Jazz at the Church Inn (R.I.P.)

Tim’s report on last week: Tuesday 25^th March

Last Tuesday provided another memorable night at the Church Inn. Led again by Sam Rogers on sax, another high-octane performance was assured. The jam session got going in after a short break as usual with David Henry joining the band on guitar throughout the second set with telling contributions from first - time attendee Andy Derrick on trombone and by saxophonist Andy Gayle. Andre “the German” featured on a couple of tunes on piano while on drums and percussion there were fine contributions from Wayne Scott and his brother Clive, as well as Carl and an impromptu killer percussion section including all these plus Thomas and vocalist Patsy Fuller. Second half renditions of St. Thomas and Caravan really raised the roof.

Completing the entertainment were some wonderful vocal contributions from Ebony, Patsy Fuller and Klaire Challoner. Next week promises to be a feature night for vocalists, led as it is on this occasion for the first time by master crooner Vic Evans.

Final thanks go out once again to regular rhythm section stalwarts Adam Gilchrist on bass and Pete Hammond on drums who kept things nicely simmering at all times.

Tuesday 18^th March

Last week’s session was another rocking one, on this occasion fronted by Danny Healey. Danny, a visiting saxophonist from Australia has been a massive addition to the local scene and any musician or jazz lover who has not already caught his flawless and inspirational playing should make a point of doing so. Danny will next appear at The Church Inn on 15^th May, accompanied by fellow Australian friend and guitarist Jon Delaney, who also plays on Danny’s most recent album on some great original material. If you want to hear Danny Healey in the meantime, he will be appearing on alternate Monday nights at The Yardbird with a cracking local rhythm section including Mike Green on bass and Carl Hemmingsley on drums, starting this coming Monday 24^th March.

Thanks and mentions for last week’s session go to resident bassman Danny Preston for stepping into Adam Gilchrist’s shoes and providing constant drive and energy, and to Peter Hammond on drums for yet again anchoring the rhythm section. Another wide range of guests included diverting vocal spots by Yaz Alexander and Ebony, and a regular blues turn by Terry Clarke. Sam Rogers on sax and later Ray Butcher on trumpet added power and finesse to the front line as the evening really kicked into gear, while we were happy to invite young saxophonists Avtar and Ashley - both proteges of Andy Hamilton, to gain some more valuable experience and exposure.