrong / Muddy Waters / Big Bill Broonzy / Coleman Hawkins etc in addition to Liz Taylor / Paul McCartney / Dustin Hoffman and many-many more stunning shots....with the added bonus of meeting the 'man himself'!! Check out Terry's work on www.terrycryer.com . Another Terry ( Allonby that is!!) and his Trio will be in live Saturday
lunchtime action at The Horse & Groom / East Laithegate on 2nd July
( 12 noon to 3pm ), when further news of the progress of the combo's newly
recorded CD may well be announced......The Emmerson / Spragg Combo &
guest singers are set for their Monday Date session at the 'Con' Club
on 11th July (8.30pm / £3-50 Silkstone Lodge (near Barnsley) presents....Winston's Pennine Jazz (4th
July ) / New Orleans Heat
'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 23rd June 2011. (1). From C.J.Worsdale. Thanks to the support of promoter of the former Lodge Jazz Club,John Sheppard, the 'Jazz into Doncaster' voluntary committee's final session of the current season is fully expected to close on an action packed thrilling high-note when BBC Jazz Awards previous winner and recent runner-up (behind Guy Barker) of the trumpet section Enrico Tomasso joins forces as special guest of the dynamic Eugene Farrar Band at The Conservative Club on Thursday 23rd June. Enrico the son of jazz clarinettist Ernie Tomasso-started on trumpet at age five and sites his major influence as the 'one-and-only' Louis 'Satchmo' Armstrong who he first accompanied back in the 60's, proudly becoming a firm friend afterwards!! Enrico, who is perhaps best known to jazz avids through his work with Acker Bilk's Band, recently fronted his own All-Star Sextet at The Newark Jazz Festival and is a regular member of The Pasadena Roof Orchestra and Ray Gelato's Giants and also works with a wide diversity of artistes from Alan Barnes and Clare Teal to Marc Almond and Bryan Ferry...all of which should guarantee a full house of eager fans at the 'Con' Club!! Advance tickets are available at £6 from The Blue Building (High
Street) or reserved by phoning Mention of the 'Con' Club, reminds that well loved and much admired 'all-rounder'
Dickie Emmerson Certainly qualifying has among Doncaster's finest 'Jazz Exports,' young
saxophonist Nadim Teimoori Jazz Festival goers may wish to check out forthcoming events at Cleethorpes
(1st-3rd July / 01472- 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 2nd June 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Hearty congratulations to South Yorkshire's unrivalled champion of New Orleans Jazz, Dave Brennan ,who's recent celebration of 50 years as a band leader anniversary session I and fellow local jazz avid Ken Lanceley had the pleasure of attending along with numerous fans and musicians who crammed Rotherham Rugby club to capacity to pay their dues to Dave—who's longevity must surely display more dedication than the late-great entertainer Roy Castle!! Following the opening set by Dave's own band ( including of course long serving original drummer Terry Kennedy) the town's Vicar conducted 'grace' and extended his good wishes before a break for supper and was joined by the new mayor on his first official engagement, before handing over to many guest musicians who were expertly directed into the jam-session-like-fray by multi-reed man Pete Moxon,ensuring a vigorous and well-earned salute to the deserving banjo playing jazz 'guru'--long may he continue to fly the flag for New Orleans Jazz!! (Remember, you can catch Dave's Jubilee Jazz Band in regular Wednesday night action at Wickersley's Three Horse Shoes!!). Another well loved jazzman and renowned multi-reed player Frank Brooker -who performed with George Melly and John Chilton in the London area before moving North to York—brings his popular band The Happy Chappies to Doncaster Conservative Club on Thursday 9th June for a welcome return gig in the town. As the band's title implies, patrons of the session can expect a joyful mix of rousing expertly pervade musicianship—liberally laced with good-time humour and fun-packed entertainment...guaranteeing that all will head homeward with smiles on their faces afterwards!! Stomp-off is at 8.30pm and admission at the door is £5. Bringing the current 'Jazz into Doncaster' season of 'Con' Club concerts to a close on Thursday 23rd June will be a 'Special' in conjunction with the former Lodge Jazz Club's promoter John Sheppard, which will feature star trumpeter Enrico Tomasso—who was last in town with Acker Bilk's Band at the Civic and who recently was voted 2nd Best in the trumpet section of The BBC Jazz Awards—only pipped at the post by Guy Barker!! Enrico will be joining his formidable virtuosity with the dynamic sounds of trombonist Eugene Farrar's impressive band, advance tickets for which are available at The Blue Building on High Street at £6 ( or pay £7 at the door ). A bumper crowd is anticipated for this high-light gig, so advice is to book early to avoid disappointment!! Also set for their monthly 'Monday Date' at the 'Con' Club are piano virtuoso 'Spraggy & Co' –on 13th June. The action begins at 8.30pm / admission £3-50 at the door. Expected to offer several finely honed and swingin' vocal contributions are messrs Eddie Kell / Bob Quinn / and the delightful songstress Sue Nixon....and news is that 'local treasure Dickie Emmerson will be making his eagerly awaited triumphant return to his 'happy-stompin-ground' at the session, much to the delight of his ardent followers!! Welcome back Dickie!! Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge presents Peter Franks' Dixieland All-stars (6th June )/ Paul Harrison Band ( 13th June ) / Yorkshire Stompers (20th June ) / Millennium Eagles Jazz Band (27th June)....Phone 01226-281805 for further info. The Knights of Jazz ( regularly featuring reed-men Gerry Nugent /Pete Moxon / Graham Galtrey) are at The Butcher's Arms-Braithwell each Monday evening.....The Silver Leaf Jazz Band play The Strafford Arms-Stainborough-Nr Barnsley every Wednesday ( Phone 01226-751989 for details). Happy jazzin'!! JAZZ SCENE for Thursday 19th May 2011--From C.J.Worsdale........... Jazz avids can relish catching vivacious Leeds based jazz singing diva Nicki Allen (Who recently won the 'Best Jazz Singer' award in the Yorkshire Jazz Poll) in action with her All-star Sextet in 'Donny' twice next week...firstly on Thursday 26th May at the 'Con' Club and also at Doncaster Markets Jazz Day on Saturday 28th May. Miss Allen's superb accompanists are expected to comprise on both occasions of Joel Purnell (tenor sax) / Mark Chandler (trumpet / flugelhorn )/ Graham Hearn (piano)/ Jeremy Ashley (double bass) / and Ronnie Bottomley (drums), who himself won the Yorkshire Jazz 'Best Drummer' award and is responsible-along with pianist Graham Hearn- for many of the band's impressive arrangements. The Conservative Club session kicks off at 8.30pm (Admission £5 at the door) and Nicki and the boys will be performing two sets of swinging standards at the Market event--which takes place between 11am to 3pm and also includes The Phoenix New Orleans Parade Band with The Jackie Everton Dancers / Blues n' Boogie duo Bob Hall and Dave Peabody / Winston's Pennine Jazz / and solo guitarist Glen McGlone ( who will be delighting customers in the Forum Cafe between 1pm to 3pm)....Why not decorate a 'jazz brolly' and join the parade from Priory Walk at approx 11am? There may be a prize for the best effort!! Dave Brennan's Jazz Band celebrate 50 years in the jazz business on Saturday
21st May at Rotherham Rugby Club (tickets £10 inc pie/chips/peas
supper) can be reserved by calling Dave on 01709-700440 or Terry Kennedy
on 07910503613-- Newark Jazz Festival takes place from 20th to 22nd May, with many varied attractions on offer to suit most tastes...Including The Barnhart-Hallam Quartet / The Tim Kliphuis Trio with David Newton (piano) / vocalist Ian Mackenzie with The High Spirits Quintet--featuring Alan Barnes-David Newton-and trumpeter Nathan Bray. For further info contact Ann et Vin, 23 Castlegate, Newark NG24 1A2 (01636-700900 / email: info@annetvin.com / www.annetvin.com ) or call Paul Sparks on 01636-893918. 'Jazz into Doncaster' sessions are set for Thurs 9th June with Frank Brooker's Happy Chappies and Thurs 23rd June when star guest trumpeter ENRICO TOMASSO ( of Acker Bilk fame ) joins forces with the dynamic Eugene Farrar Band--advance tickets for this 'special' will shortly be available at £6 from The Blue Building on High Street...admission on the night will be £8, so make sure to get your tickets early!! Happy jazzin!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 12th May 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Trumpeter Wil Robinson and his merry musicians The Southside Jazz Band are set for a cross-county border foray tonight ( 12th May ) with an audacious plot to take ‘Donny’ Conservative Club by storm and win over jazz night regular supporters with their infectious captivating brand of ’ye olde’ traditional toe-tapping swinging music!! In addition to the leader’s thrusting rapier-like trumpet notes, Wil will also feature on flugelhorn and also contribute many fine vocal renditions--ably aided and abetted by multi-reed playing ace Pete Moxon, trombone wielding former ’Shades of Jazz’ key member Keith Randall, Barry Binch (guitar/banjo), Dave Green on double bass, and with Cliff Hodgkinson providing the band’s rhythmic pulse (and a few songs also) from behind his trusty drum kit!! Stomp-off time is 8.30pm / admission £5 at the door. ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ stage an equally attractive--though contrasting--session
at the ‘Con’ Club on Thursday 26th May, when Yorkshire Jazz
‘Best Vocalist’ award winner Nicki Allan’s All-Star Sextet
make the journey from Leeds to delight with superb renditions of many
fond favourite standards by the vivacious Miss Allan--no doubt with several
selections from her highly regarded CD ‘People will think we’re
in love’--skilfully accompanied by her top-drawer instrumentalists…including
Ronnie Bottomley, Nicki and the boys are back in town on Saturday 28th May, when they are
among the attractions at Doncaster Markets Jazz Day, along with blues
duo Bob Hall & Dave Peabody--who have worked with numerous Blues and
Rn’B ’greats’ ; including John Lee Hooker / Chuck Berry
/ Paul Jones’ Blues Band / Savoy Brown / and The Rolling Stones;
Winston’s Pennine Jazz; solo guitarist Glen McGlone New Orleans style ‘guru’ banjo player and band leader Dave
Brennan celebrates 50 years in the jazz business at Rotherham Rugby Club
on Sat 21st May. Tickets are available from Terry Kennedy (07910503613)
at £10 each--inc pie / peas / chips supper….The Reunion Jazz
Band play The Elms Hotel-Retford on Sunday lunchtime 15th May (meals &
snacks available)….Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone l Happy jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 5th May 2011. From C.J.Worsdale Launching May jazz events this coming Saturday will be local guitar maestro
Terry Allonby's Trio, Terry will be joined by Nigel Chapman on keyboards and Alex Smith on drums – and possibly also with surprise guest musicians 'sitting-in'!! Anything can occur at Allonby 'happenings' – at which entry is free and a cordial welcome is assured by jovial landlord Francie and his staff!! Next up-on 9th May- piano man 'Spraggy & Co' keep their regular monthly
'Monday Date' at the 'Con' Club, where they continue to keep the flag
flying in admirable fashion in the absence of uniquely talented guitarist
and vocalist Dickie Emmerson,who it is rumoured may soon return to his
favourite 'stomping ground' –much to the delight of his devoted fans,
who can't wait for the day!! 'Jazz into Doncaster' have two gigs at the Conservative Club this month,
the first on Thursday 12th May with the popular 'Trad' / Dixie / Swing
outfit The Southside Jazz Band –led by trumpeter Wil The second 'Jazz into Doncaster' May session at the 'Con' Club is set
for Thursday 26th and features Ace trumpeter and entertaining show-man Bob Ludlam whets musical appetites
with news of regular concerts staged by The National Trust at Nostell
Priory throughout the spring and summer- Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge (S75 4lY0 presents John Shilleto's Select Six (9th May) and Jeff Milner's Delta Friends (16th May) …..The Silver Leaf Jazz Band play every Wednesday at The Strafford Arms-Stainborough-Barnsley....Sheffield Jazz at Millennium Hall (S11 8PY) present Trio Wah! (Jason Yarde-saxes)/ Larry Bartley (bass)/ Mike Pickering (drums) on Friday 6th May and Mike Walker Sextet (Fri 13th May)--0114-273-8678 / www.sheffieldjazz.org.uk Happy jazzin'!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 7th April 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Avid followers of New Orleans style jazz can help to celebrate an astonishing 50 years in the music business by Dave Brennan’s Jazzband- the longest established band in the region-- by attending the forthcoming anniversary gig at Rotherham Rugby Club on Saturday 21st May, tickets for which are available at £10 each ( including pie / chips / and peas supper!! )from Wednesday sessions at Wickersley’s Three Horseshoes or by phoning Terry on 0791 0530613 / or 01709 544684….though advice is to hurry, as tickets are expected to be snapped up well in advance of the illustrious occasion!! Banjo playing band leader Dave is known and respected throughout South
Yorkshire—and far beyond- April ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ gigs at the Conservative Club welcome
back the sensational Sheffield based band The Dizzy Club (Thurs 14th )
and The New Jazz Messengers & Shirley Patterson (Thurs 28th) Sheffield Jazz at The Millennium Hall ( 520 Ecclesall Road S11 8PY )
presents Kairos (Adam Waldmann (saxes) / Rob Barron (piano ) / Jasper
Holby (bass) / Jon Scott (drums) on Fri 15th April: ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 31st March 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Hearty well earned congratulations to local musician Ellie Smith and all concerned in raising around £2000 in aid of The McMillan Cancer Support charity at the recent 12 hour ‘Jazzathon’ event, which took place at The Northern Jazz Centre-Beckett Road- far exceeding the original target of £500!! The majority of those attending with thoughts of joining the ‘escape committee’ soon changed their minds, staying on for longer than intended stretches to enjoy the wide variety of swingin’ sounds on offer—with many hardy fans staying the stamina testing distance up to the boisterous finale by The London University Big Band and Friends, featuring impressive trombone solos and several polished vocals by 22 year old Ellie herself --who has worked with American star Michael Bolton at The Royal Albert Hall-- and fully intends to pursue a career in music. Another great local success was the recent ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ gig by Django Reinhardt inspired four piece band The Djangonauts at The Conservative Club, which was very well attended by an appreciative and enthusiastic audience who were delighted to be musically transported four the evening to Montmartre and the bustling atmosphere of Paris night life!! ( Feed-back for the show has been most positive—notably from ‘Donny’ based former Acker Bilk vocalist Sheila Peach, who commented that she and her party were ‘memorized’ by the ‘outstanding musicianship of guitarist Chris Walker and accordionist Piero Tucci’ and that Phil Johnson (rhythm guitar0 and bassist Kevin Walker were also ‘Absolutely brilliant!!’ Sheila hope it won’t be too long before they are back at the ‘Con’ Club—I’ll second that!! Mention of the ‘Con’ Club reminds that this very night (Thursday 31st March), the popular Barnsley based ‘Trad’ outfit The Silver Leaf Jazzband are anticipated to attract an equally large and enthusiastic crowd of traditionalists to the venue for generous helpings of feet-tapping stomps / marches / blues / spirituals and favourite ‘Trad’ flag-wavers, led by David Hepworth (clarinet/ tenor sax /vocals), with John Pashley-trumpet (who will front the Phoenix New Orleans Parade Band at Doncaster Markets Jazz Day on 28th May), Alan Osbourne-trombone/vocals,Phil Kampon –double bass, Richard Speight—banjo/guitar, and Peter Cridland --drums. Stomp-off at 8.30pm/ admission £5 at the door. ( Also at the ‘Con’ Club in April are The Dizzy Club -14th and New Jazz Messengers & Shirley Patterson -28th) The Terry Allonby Trio and probable guest musos are in monthly action at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) on Saturday 2nd April (12 noon to 3pm / admission free), with the wide ranging repertoire for which they are renowned and deliver in their own inimitable fashion. Regretfully ending on a blue-note, sadly the great drummer Joe Morello –best remembered by numerous world-wide fans for his vital contribution to the huge Dave Brubeck Quartet hit ‘Take Five’ died on 12th March-age 82. ** Rock fans may be intrigued to learn that among Joe’s many drum pupils was Bruce Springsteen’s drummer Max Weinburg. C.J.Worsdale. Jazz Scene for Thursday 24th March 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Arguably one of the best kept and underappreciated local ‘jazz secrets’ must be the regular Monday night session by The Knights of Jazz at the Butcher’s Arms-Braithwell, which on evidence of a recent visit along with kindred jazz spirit Ken Lanceley (a familiar ‘Front of House’ figure at Tony Spragg and ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ gigs at the ‘Con’ Club!!}fully deserves to attract larger audiences. Usually forming the nucleus of the band are gifted reed-men Gerry Nugent and Pete Moxon, who are often joined in the fray by Auckley based clarinettist Graham Galtrey and can be guaranteed upon to provide many thrilling exchanges and sumptuous contrasting ballad features throughout the evening—ably supported by Cyril Wordsworth on piano / Tony Prince (double bass) / Keith Goddard (banjo & guitar) / and Trevor Williams on drums (Also expected to become a regular ‘sitter-in’ is Django inspired guitarist Paul Hill) . Well worth adding to your jazz itineraries, in my humble opinion!! ( Also a big ‘plus’ for Gerry and Pete is that they have been chosen as added support to trumpet star Digby Fairweather in September at the ‘Con’ Club along with The Nicola Farnon Quartet). ‘Trad’ fans will be looking forward to next Thursday’s (31st March) welcome return visit to the ‘Con’ Club by popular Barnsley based outfit THE SILVER LEAF JAZZBAND (8.30 pm/ admission £5)….Which will be followed by the return of the sensational THE DIZZY CLUB (14th April) and THE NEW JAZZ MESSENGERS AND SHIRLEY PATTERSON (28th April)—which will surely compensate for the regrettably cancelled pre-Christmas gig, abandoned due to the Wintry conditions!! Meanwhile you can catch THE TERRY ALLONBY TRIO in lunchtime action at The Horse & Groom on Saturday 2nd April (12 noon to 3pm / free admission)….And piano maestro ‘SPRAGGY & Co’ will be keeping their ‘Monday Date’ at the ‘Con’ Club on 11th April (8.30pm / admission £3-50). Sheffield Jazz at Millennium Hall (S11 SPY) presents JOHN DONALSON’S
‘UNITY’ (featuring Pete King and Ian Price—saxes) on Fri
25th March: 0114-273-8678 / www.sheffieldjazz.org.uk …. Barnsley
Jazz at Silkstone Lodge (S75 4LY) presents THE YORKSHIRE STOMPERS (28th
March) Happy jazzin’ !! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 17th March 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Few would dispute that the late-great Belgium born gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt was the first European jazz musician to seriously challenge the supremacy of American exponents of the genre, which no doubt explains why Sheffield based guitar maestro Chris Walker will be saluting the immortal Django with his aptly named band The Djanonauts tonight at the ‘Con’ Club!! Chris and his group—whilst much influenced and inspired by Reinhardt’s
dazzling unique musicianship- have developed their own approach to his
pioneering style that refreshingly avoids slavishly attempting to clone
the great jazz man’s superb performances—as so many similar
bands do, and can boast an instantly recognisable ‘Parisian’
sound of their own, particularly enhanced by the intricate playing of
Piero Tucci on accordion (evoking memories of the breath taking ‘finger-busting’
jazz improvisations of Jack Emblow!!). Completing the all-star line up
will be Phil Johnson on rhythm guitar and Kevin Walker on double bass….Also
expected are several vocal numbers by Chris and Kevin. The musical trip
to the Left Bank of the Seine begins at 8.30pm at Doncaster Conservative
Club ‘Trad’ Jazz avids are in for a treat at the ‘Con’ Club when the popular Barnsley based Silver Leaf Jazz Band make a welcome return visit to the venue on 31st March….Followed by the sensational The Dizzy Club (14t April) and The New Jazz Messengers & Shirley Patterson (28th April). Also in the pipeline are gigs by The Southside Jazz Band / Nicki Allan All-Star Sextet / Frank Brooker’s ‘ Happy Chappies’/ And The Eugene Farrar Band plus special guest British Jazz Awards trumpeter Enrico Tomasso….watch out for updates!! Mention of Nicki Allan (winner of ‘Best Vocalist’ in The Yorkshire Jazz Awards), reminds that her Sextet is among the attractions at Doncaster Markets Jazz Day on 28th May along with blues men Bob Hall and Dave Peabody / Winston’s Pennine Jazz / John Pashley’s Phoenix New Orleans Parade Band + Jackie Everton Dance Troupe / and solo guitarist Glen McGlone---take note of the date!! Further afield, Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge (S75 4LY) presents The
Tame Valley Stompers (21st March) and Yorkshire Stompers (28th March)…..Sheffield
Jazz presents John Donaldson’s ‘Unity’ (Pete King-alto/
Ian Price-tenor / Quentin Collins-trumpet / John Donaldson-piano / Simon
Thorpe-bass / Tristan Banks-drums) at Millennium Hall S11 8PY on Friday
25th March. 0114-273-8678 / Happy jazzin’ !! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 10th March 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Jazz fans are advised to begin limbering up now in readiness for Saturday’s 12 hour stamina testing ‘Jazzathon’—organised by local trombonist Ellie Smith in support of Macmillan Cancer Research—and which is set to take place from noon to midnight at The Northern Jazz Centre-Beckett Road. Included in the sparkling varied programme will be Doncaster Youth Stage Band; Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra; Blues Armada; Steel City Bones ( a superlative nine piece band that boasts a strident and colourfully contrasting five trombone front line!!) plus many surprises and a possible star guest appearance of Dennis Rollins, should his busy commitments schedule permit. Tickets are a snip at £3 each (£2 conc’s) and are available from Ellie by email (elbone_89hotmail.co.uk)/ mobile 07716081929 or by calling 01302-320002. A truly memorable swingin’ night of music is in prospect in aid of such a worthy cause, deserving of a sell-out audience—give the event your support if you can. Fans of ‘gritty’ authentic blues, however, are expected to gravitate to The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate ) on the same evening (12th March) to catch the welcome return of The Half-Hand Hoodoo Blues Band—fronted by guitarist / vocalist Dave Smith—who are expected to deliver many vigorous numbers in their inimitable style, inspired by the likes of Robert Johnson / Big Bill Broonzy / Muddy Waters / T-Bone Walker / Howlin’ Wolf and other Blues ‘greats’—plus original songs by Dave and the band also. The action begins around 9.30pm and admission is free. ‘Spraggy & Co’ (plus guest vocalists) will be in action
at the ‘Con’ Club again on Monday 14th March Mention of Django Reinhardt reminds that gypsy jazz group The Djangonauts are set for a debut session at the ‘Con’ Club on Thursday 17th March and expected to stimulate and delight with their brand of Parisian flavoured gypsy swing. Leading the group is the formidable nimble fingered Chris Walker on guitar, with Phil Johnson (rhythm guitar), Kevin Walker (double bass) and featuring Piero Tucci on accordion—adding further still to re-creating the typical sounds of Paris nightlife in ‘Sunny Donny’!! Start time is 8.30pm / Admission £5 at the door. (‘Jazz into Doncaster’ also presents a treat for ‘Trad’ jazz lovers at the ‘Con’ on 31st March , when the popular Barnsley based Silver Leaf Jazz Band is back for a welcome return gig). Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge (S75 4LY) have Peter Franks’ Dixieland
All-stars (14th March)…Sheffield Jazz at Millennium Hall (S11 8PY)
presents The Sam Crockatt Quartet (Fri 11th March) and John Donaldson’s
Unity –with Pete King on alto-(25th March): 0114-273-8678 / www.sheffieldjazz.org.uk
….and make a note NOW of Doncaster Markets Jazz Day on Saturday Happy jazzin’!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 3rd March 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Tonight, ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ presents The Eugene Farrar Band, the vigorously dynamic West Yorkshire based outfit who are making their 2nd more than welcome visit to the ‘Con’ Club, and are fully expected to equal (and no-doubt exceed) the huge favourable impression made at the popular venue at their debut session last September!! Since their St.Leger week gig, Eugene and the boys have widened their growing reputation by appearing in an ITV presentation—so much so that star guest trumpeter Enrico Tomasso (recently voted 2nd to the formidable Guy Barker in The British Jazz Awards) has agreed to guest with the band in June—watch out for updates—and will field their regular talent laden personnel comprising of Eugene on trombone/ harmonica/vocals; Tom Kincaid (piano); Phil Kampton (double bass/sousaphone); Ken Hickey (drums/vocals); and with tenor sax man Andy Wallis promising to add clarinet and baritone sax to his ‘armoury’ to add extra colour and contrast to the proceedings!! Stomp-off is at 8.30pm and admission is £5 at the door. Other ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ sessions at the Conservative Club in March feature The Djangonauts (17th) led by guitar ace Chris Walker with Phil Johnson (rhythm guitar), Kevin Walker (double bass) and the amazing Piero Tucci on accordion—adding a truly ‘Parisian’ flavour to the Reinhardt influenced show; followed by a treat for ‘Trad’ fans from The Silver Leaf Jazz Band (31st). Meanwhile, you can catch The Terry Allonby Trio in lunchtime action at
The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) on Saturday 5th March—12
noon to 3pm / admission free…..The Half-Hand Hoodoo Blues Band—also
at The Horse & Groom (12th March/ 9pm / free admission)…And on
the same day at The Northern Jazz Centre / Beckett Road, trombonist Ellie
Smith presents a 12 hour ‘Jazzathon’ from noon to midnight in
aid of Macmillan Cancer Research. Included in the many attractions will
be Doncaster Youth Stage Band / Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra/ Blues
Armada / Steel City Bones—with a possible star guest appearance of
Dennis Rollins, if his busy schedule permits!! Tickets are available at
£3 / £2 concessions—to reserve and for further details
phone 01302-320002….And ‘Spraggy & Co’ plus guest singers
are in Monday evening action at The ‘Con’ Club on 14th March Happy jazzin’!! Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 17th February 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. A worthy ‘new-kid-on-the-block’ is 19 year old tenor saxist Ben Pinchard, who-along with regulars at the February session by The Terry Allonby Trio at The Horse & Groom—I was delighted to catch in impressive action when he joined forces on a variety of numbers with the threesome, completely at ease and contributing imaginative mature solo flights—particularly on his feature number ‘Georgia on my mind.’ Ben, who ‘cut his jazz teeth’ with the magnificent Doncaster
Youth Jazz Orchestra, can be heard regularly with the band Blues Armada
on Thursdays at Relish Bar & Grill on East Laithegate (01302- Guitarist / trumpeter Barry Binch (a familiar figure with various Matt Palmer led bands, The Southside Jazz Band and his own outfit The Old Marina Jazz band), introduces a new combination to Doncaster audiences TONIGHT (17th Feb) at the Conservative Club / South Parade DN1 2DJ in the form of five-piece band Swing Beans—who’s varied programme spans the periods from Louis Armstrong’s famed Hot Fives and Sevens to Benny Goodman—and perhaps beyond!! Joining the fray alongside Barry will be Dave Hepworth (clarinet/ tenor sax); Keith Widowson (banjo/guitar); Bob Smith (double bass); and Geoff Hobson (drums). ‘Stomp-off’ is at 8.30pm / admission £5 at the door. (Also at the ‘Con’ Club in March is The Eugene Farrar Band (3rd) and Djangonauts-featuring Chris Walker on guitar and Piero Tucci on accordion-adding a truly ‘Parisian’ touch!! --17th / and Spraggy & Co on Monday 14th ). Purist New Orleans outfit The Re-union Jazz Band are in Sunday lunchtime action at The Elms Hotel-Retford (DN22 7DX / 01777-708957) on 20th Feb…Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge (S75 4LY) have The Old Marina Jazz Band (Mon 21st Feb) and Silver Leaf J.B. (Mon 28th Feb)…Sheffield Jazz at Millennium Hall (S11 8PY) presents Dylan Howe Quartet on Fri 18th Feb-0114-273-8678 / www.sheffieldjazz.org.uk and Steve Waterman Quintet (Fri 4th March)…Every Monday night at The Butcher’s Arms / Braithwell are The Knights of Jazz—usually featuring Pete Moxon / Gerry Nugent / and Graham Galtrey on reeds. Happy jazzin’!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 10th February 2011. From C.J.Worsdale.
The versatile outfit bases it’s approach and inspiration on the glorious jazz era dating from Louis Armstrong’s Hot Fives and Sevens to the height of the Swing Era and the world famous bands of clarinet super-star Benny Goodman and other revered influential luminaries. The line-up of the five-piece band at the Conservative Club gig will be Barry on guitar and trumpet ; Barnsley based David Hepworth on clarinet and tenor sax (who brings his own Silver Leaf Jazz Band to the venue on 31st March and is also in weekly Wednesday action at The Strafford Arms-Stainborough/Barnsley / 01226-751989 for details); Keith Widowson-banjo/guitar; Rob Smith-double bass; Geoff Hobson-drums. Stomp-off is at 8.30pm / Admission at the door is £5….Be there!! March ‘Con’ Club gigs are Eugene Farrar Band (3rd) / The Djangonauts
with Piero Tucci and Chris Walker…a change with The Dizzy Club—who
now appear on 14th April / and Silver Leaf (31st March) Happy jazzin’ !! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 3rd February 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Following rapidly on in the wake of the recent highly successful ‘Wonderful world of Louis Armstrong’ show by trumpet maestro Bob Ludlam’s Band at the ‘Con’ Club and optimistically adding to the momentum of the heartening start to Jazz into Doncaster’s New Year programme at the venue, this very night (3rd Feb) comes the much in-demand West Yorks based outfit Winston’s Pennine Jazz! The ‘Pennine’ boys are renowned for their refreshingly varied and vigorously swinging selection of tunes, including many well loved ‘Trad’ flag-wavers, numbers from the Swing Era, generous helpings of ‘Ellingtonia,’ Jazz takes on Country and Popular songs plus solo spots-highlighting the talents of individual band members—all guaranteed to ensure a hugely enjoyable and entertaining evening for all fortunate to attend!! The sparkling all-star line-up consists of leader/founder Keith Shone (double bass)/ Dave Kendall (trumpet)/ Eugene Farrar (trombone)/ Andy Wallis (reeds)/ Brian Herbert (guitar/banjo/vocals)/ and the irrepressible Ken Hickey (drums/vocals). Stomp-off is at 8.30pm / admission £5 at the door…see you all there!! ( Also at the ‘Con’ Club on 17th Feb is ‘Donny’ debut band ‘Swing Beans’—with everything from Louis’s Hot Five numbers to Benny Goodman pieces!!). The eclectic and often surprising Terry Allonby Trio will be in lunchtime action at The Horse and Groom ( East Laithegate ) on Saturday 5th February between 12noon and 3pm, where in addition to the musical ‘fare’ you can also enjoy the mouth-watering Irish cuisine and fine ales plus the jovial hospitality of landlord Francie and his team at the monthly free admission session. ‘Spraggy & Co’ –fronted by dazzling piano man Tony Spragg—are set for a St.Valentine’s session at The Conservative Club on Monday 14th February, providing an ideal evening for romantically inclined Swingin’ lovers’!! Guest singers Sue/ Eddie / and Bob are expected to be present also—I wonder who the honour of performing the surely obligatory ‘My Funny Valentine’ will go to?—and perhaps a surprise star guest instrumentalist may also join the action (recently, saxist Tommy Tuft and Django style guitarist Paul have guested with the trio). Start time is 8.30pm / admission £3-50 at door. Great news from Matt Palmer, is that young sax and clarinet sensation Amy Roberts ( who’s career has been proudly aided by several Doncaster gigs) has joined the Chris Barber Band no less!! Well done Amy…lets hope you will still on occasion be available to play ‘Donny’ gigs,however!! The Yorkshire Stompers are at Silkstone Lodge (S75 4LY) on Monday 7th Feb …The Jay Phelps Quintet (of Vancouver Jazz Festival fame ) is at The Millennium Hall (Sheffield) on Fri 11th Feb (0114-273-8678 / www.sheffieldjazz.org.uk )…The Knights of Jazz play every Monday at The Butcher’s Arms-Braithwell. Happy jazzin’!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 27th January 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Next month’s local live jazz gigs will be kick-started in vigorous fashion next Thursday (3rd February) at The Conservative Club (South Parade) by the much in-demand outfit Winston’s Pennine Jazz, led by double bassist and founder Keith Shone and including trombonist and harmonica man Eugene Farrar, multi-reed maestro Andy Wallis and other members of Eugene’s own band, who recently featured in ‘Come rain, come shine’ on ITV. The six piece ‘Pennine’ boys are renowned for their stimulating
wide-ranging and entertaining approach, which can be relied on to include
many favourite ‘Trad’ flag-wavers, highly charged versions of
memorable numbers from the ‘Swing Era’ to unique features such
as the band’s take on Hank Williams’ ‘Jambalya’—ingeniously
fused with the Afro-Cuban rhythms of Sonny Rollins’ ‘St.Thomas.’
One thing is certain, those fortunate enough to be present will defiantly
head for home in joyous mood following an up-lifting evening with Winston’s
Pennine Jazz!! Stomp-off is at 8.30pm / The following Saturday (5th Feb) sees The Terry Allonby Trio in lunchtime action at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) between 12noon and 3pm and featuring their recently instated regular young drummer Alex Smith together with Terry on guitars and keyboard maestro Nigel Chapman…who surprised and delighted followers at the January session with his poignant and blues infused solo version of the Tom Jones hit, ‘Green, green grass of home.’ Anything can happen at an Allonby gig!! ‘Spraggy & Co’—fronted by Tony on piano—will
no doubt be in romantic (though always swingin’) mood at the ‘Con’
Club on Monday 14th February,with ‘Spraggy’ ably holding the
fort in the absence of much missed Dickie Emmerson …and don’t
be surprised if the session includes ‘My funny valentine.’!!
The music begins around 8.30pm / £3-50 entry at door and expected
to be present are guest vocalists Sue, Eddie, and Bob. Make it your Monday
Date….Thursday 17th February welcomes to the ‘Con’ Club
the Doncaster debut session by guitarist / trumpeter Barry Binch’s
band Happy jazzin’!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 20th January 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. It’s impossible of course for ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ to offer the late-great Louis Armstrong himself as a dream attraction at the ‘Con’ Club…but it CAN provide a very worthy close second in the form of local ‘Satchmo’ inspired trumpet ace Bob Ludlam , who fronts his All-star six piece band at the venue this very evening in a heartfelt salute to the greatest jazzman of all entitled The Wonderful World of Louis Armstrong!! The lively show will feature many of Satchmo’s best loved numbers—with
Bob daringly tackling many famed Armstrong bravura trumpet solo excursions
and also no doubt with generous helpings of Bob’s take of Louis’s
much loved gravel voiced vocal style—vigorously aided and abetted
by contributions by other band members and with contrasting features highlighting
other famous Armstrong influenced A truly memorable evening is in prospect and is deserving of a bumper attendance (especially after cancellation of two December gigs due to the freeze-up!!). ‘Stomp-off’ time is 8.30pm / admission £5 at the door…see you all there!! Depressing news for avid listeners to BBC East Midlands Radio show ‘Jazz Incorporated’ is that the Thursday presentation by Chris Moore (and previously by Tommy Saville) has been axed after an incredible 38 year run-- along with other ‘specialist’ programmes—in favour of ‘extending daytime listening into evening schedules’ !! I’m confident that ‘Donny’ fans will join me in offering sincere thanks to Chris and Tommy for flying the jazz flag and providing so much listening pleasure across the decades!! Better news is that local rising saxophone star Nadim Tiemoori recently played three nights at the famous Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London with The National Youth Jazz Orchestra alongside other former DYJO members Ben Mallinder (baritone sax) and Reuben Fowler (trumpet). Nadim has also performed with his own band at Chelsea’s renowned 606 Jazz Club. Multi-reed maestro Tommy Tuft was surprise guest of ‘Spraggy & Co.’ at the ‘Con’ Club recently, mightily impressing with his no-holds-barred ‘Tough Texas’ style tenor sax (alternating with sumptuous tender ballads!!) and flowing ‘liquid’ clarinet playing. Next session by Spraggy & Co is set for Valentine’s Day 14th February…Get it in your diaries!! Young rhythm man Alex Smith has been confirmed as regular drummer with
The Terry Allonby Trio Last—but certainly not least—good wishes for hopefully coming
through the recent floods unscathed to former ‘Doncastrian’
jazzers Rick and Bev Lindley (and all others threatened) in far-flung
Brisbane. Happy jazzin’!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 13th January 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. What better way could there possibly be than for ‘Jazz into Doncaster’
to launch it’s New Year series of live events at the Conservative
Club than with an affectionate salute to the one and only ‘Satchmo’ The six-piece band was formed last year as a commemorative tribute to
the 110 years of Louis’s continuing influence on music and entertainment,
with the aim of simply creating a lively musical party The repertoire is mainly drawn from that of the famed Louis Armstrong
All-Stars and includes many of his best loved numbers—re-crafted
in his vigorous style and with a ‘joie de vivre’ of which Bob
and the boys believe he would approve of!! In order to bring contrasting
elements into the show, however, ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ have two dates set for ‘Con’ Club gigs next month, the first featuring the popular Winston’s Pennine Jazz (3rd Feb), followed by The Swing Beans (17th Feb) and piano man Spraggy & Co ( usually with guest singers Sue Nixon / Eddie Kell / Bob Quinn and hopefully again featuring guest Django style guitarist Paul—who impressed at the pre-Christmas ‘bash’) play a Valentine’s Day session at the venue on Monday 14th February. Good news is that Doncaster Markets Jazz Day has been given the ‘green light’ and will take place on Saturday 28th May, with The Phoenix New Orleans Parade Band, Winston’s Pennine Jazz, Nicki Allan Sextet, plus Bob Hall & Dave Peabody-- keeping Blues fans happy—included in the attractions. Meanwhile, you can catch The White Eagles Jazz Band at Silkstone Lodge
(S75 4LY) on 17th Jan… Happy jazzin’ !! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 6th January 2011. From C.J.Worsdale. Welcome to a brand new year of local live jazz events, with many varied sessions lined up throughout 2011 to attract enthusiasts of most tastes!! This coming weekend welcomes back guitar maestro Terry Allonby and his
Trio back to the Horse & Monday 10th January at the Conservative Club welcomes piano wizard ‘Spraggy’ & Co- plus guest vocalists (usually including Sue Fisher / Eddie Kell / and ‘The Mighty’ Bob Quinn )- to the comfortable venue for the first of their 2011 monthly sessions—at which they worthily ‘carry the torch’ during the enforced absence (due to health problems) of their mentor Dickie Emmerson, who is greatly missed by his numerous followers, who wish Dickie a speedy recovery and return to his ‘Con’ Club stomping ground !! The sessions commence at 8.30pm and admission is £3-50 at the door. Jazz into Doncaster’s’ first gig of the year is set for Thursday 20th January, when the attraction is masterly trumpeter Bob Ludlam’s All-Star Band, who will be affectionately saluting the truly great ‘Satchmo’ with their ‘Wonderful World of Louis Armstrong’ show –at which although the emphasis will of course be mainly on Louis Armstrong, numbers associated with Louis Prima / Fats Waller / Kenny Ball / Dave Brubeck and other jazz luminaries may be included to offer contrast. Silkstone Lodge (S75 4LY ) have Spirit of New Orleans (10th Jan) and White Eagles Jazz Band (17th Jan) … Jazz at the Lescar (Sharrowvale Rd / Hunter’s Bar-Sheffield / 0114-236570 / www.sheffieldjazzandswing.org.uk ) have Myrtle George-Phil Johnson Quartet (12th Jan) …And Rosie Brown Quartet (19th Jan) www.myspace.com/rosiebrownband Happy jazzin’!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 23rd December 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. At the time of writing, the threat of approaching Arctic weather conditions seems likely to lead to many unfortunate cancellations of live music gigs in our area, though hopefully Jazz into Doncaster’s Christmas Party Night featuring The New Jazz Messengers and Shirley Patterson plus Bob Quinn will not suffer the same fate as the New Orleans Wiggle session, which was called off due to the previous snowy freeze-up!! Fortunately escaping the wintry grip was the Christmas session at the ‘Con’ Club by ‘Spraggy’ & Co, which was further enhanced by the guest appearance of semi-acoustic guitarist Paul--who is a familiar figure to ‘Donny’ shoppers and is often seen busking near M&S and delighting with his intricate nimble fingered Django Reinhardt style ‘Gypsy Jazz’!! His featured solo spot on Autumn Leaves being one of the evening’s applause-worthy highlights-- in addition to Tony’s dazzling piano on such numbers as Moanin’ / Gravy Waltz / Killer Joe / and the bossa-nova Desifinado (which was a huge chart hit for Stan Getz ) all superbly and ‘swingingly’ accompanied by double bassist Kevin walker and local drummer ‘hero’ Ian West—who recently shone with Steel City Bones at The Northern Jazz Centre. A fine array of vocal numbers were added to the proceedings by Eddie Kell, Bob Quinn, Sue Fisher (with several appropriate festive songs!!), and Johnny Noble with Shadow of your smile / his favourite song My funny valentine…plus a sprinkling of his famed ‘one-liners’ also and-of course-affectionate respects were paid to absent mastermind and founder of the Monday sessions, Dickie Emmerson, who hopes to be back to delight his faithful fans in the not to distant future, meanwhile ‘Spaggy & Co are back in action at the venue on Monday 10th January. Local forthcoming sessions include Doncaster Youth Jazz Association’s annual Christmas ‘Big Band Bonanza’ at The Earl—phone 01302-320002 for details…and good news is that the association’s founder and ‘MD’ John Ellis has received the Educator of the Year award from Jazz Yorkshire… The Terry Allonby Trio—who are in action at The Horse & Groom (East Laithe Gate) on Saturday 8th January from 12noon to 3pm (admission free)…And what better way to kick-start ‘Jazz into Doncaster’s’ New Year gigs than Bob Ludlam Band’s salute to ‘Satchmo’—with the Wonderful World of Louis Armstrong show at the ‘Con’ club on 20th January…Further afield, Barnsley Jazz presents The Southside Jazzband at Silkstone Lodge-S75 4LY- (3rd Jan) and Spirit of New Orleans (10th Jan). If Santa brings book tokens for lucky jazzers, worth considering are Humph’s ‘Faces of Humph—Caricatures and Memories (JR Books £10-99)… Goin’ Home—The Uncompromising Life and Music of Ken Colyer (£22), published by The Ken Colyer Trust (Contact John Petters at: tjpost@traditional-jazz.com or call 0800-496-0673 )….The Penguin Jazz Guide (Penguin Books £20 / ISBN 978-04831-4)…. And for Blues fans ‘Oh, What a beautiful city’—a tribute to The Reverend Gary Davis—Mel Bay Publications-ISBN 978-078668258-4. HAPPY JAZZIN’ …. A real cool Yule and swingin’ New Year
to all!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 16th December. From C.J.Worsdale. Weather permitting, it’s ‘Jazz into Doncaster’s’ Christmas Party Jazz Night this very evening, when loyal supporters are anticipated to turn out in force for the established high-light event in the local jazz calendar, which takes place at The Conservative Club and features The New Jazz Messengers and Shirley Patterson…plus ‘The Mighty’ Bob Quinn!! The ‘Messengers’ feature the dynamic ‘front line’ of Mike Taylor (trombone / leader )—who’s virile lusty attacking style and expert use of mutes to great bluesy effect, forms a perfect foil with the ‘edgy’ rasping approach of Geoff Patterson on clarinet, evoking memories of Pee Wee Russell / Edmond Hall / Sandy Brown and other clarinet luminaries and boasts a superb driving rhythm section ( with ample space for impressive solos!!) comprising of Colin Wood (piano); Doug White (double bass); and the irrepressible Roy Walker (drums). Taking care of show-stopping vocals are Shirley and Bob, who are affectionately loved and admired by jazz avids wherever they perform and are certain to delight with their own features in addition to the crowd pleasing vigorous fun-packed duets for which they are renowned!! ‘Stomp-off’ is at 8.30pm and the admission charge of £5 includes a free buffet—jointly provided by ‘Con’ Club members Brian and Jean and ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ committee members…A great way to end the Jazz Year on a high note and herald in the Festive Season, see you all there!! Kicking off the ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ New Year season on an
equally high note at the ‘Con’ Club will be master trumpet man
Bob Ludlam and his All-star six piece band, who will be saluting the one
and only ‘Satchmo’ with their ‘Wonderful World of Louis
Armstrong’ show on Thursday 20th January…take note of the date!!
And also in the pipeline are gigs at the venue by Winston’s Pennine
Jazz / Swing Beans / Eugene Farrar Band / The Dizzy Club / Silver Leaf
Jazz Band / New Orleans Wiggle / Matt Palmer All-stars / Southside Jazz
Band / Nicki Allan Sextet / Frank Brooker’s ‘Happy Chappies’
/ and Eugene Farrar band again PLUS star guest ‘pro’ trumpeter—to
be announced, watch this space!! Plenty to look forward to….and further
good news is that Doncaster Markets Jazz day will take place again—on
Saturday 28th May, with Phoenix N.O. Marching Band / Winston’s Pennine
Jazz / “The damnest bunch of noise I’ve ever heard!!’ exclaimed
his father on hearing The Dave Brubeck Quartet for the first time…and
Buddy Rich famously remarked the he “Wouldn’t go as far as the
men’s room” to hear Brubeck!! No doubt they had to ‘eat
their words’ when the Quartet became a world wide success and arguably
one of the most popular jazz groups of all time, enjoying huge ‘chart
hits’ with Take Five / It’s a Raggy Waltz / Blue Rondoa la Turk
/ Pick up sticks etc, which are frequently aired on TV and radio to this
very day. Happily, Dave is still active on the international scene—even
though he recently reached age 90—and remains a major attraction
in concert halls the world over…How’s that for longevity?? (‘Flash-in-the-pan’
Pop Groups take notice!!)….Though his jazz pedigree is somewhat more
tenuous ( he did, however play drums on Fats Waller’s famed ‘London
Sessions’ recordings—along with trombonist George Chisholm,
who interrupted his honeymoon and flew in form Jersey to play with Fats!!),
Latin American band leader Edmundo Ross is also due birthday congratulations,
having recently scored 100 not out….Many happy returns to both music
‘greats.’ HAPPY JAZZIN’!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 9th December 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. Regrettably, the scheduled session by New Orleans Wiggle at the ‘Con’ Club was a casualty of the adverse weather conditions (and also of ‘Gremlins’ that wrongly captioned the accompanying photograph in last week’s jazz column as Bob Ludlam-when in fact it was N.O.Wiggle’s trumpeter/leader John Hummerstone. Apologies to both!!) Mention of Bob Ludlam reminds that Bob’s all-star band is set to present their ‘Wonderful World of Louis Armstrong’ salute to the great ‘Satchmo’ at the opening live gig of the 2011 season at The Conservative Club on Thursday 20th January—NOT 16th Jan as incorrectly announced last week—those ‘Gremlins’ again!! Ending the current year’s ‘Jazz into Doncaster’s’ sessions at the ‘Con’ Club are The New Jazz Messengers & Shirley Patterson plus Bob Quinn also. The dazzling personnel comprises of Mike Taylor (trombone) / Geoff Patterson (clarinet) / Colin Wood (piano) / Doug White (double bass) / Roy Walker (drums)…who’s combined talents are guaranteed to ‘raise the rafters’ at the Christmas Jazz Party night, with a free buffet included in the £5 admission charge-generously provided by club members Brian and Jean and ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ committee members. ‘Stomp-off’ is at 8.30pm—don’t be late!! Five trombone front-line band ‘Steel City Bones’ and top drawer
rhythm section were a ‘revelation’ Tony Spragg’s Trio plus guest singers Sue, Bob and Eddie are set for their Christmas Jazz ‘Bash’ at the ‘Con’Club on Monday 13th December, with lots of swingin’ festive fun anticipated. The music kicks-off around 8.30pm and admission is £3-50 at the door….For details of Doncaster Youth Jazz Association’s annual Christmas Big Band Bonanza, call the Northern Jazz Centre on 01302-320002. Sad news from drumming ace band leader and true champion of Traditional Jazz-John Petters, notes the recent passing of Monty Sunshine, who became an household name when his version of Petite Fleur became a million-plus chart hit on both sides of the pond. Monty played several times in Doncaster, including with Chris Barber at the former Gaumont, his own band—at Sprotborough’s The Ivanhoe and has guest attraction at The Roman Ridge with Vic Beven and co. Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge presents Winston’s Pennine Jazz
on Monday 13th Dec… Sheffield Jazz presents The Michael Janisch Quintet
on Fri 10th December at Millennium Hall. (0114-273-8678 / ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 2nd December 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. Certainly, few would dispute that the late-great Louis Armstrong was the most widely loved and influential jazz musician of all time, a sentiment echoed by local formidable trumpeter Bob Ludlam—who-along with his six piece band- has graciously accepted an invitation to kick-start the New Year series of live ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ sessions at the ‘Con’ Club on 20th January with their own sincere and heartfelt salute to the inimitable genius of ‘Satchmo’ !! Meanwhile, two deservedly crowd drawing attractions are set to close
the old year in vigorous style… Thursday 16th December is ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ Christmas ‘special’
party night—the first to take place at the ‘Con’ Club—when
the anticipated bumper audience will be vigorously entertained by The
New Jazz Messengers and Shirley Patterson—plus special guest Bob
‘The Mighty’ Quinn, who will contribute several worthy favourite
crowd pleasing songs and thrilling duets with ‘Shirl’ to the
festive occasion!! The ‘Messengers’ are of course fronted by
dynamic duo Mike Taylor –with his imaginative lusty blues drenched
trombone style-and the husky toned attacking styled Geoff Patterson on
clarinet. Other appealing local gigs include the pre-Christmas session by The Terry
Allonby Trio and probable guest ‘musos’ at The Horse & Groom
(East Laithegate) on Saturday 4th December from 12noon to 3pm Piano maestro Tony Spragg’s superb Trio (majestically holding the fort in the absence of much missed Dickie Emmerson) have their seasonal festive session on Monday 13th December at the ‘Con’ Club, when many appropriate Christmas tunes and songs are expected to delight regular supporters, interwoven between the threesome’s splendid swingin’ foot-tapping renditions of great standards and popular numbers…no doubt aided and abetted by messrs Sue Fisher/ Eddie Kell / and Bob Quinn with finely honed vocal offerings!! The music kicks-off around 8.30pm /admission £3-50 at the door. Sheffield Jazz at Millennium Hall (Ecclesall Road, S11 8PY / phone 0114-273-8678) presents The Mike Walker Sextet (Mike Walker-guitar / Iain Dixon-saxes / Les Chisnall-piano/ Malcolm Edmonstone-keys / Steve Watts-bass/ James Maddren-drums) on Friday 3rd December and The Michael Janisch Quintet on Friday 10th December. (Michael Janisch-bass / Paul Booth-saxes / Jay Phelps-trumpet/ Jim Hart-vibes/ Andrew Bains-drums). www.sheffieldjazz.org.uk Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge presents The Yorkshire Stompers (6th
Dec) and Winston’s Pennine Jazz (13th Dec). Enquiries: 01226-281805
/ 290105 / 383135. Happy jazzin’ !! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 25th November 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. It’s often said that “You never miss the water till the well runs dry”—and sadly, despite the best efforts of Ernest and his team, Rotherham Transport Club has reluctantly ceased to present further Monday evening live jazz at the venue, due to falling attendances and should serve as a warning to neighbouring areas—including Doncaster—to offer maximum support whenever possible, or risk loosing established jazz venues for ever!! With this in mind, lovers of jazz trombone will be in for a rare treat TOMORROW NIGHT at The Northern Jazz Centre (Beckett Road / 01302-320002/ admission £5) when Steel City Bones (who recently ‘wowed’ Sheffield’s Lescar audience) will be in action starting at 7.30pm. The personnel-reminding of Roy Williams’ ‘Five-A-Slide’ and Doncaster’s Mike Mackinder led ‘Spice Bones’ comprises of former DYJO musician Stuart Garside / Danny Hammerton / Lee Hallam / Kevin Holdborough/ Dave Pearce all playing ‘kid-shifters’ (trombones that is) with Andy Dresler (piano); Jamie Taylor (guitar); Paul Baxter (bass) ; Ian West (drums). Sounds like an intriguing and swingin’ session is imminent and well worth attending!! Traditional Jazz avids are reminded that West Yorkshire based band New Orleans Wiggle—led by dedicated ‘Delta’ style trumpeter John Hummerstone—are set for a welcome return session to the Conservative Club on Thursday 2nd December, followed on Thursday 16th December by The New Jazz Messengers & Shirley Patterson (plus the ‘mighty’ Bob Quinn also!!) for the first Christmas Jazz party night at the venue, including free buffet-generously provided by ‘Con’ Club members and ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ committee members…and are urged to turn out in force for both splendid events!! Disappointingly, although ‘Wiggle’s’ dynamic star jazz / blues/ gospel singer ‘Topsy’ is not expected to appear with the band—due to prior work commitments—it is anticipated that messrs Sheila Peach and Bob Quinn may be ‘coaxed’ to offer up several strident vocals at the gig in compensation, with leader John’s permission ( how about it John??)…and at the Christmas ‘bash’ robust roof-raisers Mike Taylor on trombone and Geoff Patterson (clarinet) and other star ‘Messengers’ will ensure that the evening goes with an irresistible swing, perhaps even attracting a full dance floor in the process !! The sessions ‘stomp-off’ at 8.30pm and admission is £5 at the door. Exciting news from trombonist Eugene Farrar-who leads his own band and is a key man with Winston’s Pennine Jazz—tells that his Dixieland Band recently performed in a ITV blockbuster film, shot in Harrogate, with the addition of Leeds drumming virtuoso ‘Rim-Shot’ Rod McManara. The band is ‘sworn to secrecy’ for the present…though watch this space for up-dates!! The Terry Allonby Trio are set for their pre-Christmas ‘bash’ at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) on Saturday 4th December from 12 noon to 3pm…though as regular followers will know, we’ll have to be ‘sharp-eared’ to catch any fleeting references to the festive season!! On the same evening Big Band Swing fans are expected to gravitate to the Civic Theatre for a spectacular festive concert by the official UK Glenn Miller Orchestra-led by Ray McVay. The show begins at 7.30pm / for tickets-info call the Box Office on 01302-342349. Piano maestro Tony Spragg’s Trio will be in festive mood at the
‘Con’ Club on Monday 6th December Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge presents The Yorkshire Stompers (6th Dec) and Winston’s Pennine Jazz (13th Dec)…Sheffield Jazz at Millennium Hall presents John Etheridge’s ‘Sweet Chorus’ Fri 26th Nov….and Mike Walker Sextet ( Fri 3rd Dec) : 0114-273-8678 / www.sheffieldjazz.org.uk … To keep abreast of South Yorks live jazz scene, regularly log onto Sheffield Jazz and Swing . Happy jazzin’!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 18th November 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. First and foremost, hearty congratulations to local clarinettist Graham Galtrey, who chalks up his seventieth birthday on 20th November—many years of which were spent adorning the Doncaster area jazz scene with his fine and wide ranging approach and devotion to the music he loves. Graham’s initial attraction to jazz began around 1956, when he was met with the choice of following Bill Haley’s Comets and Rock & Roll or Ken Colyer and New Orleans style jazz, and opted for the latter—as he wished to emulate the playing of clarinettist Ian Wheeler—and himself took up the instrument when his Dad presented him with a birthday gift of a clarinet and four 78 rpm records!! Soon becoming proficient and confident enough to perform publicly, he became immersed in the ‘Trad’ jazz scene until being introduced to Django Reinhardt and Hot Club of France style ‘gypsy jazz’ by guitarist and life long friend Norry Greenwood (who at age 94 is still very musically active) and had to teach himself to learn new melodies and to improvise in ‘exposed’ quartet formats. Since those far off days, Graham discovered many new musical avenues to explore—such as the influential playing of Stan Getz, Cannonball Adderley, Buddy de Franco, Benny Goodman,‘Brits’ Sid Phillips and Harry Gold and numerous other luminaries and continues to work as soloist—along with his gifted vocalist daughter Sarah—mainly in East and North Yorkshire and is currently involved with the quartet ‘Jazzbos’ with an intriguing unusual combination of tuba/ guitar / trombone / clarinet which mixes ‘Trad’ –Swing- Latin and other elements—reminding perhaps of reed giant Jimmy Giuffre’s famed trio version of ‘Train & the river’ in the film ‘Jazz on a Summer’s Day’ along with valve trombonist Bob Brookmeyer and guitarist Jim Hall—and is often in action along with fellow reed players Gerry Nugent and Pete Moxon at regular Monday night sessions at Braithwell’s Butchers Arms with The Knights of Jazz. In my humble opinion, Graham’s stalwart contribution to our local scene has been somewhat under-appreciated and under-valued over the years... though it’s never to late to make amends, so try to catch him when you can!! Another superb reed man and frequent welcome visitor to town will be under the spotlight tonight at The Conservative Club, when Nottingham based Matt Palmer takes the stage with his Quartet and promises to ‘blow up a storm’ on clarinet / soprano / alto and baritone saxes- and no doubt several typical raucous vocals also-along with banjo and guitar man Barry Binch, former Monty Sunshine sideman Tony Bagot slapping the double bass and sensational young drummer Jack Cotterill providing the irresistible pulsating driving force, with a thrilling assortment of Traditional Jazz / Swing / and Rn’B flavoured numbers. Matt-who is a mainstay of Nottingham Rhythm Club- has performed on many memorable occasions in ‘Donny’—notably at The Little Theatre with his ‘Great Jazz Reeds’ concert and hopefully will include several ‘salutes’ to some of Britain’s finest clarinettists and sax players at tonight’s gig also!! ‘Stomp-off’ is at 8.30pm / Admission £5 at the door. Also on the local scene is The Terry Allonby Trio at The Horse &
Groom on Saturday 4th December Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge presents The Yorkshire Stompers (6th Dec) and Winston’s Pennine Jazz (13th Dec) … For details of regular Monday gigs at Rotherham Transport Club phone Ernest on 01709 523499. Happy jazzin’!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 11th November 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. It seems appropriate on this particular day to recall the invaluable and perhaps somewhat under appreciated contribution to the British and international music scene of the late alto saxist and clarinettist Bruce Turner, who died almost 17 years ago and left behind a rich legacy of recorded jazz and fond memories of his numerous live performances … and lovable eccentric nature!! Yorkshire born Bruce spent most of his childhood in India, taking up clarinet at age 15 whilst at Dulwich College and later progressing to alto sax when he joined the RAF, gaining experience with local ‘pick-up’ bands until demobilization in 1947 when he worked in the bands of Billy Kaye and Roy Vaughan before joining Freddy Randall’s Band for a year before working on the Queen Mary and visiting New York—where he took advice from the legendary be-bop pianist Lennie Tristano and was tutored by alto sax ‘great’ Lee Konitz before returning to the UK and rejoining Freddy Randall until famously teaming with Humphrey Lyttelton’s Band in 1953…and making ‘Jazz History’ at a Birmingham concert when irate ‘Trad’ fans unfurled a banner stating ‘Go home, dirty bopper’ when Bruce had the ‘effrontery’ to perform on alto saxophone with a traditional jazz band!! After leaving ‘Humph’ he formed his own ‘Jump Band’, touring Russia and visiting Romania with folk singer Ewan McCall in addition to working with Alex Welsh, Acker Bilk, Wally Fawkes-John Chilton Feetwarmers and accompanying visiting American jazz giants—including Ray Nance, Bill Coleman, Ben Webster, Don Byas and others with his own band. Bruce was also a gifted composer, humorist and author—his autobiography ‘Hot Air, Cool Music’ was published in1984-and with particular interest to local fans, guested with The Savannah Jazz Band in a memorable live session at the former NCB Lodge Jazz Club towards the end of his career, dying from a brain tumour in November 1993. No doubt multi-reed maestro Matt Palmer will include respectful vigorous musical salutes to Bruce and other clarinet and saxophone luminaries when he brings his hard swinging four-piece band to the Conservative Club on Thursday 18th November, when a heady assortment of vigorous jazz styles –from New Orleans to Dixieland and ‘Swing Era’ classics are anticipated. Joining in the fray will be sensational young show-stopping drummer Jack Cotterill (who many will recall mightily impressed with The Matt Palmer/Amy Roberts Band at the 2009 Markets Jazz Day); versatile Barry Binch on banjo/guitar and vocals—wonder if he brings his trumpet along also?—and former Monty Sunshine sideman Tony Bagot slappin’ the mighty double bass. Stomp-off is at 8.30pm / admission £5 at the door….Only four swingin’ guys, but they’re expected to ‘blow up a storm!!’ Don’t miss it!! Also in the pipeline for ‘Con’ Club December gigs are New Orleans Wiggle (hopefully featuring dynamic jazz/blues/gospel singer ‘Topsy’) and The New Jazz Messengers with Shirley Patterson, with New Year sessions to be announced shortly…Watch out for up-dates and keep supporting live jazz!! With Christmas fast approaching, a worthy suggestion for an ideal jazz lover’s gift might well be the hardback book ‘Faces of Humph-Caricatures and Memories’ (JR Books £10-99), which has been lovingly assembled by Humph’s son Stephen. Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge (Cone Lane, Silkstone) presents Peter
Franks’ Dixieland All-stars (15th Nov) and Willie’s Weepers
(22nd Nov). Phone 01226-281805….For details of Rotherham Transport
Club Monday Jazz, phone Ernest on 01709-523499….There is regular
Sunday lunchtime jazz at Sheffield’s Showroom (0114-2757727)….At
Crucible Studio on 20th Nov is Stan Tracey Octet ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 4th November 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. Following on from the recent ‘Con’ Club debut appearance of the ‘purist’ New Orleans style Reunion Jazz Band— even performing in the time honoured seated manner of the Crescent City’s famed Preservation Hall—and delighting the large attendance of Delta Jazz aficionados with two sets of favourite ‘Trad’ numbers and many welcome rarely aired more obscure pieces, comes a return visit to the popular venue this very night (4th Nov) by trumpeter Wil Robinson’s Southside Jazz Band. The Southside boys—who are no strangers to Doncaster audiences-- differ in approach from the aforementioned Reunion Band and usually include vigorous elements of Chicago style Dixieland Jazz together with New Orleans, Swing, Jump-Jive and Rhythm & Blues, generously laced with raucous vocals by Wil, banjo and guitar man Barry Binch and the outfit’s exuberant drummer Cliff Hodgkinson. Show-stopping features and solo contributions can be expected from Wil on trumpet and flugelhorn, multi-reed ace Pete Moxon, former Shades of Jazz trombonist Keith Randall and stalwart of the double bass Dave Green. ‘Stomp-off’ is at 8.30pm / Admission £5 at the door….Don’t be late!! Other attractive local jazz events include the regular monthly Saturday
lunchtime date at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) by The Terry
Allonby Trio (often with guest musicians sitting in ) on 6th November-from
12 noon to 3pm / free admission….The Tony Spragg Trio plus guest
vocalists (usually Bob Quinn / Eddie Kell / Sue Fisher ) at the Conservative
Club on Monday 8th November (8.30pm / Whilst visiting my brother Frank in Edinburgh recently, my Finnish born
sister-in-law Milja helped to stave off any possible ‘Live Jazz withdrawal
symptoms’ during my stay by introducing me to the pianistic recorded
joys of the Helsinki based Claes Andersson Trio by playing their impressive
CD ‘These Foolish Things-Jazz!’ (Long Play LOPCD-008), with
tracks including John Lewis’s ‘Django’/ Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge (Cone Lane, Silkstone S75 4LY) presents
The Southside Jazz Band Happy jazzin’!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 28th October 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. First across next month’s local ‘live jazz tapes’ is the
popular ‘Trad’ and Swing outfit The Southside Wil and the boys are no strangers to ‘Donny’ having previously
performed to enthusiastic audiences at The Rockingham Arms, The Conservative
Club (including the ‘Just one more time’ Re-Union concert), At the forthcoming ‘Con’ Club gig Wil expects to field an all-star line-up, including versatile multi-reed man Pete Moxon (catch him regularly on Mondays at The Butcher’s Arms / Braithwell with Gerry Nugent, Graham Galtrey and other ‘Knights of Jazz’)- who echoes the influence of numerous great jazz reed maestros and also adores the rabble-rousing sounds of famed rock n’ roll tenor saxist ‘Boots’ Randolph!! ( Watch out for the customary Benny Hill style closer ‘Yakkity sax’!!). Others joining the fray will be former ‘Shades of Jazz’ trombonist Keith Randall, Barry Binch on guitar/banjo and vocals (who returns to the club with Matt Palmer’s Band on 18th Nov), Dave Green on double bass and Cliff Hodgekinson—drums/vocals….All of whom promise a toe-tapping mix of ‘Trad’ flag wavers-Swing Era based numbers-with robust vocals by the band’s ‘songbirds’- laced with vigorous helpings of RnB and ‘Jump-jive’ offerings, to lure prospective dancers to the floor!! The action begins at 8.30pm / admission is £5 at the door….see you all there!! Next in line is the highly regarded and eclectic Terry Allonby Trio,
who will be in lunchtime action at The Horse & Groom ( East Laithegate
) on Saturday 6th November from 12 noon to 3pm (free entry) with their
customary blend of contemporary jazz / swing / latin / blues and rock
etc, featuring Terry on guitar-Nigel on keyboards and impressive young
drummer Alex ( from the DYJO ‘stable’) on drums… Recent first time visitors to The Horse & Groom were York based outfit
The Half-Hand Hoodoo Blues Band-fronted by Dave Smith on guitar and vocals-
who delighted firm blues fans and no doubt converted many waverers in
the packed pub to the blues cause, with their infectious and strident
approach—that soon attracted energetic dancers to the floor and proved
that the blues don’t have to be Serious budding guitarists should consider contacting Factory St.Studios
(Unit 9 Factory Street, Bradford BD4 9NW / 01274 682125 / email: info@factorystreet.co.uk
)if interested in courses on Rhythm Guitar / Improvisation / Developing
your guitar playing / Harmony for Electric Guitarists. Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge presents The Jelly Babies Jazz Band
from Sweden on Monday 1st Nov (01226-281805) & Southside Jazzband
(8th Nov)….Rotherham Transport Club have live jazz on Monda ys—phone
01709-523499 for details…Sheffield Jazz presents Ben Clatworthy 4
at Millennium Happy jazzin’ !! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 21st October 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. The recent gratifying success of the milestone concert by top flight musicians Alan Barnes and Bruce Adams at The Conservative Club is expected to pave the way for further such high level jazz concerts in Doncaster thanks to nods of approval from prime instigator John Sheppard and members of the ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ voluntary committee. By now, the scintillating performances of Alan (on alto and baritone saxes ) and Bruce ( trumpet and flugelhorn) will be common knowledge on the local scene and beyond—as several fans travelled from outer areas to attend the special event—though before ‘more water flows beneath the bridge’—I’m confident that all present at the gig will join me in recognising the sterling contribution of Nicola Farnon’s Trio for their major contribution in assuring success by seamlessly melding their rhythm section and sparkling solos with the two star attractions!! Worthy praise to Nicola on double bass and vocals / pianist Piero Tucci / and drummin’ man Phil Johnson (who were recently featured on Russell Davies’s Sunday evening Radio Two show)….Watch out for the Sheffield based threesome in action locally ( usually also plus master guitarist Chris Walker )—they’re well worth catching!! (Internet surfers can keep abreast of South Yorkshire jazz gigs by logging onto Sheffield Jazz and Swing, which includes Doncaster dates and previous Entertainer jazz articles in full—check it out!!). Live jazz of the Traditional variety continues meanwhile at the ‘Con’ Club this very evening (Thurs 21st October), when the first time attraction at the venue will be drummer George Buckman’s Reunion Jazzband, featuring trumpeter Alan Hippsley / David Hepworth on clarinet and tenor sax / trombonist Dave Clews / Doug White on double bass and local stalwart Keith Goddard on banjo and guitar….with boss-man George also in charge of robust vocals!! George promises a varied programme of favourite ‘Trad’ warhorses along with many refreshingly rarely played un-hackneyed New Orleans style numbers….a typical gig including such pieces as Tuxedo Rag / Yellow Dog Blues / Sweet Fields / Just a closer walk with thee / Second Line and Salutation March. ‘Stomp-off’ is at 8.30pm / Admission £5 at the door / ample dancing space also!! (Plus further ‘Trad’ delights at the venue on 4th Nov: Southside Jazzmen and 18th Nov: Matt Palmer band-with ex Monty Sunshine bassist Tony Bagley/ Barry Binch-banjo-guitar-vocals/ and young drumming sensation Jack Cotterill….make a note of the dates!!). Recent sad losses to the jazz world have included drummer Martin Drew—who achieved international repute with the great Oscar Peterson and performed with The New Jazz Couriers at The Earl of Doncaster; and Barbados born trumpeter Harry Beckett—who has also played in Doncaster at the renowned series of concerts presented by the late Alan Marsh at The St.Leger Suite. Also greatly missed will be saxophonist Harry Klein—who spread his talents beyond jazz, notably appearing on the Beatles ‘White Album’ and the hit single ‘Lady Madonna’ ; and famed drummer / band leader Jack Parnell-who also worked with Ted Heath and backed Billie Holiday at The Royal Albert Hall in 1954. The Terry Allonby Trio—who at recent gigs have added fresh versions
of Ray Charles’s ‘Busted’ and the Dusty Springfield hit
‘Son of a preacher man’ to their wide ranging repertoire—will
be back at The Horse & Groom on Saturday 6th Nov (12 noon to 3pm)….Piano
maestro Tony Spragg’s Trio are in action on Monday 8th Nov with guest
vocalists at the ‘Con’ Club ( 8.30pm / £3-50 admission)… ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 7th October 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. This Thursday evening’s milestone concert by internationally renowned British Jazz titans, Alan Barnes & Bruce Adams at the Conservative Club may prove to be a vital ‘litmus test’ for such future ‘top-drawer’ attractions at the venue—dependant as it is on the attendance of a worthy large audience turn-out to ensure it’s much deserved success!! Multi-reed maestro Alan, who is totally ‘at home’ with most styles of jazz and has worked with numerous other leading musicians and bands from ‘Trad’ and Dixieland outfits, The Midnite Follies and Pasadena Roof Orchestras to five years with Humphrey Lyttelton’s Band (apparently signed up by ‘Humph’ on a return flight from Switzerland!!), The Pizza Express Modern Jazz Sextet, Don Weller, The Mike Westbrook Big band, Freddie Hubbard and (of course) his long term musical partner Bruce Adams as well as proving a superb festival compere and radio broadcaster ,who- I’ve heard it said-could easily make a good living as a ‘stand-up’ comedian !! Trumpet and flugelhorn ace Bruce’s musical pedigree is no less impressive, having first made the headlines after winning ‘Opportunity Knocks’ at age 14 has also worked with many of the ’great and good’ on the international scene, from Tony Hancock and Freddie Starr to jazz luminaries Benny Carter, Bob Wilber, Dick Hyman, Peter Long’s Echoes of Ellington, Kenny Baker and singer Val Wiseman—to name a comparative few!! The two formidable jazz giants will be expertly accompanied by the specially
selected ebullient double bassist and jazz singer Nicola Farnon’s
Trio—featuring Piero Tucci (piano) and Phil Johnson (drums). Mention of worthy attendances reminds that mysteriously the anticipated
increased crowd (following the season’s encouraging opening gig by
Eugene Farrar’s Band) did not in fact meet expectations—despite
vigorous and varied sets of New Orleans Jazz and Skiffle by Barry Binch’s
Old Marina Jazzmen at their recent gig and an influx of welcome newcomers
who latched onto the joys of jazz at the St.Leger Day jazz event at Doncaster
Market and kept their promises to sample live jazz at the ‘Con’
Club….and clearly had a pleasurable night as a result!! ( Hope we
see ‘em again at future gigs!!). The 18th Marsden Jazz Festival takes place from 8th to 10th October (
www.marsdenjazzfestival.com / ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 30th September 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. The numerous faithful fans of guitarist-vocalist-entertainer Dickie Emmerson will be stunned to learn that the greatly admired musician has for the foreseeable future called a halt to bi-monthly Monday evening sessions- along with piano maestro Tony Spragg- at the ‘Con’ Club due to an imminent operation and will be sorely missed by his dedicated followers, who-of course-will surely join me in wishing Dickie a speedy recovery and equally speedy return to his regular swingin’ Monday dates!! Regulars at the sessions are however urged to attend the ‘Con’ Club gig on Monday 4th October by Tony and guest singers Eddie Kell / Bob Quinn / Sue Nixon plus probable surprise guests, who will gather to honour Dickie’s invaluable contribution to the local music scene over many years, in what promises to be a truly memorable occasion!! The music begins around 8.30pm / admission is £3-50. Meanwhile-on Wednesday 29th Sept at The Civic Theatre, Dennis Rollins presents Clare Teal & former James Brown sax man extraordinaire Pee Wee Ellis/Extra Curricular / Dennis Rollins’ Velocity Trio plus ‘After Hours’ in the bar with Kamaljeet Ajimal & Sukhami Rayat in a eclectic show encompassing jazz, ballads, blues, funk, world music & much more (8pm till late/Tickets £17-50 / Conc’s £15/ £5 under 18’s-Box Office 01302-342349)….And on Saturday 2nd October- The Terry Allonby Trio and guest ‘musos’ will be in lunchtime action at The Horse & Groom (Eastlaithegate) between 12 noon to 3pm…and according to eye-winking hints at the close of last month’s session, will be an un-missable occasion with several pleasing surprises in store!! Intrigued?? –then pop along to discover the meaning to Terry’s puzzling mystery!! Only one week to go before the jazz milestone concert by internationally revered star musicians Alan Barnes ( saxes / clarinet ) and Bruce Adams ( trumpet/flugelhorn), who—thanks to the instigation of former NCB Lodge Jazz Club organiser John Sheppard—will be joining their formidable talents with the super rhythm section team of Nicola Farnon (double bass/vocals); Piero Tucci (piano- & possibly sax and accordion also!!); Phil Johnson (drums) at The Conservative Club on Thursday 7th October. (Advance tickets can be purchased at £8 each from The Civic Theatre Box Office—01302 342349 / The Blue Building-High Street / Electro Music-Copley Road or by calling 01302-349898 /780574 / 789257…or take your chance by paying £9-50 per ticket at the door!!). This spectacular event (Jointly presented by ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ and The Lodge Jazz Club) should defiantly be an un-missible occasion for self-respecting jazz avids and if deservedly successful may well lead to future top level jazz concerts in our town…..so don’t tarry, reserve your tickets NOW!! Other ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ gigs in the ‘Con’ Club
pipeline include the first visit to ‘Donny’ by The Reunion Jazzband
–including trumpeter Alan Hippsley and clarinet man Geoff Patterson—21st
October At The Civic Theatre are Peter Donegan & The Lonnie Donegan Band
(Wed 6th Oct); Georgie Fame in Concert (wed 13th Oct); Chris Dean’s
Syd Lawrence Orchestra ( Tues 19th Oct)….Silkstone Lodge (Cone Lane/Silkstone
S75 4LY) have Jeff Milner’s Delta Friends (4th Oct /01226-281805)….On
the same night Rotherham Transport Club have The Tame Valley Stompers
(01709-523499)….Sheffield Jazz at The Millennium Hall presents Tony
Kofi’s Standard Time (Tony Kofi-alto sax/ David Chamberlain-bass/
Rod Young-drums) Fri 1st Oct / 0114-273-8678 / www.sheffieldjazz.org.uk
‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 23rd September 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. As predicted in last week’s column, the opening session of the Autumn season of live jazz at The Conservative Club lived up to—and exceeded—expectations (no doubt partly due to Acker Bilk’s kind ‘plug’ for the gig at his preceding Civic Theatre concert!!), with Eugene Farrar’s Band attracting a much increased audience to the venue and delighting with vigorously swinging performances throughout the evening. Refreshingly also, eager dancers followed the lead of an exuberant and enthusiastic lady fan and filled the dance floor on several occasions, jiving away merrily to the stimulating pulse of Eugene and the boys as they skilfully swung through a varied selection of numbers-frequently enhanced by sparkling solos by Eugene on trombone and harmonica, Andy Wallis (tenor sax), Tom Kincaid on piano (‘shades of Errol Garner’!!), Phil Kampton (bass) and the ‘explosive’ Ken Hockey at the drums…plus strident vocals by Eugene and Ken, all surely proving that jazz can be musically pleasing and great FUN also!! Hopefully the freshly gained momentum will draw more eager fans to TONIGHT’S
return visit to the ‘Con’ Club by The Old Marina Jazzmen + Skiffle
Group, who’s distinctive brand of New Orleans Jazz—interspaced
with ‘Skiffle’ sets—will transport fans back to the Delta
and evoke the heady days of the ‘Skiffle Craze’ when the likes
of Lonnie Donegan/ Johnny Duncan/ Nancy Whisky/ Chas McDevitt etc reigned
supreme in the UK Charts. (Which reminds that Lonnie’s son Peter
Donegan is in concert with his Band at The Civic Theatre on 6th October/
enquiries:Box Office 01302-349342). The ‘Old Marina’ is fronted
by multi-instrumentalist Barry Binch—alternating between trumpet
lead and outings on guitar/banjo/vocals (recently in town around ‘Donny’
market with Wil Robinson’s Southside Jazzband ‘roving troupadors’)
and is expected to be joined on stage by all-star musicians—including
Matt Palmer (reeds) who will himself be fronting his own band at the venue
in November. Two Thursdays later—on 7th October—is an extra special day
in the Doncaster Jazz Calendar, for that’s when internationally renowned
jazz star musicians and multi-award winners Alan Barnes (reeds) Doncaster Civic Theatre has several concerts in the pipeline to tempt jazz lovers—including ‘Dennis Rollins Presents’—Clare Teal & Pee Wee Ellis / Extra Curricular /Dennis Rollins’ Velocity Trio + after hours in the bar with Kalmajeet Ajimal & Sukhami Rayat (Sept 29th); Georgie Fame (13th Oct); Chris Dean’s Syd Lawrence Orchestra (19th Oct)…Terry Allonby Trio are in action at The Horse & Groom-Eastlaithegate-Sat 2nd Oct / 12 noon….Emmerson-Spragg Duo are at the ‘Con’Club on Mon 4th & 25th Oct / 8.30pm / admission £3-50….Silkstone Lodge-Barnsley-have Bob Ludlam’s Wonderful World of Louis Armstrong (27th Sept) & on same night Rotherham Transport Club have Amy Roberts’ Quintet….Last but not least—news is that one of jazz’s most colourful and tireless champions, Rotherham promoter and much loved ‘MC’ Vic Smith announced that he has finally decided to retire from jazz organising, following the recent incredible 33rd Rotherham Jazz Festival….Thanks for all your hard work, Vic --have a well earned rest, ….though I suspect that you’ll soon be back!! Happy jazzin’ !! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 9th September 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. Local followers of live ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ gigs at The Conservative Club are reminded to turn out in considerable force for the opening event of the Autumn season—taking place this very night (Thursday 9th Sept), when the attraction is the recently formed Eugene Farrar Band!! Trombonist / harmonica player and vocalist Eugene—who sites the
late-great Trummy Young as a major influence—is no stranger to ‘Donny’
audiences, having often impressed and delighted audiences with his robust
though articulate performances as key musician with Winston’s Pennine
Jazz and as ‘dep’ with many other fine ‘Trad’ bands
and will be joined on stage by Andy Wallis (clarinet/tenor sax); Tom Kincaid
(piano); Phil Kampton (bass); and show-stopping drummer and exuberant
singer Ken Hockey in what promises to be an explosive Doncaster debut
session!! Stomp-off is at 8.30pm and admission is £5 at the door—none
members are more than welcome and there is plenty dancing space!! Fast approaching—and no doubt stirring up much anticipated excitement—is the forthcoming highlight concert by UK ‘Jazz Giants’ Alan Barnes (reeds) and Bruce Adams (trumpet/flugelhorn) who will appear with double bassist/jazz singer Nicola Farnon’s superb Trio on Thursday 7th October at the ‘Con’ Club. The major event is the brainchild of former Lodge Jazz Club promoter John Sheppard and certainly deserves maximum support from self-respecting jazz fans….Advance tickets are now available at £8 each from The Blue Building (High Street)/ Civic Theatre Box Office-01302-342349/ and Electro Music-Copley Road, so hurry and save £1-50 per ticket—as admission on the night is £9-50 at the door!! Taking place over the coming week-end is the St.Leger Festival in Doncaster Market, which includes trumpet troubadour Wil Robinson and his roving Southside Jazzband musicians, who will be ‘strutting their stuff’ and brightening the day for busy shoppers as they perform in and around the market stalls and aisles on Saturday….Also on Saturday is The 3rd Anniversary of West Lindsey’s popular Uncle Henry’s award winning Farm Shop & Café, which will be celebrated with a ‘Sausage-Beer-& Jazz Festival’ (featuring trumpeter Alan Hippsley’s band ‘Deep South’) between 11.30am to 4.30.Admission and parking are free and there are attractions to keep the ‘kids’ happy also!! For further details phone Fran on 01552-640308 or email: marketing@unclehenrys.co.uk Also on Saturday, British Jazz vocalist of the Year 2005 / 2007- Clare Teal is the star attraction at The Sands / Gainsborough (01427 811118 for further info). The 31st Rotherham Jazz Festival is set for Sunday 12th September from
1pm to 5.15pm in Clifton Park’s Music Marquee with Bob Kerr’s
Whoopee Band, The Nicola Farnon Quartet, and Laurie Chescoe’s Re-union
Band providing the exhilarating entertainment….The Re-Union Jazzband
will be in Sunday lunchtime action at The Elms Hotel (Retford DN22 7DX)
on 19th Sept / 12.15 to 2.30pm / Sunday roasts two for £10!! (And
also play their ‘Con’ Club debut on 21st October)….Local
‘heroes’ The Emmerson-Spragg Duo plus guest singers are in action
at the ‘Con’ Club on Monday 20th Sept and Mon 4th Oct….Doncaster
Civic Theatre (Box Office; 01302-342349) has Peter Donegan & The Lonnie
Donegan Band (6th Oct) / Georgie Fame in Concert (13th Oct)/ Chris Dean’s
Syd Lawrence Orchestra (19th Oct)….Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge
have New Orleans Heat (13th Sept) 01226-281805 / At Rotherham Transport
Club also on 13th Sept is The Savannah Jazzband….Sheffield Jazz at
Millennium Hall have Gilad Atzmon Orient House Ensemble (17th Sept) and
Karen Sharp Quartet (24th Sept):Phone 0114-273-8678 or visit www.sheffieldjazz.org.uk
or www.myspace.com/sheffieldjazzclub for details. ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday September 2nd 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. Dynamic jazz trombonist Eugene Farrar—who opens the Autumn/Winter live jazz series of concerts at The Conservative Club on Thursday 9th September with his own recently formed band—is pleased to announce that in addition to himself on trombone, harmonica and vocals, he will be joined by Andy Wallis (tenor sax/clarinet); Phil Kampton (bass); Ken Hockey (drums/vocals) and the remarkable much-in-demand piano man Tom Kincaid (who has previously dazzled and delighted ‘Donny’ audiences with Matt Palmer & Amy Roberts at the Rockingham Arms and at the Markets Jazz Day). Eugene and the boys are fully expected to ‘blow up a storm’ at the opening session and hopefully attract a well deserved packed house of eager jazzers!! ‘Stomp-off’ time is 8.30pm and admission is £5 at the door….None members are more than welcome and there is ample space for dancers who wish to ‘strut their stuff’ to the irresistible rhythms!! Also set for forthcoming ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ gigs at the ‘Con’ Club is The Old Marina Jazzband & Skiffle Group (23rd Sept); The Re-Union Jazzband (21ST Oct); Southside Jazzband (4th Nov); Matt Palmer Band (18th Nov); New Jazz Messengers & Shirley Patterson (16th Dec—Christmas Jazz Party Night!!) and definitely not to be missed…..the Doncaster ‘JAZZ GIG OF THE YEAR’ on Thursday 7th October with leading pro musicians Alan Barnes & Bruce Adams and top drawer rhythm section of Nicola Farnon (double bass/vocals); Piero Tucci (piano); Phil Johnson (drums). Tickets fore this extra special event are £8 in advance from The Blue Building-High Street / Civic Theatre Box Office-01302 342349/ Electro Music-Copley Road and from ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ committee members…or £9-50 at the door. Make certain to reserve your tickets to avoid disappointment!! The ‘Con’ Club also features the inimitable Emmerson/ Spragg Duo twice monthly at the venue—September gigs which are set for Mondays 6th and 20th –starting at 8.30pm / Admission £3-50 pay at the door…..Preceded by The Terry Allonby Trio, who hold ‘monthly court’ at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) on Saturday 4th September from 12noon to 3pm—admission free….And spicing up The St.Leger Festival with plenty ‘foot-tapping’ sounds in Doncaster Market Place on 11th September is trumpet ace Wil Robinson and The Southside Jazzband!! Doncaster Civic Theatre (Box Office 01302-342349) presents Acker Bilk’s Paramount Jazzband (Tues 7th Sept); Peter Donegan (son of ‘Skiffle King’ Lonnie) and The Lonnie Donegan Band (Wed 6th Oct); Georgie Fame In Concert (Wed 13th Oct); Chris Dean’s Syd Lawrence Orchestra (Thur 19th Oct)….and as part of The Hothouse Festival-Dennis Rollins Velocity Trio/ Clare Teal & Pee Wee Ellis/ + After Hours set in the bar by Kamaljeet Ajimal & Sukhami Rayat (www.doncasterhothouse.co.uk) The 31st Rotherham Jazz Festival is set for Sunday 12th September in The Music Marquee at Clifton Park—as part of Rotherham Show—and features Bob Kerr’s Whoopee Band / The Nicola Farnon Quartet / And Laurie Chescoe’s Re-Union Band. The action takes place between 1pm to 5.15pm. The Elms Hotel (Retford DN22 7DX) has lunchtime jazz with The Re-Union Jazzband on Sunday 19th Sept—admission £2 (Sunday roasts served two for £10!!)…..Rotherham Transport Club(01709-523499) has Harlem Hot Stompers (6th Sept) and Savannah Jazzband (13th Sept)…..Silkstone Lodge (Barnsley) has Second Line Jazzband from Sweden (6th Sept); New Orleans Heat (13th Sept)—01226-281805 -Trumpeter Alan Hippsley’s New Orleans quartet ‘Deep South’ will be providing toe-tapping sounds of the Delta at The Sausage-Beer-& Jazz Festival on Saturday 11th September at Grayingham Grange Farm, Nr Gainsborough (DN21 4JD) from around 11.30am to 3.30pm. For further info phone 01652-640308 / email: info@unclehenrys.co.uk or visit www.unclehenrys.co.uk Happy jazzin’!! ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 26th August 2010, From C.J.Worsdale. Hearty thanks must be extended to fellow ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ committee member Peter Robinson for so splendidly ‘holding the Entertainer jazz fort’ during my absence over recent weeks and keeping jazz followers well informed in the process!! Looking forward to next month, ‘first off the blocks’ will be the Terry Allonby Trio, who will be in lunchtime action between 12noon to 3pm at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) on Saturday 4th September and once again offering stimulating and varied sets featuring Terry on guitars / Nigel Chapman on keyboards / and guest drummer. Entry to the regular monthly session is free and should be a definite ‘must’ for local jazz-blues-rock-Latin-swing avids etc…..catch it if you can!! Hard on the heals of Terry and the boys will be the splendid Emmerson-Spragg Duo, who will be in session and entertaining in their inimitable fashion at the Conservative Club (South Parade) on Monday 6th September (and again on 20th Sept). The music kicks-off around 8.30pm and admission is a ‘snip’ at £3-50…..also there is ample dancing space and non-members are ‘more than welcome’—If you’ve not yet sampled Dickie and Tony’s Monday gigs, then give ‘em a try!! ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ resume Thursday live jazz at the ‘Con’ Club- following the summer break- on 9th September with the debut of trombonist Eugene Farrar’s own band, which will offer a pleasing feet-stomping mix of ‘Trad’ and mainstream Swing Era influenced sounds….and deservedly attract growing numbers to the sumptuous venue—following gratifying increased audiences for the June gigs by New Orleans Wiggle & Topsy and The Silver Leaf Jazzband!! (Also scheduled for a welcome return gig to the venue on 23rd September is The Old Marina Jazzband & Skiffle Group ). The popular Southside Jazzband—led by hot trumpet man Wil Robinson—will be delighting shoppers in Doncaster Market area on Saturday 11th September (approximately between 10.30am to 3pm) as they meander through the maze of stalls performing their spirit-raising brand of fun-packed ‘Trad’ jazz to brighten the day of St.Leger day ‘marketeers’ !! (Wil and the boys are also pencilled in for a ‘Con’ Club session on 4th November). In conjunction with the former Lodge Jazz Club, ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ are staging a highlight event on the local jazz calendar on Thursday 7th October at the ‘Con’ Club, when two of the UK’s foremost star jazz instrumentalists—Alan Barnes (reeds) and Bruce Adams (trumpet/flugelhorn) join forces with the sterling rhythm section of Nicola Farnon (double bass & no doubt a vocal or two!!); Piero Tucci (piano); Phil Johnson (drums). Tickets for this very special event will be available from The Blue Building (High Street)/ Civic Theatre Box Office/ Electro Music (Copley Road) and at ‘Jazz into Doncaster’ gigs…and from committee members--£8 advance / £9-50 at the door. (Alan Barnes will also be appearing at Scarborough Jazz Festival-24th to 26th Sept-01723 357869 / www.scarboroughjazzfestival.co.uk for details). Doncaster Civic Theatre has several tempting concerts in the pipeline
to attract jazz lovers….including Acker Bilk’s Paramount Jazzband
(7th Sept); Peter Donegan (son of Lonnie) & The Lonnie Donegan Band
(6th Oct); Georgie Fame (13th Oct); Dennis Rollins’ Velocity Trio
/ Clare Teal & ex James Brown sax star Pee Wee Ellis / Extra Curricular
on 29th September— part of Doncaster Hothouse Festival— Happy jazzin’!! Jazz Scene Entertainer 19 th August 2010 Sadly, we have lost two outstanding UK Jazz drummers over the last few
days. First, the Northampton born Martin Drew, not a household name but
it’s a testimony to his ranking amongst the best in the world that
he was chosen by Oscar Peterson to play in his trio. The list of other
Jazz greats he played with over the years, include Dizzy Gillespie, Count
Basie, Stan Getz and Milt Jackson. He accompanied two of my all time favourite
singers Ella Fitzgerald and Anita O’Day. Reputed to have the biggest
drum kit in the world, causing many problems on his tours, it must have
been a relief when he became the house drummer at Ronnie Scott’s. Jazz Scene for Entertainer 12th August 2010 Ex Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra musicians feature strongly at the excellent
Relish Bar and Bistro on East Laith Gate. The 2nd and 4th Thursdays of
the month have the Blues and Baby blues Armada led by Luke Cannon on piano
and vocals, with George Miller guitar, Torryn Smith bass guitar, Josh
Cooper drums, Gareth Smith trumpet, Jack Tabner trombone and Jodie Nevin
tenor sax. On a recent visit they gave a blistering blues and funky sound
to a range of jazz standards including Bobby Darin arrangements of Beyond
the Sea and Mack the Knife.
Jazz Scene for Entertainer 5th August 2010 I managed to visit two live music venues last week. The first was at
the Butchers Arms Braithwell, post code S66 7AW .The Knights of Jazz play
there every Monday. Although missing two of their regulars they gave a
gutsy performance, but in front of a disappointing audience. They were
led by well known Pete Moxon on baritone, tenor and clarinet reeds. This
versatile musician can switch from trad ,marching band, modern, big band
and rock with ease and enjoy them all. He gave a beautiful tenor solo
of that great Jazz standard , Body and Soul. The rest of the competent
band were Graham Galtrey on clarinet, Cyril Wadsworth piano, Tony Price
bass and Johnny Mac on drums. They set the scene with a rousing Crazy
Rhythm. Graham clearly enjoyed a Maurice Chevalier interpretation of C’est
Magnifique and ex trumpet player Ivor Moore mixed in with a range of vocals.
They deserve better support; the room was cosy, car parking easy and the
band undeterred. Entrance is free, give it a try. Jazz Scene for Entertainer 29th July 2010 Live Jazz seems to take a bit of a holiday in our area like the rest of us in summer. We have those lovely under utilised bandstands in our parks, ideal venues. Looking at the magazine Jazz UK the south manage to have a number of Jazz festivals. The Victorians for brass band concerts built bandstands and many top Jazz mucisians started their musical life this way. I went to see the Royal Marines play at Deal recently and in a swing session I heard a fine tenor sax solo from a Doncaster musician. Couldn’t quite get his name, which sounded like Willis. Nearer home Brodsworth Hall have Sunday afternoon concerts the next being Rockingham brass band from Hoyland on the 1st August. These sessions will appeal to many Jazz fans and they usually fit in a few cornet solos of Jazz standards. If you don’t mind a bit of travel the Reunion band will be playing a charity gig for the Red Cross at Caythorpe Court on Sunday 8 th Sept start 12 noon. Post code NG32 3ER The guitarist Hannah Brady will be playing with her trio at Sheffield’s West one’s Plaza on the 31st ,phone 0114 2725683 for details. However ,we have plenty to look forward too with the Alan Barnes and
Bruce Adams gig being finalised for the conservative venue on the 7th
Oct .A profile of these great European Jazz musicians will appear here
nearer the date .If you are feeling deprived try You Tube for some terrific
Jazz . Keep Jazzin Peter Robinson . ‘Jazz Scene’ for Thursday 22nd July 2010 From C.J.Worsdale.Further to recent news of the worthy fund raising ‘Jazz Sunday’ event in aid of The Red Cross by The Reunion Jazz Band (who are set for a Doncaster ‘Con’ Club gig in October), which is set to take place on Sunday 8th August at Caythorpe Court (a few miles south east of Newark—just off the A607—signed from the main road / postcode NG32 3ER), comes full details of the expected personnel of the band. On trumpet is former leader of his own band ‘Deep South’-Alan Hippsley, who will be in the company of local favourite clarinettist Geoff Patterson, Dave Clews on trombone, Dougie White-double bass, Keith Goddard (another local jazz stalwart) on banjo and guitar and the outfit’s ‘guv’nor’ George Buckman providing the pulsing impetus from his drum kit…Who will collectively entertain with their boisterous brand of ‘Trad’ jazz between 1pm and 4pm and there will also be family activities and stalls etc in addition to the music from 12noon to 5pm……Don’t forget to bring a picnic!! (Phone 01400-281206 for further information). A recent visit (along with ‘jazz pals’ Malcolm Silverwood and Ken Lanceley) to the luxurious Sands venue at Gainsborough for the ‘Divas of Song’ presentation featuring Nicola Farnon and her all-star six piece band, attracted a sizable and enthusiastic audience that pleasingly surpassed all expectations—with the ebullient jazz singer and double bassist and her top-drawer musicians on scintillating form as they saluted many great inspirational female vocalists of jazz and popular music. The attention grabbing first number was L-o-v-e (Natalie Cole), followed by finely honed and sincere tributes to Dinah Washington / Judy Garland/ Aretha Franklin/ Nancy Wilson / Peggy Lee / Madeleine Peyroux/ Nancy Sinatra/ Dusty Springfield/ and (of course!!) Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday ….with show-stopping performances of Nina Simone’s hit ‘My baby just cares for me’ and a no-holds-barred version of ‘That old black magic’—worthy of comparison to the famed Las Vegas Sands style treatment of Louis Prima and Keely Smith (aided and abetted by members of the band)—drawing energetic dancers to the floor to ‘strut their stuff’ !! Mention of the delectable Miss Farnon, reminds that she will be in action at West One’s Plaza (just off West Street-Sheffield) between 3pm and 6.30pm on 14th August—phone Real Time Music on 0114-2723683 for further details—and will be preceded by The Hannah Brady Trio on 31st July…..Also, Nicola plus Piero Tucci (piano) and Phil Johnson (drums) have been specially selected to provide the sterling rhythm section for the ‘highlight’ concert by multi-award winning leading jazz star musicians Alan Barnes and Bruce Adams at Doncaster Conservative Club on Thursday 7th October---get the date in your diaries NOW!! Faithful fans of The Terry Allonby Trio should take note that there will be NO August session at The Horse and Groom—however, amiable landlord Francie and his equally amiable staff will be delighted to greet supporters at the friendly pub for a drink or two and perhaps also sample delicious Irish cuisine on Saturday 7th August (and any other time!!) despite the absence of the ‘Allonby Sound’ on that day !! Well worth regular Monday evening listening on Radio Two is Paul Jones’ superb and wide ranging Blues Show…which includes many gems to intrigue jazz fans. Recent airings have included tracks by Humph’s band with gospel ‘great’ Marie Knight and salutes to the late piano man Johnny Parker with Alexis Korner and Humph again on the ground-breaking Bad Penny Blues-which is generally considered to have been a major influence on the Beatles, particularly their hit version of Lady Madonna!!.....Silkstone Lodge (S75 4LY) have The Millennium Eagle Jazz Band (26th July) and New Orleans Wiggle (9th August):01226-281805…..And there is jazz every Monday at Rotherham Transport Club (01709-523499 for details) and at The Butcher’s Arms-Braithwell-with The Knights of Jazz. HAPPY JAZZIN’!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 4th March 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.A busy month is ahead for jazz and blues avids, kicking-off this coming Saturday lunchtime (6th March) with the eclectic and always surprising talents of local guitar maestro Terry Allonby's Trio,who will once more be delighting ever loyal followers and newcomers alike at The Horse and Groom (East Laithegate) between noon and 3pm…and-as ever-admission remains free-what more can you ask? Be there!! Hard on the Allonby Trio's heals, fellow expert guitarist (and superb vocalist in numerous varied styles) Dickie Emmerson will be in action at The Conservative Club on Monday evening 8th March along with twice monthly residents The Emmerson-Spragg Combo plus expected guest singers Sheila Peach (hopefully recovered from her recent fractured arm!!), Sue Fisher, Margaret Atkins (who travels all the way from 'Brid' by train especially for the gig), Eddie Kell-offering laid back renditions of Sinatra / Tony Bennett/ Jack Jones influenced numbers, and-of course- highly and fondly regarded local jazz n' blues singer, the ebullient 'Mighty' Bob Quinn!! The session begins at 8.30pm /admission £3-50 at the door. (The Combo's second March gig is set for Monday 22nd ). Blues fans are anticipated to turn out in considerable force on Tuesday 16th March to catch in vibrant action, arguably the most successful blues outfit in Britain today-The Blues Band-fronted by the charismatic Paul Jones (of Manfred Mann fame)-who will be joined on stage at Doncasteer Civic Theatre by Dave Kelly; Rob Townsend; Gary Fletcher; and Tom McGuinness…in an exuberant concert of original songs, plus interpretations of numbers by the genre's finest-notably Muddy Waters/ Willie Dixon / Howlin' Wolf / and Sleepy John Estes….Also watch out for Paul's stunning harmonica and vocal show-stopping treatment of Work Song, which hopefully will be included!! (The show starts at 8pm--all tickets are £20 and can be obtained from The Box Office-01302 342349). There's yet another 'un-missable' treat for blues fans on Thursday 25th March at The Conservative Club, when leading Blues n' Boogie piano 'great' and singer Bob Hall joins forces with first time 'Donny' visiting guitarist/ blues singer/ harmonica player Dave Peabody to present 'Meetings with the Remarkable Bluesmen' ( Which in addition to heartfelt interpretations-stories-and anecdotes of many of the great blues performers that they have worked with over several decades, is expected to include a stunning display of many of skilled photographer Dave's studies of those self-same Blues greats!!). The highlight event starts at 8.30pm and tickets-£5 advance / £6 at door can be obtained from Civic Theatre Box Office-01302-342349 / The Blue Building-High Street/ Electro Music-Copley Road / Club Secretary Chris Hayward at 'Con' Club/ or at 'Jazz into Doncaster' gigs at the 'Con' Club. ….Talking of which, the next being on Thursday 18th March and brings together for the first time in Doncaster the combined talents of multi-reed maestro Matt Palmer and former Wakefield Arms Jazzmen clarinettist Mike Bird with their band Reed-fusion….when the 'sparks are fully expected to fly between the two masterly reed men on dare-devil duets and impressive solo outings!! Joining in the action with Matt and Mike will be Mike Dexter (guitar/banjo) and big bass-man Alan Hill-Stomp-off is at 8.30pm /admission £5 at the door. (Also at the 'Con' Club on Sunday 28th March for a lunchtime session is the delightful and swingin' jazz songstress Karen Lake with her band Impressions. Karen is now an established and welcome visitor to 'Donny' -having previously 'guested' with Terry Allonby and Emmerson-Spragg Combo and appeared with her Quintet also at the Rockingham Arms. The show starts at 12.30pm / admission £5 at door/ and snacks & sandwiches will be available for the 'peckish'!!) Plans for the forthcoming Doncaster Markets Jazz Day, on Saturday 29th May, are going apace…with attractions expected to include The Jubilee New Orleans Brass Band+ Jackie Everton Dance Troupe, Nicola Farnon Quartet, Winston's Pennine Jazz, and The Half-hand Hoodoo Blues Band + guest harmonica player John McKevitt….Watch out for further announcements !! Sadly, the jazz world has locally recently lost the talents of 'Digger' Withall-who many will recall playing at the old Lodge Jazz Club-and certainly Doncaster area fans will join me in offering their sincere condolences to clarinettist Graham Galtrey and his daughters Jo and Sarah on the loss of their dear wife and mother Annette, who amongst her many talents was a gifted artist-capturing many jazz musician friends of Graham on impressive pen and ink portraits. Also recently lost to the jazz and literary world, was clarinettist/ critic /author Ian Christie (of Christie Brothers/ Alex Welsh fame etc). On a cheerier note…Hearty congratulations to 'Con' Club and 'Jazz into Doncaster' stalwart doorman Ken Lanceley, who recently celebrated his 80th birthday and must surely rate as among the 'coolest and swinging' octogenarians around!!......There's live jazz at Rotherham Transport Club Mon 8th March with The Silver Leaf Jazzband and at Silkstone Lodge (Barnsley) on the same night The White Eagles Jazzband………Remember to support live music whenever able!! Happy jazzin' !! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 25th February 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.'Yonder comes the Blues!!' -suitably heralds several forthcoming tempting live sessions of Blues and related genres , set to take place in Doncaster over coming weeks and months…With the first set for this coming Sunday lunchtime at The Conservative Club-featuring popular Lincoln based trio The Blues Connection. The band are no strangers to 'Donny'-having performed on many occasions at various venues, including The Salutation, Rockingham Arms, Doncaster Markets Jazz Day and notably at The Little Theatre with their memorable and highly enjoyable 'History of the Blues' concert. The threesome offer a varied programme of sultry Blues songs (many inspired by 'greats' such as Big Bill Broonzy, Muddy Waters, Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee, Bessie Smith, Memphis Minnie and Jo Ann Kelly), along with fleet fingered guitar picking , wailing harmonica features and up-beat original numbers-all proving that the Blues need not be downhearted….with the Blues performers 'glass' always 'half-full' and not 'half-empty!!' The Blues Connection are Helen Wray (vocals) / Pete Wray (guitar)/ and Bob Lightnin' Lips Reid (harmonica)-The show begins at 12.30pm (doors open 12noon) / admission is £5 at the door/ Snacks & sandwiches available / non-members all welcome….Don't miss it!! Also in the Blues 'pipeline' is the welcome 'must-see' concert appearance at Doncaster Civic Theatre-as part of The Hothouse Festival-of Paul Jones and The Blues Band on Tuesday 16th March at 8pm. All tickets are £20 and are available from the Box Office-01302-342349….Rapidly followed on Thursday 25th March by a special presentation of 'Meeting with the Remarkable Bluesmen'-featuring Boogie n' Blues piano maestro Bob Hall and singer/guitarist/ harmonica player Dave Peabody (who is also expected to display many of his superb studies of great Blues artists that he and Bob have worked with across several decades). The high-light event takes place at The Conservative Club(8.30 to 11pm) and tickets (£5 advance/£6 door) are available from The Civic Theatre Box Office / The Blue Building-High Street / Electro Music-Copley Road/ or from secretary Chris at the 'Con' Club…..Also with irresistible appeal to Blues and Rn'B fans will surely be The Half-hand Hoodoo Blues band from York at Doncaster Markets Jazz Day on 29th May and King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys at The Civic Theatre on 24th June---Make a note of the dates!! For more traditionally and mainstream jazz fans, 'Jazz into Doncaster' presents 'Reedfusion'on Thursday 18th March at the 'Con' Club-bringing together for the first time in Doncaster-two superb reedmen, Matt Palmer (clarinet/saxes/vocals) and clarinettist Mike Bird ( of Wakefield Arms Jazzband fame)…..Karen Lake's Impressions Quintet (Sun 28th March-12.30 to 3pm at 'Con' Club)….The Old Marina Jazzmen (& 'Skiffle' Group!!) at 'Con'Club on Thursday 8th April and at the same venue on Sunday 2nd May are the fantastic The Dizzy Club (12.30 to 3pm)….And still in traditional vein, the 20's and 30's style Pasadena Roof Orchestra are set for The Civic Theatre on Tuesday 11th May….Also fantastic advance breaking news is that multi-award winning musicians Alan Barnes and Bruce Adams are fully expected to appear in concert at the 'Con' Club on 7th October-thanks to collaboration between John Sheppard of The Lodge Club and Jazz into Doncaster-we'll keep you posted!! March sessions by 'local treasure' Dickie Emmerson with resident Emmerson-Spragg
Combo at set for Monday 8th and 22nd-starting at 8.30pm /admission £3-50.
(Usually also featuring guest singers Sheila Peach/ Sue Fisher/ Margaret
Atkins/ Eddie Kell and Bob Quinn). What better way to start the week?? Last-but certainly not least!!-Hearty congratulations to teenage saxist/clarinettist/flautist Amy Roberts, who has on several occasions mightily impressed right here in Doncaster…and as spotted by 'Jazz into Doncaster' committee member Malcolm Silverwood , has won the 'Rising Star' award in The 2009 Jazz Awards Ceremony ….Can't wait for Amy to appear again in our town!! Happy jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 18th February 2010. From C.J.Worsdale."I don't have to believe it if I don't want to" stated Yorkshire Post Arts reviewer Duncan Hamilton in his poignant farewell to 'Humph' Lyttelton, back in 2008, a sentiment that surely echoes the feelings of legions of admiring international music fans of all persuasions on hearing of the recent passing of Sir John Dankworth. John's sparkling highly influential career is of course well documented -with highlights including appearances at the Proms, New York's famed Birdland, Newport Jazz Festival; establishment of the renowned Wavenden Allmusic Workshops, receiving Ivor Norvello Awards for the 'What the Dickens' album and 'The Avengers' TV theme and achieving rare popular chart success for jazz discs 'Experiments with mice' and 'African Waltz.' John also had a strong Doncaster connection-notably performing with NYJO at The Dome back in 1990, along with budding 'Donny' pro-musicians Dennis and Winston Rollins and trumpeter Mark White…An event that I personally fondly recall with many a giggle, as I was sent to photograph the great man in his dressing room-which at that time was a rather low roofed caravan-and as John posed for the picture, he rapped his head on the lamp standard-to which I jokingly retorted " Can you put your head up a shade!!" John sportingly saw the funny side and laughed good naturedly at the pun-happy memories indeed !! Also he has offered invaluable support and encouragement to Warmsworth based rising young tenor sax star Nadim Teimoori ( who-akin his famed mentor's early career- currently studies at The Royal Academy of Music) and numerous other gifted musicians. John's influence and inspiration will certainly continue to encourage future generations to great heights of musical achievement!! Adieu to a truly great jazzman- Sir John Dankworth CBE. Blues fans will be well catered for over coming months, with several
live gigs in the pipeline locally… Other 'Donny' live jazz gigs include Emmerson-Spragg Combo + guest singers at 'Con' Club (Mon 22nd Feb)….Also at 'Con' Club are ' Reedfusion ' (with Matt Palmer & Mike Bird)-Thurs 18th March @ 8.30pm / Karen Lake Impressions Quintet (Sunday 28th March-12.30pm to 3pm)…And The Terry Allonby Trio are in action at The Horse & Groom (Sat 6th March / 12noon to 3pm)…..Coming up at The Sands-Gainsborough on Fri 26th Feb is 'Swingin' Down Memory Lane' with ace drummer John Petters' All-star line up of Martin Litton (piano) / Joan Viskant (vocals)/ Trevor Whiting (clarinet/tenor sax) / Keith Donald-double bass. Tickets-including sumptuous three course meal-are £30 each. (Bookable on-line at www.the-sands.co.uk )……At Sheffield Lyceum Theatre 2nd-6th March is Spike Milligan's 'Adolf Hitler: My part in his downfall' -including terrific jazz numbers!! (0114-249-6000 for details / tickets etc)….. At Silkstone Lodge (Barnsley) are The Yorkshire Stompers (22nd Feb / 01226-281805 )…..Rotherham Transport Club have The Old Fashioned Love Band (22nd Feb/ 01709-523499)….At Sheffield Millennium Hall is The Pete Churchill Trio (Fri 26th Feb / 0114-273-8678…And there is foot-stompin' Trad Jazz at The Strafford Arms-Stainborough,Nr Barnsley, every Wednesday night!! (Give Dave a call on 01226-751989 or visit www.silverleafjazzband.co.uk ) . Happy jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 11th February 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.Calling all 'Trad' and small group Swing fans!! Another great night of stimulating foot-stomping sounds are in prospect tonight at the 'Con' Club featuring the popular six-piece outfit The Southside Jazzband-led by hot trumpet man Wil Robinson-and who have previously delighted audiences locally at The Rockingham Arms, Doncaster Market pre-Christmas 'bash' and at the 'Just one more time' Re-union gig and fully deserve a large enthusiastic reception this evening!!
High praise indeed from an un-expected quarter was fervently expressed by traditional style trumpeter Alan Hippsley recently, after catching Leeds based jazz diva Nicki Allan and Her All-star Sextet in action at the first of Jazz into Doncaster's Sunday lunchtime sessions at the 'Con' Club. Alan was most impressed by Nicki's superb vocal control and diction-clear delivery of her varied and pleasing selection of bristling swingin' standards, emotionally charged ballads and finely crafted original compositions, plus swaying Latin flavoured numbers-all expertly accompanied by her top-drawer musicians ( with Alan particularly impressed by the drumming and arranging skills of Ronnie Bottomley and likewise pianist/arranger Graham Hearn, plus the contribution of bassist Jeremy Ashby). On the 'down' side, Alan was disturbed by the comparatively meagre turn-out for such highly professional artists, and sincerely urges patrons to do their utmost to support the live jazz scene whenever possible….Also remaking that the room was ' A little on the cool side for the audience' and suggested that sandwiches and other snacks should be made available for the next Sunday lunchtime session ( with Lincoln based The Blues Connection ) on 28th February….The good news answer to Alan's 'beefs' (no pun intended!!) by committee members Janet and Brian is that both matters are being attended to and they hope to welcome a far greater influx of happy jazz avids at future events!! Mention of future 'Con' Club events reminds that regular twice monthly sessions by resident band The Emmerson-Spragg Combo-featuring Dickie on guitar and vocals and Tony Spragg on keyboards-are a great way to banish those 'Monday Blues' ( the next gig set for 22nd February, followed by March 8th and 22nd), and are usually further enhanced by impressive vocal spots by Sheila Peach, Sue Fisher, Margaret Atkins, Eddie Kell and 'The Mighty' Bob Quiinn of course!! ( Bob's recent hilarious re-vamp of St.James Infirmary 'had the audience in stitches' and will hopefully be soon repeated). Admission at Emmerson-Spragg concerts is a 'snip' for such fine entertainment at £3-50, so why not add the events to your regular jazz itinerary and brighten up your Mondays in fine style? Jazz enthusiast Colin Brown hopes to establish a Jazz Appreciation Society in Doncaster (covering the early to mid periods -and perhaps beyond) and invites those who may wish to become involved-or simply attend and enjoy the musically illustrated talks-to contact him on 01302-368437 . For those Big-Band fans fortunate enough to pick up the Entertainer a
day early, there's chance to catch The Colin Yates Big Band + special
guest star vocalist Nicola Farnon in concert at Phoenix Sports & Social
Club (Pavillion Lane, Brinsworth, Rotherham on Wednesday at 8pm. (Admission
£5 / 01709-363788/ ample parking space)…….Rotherham Transport
Club have Thames Valley Stompers (15th Feb) and Old Fashioned Love Band
(22nd Feb)-01709-551478 / 523499….. Silkstone Lodge (Barnsley) have
Old Fashioned Love Band (15th Feb) and Yorkshire Stompers (22nd Feb)-01226-281805/
290105 ….. Sheffield Jazz at Millennium Hall presents Pete Churchill
Trio ( Fri 28th Feb)/ Happy jazzin'!! 'Jazz into Doncaster' presents.....THE SOUTHSIDE JAZZBAND at Doncaster Conservative Club-South
Parade DN1 2DJ: THURS 11th Feb @ 8.30pm. 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 4th February 2010. From C.J.Worsdale. First the bad news… Local organiser John Shillito regrets to inform eager patrons of previous hugely popular 'Just one more time' Re-union concerts, that due to insufficient response from voluntary performers (many of whom travel long distances-from home and abroad-and have to make tough decisions before committing to hotel and flight bookings etc), that this years intended April event at the Conservative Club has been unfortunately cancelled. Better news is that-despite their January session falling short of the customary strong support, no doubt due to post Hogmanay hangovers in many cases!!-local guitar maestro Terry Allonby's superb Trio will be back in lunchtime action at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) this coming Saturday from 12noon to 3pm, with the satisfying and intriguing variety of musical styles for which they are renowned. Whether your tastes are for contemporary jazz / be-bop/ swing/ blues or rock (or even touches of the Baroque!!), the Horse & Groom is a great way to enjoy the afternoon-and it's also free!! Jazz into Doncaster's first New Year gig at the 'Con' Club got off to a promising start to the robust sounds of The New Jazz Messengers with Shirley Patterson and guest jazz/blues singer Bob Quinn-though, even with such a usually guaranteed 'crowd-puller' fell just short of financial 'break-even' point, probably due to most of the audience comprised of relative new-comers, with many usual followers noticeably 'conspicuous by their absence'!! Perhaps regular fans still need to adapt to the new pattern of alternating Thursday evenings and Sunday lunchtime gigs and also the new venue-though-rest assured-the comfortable venue welcomes all (including non-members!!)…So to help jazz music to thrive locally, patronise jazz events at the 'Con' Club and elsewhere whenever able!! Musically speaking, the afore mentioned gig was enthusiastically received by the discerning crowd and found leader and trombonist Mike Taylor, clarinettist Geoff Patterson, piano man Colin Wood (who may surprise many 'jazzers' to discover that his foremost musical love is for the Classics-particularly Chopin-and his route to more traditional and mainstream jazz was via the influence of be-bop pianist Bud Powell and other great modernists), bassist Doug White and drummer Roy Walker in sparkling collective form…and Shirley Patterson in great voice (despite recent bouts of ill-health) and relishing every moment of her Billie Holiday inspired vocals and superbly timed crowd pleasing duet romps with her 'old partner in crime' Bob Quinn on such favourites as Dr.Jazz and Bill Bailey!! Also at the 'Con' Club on the following Monday was resident attraction
The Emmerson-Spragg Combo Also set for Jazz into Doncaster dates at the 'Con' is The Southside
Jazzband (11th Feb)/ The Blues Connection (28th Feb-12.30pm to 3pm)/ 'Reedfusion'
with Matt Palmer & Mike Bird(reeds)-Mike Dexter (guitar/banjo)/ Alan
Hill (bass)-18th March/ 'Meetings with the Remarkable Bluesmen' (25th
March): Tickets available from Civic Theatre Box Office-01302-342349/
The Blue Building-High Street/ and Electro Music-Copley Road/ Karen Lake's
Impressions (28th March-12.30pm to 3pm)/ Old Maria Jazzmen (8th April)/
The Dizzy Club (2nd May-12.30pm to 3pm). Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge have: New Orleans Strollers (8th Feb ) / Old Fashioned Love Band (15th Feb)-01226-281805…Rotherham Transport Club have Heart of England Jazzband (8th Feb) and Thames Valley Stompers (15th Feb): 01709-523499. Happy jazzin' !! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 28th January 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.'Jazz into Doncaster' launch their new venture in the form of Sunday lunchtime live sessions at Doncaster Conservative this coming Sunday (31st Jan), when the inaugural attraction will be vibrant and vivacious Leeds based jazz singer Nicki Allan and Her All-star Sextet of 'top-drawer' musicians. Nicki is no stranger to 'Donny' audiences-having first been introduced
to enthusiastically welcoming audiences at 'Con' Club as star guest of
The Emmerson-Spragg Combo, followed by sensational appearances with her
own band at The Rockingham Arms and last October's Doncaster Markets Jazz
Day and expects to again 'field' her team of superb accompanists and gifted
soloists, comprising of Joel Purnell-tenor sax; Mark Chandler-trumpet/flugel;
Graham Hearn-piano; Jeremy Ashby-double bass and the 'one and only' Ronnie
Bottomley (also a skilled arranger) on drums. The swingin' action is set
to take place between approximately 12.30pm to 3pm / Admission £5
at the door….And available February 'Jazz into Doncaster' gigs at the 'Con' Club are scheduled for THURSDAY 11th with trumpeter Wil Robinson and the infectious sounds of The Southside Jazzband (who hardy jazz avids will recall having bravely enlivened the freezing conditions for chilled Market shoppers on the Saturday before Christmas!!)….With Lincoln based threesome (and also Market favourites) The Blues Connection filling the Sunday lunchtime slot on 28th February….And-of course-there are regular Monday evening sessions at the venue by the resident Emmerson-Spragg Combo (featuring Dickie Emmerson-guitar/vocals and Tony Spragg-keyboards), plus anticipated contributions by the Emmerson 'stable' of worthy guest singers Sheila Peach / Sue Fisher/ Margaret Atkins/ Eddie Kell /and Bob Quinn adding to the variety on offer, on 8th and 22nd February…At the 'snip' entry of £3-50, why not make the gig a regular 'Monday date'!! In the pipeline for March at the 'Con' Club are gigs by Matt Palmer/Mike Bird Band (18th) and Karen Lake's Impressions (28th)……With an extra-special event to thrill and delight Blues fans set for Thursday 25th March, entitled 'Meetings with The Remarkable Bluesmen'-featuring the dazzling two-fisted blues n' boogie piano and vocals of Bob Hall and introducing to 'Donny' the earthy talents of guitarist/vocalist Dave Peabody, who has thrice been voted 'Acoustic Blue Artist of the Year' by the British Blues Connection and Blues in Britain Magazine. Over the years, Dave has shared the stage with a plethora of great blues artists-including such stars as Sonny Terry, Memphis Slim, Big Joe Duskin, Louisiana Red, John Hammond, David 'Honeyboy' Edwards and Grammy Award winning Charlie Musselwhite on British and European tours…And the rare opportunity to catch Dave and Bob together locally should not be missed!!-Tickets will shortly be available at £5 advance/ £6 door from the Civic Theatre Box Office and other outlets. ( Mention of Blues reminds that UK Blues 'great' Paul Jones-of Manfred Mann fame and presenter of Monday evening's exalted BBC Radio Two Rn'B Show-will be in concert with The Blues Band on Tuesday March 16th at the Civic Theatre as part of The Hothouse Festival / For tickets-info etc phone the Box Office on 01302-342349 or visit www.doncasterhothouse.co.uk). Local organiser John Shiletto informs that ever popular jazz singer-bassist
Nicola Farnon has been added to the growing list of sparkling guests set
to appear at 'Just One More Time' Re-union Concert at the 'Con' Club (set
for 25th April)….Keep watching for up-dates in the Entertainer!!....And
ever more likely to take place later in the year is an extra-special concert
by leading jazz stars Alan Barnes and Bruce Adams (hopefully plus Nicola
Farnon & Co forming the strerling rhythm section!!), and also a possible
'workshop' also, which are currently being planned by former NCB Lodge
Jazz Club presenter John Sheppard / 'Jazz into Doncaster' / and DYJA….We'll
keep you posted of progress!! Happy jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 21st January 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.Weather permitting-tonight is the night for Jazz into Doncaster's first session of their New Year series of live concerts at the luxurious Conservative Club venue-at the corner of South Parade adjoining the Civic Theatre--when the crowd pulling attraction will be The New Jazz Messengers and Shirley Patterson….plus special guest Bob Quinn also!! Should travelling conditions remain poor, it's advisable to check with the venue on 01302-810005 / 812872 before setting out….though optimistically, the session will take place as intended and attract the customary packed audience that the 'Messengers' normally enjoy performing their unique brand of robust and pleasingly varied stimulating jazz music to!! Leading the band will be trombonist Mike Taylor (renowned for his lusty-though articulate-solos and ensemble playing and soulful plunger muted blues renditions), who will share 'front-line' duties with Geoff Patterson-who's attacking approach no doubt owes much to the influence of Sandy Brown, Acker, Edmund Hall, Pee Wee Russell and other jazz greats….And forming the sterling rhythm section will be the dazzling pianist Colin Wood, steadfast double bass man Doug White, with Roy Walker pushing along the infectious beat from his drum kit!! Not forgetting 'our beloved Shirl' of course-who is expected to delight with her interpretations of several Billie Holiday and Bessie Smith gems, along with show-stopping duets with guest vocalist Bob Quinn!! Stomp-off is at 8.30pm / admission £5 pay at the door/ Non members are welcome and there is ample dancing space……..Be there-even if you have to come on skis!! Jazz into Doncaster also present Leeds based jazz diva Nicki Allan and
Her All-star Sextet at the 'Con' Club on Sunday 31st January (12.30pm
to 3pm)…Followed by The Southside Jazzband (Thurs 11th Feb); The
Blues Connection (Sunday lunchtime 28th Feb); Matt Palmer-Mike Bird Band
(Thurs 18th March); 'Meetings with the Remarkable Blues Men' Special with
Bob Hall & Dave Peabody (Thurs 25th March)-tickets @ £5 advance/
£6 door will soon be available from Civic Theatre Box Office &
The Blue Building etc; Karen Lake's Impressions (Sunday lunchtime 28th
March)…and just confirmed Also appearing at the 'Con' Club venue is regular Monday evening attraction
The Emmerson-Spragg Combo-featuring Dickie Emmerson on guitar and vocals
and Tony Spragg (keyboards)…and usually also with guest singers Sheila
Peach/ Sue Nixon/ Margaret Atkins/ Eddie Kell / Bob Quinn contributing
In addition to announcements of forthcoming Civic Theatre dates by The Pasadena Roof Orchestra (11th May) and King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys (24th June), comes new from Manager Kevin Johnson that the dynamic The Blues Band-featuring Paul Jones on vocals & harmonica (who I-and local jazz avids Malcolm Silverwood & Ken Lanceley-- last heard in superlative action with Digby Fairweather's Band at Gainsborough's Sands Venue), Dave Kelly/ Rob Townsend/ Gary Fletcher/ Tom McGuiness, will be in action at the Civic on Tuesday 16th March-as part of the Hothouse Festival. For further details / tickets etc phone the Box Office on 01302-342349. Further news of New Jersey jazz/ big-band/ cabaret singer namesake Maggie Worsdale is that her CD 'Joy' (available on itunes) contains the following tracks: Sunny side of the street/ How little we know/ Miss Celie's Blues/ Dream/ I won't dance/ Embraceable you/ Goodnight/ Frankie & Johnny/ Moonlight becomes you/ The second time around/ Am I blue?/ Swinging on a star/ Blue Skies+ bonus track That's amore….And the top-drawer accompaniment is by pianist Barry Brake/ Greg Norris (bass)/ and Darren Kuper (drums). Check it out!! Locally, The Terry Allonby Trio+ probable guests are in session at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) on Saturday 6th Feb-12 noon to 3pm/ admission free….Rotherham Transport Club have Café Society (25th Jan) and Savannah Jazzband (1st Feb)-01709-523499…Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge have Peter Franks' Dixieland All-stars (25th Jan) and The Old Marina Jazzband (1st Feb)-01226-281805 / 290105 / 383135. Finally-and at risk of a dawn raid by 'The Jazz Police'!!-What a pleasure it was to catch Elvis & Co's 'Black Leather' sessions and more on BBC 4 TV recently. What an up-lifting and apparently impromptu fun knock arout it was!! And jazzer's should perhaps remember that Elvis was much influenced by Big Mama Thornton (e.g. Hound Dog) and Mississippi Blues artists…and the great blues man Jimmy Witherspoon considered him 'The best white interpreter of the Blues.'!! Happy jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 7th January 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.Before to much water runs beneath the New Year bridge, following mention of my Stateside namesakes Tom and Maggie Worsdale (who reside in New Jersey) in last week's jazz column, in which they both conveyed their warm wishes to friends made during their visits to our town, jazz-cabaret-big band singer Maggie emailed to inform that her fine album 'Joy' is currently available for downloads on itunes-and hopes that many will give it a listen and enjoy the resulting joyful sounds within!! To emphasise Maggie's high musical pedigree, she can proudly boast having worked with Les Brown's Band of Renown, Bob Hope, George Burns and a growing host of major stars…And recently was specially selected to perform with New York City musicians at the Frank Sinatra 'Birthday Bash' at The Count Basie Theatre in New Jersey-check her out!! Further good wishes have been sent to the good folk of Doncaster from former Russian citizen and avid jazz fan Boris Feigin, who spent three weeks in 'Donny' during a visit from the former USSR back in 1989 (when he enjoyed the very first Doncaster Jazz Weekend-including a memorable concert by the great guitarist Barney Kessel at the Earl) and was also fortunate to take in much of the UK jazz scene-being specially impressed by the heated clarinet style of Geoff Patterson and the superb cornet playing of Digby Fairweather….who he preferred to trumpet great Winton Marsalis no less!! Boris has since emigrated to Sydney-Australia, where he lives with his wife Irena and sons Romka and Dimka and still maintains is enthusiasm for jazz-having attended the Montreal Jazz Festival in Canada and USA Festivals also, and also supporting the Sydney live jazz scene too!! Mention of clarinettist Geoff Patterson, reminds that Geoff's attacking husky toned approach (echoing the influence of Pee Wee Russell/ Edmund Hall/ Sandy Brown etc) remains in great demand both locally and throughout the UK….And 'Donny' fans can catch Geoff in thrilling action alongside lusty toned trombonist Mike Taylor and other members of The New Jazz Messengers-plus Shirley Patterson and Bob Quinn!!-at The Conservative Club (South Parade) on Thursday 21st January at 8.30pm/ Admission £5 at the door. Also set for 'Con' Club gigs is The Emmerson-Spragg Combo on Monday 25th January/ 8.30pm/ admission £3-50-featuring Dickie Emmerson on guitar and vocals & Tony Spragg-piano, plus guest singers Sheila Peach, Eddie Kell and Bob Quinn and perhaps Margaret Atkins also-who may make her third appearance at the venue all the way from 'sunny' Bridlington!! The Combo is also set for 'Con' Club gigs on Mondays 8th and 22nd February. The first of several scheduled Sunday lunchtime jazz events (presented by 'Jazz into Doncaster') is set to take place on 31st January, when the worthy attraction is jazz diva Nicki Allan & Her All-star Sextet, who are-on the evidence of previous gigs in the town-- fully expected to once more delight the anticipated eager audience at the event with swingin' renditions of many favourite standards, ballads and bossas and much more besides!! Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge presents Mart Rodger's Manchester Jazz (11th Jan) and The Silver Leaf Jazzband (18th Jan)-01226-281805 / 290105/ 383135….And for details of forthcoming jazz at Rotherham Transport Club phone Ernest on 01709-523499…….Last but not least, local jazz avid Colin Brett reports that the recent DYJA Big Band Bonanza at the Earl and the following evenings 'jazz-jam' (with Dennis Rollins & other guest artists) at Relish on East Laithegate were well deserved successes and promises an 'in depth' account in next week's Entertainer!! (I missed the sparkling sessions-and the snowy conditions--being away in distant Dorset over the Christmas period, visiting daughter Karen and her 'hubby' Michael….And thank Colin-our 'man in Barnby Dun'-- for 'deputising' in my absence!!). Happy jazzin'!!
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