October

Summer draws to a close and we need something to keep our spirits up, plus give us a warm glow over the coming months. So it is good to see some excellent hot gigs in October.

Tuesday 3rd the Derek Nash Acoustic Quartet with Jools Holland’s regular side man, Derek Nash-sax, plus Dave Newton piano, Geoff Gascoyne bass & Sebastiaan de Krom drums headlining a Charity Jazz gig in aid of Basingstoke Stroke Support Group. A wow line up that will deliver a swinging evening – of that there is no doubt.

It all started with the Blues. So local musicians have formed Blues and Beyond with Julia Titus vocals, Gavin Wilkinson guitar, Jamie Howell bass, Jim Wade drums and they start a tour of local venues on the 4th at the Swan in Aborfield. Obviously not just blues involved and worth exploring.

Going way back to the 1970/80s we had the Bracknell Jazz Festival at which the Berkshire Youth Jazz Orchestra played many an opening set. The band became Pendulum a number of years ago and is still thriving, giving young musicians a start in the world of jazz. I recall a very young and now established Simon Allen cutting his chops in the ranks. Catch their next gig Friday 7th at Norden Farm, Maidenhead with the acclaimed sax guest Julian Siegel and you will no doubt be dazzled by the emerging talent.

Two not so young sax playing giants of the UK scene go head to head at Marlow Jazz Club on Tuesday 18th. Alan Barnes and Gilad Atzmon will give their all as usual and the audience will be in for a special treat, as anyone who has survived their meetings will inform you.

Jazz influenced songs, witty arrangements and lots of improvisation is provided by the unique Moscow Drug Club at Fleet on Tuesday 18th. A band that is entertainingly different and hugely enjoyable.

You can find all these events listed on the gigs calendar with links to the venues for tickets.

Please keep coming to live gigs, as musicians need the work and promoters need to pay them!.

Bob

Jazz n Stuff