Traditional Jazz in The North West (UK)

OCTOBER - KEEP SAFE.

27/10/21 - Lots of tributes to Dave Donohoe coming in, and his daughter Charlie writes, "Thank you so much for sharing this - I have forwarded it on the rest of my siblings . It’s wonderful hearing everyone’s memories of dad . Please could you leave a message from us all - thanking them for all their kind words

24/10/21 - It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our dear friend DAVE DONOHOE He passed away in his sleep, surrounded by his family ,on Saturday 23rd October 2021 His funeral will be on Thursday 4th November at Oldham Crematorium at 2 .30.pm - Derek & Trish Galloway.  A Tribute page has now been set up in memory of Dave. If you have any memories you'd like to share, please contact me - Fred

24/10/21 - Very sad to hear what John Petters is saying about how Covid has decimated attendances at live Jazz and that he is giving up performing. I feel bound to remark, however, that he is, or should we now say was, pretty much a professional musician (if a drummer qualifies as musician, according to the old joke). His gigs - John Petters’ Productions - were at the high end of the Trad Jazz market. I do hope none of the musicians in our wonderful territory bands, who are used to playing for love of the music and little more than expenses, are of the mind to similarly walk away. I’m fairly certain they won’t be. - Andrew Liddle

23/10/21 - Interesting email from drummer John Petters today. - "My Retirement From Live Gigs - I will be retiring from playing live sessions following my date at St John’s Arts Centre, Old Harlow on Saturday 30th October.  The jazz scene has been decimated by Covid and there is no sign things will get better any time soon.  I intend to focus my attention on my radio show, jazz history, talks on jazz to U3As and any other groups. I will also be writing a column for ‘Radcom’, the journal of the Radio Society of Great Britain and other writing projects. Much as I love playing gigs, enjoying the company of my fellow musicians and meeting jazz fans, I do not like all the aggravation which goes with it. I’ve had enough of driving for hours and lugging my drums into venues and out again and driving home again after playing a high energy gig. I intend to spend much more time enjoying my hobby of amateur radio and other activities". As a fellow radio ham and a jazz fan, I wish you well in the future John. John Petters will be presenting "This Joint Is Jumpin’ the Life and Music of Fats Waller on Monday 11th October at 7pm on Sound of Spitfire Radio.

21/10/21 - "Any suggestions how I can find access to swing, Gypsy jazz and swing dance events that are going on around Congleton / Northwest? I recently moved back from abroad and have no contacts now for a passion I enjoyed very much in Hong Kong" - Andy Barton

21/10/21 - I've realised I need to make my piano advert more positive, so I'd like to specify a price of £800 or near offer - Malcolm Hogarth. More details on the Sales Page

20/10/21 - Val Kirkhead is doing another of her popular jazz evenings at Grange Fell Golf Club, Grange-over-Sands LA11 6HB on Friday 12th November 2021. It features Spats Langham's Hot Fingers Trio & Emily. You can see full details by clicking here

17/10/21 - Many Happy Returns of the day today to guitar and banjo player Dave Bateman. Tuesday sees a special birthday for Suzanne Mott, but I couldn't possibly divulge a lady's age.

16/10/21 - I just read that piece by David Woonton about the Red Rose band it brought back so many wonderful memories of my many years playing in the band, well done Dave! - Baz (Barrie Marshall)

16/02/21 - I'm indebted to John Dorgan who accepted the challenge and sent me a new write-up and photograph for the Downtown Dixieland Jazz Band in Liverpool

16/10/21 - Despite a promising start to the North Euston Orpheans's last Wednesday in the month sessions at the North Euston Hotel, the management of the hotel have advised us that it is impractical for them to continue with the arrangement. It would seem that our use of the Vantini Room last month prevented the hotel from hiring it out for a funeral wake. Whilst in the past when the Vantini Room was in use for a private booking the band would be relocated to the Family Bar, it would now appear that this is no longer possible. It was suggested that we could be accommodated in January but we have reluctantly come to the conclusion that the uncertain nature of this arrangement renders it equally impractical for us to continue with the residency. May I take this opportunity to thank our loyal followers for their enthusiastic support over the years. Thanks also to the Hotel for being such good hosts to jazz for such a long time. In these circumstances I think it would be appropriate to delete The North Euston Orpheans from your list of bands. - Colin Turner. The band is still on the site and listed under Whatever Happened To - Fred

16/10/21 - Over on the Fylde Coast there's a lovely small town called Lytham (or Lytham St Annes), located at the River Ribble estuary, and it features a nice park (Lowther Park), and a theatre within it called The Lowther Pavilion which puts on lots of events. The Theatre has started to feature a bi-monthly Lowther Jazz Club, and Ann Lord (Eagley J.C.), went to see Cafe Society there on 29th Sept., and described it as "a superbly slick performance". That programme is still being advertised on their web site!  It prompted me to email the Theatre on 28th Sept, to find out which bands had been booked for future events, and I'm still waiting for a reply. In this month's Jazz Guide there's a full page advert for the venue in 2022 and the next event on 24th November on their web site is listed as "This month's artist is to be confirmed".  I'm sure some of our smaller jazz promoters will be aghast at this!  My understanding is that it's run under a Service Level Agreement between Fylde Council and the Lowther Gardens Trust. with a subsidy from the Council. - Fred

14/10/21 - John Muskett has sent me some details of the funeral/life celebration of trombonist Mike Taylor: They have been added to Mike's Tribute Page

14/10/21 - I read Roy Candsdale piece with interest and have to agree with him. In the early years of ‘Just Jazz’ there were many heated articles about the same subject. However, the majority of views plumbed for Bing to be included amongst the ‘jazz influencers’. He may not have had a ‘jazz voice’, but it was more about, structure, content and timing, which was very much jazz based – the fact that Bing was playing drums in bands before he took the ‘Road to Whiteman’, may have something to do with that. I suspect this argument will continue for a few more years, however, maybe via YouTube, Spotify etc, the younger jazz ear will appreciate his contribution to the early jazz era! - Pete Lay

14/10/21 - I posted this item on 13/09, but completely forgot to update What's On, so a timely reminder from Mike Carnie - There will be a change of Band for the Jazz Concert at The Boathouse, Ellesmere, Shropshire on Thursday November 4th. when The Five & A Penny Band will be playing. Personnel :- Tony Peers ( Trumpet & Vocals ) Jeoff Parker ( Sax & Clarinet ), Peter Fryer ( Trombone ), Dave Alexander. ( Guitar & Banjo ), Pete Beresford. ( Keyboard ) and Mike Carnie. ( Drums )

13/12/21 - John Rothwell has played for The Savoy Jazzmen for 20 years and in the Preston area a whole lot longer. He joined The Savoy Jazzmen when Hugh Gerrard was still with us and the style of the band fitted him like a glove. Hugh passed away not long after Jon Pen recorded the band (probably Hugh's last recording) and we issued it as a tribute disc to Hugh. Moving on John has had hearing problems for some years and had an implant fitted and now has other health problems. He also finds driving long distances at night very tiresome. This combination has led to him resigning from the band. He may be able to play again in the future when "they" have sorted him out. Meanwhile, if you wish to see or hear John in action he has made a number of CDs and DVDs with the Savoy, the Red Rose Brass Band (New Orleans style marching band) and the Silver Bell Band. You can watch or listen to a number of these on the web.  In addition to his playing and recording activities John is a walking encyclopaedia on the history of New Orleans and its music. Anyone doing serious research on these topics should knock on his door.

John - it's been great having you in the band both for your superb drumming and for your company. Please accept our thanks and those of our supporters who enjoyed the music you made and your company. We all hope your health problems get sorted ASAP..   Good wishes - Peter (Savoy Jazzmen)

13/10/21 - The Original Panama Jazz Band web page has been updated

11/02/21 - I'm delighted that Grand Marshal David Woonton took up my suggestion that he put together an article about his memories with the Red Rose Marching Band. He's done it and it's a very interesting read. It's called, "The Red Rose New Orleans Brass Band 50 years of Marching".

11/10/21 - Ayr Jazz Club has been updated and all the gigs are listed in What's On

10/10/21 - Barrie Marshall tells me the Sun Street Stompers will not be playing next Sunday lunchtime at the John O'Gaunt in Lancaster. Wait for it....the reason is because it's the Lancaster Music Festival and the pubs will be full of bands playing music!

11/10/21 - Having previous had to cancel Washington Whirlygig and T J Johnson bands in March & May last year, Bernard & Carol Selby have rebooked them for November & December this year at Bollington Arts Centre

10/10/21 - "I very much like the latest style of your ' news ' page !  Here's an article you might like to consider - "BING IS NOT JAZZ" - a different view" - writes Roy Cansdale.  A passing comment from Clive Edwards in his list of "Jazz to Smile To", sparked this off, so I'll add it to that page. You might like to add your thoughts to it also.

10/10/21 - Well that's it, fully updated now, booster jab, flu jab and now Windows 11 on my laptop. So far so good, but apart from a slightly sore arm, nothing else seems to have changed much. My main PC is not capable of running Windows 11 according to the PC Health Check you can carry out first, so I'm running both from now on. I'll need to do more reading to find out what I've gained, but at the moment it's not very obvious. - Fred

10/10/21 - Stuart McLean, the Ayr Jazz Club organiser tells me, "So far good news - we will have our first gig on 22 October with The Pedigree Jazz Band at The Horizon Hotel, then hopefully what would normally have been our End Of Season Party Night with The Vieux Carre Jazzmen at The Fairfield Hotel including buffet at a "thank you to the members price" of £10 on 26 November. Despite a number of band losses and musician losses I hope to have a programme for 2022 in the next few days. We are moving from Ayr Rugby Club to the Fairfield Hotel on a permanent basis from January. We are suspending membership as such in favour of a flat fee on the door but will retain details of everyone attending for promotional purposes".

10/10/21 - Many Happy Returns to Gerry Clayton on Tuesday 12th October.

09/10/21 - As many of you are aware, most evenings I'm working on the web site doing updates etc, so TV takes a back seat, not that there's much I would want to watch anyway, but tonight was different.  If you've ever read Andrew Liddle's article about me, you will know that when I was between the two jazz periods in my life, I traversed lots of other genre, Johnny Cash, Carpenters, Beethoven, Steeleye Span, & Edward Grieg for example, and tonight I settled down to watch a couple of other musicians who knocked me out then, and did again tonight - Simon & Garfunkel - The Harmony Game. Sorry if you've been looking for News or updates. - Fred

09/10/21 - Clive Edwards writes - "As we all need cheering up. I wondered if this play list from my last U3A Jazz Group would be of interest".  Well maybe you could suggest some more to add to the list.

08/10/21 - Jazz aficionados used to meet weekly at the Britain's Protection, in Great Bridgewater Street in Manchester every Tuesday night and listen to lectures about the jazz greats, and perhaps the not so well known. Manchester Jazz Society was listed on my Jazz Clubs page until Covid came along and put paid to it, or so I thought. I have just sent an email to find out what is happening and Matthew Thompson told me, "We're now continuing on Zoom indefinitely and have also just started using Eventbrite to raise funds. People can buy an annual season ticket for £10 here: Now that is progress.

07/10/21 - As part of the continuing update and corrections to the web site, the Jazz Clubs page has been restricted to those which are currently open and booking bands. Once I hear back from the rest I can easily restore them to the list once they start booking bands again. Unfortunately I may have to apply the same treatment to some of the bands listed on the spotlight page who have not responded positively to the letter sent out - Fred

07/10/21 - Dove Jazz Club have issued their latest 'Dove Jazz Club Bugle'. Their next event on October 16 will be Doctor Butler's Hatstand Medicine Band. Now there's a name to conjure with, sounds intriguing. I just watched some of their videos, not exactly traditional jazz, but no doubt entertaining, otherwise they wouldn't be asked back for a second time. They are described as  "a travelling troupe of musicological minstrels, peddling the good Doctor’s unique good-time tonic to all four corners of the land. Formed from a secret combination of early blues and jazz forms, a sprinkle of ragtime, a dash of hot swing, the essence of sweet spiritual, a pinch of the oldest of old-timey melodies and a teaspoon of Vaudevillian and Music Hall showoffery. All whisked together with the most esoteric of folk rhythms". - Fred

07/10/21 - "Greetings", says one anonymous contributor. "This is an ongoing discussion about obscure female jazz singers. Feel free to join us and add some names that are not mentioned or just enjoy some new music".  Can't see Ottilie Patterson on there, no doubt there's plenty more missing.

07/10/21 - The Phoenix Jazz Club at Stoke is now back up and running in the Phoenix Suite at Longton Rugby Club. The next event is on 13th Oct and features Mark Challinor, Mike Hayler, Jon Critchley and Peter Robinson, - Fred

07/10/21 - The Original Panama Jazz band is pleased to welcome new members Jonny Spall on reeds/vocals and Andrew McKenzie on trombone / vocals. Both are excellent musicians and personalities and bring a great potential to the band. Read about them on our webpage, soon to be updated. And special thanks to Dave Dixson and Pete Fryer who have given their most able support to the band. Always welcome. - Jon Critchley

07/10/21 - The last time I spoke to Roy Freeman about the Silver Bell Band, he expressed doubts about the band being able to continue after the loss of Pete Vickers, the loss of the regular venue, and members of the band with health problems having to travel a round trip of over 40 miles to play. For that reason the band page now appears under, "Whatever Happened To", but is still visible on the site.  This letter was sent to over 200 musicians on my mailing list, and as yet I'm still working on the replies so I can update the pages where required, or move them off the band spotlight page, if they have disbanded. It's a slow process and I haven't even started on the clubs yet! - Fred

07/10/21 - STOP PRESS The Boathouse Stompers gig tonight at The Boathouse, Ellesmere, Shropshire, has been cancelled at the last minute owing to bar & restaurant staff shortages. Mike Carnie tells me that the events on Thu November 4th and December 2nd will definitely go ahead.  - Mike Carnie

06/10/21 - Howard Murray sent me an email with an intriguing message - I didn't dare fail to send this TO YOU -  https://youtu.be/YyIBxYLZb4w.   08/10 - video no longer available - Fred

05/10/21 - As per our conversation today, I am looking for a jazz piano/keyboard player who can help with basic jazz or blues tuition at the keyboard, without referring too much to musical notation.  I have some visual problems, which makes it very difficult to read notation. I am well aware of chords, scales, arpeggios etc. , but now need to learn from the keyboard itself. Once I have the gist of jazz or blues, I am certain that I would be able to play something for myself by playing what I am thinking, with the knowledge I already have, instead of playing what I am reading from notation.  I have a Grade 5 ABRSM in theory from some years ago, but this sort of stuff does not enable me to make something up at the keyboard. Do you know of anyone who teaches this way without having to revert to notation? The words, improvisation, playing by ear or “winging it” come to mind. I am in the Wigan, St.Helens, Warrington area. My details are, Ashton in Makerfield, 01942 728472; 07730 129971. - Paul McCooey

05/10/21 - The latest edition of Just Jazz Magazine is now out, There are several tributes to Colin Bowden, and a tribute to George Chambers, leader of the Apex Jazz Band in Northern Ireland (who died on July 29th), by Mike Poynton. There's also a write-up of the 9th Rydale

05/10/21 - Dear Fred, you do the most fantastic work with JazzNorthWest It is so good to see musicians getting together again after nearly two years , and to hear live music again . Here in south Sweden and Denmark , where I live , it is the same happy revival . My husband , clarinetist Lasse Karlsson has become reborn , playing with his friends again to a real audience . At one stage we thought the music had died . You have played a huge part in keeping the faith through a terrible time . Thank you . Please put my tribute to you on your news page, and I send you love and best wishes from Helsingborg, Sweden - Sheila Collier

04/10/21 - I totally agree with Jon Critchley, you don't need pretty colours on your site, it's brilliant as it is now. Probably the moaners' Mums didn't buy crayoning books for them when they were children. It's almost as bad as people who feel the need to "colourise" perfectly good black & white photographs - drives me mad. There you go, rant over. Hope you're keeping well Fred, you are much appreciated, - Laurie Cooper

03/10/21 - I read with interest about Jazz Books for sale from one of your contributors yesterday and on the mentioned site, ABE Books, it states that there is a £10 postage charge added if you want them posted to Belgium.  From a recent experience I can tell you that there will also be a customs or tax charge inflicted as well. 50 days ago Cadillac Records posted a newly released CD which I am on, with Albert Nicholas and Barry Martyn recorded in 1966;Before it was released to me I had to pay 20 euros to the Douane over here and even then it took them another 20 days to actually send it on .So beware - Brian Turnock

03/10/21 - Many Happy Returns tomorrow to Pete Lindup, and on Saturday to Jack Cotterill, incorrectly reported earlier as Pete Cotterrill, who was Jack Cotterill's grandfather. "If you've never heard "Am I Doing All Right " then you should", writes Bob Lamb. "It's hilarious, not only was Pete Cotterill a very good drummer but also an ace raconteur. His setting up the drum kit is something. All jazz fans would enjoy it. It was uploaded by John Howell ( www.jazzclub90.co.uk )

02/10/21 - One memory of my earlier gigs was playing alongside Ian Royle's dad at the Bier Keller (long gone) on Piccadilly in Manchester. He was a lovely person and very encouraging to me, a young musician still green behind the ears. I can't recall who else was in the band. It was probably an 'Oompah' style outfit. Maybe Ian might remember. - Paul Medina

02/10/21 - Just leave the news page as it is, it's perfectly clear without adding different colours etc.  Whoever suggested otherwise should realise they're so bl***y lucky to have you and your website. - Jon Critchley

02/10/21 - Ayr Jazz Club is "staggering" into life with a first club night on 22 October 2021 at The Horizon Hotel, The Esplanade , Ayr, commencing 7.30pm with The Pedigree Jazz Band. .  An initial survey of members etc gave us a very good response, so we have decided to go for it.   After that, all being well, we hope to hold a Party Night (ticket only) at The Fairfield Hotel, Ayr on 26 November with the Vieux Carre Jazzmen.  We still await the outcome of future plans for Ayr Rugby Club to allow us to begin to create a programme for 2022. - Stuart McLean

02/10/21 - Hello Fred. Ken Ames gave me your email address. I have a number of jazz books for sale. They are mostly Jazz Book Club. They can be seen on ABE Books. My 'Shop is available by clicking here. -  John Cockle

02/10/21 -  It has been suggested I could use multi colours depending on news content, but unfortunately it would create too much work on my part, and if anything I need to go the opposite way. I used to use red for the date, and alternate colours for the content, so how about this?  Hope it's acceptable - Fred

02/10/21 - On 21/07/21 - I mentioned an article in The Times about Chris Barber - A Trailblazer's Legacy, but I couldn't read it at the time as I wasn't a subscriber. Now I've only just discovered that its a 4CD presentation pack released on 23rd July this year. Lots of reviews London Jazz News, Last Music Company, The Guardian, and  Elmore Magazine are but just a few. - Fred

01/10/21 - Clive Edwards is now 86 he tells me, and needs a walking aid, but is still doing his bit for jazz. He's asked me to post details of a jazz evening in Neston on the Wirral. It's at The Parkgate Clubhouse on Wednesday 13th October 2021. Click link for more details. - Fred

01/10/21 - It is regrettable that I am not able to go along with all of Pete Lay's posted comments. Of course visa and PCR costs should be paid, but he hasn't mentioned, or, he is not aware, that a French promoter has to pay a Government playing tax ( 25% I think ) on all musician's fees. This is to recognise musicianship as a fulltime job with all the benefits same as other professions. My goodness how our young UK musicians would love that after they've gone through Music College ! But how would one raise that extra money from audiences brought up on long term cheap entrance charges?  When I was promoting small jazz evenings I took care of my responsibilities, and it was up to the bands how they managed theirs. I should think most UK promoters simply agreed a playing fee and how the band arrived there was up to them. It's difficult enough organising and managing to get a regular audience to break even. I never sought, or did, make personal gain, which was the aim of the professional large scale jazz event promoters, and rightly so.  - Norman Gibson

SEPTEMBER

30/09/21 - Well said, Pete Lay!  - Jon Critchley

30/09/21 - In reference to Norman Gibson's and Malcolm Bridge's notifications: - It is all very well promoting The Mama Shakers (yes, a good band), but who will cover the cost of their visas and/or PCR tests if applicable. Considering there are no reciprocal arrangements for British bands to play in Europe, how will British musicians feel if this French band get to tour here (supposedly, as holiday makers who have just happened to bring their instruments with them, and end up playing gigs, and probably being paid better than British musos). Considering how we are battling with the government over getting visa free work/travel to play gigs in Europe, it is rubbing salt in the wounds. Oh for for pre-Brexit days!!  - Pete  Lay
 

29/09/21 - Re News Item 21/09/21. That's my Dad, Bill Royle next to bass player Sid Bennison. He taught me trumpet and introduced me to Dixieland jazz, swing and big band music. Good trumpet player my old man!! - Ian Royle

29/09/21 - I've read your page on RAF Padgate. I'm the admin on the Jimmy Deuchar Archives group on Facebook.  I understand Jimmy Deuchar did his national service in Padgate before joining the Dankworth Seven in 1950 aged 20 I wondered if anyone served with Jimmy or whether there were any photos etc from this time.  Many thanks - Bruce Rayner

27/09/21 - I am delighted to inform you that The 'Teds' will be back at Eastham Golf Club on Friday 8th October and the on the second Friday every month. - Rae Owens
 

26/09/21 - Jim Swinnerton joined the Sun Street Stompers today after 17 years since last playing regularly with them. Barrie Marshall says they were well pleased with the turnout for their first post Covid gig. Click on picture to enlarge

26/09/21 - Having seen the Mama Shakers at Chateauneuf du Faou a couple of years ago I should like to reinforce Norman Gibson's message and encourage any promoters having doubts to go ahead and book them. They are young, lively and very enjoyable.  - Malcolm Bridge

26/09/21 - Many Happy Returns this week to Keith Allcock on Thursday, and to Brian Ellwood on Friday 1st October.
 

25/09/21 - The last jazz event at La Vita restaurant in Huyton (see 17/09/21) went so well that it will continue next week, and will be on regularly from now on and  shown in the what’s on listings under La Vita, Huyton, says Jonny Spall. - "Thursday 30th September features the talented Tony Peers, Tony Ormesher and Hugo Harrison. The band will be performing a wide range of jazz from traditional right through to cool bossa novas and beyond. There will be something for everyone. You can book a table now by contacting the restaurant on 0151 458 2845. It would be great to see everyone there"
 

24/09/21 - The Savoy Jazzmen have decided to put on hold the sessions at Sefton Park Cricket Club for the time being. Support has been very poor and we are going to wait until we are back at the Palm House where we can spread the word says Peter Swensson. We are again starting our weekly two hour rehearsals in the studio to keep our lips in and the band together.

24/09/21 - I came across this free webinar on a US site, which may be useful to Jazz musicians here. It's a webinar about how Jazz musicians can build their own website to promote themselves. The time is 1pm EST (6pm BST) on 29th September. It may be useful to Jazz musicians here!

24/09/21 - Angela has been in touch with me, and wishes to get a UK tour together with her very good 'Mama Shakers' French band in 2022. (This video taken at Fest Jazz 2018). They had some bookings here, including me, when Corona Virus broke. No dates suggested at this point, just to register interest please email Angela shakersmama@gmail.com and me -  jazz2swing2@gmail.com.  Angela speaks perfect English and is a very lively front lady, sings well and plays trumpet or clarinet on most numbers. - Norman Gibson
 

23/09/21 - When I came to email out the latest News Items, I spotted the photograph of the Syd Lewis Band below was missing (now fixed). Not sure when or how that happened, but if anybody spots anything on the News Page that doesn't appear right, then please let me know. My two proof readers (Norman Gibson & Peter Swensson), are usually on the ball, so maybe it only got deleted very recently. - Fred
 

22/09/21 - Not only is another band about to return to its old venue (Barrie Marshall's Sun Street Stompers at Ye Olde John O'Gaunt in Lancaster) but on this occasion, bass player Jim Swinnerton will also be back with the band. Sunday lunchtime from 12-30 - 3pm on 26th September.

22/09/21 - Ann Lord tells me that "many of our members praised the Dixie Beats at the end of the evening at Eagley Jazz Club, and the audience was larger than what we've seen for a long time! If any club is looking for a band - think of this band!  She has posted a video here.

22/09/21 - Just had a call from Katy Clachan regarding the Jazz Extravaganza in Stranraer, 11th - 13th October. It would appear that there are just a few rooms now available. Katy tells me that the venue is well and truly Covid aware with one way systems in place, and even Perspex screens to separate comings and goings where necessary, so seems like a very safe place to be. As Scotland has its own rules compared to England, so if you do have any questions in that respect, contact the hotel on 01776 704413. If you have any questions at all about the jazz, Katy is more than happy to assist and you can contact her on 01292 443309 or 07810 007021.

21/09/21 - Hi Fred, Ian Royle dropped me a note with some very interesting memories of playing with Syd Lewis's band, so thanks very much for being the go-between (13/09/21). I've just unearthed this picture of Syd and the band. Maybe you could publish it and see if somebody recognises any of the faces. Best regards, Pete Lewis. Click on photo for larger version

21/09/21 - The Jazz Listing for the Fleetwood Hesketh  in Southport, has now been updated for October

21/09/21 - The Canal Street Stompers appeared in What's On for tomorrow, and in fact they play on the last Wednesday in the month, which for this month is the 29th September

21/09/21 - Things are looking up. I just checked What's On and I see there are six gigs listed today.

19/09/21 - Not sure where Gospel Music fits in with traditional jazz, although many of you will remember Sister Rosetta Tharpe invited over by Chris Barber, so I'll post this just in case - Acclaimed gospel trio Resounding Harmonies will perform a one-hour concert with a programme that celebrates the history of gospel music. The programme will span gospel songs from the earliest well-known classics through songs embodied in the Civil Rights Era right up to the present day with contemporary gospel.  Resounding Harmonies comprises Michelle Parris, Kathy McLeish and Sophie Harriot, who between them have over 30 years' experience of singing as solo artists, in gospel choirs (Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir and Jabez Family) and at venues such as the Jazz Café and 606 Jazz Club. It will be live streamed free on YouTube from St. Cross College,  Friday 15th October 2021 at 7 pm. Click here for a booking form

19/09/21 - Saddened, but not surprised, to read of the end of Jazz Club 90. In olden days, when we used to pursue jazz all over the place, Albrighton was our longest drive without an overnight. It's about 70 miles each way from Chesterfield, and cross country. Well, worth it! Sadly, it's not covid that's stopped us, just decrepitude. We are not alone. - Trig and Pat Ellis
 

18/09/21 - Another band has returned to its old venue. This time it's Barrie Marshall's band, The Sun Street Srompers, who are back at Ye Olde John O'Gaunt in Lancaster on Sunday lunchtimes from 12-30 - 3pm.  26th September is when it all starts again.

18/09/21 - Thanks to Keith Wadeson for highlighting the return of jazz to the North Euston Hotel, Fleetwood, on the 29th September. However, the start time is the usual one of 12 noon and not 2pm as stated. - Colin Turner
 

17/09/21 - Hey Fred, I hope you are well. I just wanted to let you and your wonderful readers know about a new restaurant gig that's starting next week. It's 7-9pm Thursday 23rd September at La Vita (77-79 Derby Rd, Huyton Village, Liverpool L36 9UQ). It's hopefully going to become a regular weekly gig and will present the amazing talents of the North West's finest musicians. Next Thursday features the wonderful trumpet playing of Tony Peers, with a great rhythm section provided by Mal Horne and Jim Swinnerton. We'd welcome the support of the jazz loving community, so to book a table please contact the restaurant on 0151 458 2845. It will be great night out and I've attached the poster. I'll keep you up to date about more gigs happening there in due course. Many thanks, Jonny Spall

17/09/21 - Hi Fred, Jazz is back on at the North Euston Hotel in Fleetwood on September 29 from 2pm. The North Euston Orpheans are playing, £6 on the door. Last Wednesday each month – Keith Wadeson

17/09/21 - Just to let you know -  The Wyre Levee Stompers, now in their 47th year together, are pleased to announce that, after some 18 months absence due to Covid, they will be returning to their Thursday night sessions at The Ashley Club, Victoria Road East, Thornton Cleveleys commencing Thursday 23rd September at 8-30pm.  The line-up will comprise Pete Lindup on trumpet, Mike Pearson on trombone, Willy Barrow on banjo/guitar, Frank Carter on bass, John Smith on drums and myself on reeds. Despite some health issues, Ken Emery, a founder member of The Wyre Levee Stompers will be with the band, on piano for their Thursday night sessions at The Ashley Club - Bill Barrow

16/09/21 - Norwich Evening News has just published an article, "Remembering the dazzling career of Norwich's very own 'Queen of the Blues' ", reminiscing about the life of Beryl Bryden

16/09/21 - A 1938 CG Conn Victor 80-A Cornet in Mint Condition has just gone on the Sales page
 

15/09/21 -  Peter Swensson has now confirmed that jazz at the beautiful Sefton Park Palm House has been confirmed for 2022.  As in the past the Savoy Jazzmen will be playing on the first Tuesday of each month with the exception of January & August.

15/09/21 - Trombone player, Mike Taylor, is the latest musician to be remembered on the Tribute Page
 

14/09/21 - Good to see your News Page is back to normal. Great to read the various messages. Pleased to say we (Savoy Jazzmen), are back at the Palm House. Had hoped to have started earlier but the jazz sessions start again Tuesday 7th December 2-4 pm. Fingers crossed we will get the support we had pre Covid-19. We should have the dates for 2022 very soon. Our Monday lunchtime sessions are a real challenge. We are not getting anywhere near the support we were hoping for but it’s so good to have a weekly session and it keeps the band together. - Peter Swensson

14/09/21 - John & Marie Howell write about Jazz Club 90 in Albrighton, "Due to Covid and our ageing audience being reluctant to venture in to a crowded room the attendance has dropped off over the past few weeks making Jazz Club 90 no longer viable and we have cancelled all future gigs. I have informed band leaders and those in the audience who are on our mailing list and will put a notice on the website. I will still keep an eye on your website!  Best wishes to you and Barbara and thanks for all your help ,over the years".

13/09/21 - Mike Carnie tells me there is a once only band change for the 4th November at the Boathouse, Ellesmere, Shropshire. The band playing on this date will be - The Five & A Penny Jazz Band. Mike also tells me that the regular band, The Boathouse Stompers, have had 2 great monthly nights there since reopening. On request a meal can be arranged before the Jazz session commences at 8pm in the evening. The monthly concerts are held on the 1st Thursday of every month, so Mike suggests you come along and have a great night of jazz and food.

13/09/21 - Just to let you know that The Downtown Dixieland Jazz Band are back at The Caledonia in Liverpool this Friday 17th September at 8.30pm. We are also planning to play there in the 3rd Friday of every month. -  John Dorgan

13/09/21 - Just linked to your excellent site relating to Ian Royle, who refers to playing with the Syd Lewis Big Band/Orchestra, presumably in the immediate pre/post war period. Syd was my uncle and we know very little about his musical career (which was always a part-time occupation despite the impressive look of the band). If you know anything or anybody who may know something we would be very pleased to hear about it. - Pete Lewis
 

12/09/21 - Many Happy Returns today to Tony Ormesher. Also tomorrow to John Howell of Jazz Club 90 fame, Richard Lord on Wednesday and Mike Reddin on Saturday.

12/09/21 - The Wirrorleans Jazz Band will resume their residency at Formby Cricket Club, Cricket Path, L37 7DP, from 24th September on the last Friday of the month up to and including March 2022.  Please note the earlier times of 8pm - 10-30pm. Looking forward to welcoming everybody back - John Blackman

11/09/21 - I’m sure your members will be sorry to learn of the death of Alan Radcliffe, aged 92, on August 14th 2021.  Alan was founder and leader of Manchester-based “The Saints” jazz band from the late 1940s until leaving the band in 1975, during which time it had established itself as among the finest of the British jazz revival, playing at the Royal Festival Hall before the (then) Princess Elizabeth, supporting Louis Armstrong and his All Stars on their 1956 tour, recording with EMI and Parlophone (under the watchful eye of George Martin) and playing innumerable concerts across the north west.  I know he is fondly remembered by many who heard the band at the time and who still listen to CD transfers of the original 78rpm recordings that they made. But for Alan’s modest, self-effacing nature he would undoubtedly have made one of the most popular jazz clarinetists of his day. As it was, he was content to be the best he could be in the band he founded in the late 1940s with his school friends. -
Tim Atkinson https://www.timatkinson.info
 

10/09/21 - Sheila Collier sent me this lovely photograph. She says, "It’s the ferry from Elsinor Denmark to Helsingborg looking west to Denmark ! Takes 20 minutes. We are able to go without any restrictions now and playing too!   We are only a short walk to the ferry from our Apartment so it’s like Ferry cross the Mersey. Haven't sorted visiting U K yet though, they have their own restrictions .
 

09/09/21 - Some Good News at least, Barbara Hallam tells me, "Our Jazz Lunch at the Farmer's Arms is now full with a waiting list, so thanks for putting it on your site. Just hoping nobody comes on spec as we won't be able to accommodate them".

09/09/21 - Dear Fred, You kindly put a message on your site re my late husband’s old jazz programmes. I received a reply from a jazz enthusiast who lives in Macclesfield who has been to collect them on the basis it would take him down memory lane of the concerts he went to at the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester in his youth.  He kindly gave me a donation which I have passed on to Pancreatic Cancer UK for research into the cause and treatment of this illness from which my husband sadly died. Nice to know the programmes so lovingly kept for nearly 60 years have found another home. - Lisa King

09/09/21 - I’m delighted to report that Lowther Pavilion has decided to launch its own jazz club and we, Cafe Society, are playing for the first one. It’s on the 29th of September in the evening and details can be found here on their website. - Anthony Mason

09/09/21 - "I’m sorry to report the death of trombonist Mike Taylor, native of Sheffield. Mike had suffered a stroke a month or two ago and had been in hospital since. His partner Annie ’phoned us on Monday morning with the news that he had died the previous day, Sun 5th September.  He had played for some years with New Orleans Heat, and we both played with The Spirit of New Orleans. Mike was an open-minded excellent musician, very approachable and considerate. He would occasionally suggest trombone and bass duets for several, or many, choruses, which I greatly appreciated. He will surely be missed by many. I’ll try to send on any further details. Best wishes to Barbara, yourself and your many readers, Harmoniously, - John Muskett

09/09/21 - The latest Just Jazz Magazine is now out and includes part 4 of Dave Donohoe's "looking after the Legends", which will eventually be reproduced on the site. Click on the title above to see a list of the contents.

09/09/21 - Kirkcudbright Jazz Festival announcement - "We have unfortunately taken the difficult decision to cancel this years Jazz Festival which was scheduled for 14-17 October.  We will be back 9-12 June 2022 with a brilliant selection of the best Jazz artists and we can't wait to see you there!  The decision to cancel was made for a number of reasons, primarily the health and safety of our visitors, bands and local people.  We re already working on next years festival to make it the best ever!   Keep an eye on our Facebook and our website for updates on next year's festival and on buying your tickets. If you bought tickets for this year's festival please send us a message or contact the person from whom you purchased your tickets. We apologise again for the disappointing news and thank you all for your continued support".

09/09/21 - Les Brown informs me that "We have resumed our jazz sessions at Boston Spa Village Hall. Early signs are encouraging. Please find attached the programme for September. The normal two monthly programme should be resumed next month. Thank you in anticipation of your continued support".
 

08/09/21 - The Merseysippi Jazz Band are back in action on Monday, and owing to a proposed increased financial burden being levied by the cricket club, the band has relocated to the Aigburth Arms, in Aigburth, Liverpool. Barbara and I went there many years ago when Pat Halcox was guesting with the band, and I seem to recall it was a very nice venue, in a very nice location. Only problem is, that although the band will be expecting to play every Monday night, should there be a clash of interest, football will be the winner, so check with the venue before setting off -. 0151 363 2186.
 

07/09/21 - Did you miss me?  Nobody emailed to say where's the news? Maybe you thought I was sunning it up on a beach somewhere? Well nothing could be further from the truth, I was taken by ambulance into Royal Preston Hospital on Monday 30th Aug, with what turned out to be a urinary tract infection and was finally allowed home yesterday, so there's a lot of catching up to be done, not least of all on sleep. Whilst I'm stamped 'fit and healthy' again, it will be a day or two I guess before I'm fully back in the saddle, so please bear with me.

11/08/21 - I'm afraid I forgot the birthdays this week, so belated birthday wishes to Keith Moore last Sunday, and to Frank Lowe on Tuesday. However it's Many Happy Returns to Harold Salisbury today and to Fraser McCombe tomorrow
 

09/08/21 - A "ROLAND" Percussion Pad model SPO-11 has just gone on the Sales Page. I believe it's something for drummers, I just know it's not a Windows 10  Computer!  No doubt interested people will know, same applies to Malcolm's Suitcase 88, nothing to do with holidays either I bet.

09/08/21 - Re: The Item about European travel abroad for musicians etc. I not sure the guy on the radio is all correct in what he says. It is best for musicians to read all the reports in the Musicians Union’s newsletter, all available online. They say nothing has changed, except the individual can travel, but doesn’t take into account their instruments, or if a band – their equipment, their roadie, their transportation – there’s a hell of a lot of work to be done. A sledgehammer to Boris and Priti might just knock some sense into them. They are not understanding the problem and to be honest, I don’t think they give a damn about the Entertainment and Leisure industry. - Pete Lay

09/08/21 - When Hurricane Katrina flooded 80,000 homes in New Orleans, German musicians, led by Traditional Jazz Trumpeter, Klaus Lumma, raised $50,000 to help New Orleans musicians affected by the storm. This month, these same German musicians were flooded by overflowing rivers and torrential rains in Eschweiler, Germany. The Talbahnhof, Eschweiler's premier Jazz Club, was severely damaged. Several musicians there lost everything, including their instruments and homes. Check out this page for more information and to see how you can help

09/08/21 - Bands are starting to report the return of gigs, the latest being the Chicago Kats Boathouse Stompers at The Boathouse in Ellesmere on 2nd September. I'm updating What's On as they come in so keep your eye on it to find out where you can go and listen to some great music. There's also a monthly version which you can download here, but it's only updated weekly on Mondays.

08/08/21 - Hi Fred, Thanks again for your informative and entertaining website. As I write I'm really enjoying the 'lost tape' of Charleston Chasers. Of the 25 tracks, no less than 7 are not in my collection. I don't subscribe to Spotify (being allergic to spending money) but I thought it worth a try, even for 20 seconds!  However, it keeps running and I've reached track 23. It's been interrupted a couple of times by adverts, but only between tracks. A small price to pay! I  have to visit the toilet now and then anyway.  All the very best, - Trig Ellis (Supporter of Jazz and failed jazz musician)

08/08/21 - Malcolm Hogarth has a Rhodes Suitcase 88 for sale. Details are on the Sales Page

08/08/21 - We are delighted to report that the Dovejazz Bugle is blowing again at last after a period of some 18 months ! There were odd occasions during these dark days when as far as live jazz was concerned even the most optimistic of us did wonder if we would ever see a glimpse of a light towards the end of the long and dark tunnel of Covid19 . We do now appear to be moving in the right direction at last and hopefully there will be no hiccups along the way to further dampen our spirits.    We trust that you will enjoy this edition and we look forward to publishing another one before our September opening on the 25th. Please do your utmost to generously assist live jazz whenever you can - it does not need me to tell you that our musicians require and deserve all the support that they can get after an extremely barren period monetarily!    If you live within travelling distance we are greatly looking forward to welcoming you at one of our Autumn productions where we can come together to appreciate what we have been missing for far too long a time. - Roger Marshall

08/08/21 - Ian McCann tells me, "Jazz is returning to the Devonshire Arms on the first Tuesday of the month. Dave Burke, Phil Lucas and Rae Owens will be joining me on 7th September". What's On updated

08/08/21 - Re: The Quarrymen, Interesting.  In 1962, when I was 'livin' da'n Souff', a Liverpool lass said she had tickets for an amazing band and she was treating me.  It was the Beatles at a theatre in Romford Essex.  We were on the front row in the circle, but the screaming from a standing crowd of girls below made hearing them difficult. Ahh ! the Swinging Sixties I was there !   Norman Gibson
 

07/08/21 - Jazz at the Cross keys – restarting Thursday 2 Sept 2021. Traditional Jazz every Thursday afternoon, 1.00pm – 3.30pm, at the Cross Keys, 32 Tadcaster Road, York YO24 1LQ, Tel 01904 701525. Free admission. On 2 Sept we start our new season of jazz at the Cross Keys with Jim Wright’s Rhythm Deluxe. And to follow: 9 Sept. Yorkshire Stompers, 16 Sept. Ron Burnett and his Mardi Gras Jazz Band, 23 Sept. Paul Smith’s Trad Jazz Collective - Alan N Bramley

07/08/21 - I have used the BBC comments link provided by Norman Gibson to yet again complain about the needless use of swearing that (for us) makes otherwise good drama unwatchable. - Jon Critchley

07/08/21 - 64 years ago today (August 7th), John Lennon’s teenage motley crew, the skiffle act The Quarrymen, first performed at the now-iconic Liverpool Cavern club, You can read "Remembering The Quarrymen's first show at The Cavern Club" on line here

07/08/21 - Time for a new album, this is one I came across by accident, hope you like it, The Charleston Chasers - Fred

06/08/21 - Norman Gibson writes, "BBC have a page at https://www.bbc.co.uk/contact/comments for viewers to send in their comments about programmes. Perhaps this jazz tonight on BBC4 could be an opportunity to coax the BBC to put out some more of these jazz specials.

06/08/21 - John Gordon tells me that the Tame Valley Stompers' Wednesday night venue re-started on August 4th. at 9pm at Beaconsfield Conservative Club, Stamford Street, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 6QL The next date is Wednesday  18th Aug and thereafter the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month. He's also told me of a gig he's got featuring Alex Clarke on Sunday 6th September, see What's On for details
 

05/08/21 - Another in the Lost Tape series No. 23 sent to me by John Westwood. This one was recorded in 1990 by The Apex Jazz Band and called Carolina Moon

05/08/21 - Tomorrow night ( Fri ) three hours of Jazz on BBC 4 ( FV 9 ).  10pm Jazz Legends in their own words, 11pm Louis Armstrong in Concert and 11.55pm Jazz Horns Gold.  - Norman Gibson
 

04/08/21 - Trevor Barnes writes, "I’m having a clear out of jazz CDs. As you will see from the pictures it is an eclectic collection from the twenties to the sixties. There are about 450 CDs in all. I’ve committed my favourites to my iPod. I don’t want any money for them. I want them all taken together. No cherry picking. Whoever gets them will need to collect them from Sheffield. ALL GONE NOW

04/08/21 - Musicians thinking of touring or playing in Europe, might be interested in this item on Radio 4 sent to me by Howard Murray. It starts about 01:17.

04/08/21 - I was unable to update the recommended album on Spotify last week, as we were down in London visiting our daughter. So enjoy the Merseysippi Jazz Band for another week.
 

03/08/21 - Too late - it's gone - Upright piano. In good order and concert tuning. No action problems. Offered free of charge. Collect from Prestwich.  RNCM student needs the wall space for an orchestral size Xylophone! - Howard Murray. 07940 837342

03/08/21 - This week's excellent "Jazz on a Saturday" programme by John Smythe (at https://www.3cr.org.au/jazz until next Saturday) marks 120 years of Satchmo's [actual] birthdate, plus the 50th anniversary of both his and Lil's death in July/August 1971. Interestingly, the first recording aired is by the band in which the intractable Simon Wallace played so well. Another example of just how our music lives on Down Under! After that If you've not listened to Walter Love's Jazz Club this week, you'll have missed hearing what is virtually a "History of New Orleans Jazz in Northern Ireland".- John Westwood.

03/08/21 - Trevor Stent has sent me  a brief report on Fest Jazz 2021. He says, "It was the weekend before last and was a success beyond our wildest dreams (given the problems beforehand). I thought organisers in the Northwest, and beyond, would be interested to know about our experience with the “vaccine passport” which is proposed for the UK later in the year I believe. For us , it worked very well: attendance was cut by 25% but those that were there could enjoy themselves like at a normal festival from 2 years ago . We and the young organisers were mightily relieved and delighted. The atmosphere was one of the best ever".

03/08/21 - A true and amusing story from Terry Birkinhead - From Russia with Love
 

02/08/21- I am afraid that I have just heard the extremely sad news from Colin Bowden's family that he passed away yesterday after a relatively short spell of ill health at the age of 89.  It certainly marks the closing of the curtains for one of Europe's finest New Orleans style drummers ever. A person who has certainly left his knowledgeable stamp upon our genus of the jazz scene and who will be remembered for many awhile by a sizeable portion of the jazz aficionados.   Never again will we be privileged to hear 'Things A Plenty' played with the inimitable Bowden vigour, panache and enthusiasm.   It was a great pleasure for me to have spent time in Colin's company listening to the wonderful tales of yester year that included those when the Colyer Band weaved its magic to enraptured massed multitudes in Great Britain and much further afield. Not to mention witnessing first hand his numerous appearances as a drummer on the Dove podium. The Clubs considerable involvement with the renovation of his 1956 drum kit gained a host of Brownie Points for the Dove Jazz Club that were put to good use by his frequent appearances at The Centre of the Universe.    May this much respected musician and valued and trusted friend RIP. - Roger Marshall

02/08/21 - I must respond to the note in the News Page by Bruce Carnaffin which I regard as rather insulting to all those musos who have, for the past 18 months, done their daily practice and kept their talent on top form. I saw the evidence of this when I enjoyed Chris Walker's Pedigree Jazz Band playing superbly at their first outside gig last Saturday - which would've been very different if they hadn't all kept their metaphorical 'lip in'.  I'm sure his Kendal Jazz Club will experience the full evidence of this and I do hope he'll then recognise the fact then!  Grumble over - enjoy the rest of the day! - John Westwood

01/08/21 - Many Happy Returns this week to Mike Lovell on Tuesday, and to Mark Challinor on Saturday

JULY

30/07/21 - At long last live music is emerging from hibernation, and jazz players are rubbing their eyes, stretching, and checking that their instruments still work. Kendal Jazz Club have planned gigs over the next 3 months, with the first being the Pete Major Trio on Wednesday 11 August - Bruce Carnaffin.

30/07/21 - Geoff Bull in Australia has also confirmed the bass player on the George Lewis recording, "In The upper Garden", and gives us a little more insight into it.  "To answer your question, the recording that you refer to is almost certainly one from a session where George recorded all hymns and I sure is the only time George ever over dubbed one of his own recordings. The session was a Trio comprising George, the Bassist is Placide Adams and it is Joe Robichaux on Piano but playing in a strictly vamp style which George apparently had asked him to play as he missed the Banjo chords that he relied on as a self taught “ear” player. This would explain why it could be mistaken for a Banjo. If you listen to all of George’s recordings done after Joe Robichaux replaced Alton and when George stopped using Banjo after Marrero had died, Joe Robichaux plays that chord vamp style in all of the ensembles on those recordings. Hope this helps".

30/07/21 - At noon Monday 9th August the Savoy Jazzmen are starting a new weekly residency. The venue is Sefton Cricket Club, Croxteth Drive, Sefton Park. L17 1AP. We will be playing between 12.00 - 14.00 hours. There is an admission charge of £5.00. As the session is at midday you are very welcome to bring your own lunch however tea coffee etc must be purchased at the bar. There will be a raffle. There is a good car park. - Peter Swensson (Savoy Jazzmen)

30/07/21 - The programme for the Fleetwood Hesketh jazz Club in Southport has been updated.
 

29/07/21 - Fred .. I see no mention on your news page that the wonderful Kenny Ball / Chris Barber bassist Vic Pitt passed away on Tuesday last. I am posting this
just in case you had not heard this sad news.-- Des Hopkins. Took me a while to confirm this, but it is on the Chris Barber site where it says, "Vic passed away on Tuesday July 27, 2021 - RIP Vic".

29/07/21 - The latest edition of Just Jazz Magazine has arrived. There's good news for overseas subscribers. In an attempt at eliminating high bank charges incurred when renewing their subscriptions to Just Jazz, there's an easier and more cost effective way of paying. Just Jazz has set up a PayPal account, and although it is mainly for non-UK readers, customers in the UK can, if they wish to, use PayPal to pay their subs as well. Pay to: justjazzmagazine@btinternet.com.

28/07/21 -  Daniel Gottlieb writes, "I came across your website while searching for a band my Grandpa was in. The band was Smoky City Stompers and I'm after a physical copy of the recording where he played guitar. As far as I can tell they only released one vinyl under the label Addison according to Discogs. I'm wondering whether you have a physical copy of the vinyl or know someone who does who would be willing to sell it?".

28/07/21 - Gerry Owen's tribute page has been updated.

28/07/21 - Didn't take long for the answer to the bass player to come along, both confirming the bass player to be Placide Adams. "The Bass player on 'The Upper Garden' track is Placide Adams, but I only know that because it says so on the Album sleeve.  Unfortunately it doesn't credit the Banjo player". -  Norman Gibson. "It is from the CD – George Lewis Plays Hymns – Milneburg Records MCD1 – recorded New Orleans 1964.  George Lewis (clarinet), Joe Robichaux (piano), Placide Adams (bass) ... as you see NO banjo ... just block chords from the pianist. There are 15 hymns/spirituals and an interview with George on the CD. It is worth looking out for on eBay or Amazon". - Pete Lay.

27/07/21 - Quite a few of you bought copies of the "George Lewis in Japan 1963" DVD 11 years ago through me which was made available through a great deal of effort by Australian trumpet player Geoff Bull, in conjunction with the New Orleans Rascals. I met up with Geoff & The Rascals when they appeared at the Whitley Bay Jazz Festival in July 2010.  John Muskett's question has prompted me to email Geoff & Linda to see how they are, but before doing so, I came across this video about him and his latest venture uploaded in June this year at https://youtu.be/DbuD4KqEs4I. It's a short video but well worth the watch to see how young and not so young are getting together.

27/07/21 - While roaming around YouTube I came across a recording (sound only) of George Lewis playing “In The Upper Garden”. I thought that the bass playing was superb – resonant plucked notes (no slapping) accurately delivered, chords clearly described, mix of 2 beat and 4 beat playing until the final (4 beat) chorus, sympathetic lines, neither too simple nor over-complicated. The banjo playing (plectrum rather than a tenor model?) is discreet, and a second clarinet (George multitracking?) joins in half way through.    I’m sure that there must be George Lewis enthusiasts who can identify the bassist. He (she?) and the banjoist don’t sound like Pavageau and Marrero to me. Any answers? - Harmoniously, John Muskett

27/07/21 - Sheila Collier writes, "Maybe this band was not based in Manchester, but I have been singing again in Copenhagen and Bornholm !  It’s great . Here is a photo
 

26/07/21 - Ed Lee tells me that Rae Owens' birthday was on 29th June, better late than never  I suppose.

26/07/21 - Re: The Barber CD set - I purchased it last week. If you have a lot of Barber in your collection, you will have a good majority of the recordings. However, an excellent tribute. Although there are two Colyer tracks on the CD, the reviewer makes no mention of Ken. Without Ken, Chris would not have had the 'springboard' he was given in 1953. The band would have started out its professional life without Pat Halcox, I wonder who Chris would have got? Others in the frame at the time, didn't want to turn professional. Things could have turned out completely differently ... funny how fate has a part to play. - Pete Lay
 

25/07/21 - Jazz is back at The Hope & Anchor pub in Ulverston on 29th July, "Hope Springs Eternal" will hopefully be playing regularly on the last Thursday in the month. See What's On for more details

25/07/21 - Many Happy Returns today to Les Harris, and tomorrow to Charlie Bentley. On Thursday it's Happy Birthday to three musicians - Barry Aldous, Rae Owen and Tom Rippeth. Two more musicians complete the week's birthdays on Friday - Jim Swinnerton & Ken Binns.

24/07/21 - The Recommended Album page has been updated, Time for Volume 2 of Vintage Merseysippi Jazz Band
 

22/07/21 - I think the Times article is referring to a new 4cd boxed set of Chris' music, and is reviewed by Denny Illett. Here's a link: - Jon Critchley

21/07/21 - Chris Barber: A Trailblazer’s Legacy review — the innovator with a taste for tradition - That's the heading of an article in the Times, published on Wednesday July 21 2021, 5.00pm. Unfortunately you have to pay to read it unless you are already a subscriber. Sadly, I'm not.

21/07/21 -  Congrats to Eagley Jazz Club. A venue I remember with affection having guested there many times with the fabulous Jim Wilkes and his energetic Stompers. Happy Days! - Derek Harrison
 

20/07/21 - Now for the bad news - The Classic Jazz Party at Whitley Bay 2021 has been cancelled and also Pershore Jazz Festival 2021 has been cancelled

20/07/21 - It's good news bad news time. First the good news - Annie’s Saints and Sinners are playing at Macclesfield Treacle Market once again between 11am and 12 noon outside the Town Hall. This is the first time since the first lockdown and Annie Cousins says, "Please forgive any mistakes if anyone comes to hear us as we have only managed one short practice in the garden".  Dave Bateman tells me that the High Society Jazz Band is back at the Bare Village Club on Sunday 15th August, 4.00-6.30pm. We are hoping that this will become a regular monthly gig again, and we are looking forward to seeing old friends and making some new ones. Admission is free, but a collection will be taken. There is ample car parking and a well-stocked and reasonably priced bar, but they do not serve food at the moment. Thirdly Allan Wilcox tells me, "Manchester Jazz  monthly session at High Lane Conservative Club begins again on Monday 2nd August". Finally Derek and Trish Galloway tell me that "The Canal Street Stompers resume their residency at the Railway in Sale on Wednesday 28th July at 8.30 and The landlord is looking forward to welcoming all you jazz fans back after such a long enforced break So are we !!".

20/07/21 - In this week's programme, Walter Love takes me back to the days of my youth - and beyond - again! Nothing to do with the North West but a stunning reminder of how it all once was on the London scene. Do give it a listen. - John Westwood

20/07/21 - Many Happy Returns today to John Percival leader of the Dixie Beats.

20/07/21 - I asked Ann Lord how it went last night at Eagley, and she told me - "John Hallam and Tom Kincaid and the lads put on a really great performance of a mixture of various genres of Jazz and were greatly appreciated by the audience. I videoed the finale which I'll put on our Facebook site for all to see. It was really great to be back to almost the ''old'' normal, apart from a few face masks. In terms of numbers, we were up to 88 registrations yesterday but had several cancellations at the last minute due to self-isolations, illness, heat and general nervousness about going into confined public places. Nevertheless, we still had around 74 people attend, which isn't bad! Most of them were members and the rest were John Hallam fans, a few of whom were interested in joining our club. It's very gratifying knowing that so many people had a good time, listening to great music and catching up with old and new friends in the club! Long may we continue to provide this service to our members!".
 

19/07/21 - To celebrate the Sefton Park Palm House’s 125th Anniversary, the Savoy Jazzmen are appearing there between 1 - 3 p.m on Tuesday 27th July
 

18/07/21 - Photo taken last Sunday at All Saints’ Parish Church Childwall. Never had so many 2nd liners before. A wonderful turnout. - Peter Swensson. Savoy Jazzmen.
 

17/07/21- Many Happy returns this week to Chris Pendlebury on Monday, Bob Pickersgill and Mike Carnie on Tuesday, Isabel Toner on Friday (23rd, not 13th as previously shown), and Brian Singleton on Saturday

17/07/21 - Quintessential Jazz, a new four piece busking band, are out on the road again, this time they will be playing outside Scoota Mart on Victoria Road in Cleveleys. The band first played on Booths Car Park in Garstang on 7th July.

17/07/21 - I've just been going through my list of 21 jazz clubs. Fifteen of them have yet to show any sign of advertising future gigs, which is somewhat depressing.

17/02/21 - Scottish Jazz Archive Board Member Graham Blamire has put a considerable amount of ink to paper in producing an excellent outline of traditional jazz and mainstream in and around Edinburgh. If you thought this site was a great collection of traditional jazz material, you ain't seen nothing yet!  Click HERE to read

17/07/21 - Saturday is new album day from now on. John Westwood suggested we should feature a NW Band, and recommended the album - " Vintage Merseysippi Jazz Band Vol.2.",  as he had just been listening to it. Nothing wrong with Volume 1, so Vol.2 can wait until next week. Click here to enjoy
 

16/07/21 - I've just received notification of the 37th Birmingham, Sandwell & Westside Jazz Festival 2021. It's from Friday 16th July, every day until Sunday 1st August when this region will once again become the centre of jazz and blues interest with 136 performances, 129 of them free admission, featuring 203 musicians in 52 bands appearing in 63 venues throughout Birmingham, Sandwell, Sutton Coldfield and Solihull as well as shows in Dudley and Redditch. It features Dixieland, Bebop, Modern Jazz, Swing, Rhythm & Blues – and there’s more - Jitterbug and Charleston dance lessons, Ukulele and Harmonica Workshops, and you can join the Festival Sketch Crawl or  get involved in the photography – and that’s all free as well. Looks like there's something for everyone, so check out the programme here

16/07/21 - A few days ago I was sent a very interesting article, written by the late Geoff Walker in Feb 1991, and printed in Jazz World. It was called, "In Defence of the Banjo", and I've taken the liberty of reproducing it on the site. Musicians in particular should find it very interesting.

14/07/21 - Eagley Jazz Club, 19th July, 8pm: John Hallam and the Tom Kincaid Trio, Ann Lord says, "If you'd like to go, please would you register your name, contact phone and email by emailing eagleyjazzclub@gmail.com or by phoning Ann on 07938171684. At the moment, Eagley Jazz Club have decided to ask for registrations for just the 19th July as it is something of an unknown quantity, also it's John Hallam who has a massive following". The application form has also been updated for those who would like to become members, so why not  save yourself £2 for this event and join now.
 

13/07/21 - I am hosting a real and in person live concert at a brand new and beautiful venue in Stoke on Trent, Etruria Methodist chapel. It shall be featuring Jamie Brownfield, Andrzej Baranek, Ed Harrison and yours truly. The date is Saturday the 31st July. It would be great to have the support of some of wonderful jazz fans in the northwest, if we get enough support it could continue as a regular venue promoting guests from around the country! For more details and tickets head to my website - .Jack Cotterill

13/07/21 - My granddaughter Ellie and I, are the last of very few who had accommodation booked at Fest Jazz, to have to cancel. Ellie, having secured a new job, cannot get time off. Trevor tells me that the lack of 200 from UK (who usually attend booking weekend passes), means this loss will put a large dent in the festival's finances. But the festival is definitely going ahead - I'm really miffed missing it. - Norman Gibson

12/07/21 - Anybody out there got an Amazon Echo?  Did you know Alexa sings the blues?  Have a listen

12/07/21 - Normally on Monday I update the Recommended Albums page (there is just one in the pipeline), but I forgot to send out News Updates via email on Wednesday, and that meant it was only yesterday that some people were notified of the latest album. In future I will update the album page on Saturdays, so enjoy ,"Kid Ory meets Red Allen 1959" a little longer.
 

11/07/21 - Now You Has Jazz, Jazz, Jazz - Special Louis Armstrong 50th Anniversary Show - Monday 12th July @7pm. Tune in on Monday (12th July) night at 7pm (UK BST, 18:00 utc/gmt) repeated at 1-2pm UK BST Wednesdays and 1am (00:00 utc/gmt) Thursday. Don’t miss the hottest sounds of classic jazz on sound of Spitfire. Tune in on Monday at 7 here : Keep Swinging, - John Petters

11/07/21 - Many Happy Returns today to Ian Royle. I recently uploaded some videos of Ian taken over the years and well worth a watch. Also Many Happy Returns to Cyril Wroe, who has retired from playing, but ran the Festival Jazzmen for several years.

09/07/21 - My condolences on the sad loss of Gerry Owen, and love and best wishes to you two , Derek and Trish. Hope we can meet again one day. Love - Sheila Collier

09/07/21 - Wednesday 7th July, in case you missed it, was the European Cup semi final day, with England winning 2-1 against Denmark. Not a night to hold a jazz club event you might think, especially as Covid restrictions don't end until the 19th. Well Joan Lester, who runs the Fleetwood Hesketh jazz club in Southport, deserves a medal for pressing on with it, as do the ten people who came to listen. I'm surprised there were so many!  I wonder if Rae Owens realised the significance of that date when he accepted the booking and recruited 3 fellow musicians to join him?  He did tell me though that when England beat Germany in the 1966 world cup, he was playing in Germany!

09/07/21 - Jonny Spall recommended I contact you about a new fortnightly residency for my traditional jazz band, starting Tuesday 13th July at 8pm at the Penrhyn Arms, Pendre Road, Penrhynside, Llandudno, LL30 3BY. Free entry, but we ask for donations in the pot in the interval please, preferably paper money!  The band is Liam Byrne, reeds, Andy MacKenzie, banjo/guitar, Neil Yates, trumpet, Andrew MacKenzie, trombone. i have attached a digital poster.  Great pages, by the way, keep up the good work!  - Neil Yates
 

08/07/21 - Graham Martindale's personal tribute to Gerry Owen begins with the well-remembered voice of Geoff Coates, banjo-player with the New Orleans Express before retiring from his deputy headship and moving to Spain. Graham also shows his photo, briefly, before switching back to Gerry for the beginning of Hushabye. His quick, deadpan humour is evident in his introduction of Gerry ('He was a fractious child. He broke both his legs') as 'Geraldo Owen' with his 'Cuban rhythm section' and of Hushabye itself as 'a lullaby sung to Gerry by his mother round about 1904'. Touring with him was a laugh a minute. //  Sadly, Geoff died in Spain nearly ten years ago, but not before publishing Going Home: The Story of the New Orleans Express in 2010. I'm sure both these events were reported in these pages when they happened, but Graham's tribute to Gerry has also stirred memories of Geoff that I felt moved to share.  //  Yesterday I found a nice YouTube clip of him playing Bourbon Street Parade with his 'Dixie Swing Band' in Nerja, Spain in October 2011 when, as we now know, he had only a few weeks to live. For anyone interested, click here
 

08/07/21 - Our first jazz session (what is one of those?!) will be on July 25th at The Royal, Delaware Avenue, Albrighton, Shropshire. WV7 3BW. The Club opens for customers at 12.00. Session from 1.00-3.00 and Admission is £7.00. Marie’s world famous rolls will no longer be available but rolls are sold from the bar as are tea and coffee along with the usual pub drinks. You can get more information, bands etc., by going to http://www.jazzclub90.co.uk/  - John and Marie Howell

08/07/21 - The funeral of GERRY OWEN will take place on Tuesday 27th July at Christ Church Thorley Lane Timperley Cheshire WA15 7AN. The service starts at 10 am and Gerry will be buried in the Church graveyard. - Derek and Trish Galloway
 

06/07/21 -  I was coming home just now and heard this great programme on the Car Radio, "King Louis the First of Britain" it is about Louis Armstrong’s many visits to Britain between 1932 and 1968. He died 50 years ago today ! He won over many admirers in the UK. Well worth listening to - Mike Feltham

06/07/21 - Very pleased to announce the return of jazz to the Royal British Legion, Pensby Road , Heswall on the 1st, 3rd & 5th Tuesdays, starting Tuesday 20th July. The Peninsula Jazzmen are looking forward to playing for old friends and new faces, in fact for anyone who wants a relaxed evening of jazz. Music starts at 8 o'clock and we finish at 10.30. See you there!! - Dave Dixson
 

05/07/221 - More tributes have been added to Gerry Owen's page

05/07/21 - This week's shared album - Jon Critchley says, "Kid Ory meets Red Allen 1959" : my introduction to Red Allen years ago. Superb. Do you have an album you'd like others to hear?  Let me know
 

04/07/21 - Many Happy Returns to three trombonists. Today to Eddie Taylor, and on Tuesday to Lindsay Taylor and Tony Dunleavy.
 

02/07/21 - Busking has returned tomorrow, with the Quintessential Swing Quartet playing on Booths Car Park in Garstang

01/07/21 - John Westwood sent me a message - need cheering up? If so, try https://youtu.be/PNtcvgudg2Q, Well it certainly cheered me up, thanks John

JUNE 2021
 

30/06/21 - The latest Just Jazz magazine has arrived, and with it, my name on the front page. Wow!  It's a tribute to all at Just Jazz that they have managed to keep the magazine going through the pandemic.

30/06/21 - Graham Martindale has posted his own personal tribute to Gerry Owen on YouTube.

30/06/21 - Leeds Jazz Club have postponed their reopening until Tuesday 20th July due to the current situation with the Covid restrictions. The first night will be Frank Brookers Happy Chappies. - Mark Croasdale
 

29/06/21 - Tribute Messages have continued to come in throughout the day for Gerry Owen. Please feel free to send me any memories you have of Gerry and I'll add them to the page.
 

28/06/21 - We are sad to announce the death of our dear friend Gerry Owen. Gerry died peacefully in hospital on Sunday 27th June, he had been ill for some time. Gerry played sax and clarinet with many bands including River City Jazz band, New Orleans Express, Tuxedo and Canal Street Stompers.  Funeral arrangements will be announced later. We send our condolences to Kay and the family.- Derek and Trish Galloway.  There is a tribute page set up for Gerry which you can view here

28/06/21 - Need a smile, check out this cartoon sent to me by Ian Royle (link corrected)

28/06/21 - "The music of Jelly Roll Morton" is the suggestion of Keith Garner for this week's recommended album which you can listen to here
 

27/06/21 - "It is with great sadness that the Committee of Eagley Jazz club has made the difficult decision to cancel our event with the Tame Valley Stompers on 5th July. Our main concerns are the safety and enjoyment of our members, guests, musicians and staff of Dunscar Conservative Club. The continuing restrictions and high levels of Covid19 in the area have influenced this difficult decision. All being well, we will go ahead on 19th July with John Hallam and the Tom Kincaid Trio. Members will soon receive a mail shot from us with full details of our programme and our club's development. For further information about our club and its activities, please email us at eagleyjazzclub@gmail.com" - Ann Lord

27/06/21 - Many Happy Returns this week to Tony Smith & Grant Hogan-Taylor. They both share birthdays on Wednesday.

26/06/21 - Just received my copy of Jazz Guide, noticeable by the lack of venues and as a result, a thinner than usual copy, but cheers for Terry Cheney for keeping it going, it must have been difficult.

24/06/21 - Unfortunately the Favourite Album page was not updated this week, so I'll leave you with Humph for another week.

24/06/21 - Jazz Guide Magazine is back!  The relaunch magazine July/August 2021 has hit the mailing house, so should be with all advertisers/subscribers by the end of the week.
 

22/06/21 - As restrictions remain in place, The Canal Street Stompers have postponed restarting jazz for a month. We will welcome you all back to the Railway in Sale on Wednesday 28th July. - Derek & Trish Galloway
 

21/06/21 - The Lockdown Pictures had come to an end, even though the lockdown hasn't, so here's some souvenir photos sent in by Keith Wadeson.

21/06/21 - The gig at the Boathouse in Ellesmere for 8th July has been cancelled due to you know what. It has now been re scheduled for 5th August. - Mike Carnie.

21/06/21 - The Savoy Jazzmen are leading the worship at All Saints' Parish Church, Childwall Abbey Road, Childwall, Liverpool. L16 5EY. at 3.45 p.m. on Sunday 11th July. The service starts with a Mardi Gras Parade from the church hall car park to the church. Everyone welcome. Bring your brolly/parasol and join in the parade numbers. There will be a special parade for the children.

21/06/21 - Joan Lester has rung and confirmed that despite freedom day not arriving today, it's still all systems go for the Fleetwood Hesketh on the 7th July when the Rae Owen Quartet are set to play.
 

20/06/21 - The nephew of Bangor-born Harry Parry, the famous clarinettist and jazz band leader, is asking the people of Bangor for their memories of Harry or his siblings.Mike Taylor is writing a very personal biography of his uncle and has asked the people of Bangor to help with any memories they might have or stories of Harry & the Parry family who lived at No. 60 Caellepa which have been passed down by grandparents or parents. More on the story here. You can also see a video of the band

20/06/21 - Many Happy Returns today to Tom Kincaid. Tomorrow, Roa Island Jazz Promoter Malcolm Cookson will celebrate his, along with clarinet player Wally Fawkes who by my reckoning will have reached the grand old age of 94. Tuesday sees another clarinet player,  Barrie Marshall,  having a birthday celebration, and on Friday it will be the turn of pianist Pete Major.  Finally, on Saturday, bass player Pete Fielding will have his birthday. Many Happy Returns to you all and I hope you have a great week.
 

19/06/21 - Ann Lord writes, "Just to let you know that despite the current restrictions, Eagley Jazz Club will continue with the first 2 events on 5th and 19th July. Our venue has allowed us to have 60 people in the audience with similar rules to restaurants. We will contact all members by email and post this coming week to inform them that we will be taking registrations for both events. All being well, the 19th will go ahead as normal, with John Hallam and the Tom Kincaid Trio, and we should know by 12th July. Anyone wishing to be added to our mailing list and requiring further information, please email eagleyjazzclub@gmail.com ".

19/06/21 -  An article on Louis Armstrong (50 years on, and still on song) has appeared in Jazzwise Magazine
 

17/06/21 - Jazz at The Fleetwood Hesketh in Southport in the future will start at 8pm instead of 8-30pm
 

16/06/21 - David Leithead writes, "Banjo & Guitar sale - David Straker, a mate I've known for 73 years, is having a clear-out of some of his instruments so I've offered to notify all my contacts who may be interested in acquiring any of them. The collection is being taken to Auction next week so give David a ring a. s. a. p. if you are interested in making a purchase. They are located at Nottingham".  Contact me for more details - Fred

16/06/21 - Sorry to say that the much awaited return of The Original Panama Jazz Band to The Irby Club will now be 4th August, delayed due to you-know-what. - Jon Critchley
 

14/06/21 - Ed Lloyd-Hughes is now down to 3 double basses having sold the one that was advertised on this site a month ago.

14/06/21 - John Howell has chosen Humphrey Lytttelton to feature on the Album of The Week
 

13/06/21 - Many Happy Returns today to Keith Hockin who made several trip to the NW when he was leading the Antique Six, and Barbara & I have called to see him on a couple of occasions at his antique shop in Stow on The Wold. Tomorrow it's Many Happy Returns to Richard Leach, and Dave Wright on Tuesday.
 

12/06/21 - I started a project some time ago when Ian Royle sent me copies of copied video tapes that had been transferred to DVD, but as you can imagine the video quality was somewhat lacking, but it was worth it for the the audio content which had suffered much less.  I selected a couple of video examples taken from videos of the different bands Ian had played with and created a playlist called Focus on Ian Royle which you can now see on YouTube, and well worth a listen.

12/06/21 - I've just added a link to Keramos Jazz Echoes. Keith Garner writes, ", I recently set up a YouTube channel called Keramos Jazz Echoes with the idea of putting up some of the audio recordings I've made down the years. Virtually all the recordings were made while I was part of the band so getting anything usable was largely a matter of luck, but my main purpose in doing the channel  is historic rather than sonic. A good example of what I mean is "Fidgety Feet" which was recorded in 1971 when the Mardi Gras Society Band used to play at The Midland Hotel in West Didsbury. It's definitely not hi-fi, but it does capture something of the enthusiasm that was always a feature.".

12/06/21 - The mystery of the singing bird is solved says Jon Critchley. "Well, I’ve been chatting to Maurice Baker; he has numerous Youtube entries and is an expert:  He has analysed it and done a spectrograph of it to determine that the bird is......................  A Great Tit.  Geoff, your suspicions are confirmed.  The Great Tit has over 70 songs in its vocabulary.  This particular one doesn’t feature on his YouTube pages.

11/06/21 - Ian Royle writes, "John Brown assures me that the bass player was Ken Ingarfield who played with Sid Lawrence's orchestra. I should have remembered that because I did regular 'deps' for Sid. I have a terrific video taken at 'Battle of Flowers' week in 1984 (Orwell eat your heart out-we had FUN) and I played with Andy Smith's 'band within a band' (Ken was a member), otherwise known as the 'Hundred Proof Jazz Band' within Sid's unit and down at the James Brindley pub in Birmingham".

11/06/21 - "Those contemplating going down to Fest Jazz Brittany may find this Guardian article helpful", writes Norman Gibson. Mind you here in Lancashire we are currently advised not to leave the County, and the way the Covid rate is currently rising, no other country will want any of us anyway! 

11/06/21 - The unknown bass player with John Brown's Bodies on Music While You Work is not Dickie Hawdon, sadly I never worked with him (though I met him at the College). I'll e-mail John Brown !! - Ian Royle
 

09/06/21 - Many Happy Returns today to Brian Turnock, bass player who spent time in the NW but now resides in Belgium and plays with the New Orleans Z'hulus

09/06/21 - Hi Fred, I think that the “unknown” bass player on Ian’s broadcast would have been Dickie Hawdon.  I did a one-off broadcast with the band in late 1979, and Dickie was the bass player then, having moved up to Leeds after playing trumpet with John Dankworth’s Big Band. Like Ian himself and Dave Browning, Dickie was one of the few great jazzers who were also great lead trumpeters. - Frank Slater
 

08/06/21 - Jazz at The Lakes with John Hallam & Friends has been added to the Jazz Weekends and Festivals page
 

07/06/21 - I've spared you all Jon Critchley's version of his mystery bird played on his descant recorder, because he's just tweeted me the real thing. Now someone out there should be able to put his mind at rest, my money's on a traditional blackbird. No modern ones allowed on this site. Shelley Perry writes, "Having now heard the real thing, I’m convinced it’s a blackbird!".

07/06/21 - In reply to Paul Medina yesterday, Personnel were John Brown (leader clarinet. alto sax,) Colin Hulme (clt/alto) Mick Burney (tenor,hughes

 clarinet), Bob Wilson (tbn), Ian Royle,(tpt), Bryan Layton (pno), Jim Birkett (gtr), ? (bass) and John Gibson (drums).

07/06/21 -  The Parade Jazzband is returning to the Black Horse Lower Heswall starting tomorrow night Tuesday, the 8th of June.

07/06/21 - A new week and a new favourite album, once again, through lack of suggestions, you'll have to put up with mine. It's an LP I bought and which to me at the time after endless plays of Bobby Shaftoe, Merrydown Rag and Ice Cream, was refreshingly new and different, Chris Barber like I'd never heard the band before -  Elite Syncopations.
 

06/06/21 - I thoroughly enjoyed Ian Royle's links to John Brown's Bodies on Music While You Work. I would be interested to know if Ian can recall any of the personnel on the recording. - Paul Medina 

06/06/21 - Bert Allen has now been added to the tribute page

06/06/21 - Many Happy Returns on Monday to someone who I have been communicating with for years first in Spain, now back in the UK, and who has sent me endless CDs over the years  - John Westwood. On Friday, Happy Birthday to an ex Mancunian musician, now in his home country, Ireland - Des Hopkins. Truly an international flavour this week.

04/06/21 - It would appear we have no twitchers in our readership as nobody came up with the solution to Jon Critchley's query "I keep hearing this bird, but never see it. Can anyone tell me which one sings this, over and over? Well it struck me that if we had, they may not be readers of music, so here's Jon's version of it for those who aren't sight readers. Can't say I've ever heard a bird sounding like this though.

04/06/21 - I was interested in your view with regards the All Party Parliamentary Jazz Appreciation Group Jazz Survey. You are correct in saying; “if we ignore it, we don't exist, so do your bit and have a go at it”.  I did the survey three times (I’ll shall never recover that 45 minutes in my life again) as a Promoter – Musician – Audience. As you say there are glaring omissions, which makes it very difficult for Traditional/Mainstream/Dixieland partakers to complete the survey with honesty. Just Jazz is mentioned – only once – but only if you do the survey as a musician. Jazz Guide is not mentioned at all, neither your own excellent website Jazz NorthWest. As a musician or promoter there is no mention of African/American or American White or Australian White or Black or various ethnicity ... WHY??  I can’t see how this survey is going to be a saviour for our music or return us to normality after we rid ourselves of Covid. To me this survey is to collect data about ‘political correctness’ about diversity and equality – it has really nothing to do with getting back to business and performing properly again or being able to promote events to capacity audiences. It is data collection!! - Pete Lay

04/06/21 - "Happy to inform you that we now have a complete programme for the year! The missing date of 1st Nov has been filled by the very excellent Harlem Hot Stompers!  - Ann Lord for Eagley Jazz Club

03/06/21 - It is a sad task for me to report the death of my very close friend and jazz vocalist, Bertram (Bert) Allen, yesterday morning..2 JUNE 2021 after an illness of a few months. In his last weeks, Bert was in the tender care of his friend Christine who assures me that he slipped away peacefully in the company of his two sons and his friend, the vicar of his church. In view of current restrictions, the funeral, not yet dated, is likely to be a small, family event but the two sons have asked me to invite a few musicians who frequently gigged with BERT. Should restrictions suddenly change, normal customs will apply. Bert sang with all the names in Manchester, notably the Saints, Smoky City, Harlem Hot Stompers, Pete Haslam's Collegians. Between us he and I ran The Taverners and the Howard Allen Band..or was it the Allen Howard band, based in Blackley. Bert also 'depped' when bands needed a vocalist. Missed and remembered on Manchester's Jazz circuit. - Howard Murray

03/06/21 - Dave Lethead's cartoon (30/05/21), is no joke it is true. I can think of two clubs where we have had two change seats where they have all been showing their holiday snaps and generally talking over the musicians.

03/06/21 - This has just appeared on a local community web site here in Preston, but don't get excited, I doubt it will live up to our expectations, but with no program listing to go off, who knows? - "Preston's Jazzin' the Park is being held online this year, rather than its native home Winckley Square. We have global line up of artist this year who've provided exclusive videos of their performances which have been lovingly stitched together by the Jazzin' the Park Productions Dj crew, with vinyl only sets. Tune in at our website www.jazzinthepark.uk".

03/06/21 - I was a little taken aback this morning when I read this headline in the Scottish Herald - "Festival preview: Pop, Jazz & Trad".  Fear not, Trad Jazz has not been sidelined, it's the abbreviated name for "In The Tradition", a series of Edinburgh International Festival concerts, co-promoted with Celtic Connections and Edinburgh’s Soundhouse organisation.
 

02/06/21 - John Westwood says, "If you've not listened to Walter Love's Jazz Club from Northern Ireland this week, you'll have missed hearing lots of old friends (including Chris) in action. You can hear it by clicking here

02/06/21 - Re previous item, Jon says, "How stupid. Select from the following:  A: Not worth the time and effort, B: Nobody could glean anything worthwhile from it, and C: All of the above.
 

01/06/21 - Jon Critchley has alerted me to the All Party Parliamentary Jazz Appreciation Group Jazz Survey. Haven't we had one of those somewhere before? There's a separate questionnaire for promoters, musicians, audience, festivals and Organisations. It's difficult to imagine how anyone could conduct a survey that covers every area of jazz, so you'll soon begin to see that some questions just don't apply to our style of jazz and our clubs. Having said that, if we ignore it, we don't exist, so do your bit and have a go at it. I did and soon discovered I could say in answer to question 1) that I listened to jazz daily, and in the next question, I could answer that I listened "Occasionally - I do not listen every day".  Q16 gives a list of magazines, blogs etc., and asks which ones I read.  I couldn't see any (what happened to Just Jazz?), so answered 'None of these', only to be told I must choose 3, so I chose "Sandy Brown Jazz", "Other", and "None of these"!  Andrew Liddle would have a hard job analysing this one!

MAY 2021
 

31/05/21 - Howard Murray says, "Did I ever send you this? Well yes you did Howard, in September last year, but it's worth another look. A live streaming webcam in colour on Bourbon Street, New Orleans, and it's starting to wake up again.

31/05/21 - Time for a new 'favourite album', and this week John Westwood recommends "Here is Chris Barber.", John says, "I know you're seriously thinking of ditching it, and I know it's a month since a serious birthday went by almost in silence but this one album that contains a dozen classics: One of the tracks has had almost a million Spotify plays, but I wonder just how many readers have heard the others?".

30/05/21 - Leeds Jazz Club will be starting up again on Tuesday 6th July, 8pm and then every Tuesday after that. Due to the closure of the Armley Conservative Club it will now be held at The Main Line Club, Pudsey Road, Leeds, LS13 4LS. The club has a large concert room with a stage and plenty of car parking.  Band details will follow shortly. - Mark Croasdale

30/05/21 - Many Happy returns on Tuesday to jazz promoter Graham Brook, and on Friday to musician Jeff Milner

30/05/21 - The June issue of Just Jazz Magazine is now out and about. My thanks to the editor, Pete Lay, for giving a plug and link to the post covid jazz survey I carried out with the help of Andrew Liddle. In the same issue there's a letter from Tony Sheldon (Jazz on a Sunday) wondering what the future holds for musicians and fans alike and asks some very pertinent questions. Well worth a read

30/05/21 - Dave Lethead sent me this cartoon, which quite amused me.

30/05/21 - Ian Royle writes, "Hello Fred, Thought you'd enjoy this. The Beeb had a 'nostalgia week' which among other things had five days of 'Music While You Work' featuring, among others, Edmund O'Ross (the Irish Latin American specialist), Ray Ellington and errr, us !! This is John Browns Bodies a bit antiseptic but it was a Beeb session".

30/05/21 - More details of the jazz weekend at North West Castle in Stranraer have come in, including details of bands and pricee

30/05/21 - On 13/05, Susan Enefer asked for help locating a newspaper article which her father wrote. She now writes, "I’ve found several articles about Louis’ 1956 UK visit in the Louis Armstrong House Museum’s digital collection (thanks to Steve Andrews for his suggestion). I was able to view them online and the one I’m looking for was published under my father’s Dave Duke byline in the ‘Manchester Evening Chronicle’ not the ‘Empire News’, as I thought. I’ve submitted a request for an official copy, as there are copyright issues, and am waiting for their reply. Again, many thanks to you and your readers for helping me in my search".
 

29/05/21 - Like the Phoenix rising from the Covid ashes,  the Worth Valley Hot Stompers has been reborn as the Worth Valley Hot 7  led once again by Mark Croasdale and is now listed on the Band Spotlight page. The new band starts with a Jazz Evening in the grounds of Kiplin Hall on Friday July 9th
 

28/05/21 - "Recently, I came across a magazine produced in Crail, Scotland, in 1957, when I was doing National Service and It brought to mind my time there when, among other things, I remembered playing jazz with Gordon Stafford in the camp hall, where we were both serving; he was a far better musician than I could ever be". So starts an interesting reminiscence  by Peter Cottee which I've added to the end of Gordon Stafford's tribute page

26/05/21 - Hello Fred. Anything Goes swing trio...... In March we lost our brilliant guitarist and friend David Allsop to cancer. We have now re-grouped with David Bateman on guitar and banjo and Gerry Clayton on Bass. We have had a couple of little outside gigs so far this year as part of our practice. This weekend we are playing outside at Rubys cafe. On the prom in Morecambe, (next block to the Clarendon hote)l. Starting at 12 noon. Anyone wishing to come please bring picnic chairs as seating is a bit limited. There are teas and snacks but no booze.

26/05/21 - Two jazz clubs have been in contact to say they are back in business - Eagley Jazz Club with gigs for the rest of the year, where Ann Lord tells me, "I've been hanging back to see what happens with the Covid variant in Bolton but these variants could go on for ever - at some point, we just have to get on with life!  Fingers crossed we don't have to cancel anything". And The Fleetwood Hesketh in Southport where Joan is taking a tentative step to see what the reaction is, although the fans are telling her they are looking forward to returning.

24/05/32 - I never met Mick Potts but played with one or two guys from Preston and the North who had done. This anecdote is probably the only one I dare ask Fred to print, and came from a Blackburn and Darwin Piano and Clrt. player. Potts had been booked at "stately " type home near Preston, for a very formal dinner dance..tails & black tie an' all that, eh?  The 4tet arrived in very good time and as the guests went in to dine, Pottsy, as my friend called him, realised that there was fine collection of paintings, scattered around the reception area and on walls up a very impressive, noble stairway.Apparently, Mick had an appreciation of such art and waiting to be called in to play, he was half way up this staircase studying at the paintings. Suddenly, the front doors burst open and an everso, terribly terribly, young couple burst in , he in formal garb and a white scarf and she wearing a skirt which wouldn't reach her knees without a rope ladder and almost wearing a blouse which would be low topped if it indeed had a top. She saw Mick in dinner jacket and mistaking him for a waiter, said in an awfully, cut glass accent."I say! I say !"  (Who likes being addressed as "I say!"?), "We're dreadfully late! Where are the guests?"  Pottsy is recorded as saying, with maximum, Maitre De pomposity.  "Modom. The guests have gone IN to dine. Should I announce that the Strippagram has arrived?"

24/05/21 - The Wednesday Quiz might have ended, but Jon Critchley has come up with an unusual quiz for musicians and bird lovers. He says, "I keep hearing this bird, but never see it. Can anyone tell me which one sings this, over and over? Remember to play it with feeling, up a tree. It's almost the middle 8 of "Over the Rainbow", as whistled by Richard Briars in "The Good Life"! ".
 

23/05/21 - Re Gateway Jazz Band, Thanks for putting this on, Great band: Great vocals also. Mick Potts was A1. - Jon Critchley

23/05/21 - Many Happy Returns this week to Malcolm Hogarth on Wednesday, and Bruce Carnaffin and Dave Dixson on Thursday.
 

21/05/21 - Some time ago, I raised the memories of V.O.A Jazz hour and the presenter Willis Conover. (What a distinctive voice!). It has just passed the 100th anniversary of his birth. Recently I got this from a Ham friend in Florida, asking if it was of any interest to me. Not Trad but good viewing. Enjoy, - Howard Murray

21/05/21 - Great news ! Jazz at The Railway in Sale is back. The Canal Street Stompers resume their residency on Wednesday 30th June at 8.30 and then every last Wednesday in the month.  We hope to see all you Covid survivors there soon. - Derek and Trish Galloway

21/05/21 - Terry Birkinhead has a collection of 50 L.P. records (and 1 EP) of Traditional Jazz bands from 14 different countries – excluding the U.K and the U.S.A. – that are for sale, all in good condition, from the 1970’s and 1980’s. The proceeds would be donated to the North West Air Ambulance Service. Further details are on the Sales Page
 

19/05/21 - A suitable home has now been found for the cornet case from Steve Duckles.

19/05/21 - Steve Duckles (son of Alan and Gerry), writes, "I am currently engaged with the sad task of clearing my parents' home of possessions, so that the house can be sold. I have a soft case for a cornet which is filled with various accessories - several mutes and stands etc. I would love to find a good home for these items if possible - I'm giving them away free of charge if someone can collect them from me in Lancaster. Could you possibly spread the word for me please?".  If interested, please contact me and I'll pass any enquiries on, and that way I can announce when they have gone. - Fred

19/05/21 - On 06/05, Don Armstrong recalled depping for one of two brothers from Carlisle, when they played at a King's College Newcastle Arts Ball at the Oxford- alleries. He couldn't recall the name of the band and thus started a string of memories of the band - The Gateway Jazz Band, and its members, one of whom was bass player Colin Smith who played with Mart Rodger's band. Linda Smith, wrote to me and sent me a photograph, and a copy of the LP they had made.  I've added this to the list of lost recordings, and it can be heard by going to this page

18/05/21 - End of lockdown and end of the lockdown quiz. I'm sure all those of you have enjoyed the 60 sets of quizzes provided by Bert Thomson, will join me in thanking Bert for keeping the brain ticking over, all these past weeks. Today's final quiz is the fourth in the Hidden Instruments series

17/05/21 - Graham Martindale ends the series of lockdown pictures, with a couple of photographs in lockdown pictures 8

17/05/21 - I first played with John Barnes at Hyde CC. jazz, It was the day I had bought my Baritone Sax.. John spotted it (never met him before) and instantly wanted to buy it. It is a Pan American, badge-cloned Cohn. He had an identical one with him and said that head been searching for a second one for years. I didn't take him on but he repeated the offer at the end of the gig. When he was playing he had this mock disdain for musical quoting.. ie slipping in a phrase from something else well known. (Often did it himself) He would pull a disapproving face or frown. At Southport, with the Smoky City Jazz he gave a couple of frowns and eventually put his hand in his top pocket and flashed me a red card. The crowd howled with laughter. Alway VERY entertaining to crowds and musicians. His playing must now be enjoyed on YouTube. - Howard Murray

17/05/21 - My show this week on www.mykindamusic24.com (20 May - 9PM) is my first instalment of "Ellingtonia". All pieces by Ellington and Strayhorn with some performed and arranged by other bands .Expect to hear the likes of Joe Temperley, Loren Schoenberg, Echoes of Ellington, Don Sebesky, Mark Masters, James Chirillo and Joe Henderson. Diggable sounds abound... - Frank Griffiths

17/05/21 -  "Humph and Buck Clayton in perfect accord and I think mutual appreciation and respect for each other", says Jon Critchley as he selects this weeks Spotify Album

17/05/21 - Welcome to the start of Covid freedom, and with it comes the ability to visit your favourite jazz venues once again, but be aware there are still distancing procedures in place and seating will be restricted. What's On has been completed cleared out and now only shows the events have been recently confirmed.

16/05/21 - Many Happy Returns this week to Phil Lucas (today), John Higham (Tues), Paul Medina (Wed), Peter Fryer (Thu), and Dave Donohoe (Sat).

16/05/21 -  Susan Enefer writes, "Many thanks to you and Peter Eddowes for your help and suggestions (13/05/21). I had already tried the British Newspaper Archive but didn’t find the article but will try the John Rylands archives. I’ve also contacted the Louis Armstrong House Museum in NYC and am waiting to hear back. The Google results you found all concern my father. Besides being a newspaperman he wrote detective fiction novels, many of which were translated into foreign languages. He also wrote two books about jazz - Daily Dispatch Jazz Book and Jazz in Black and White - plus a few TV scripts and a play. He had a jazz column in various Manchester and other newspapers under his own name and also used the byline Dave Duke. Friday/Saturday nights he DJ’d at the Bodega Club.  A few years ago while visiting my brother, who lived in Sale, I came across the original of the Louis Armstrong article among a pile of faded newspaper clippings - my father had kept all his ‘Empire News’ show biz articles. Unfortunately, all these clippings went missing after my brother passed away in 2017.  Thanks, again, for posting and your help. I’ll let you know if I’m successful."
 

15/05/21 - My thanks to Alan Bond who spotted I had John Barnes' age incorrect. He was actually born in 1932, making him 89 today.  Back in 2017. I announced his 90th, and last year I announced he was 93. Both those inaccuracies went by unnoticed, so where were my proof readers when I needed them?
 

14/05/21 -  At a committee meeting at Wilmslow Conservative Club last night, the decision was made to allow me to recommence my weekly jazz shows with a grand opening date of August 3rd. As soon as I have August and September booked, I (or, in reality, Neil Clarke) will update my website accordingly.- Graham (Brook)

14/05/21 - Re: The Gateway Jazz Band, I have a recording of a broadcast in Holland, October 1982.- Gerard Bielderman

14/05/21 - The Chicago Teddybears are ready to accept bookings. "Our regular venues which will be restarting are - Grappenhall Ex-service club Every fourth Thursday starting July 22nd and Eastham Golf club every second Friday starting July 9th. For more details, contact me on 0151 525 6900" - Rae Owens
 

13/05/21 - Just a thought, but perhaps this lady might try the Louis Armstrong Museum in New York. They have large collections of Armstrong related stuff including lots on his European tours. The director, Ricky Riccardi, is an authority on all things Armstrong, too, so this might be a good place to start. - Steve Andrews

13/05/21 -  Hearing everybody Talking about the Carlisle jazz scene and Mick Potts, I used to play at the Carlisle Jazz Club on trumpet with Gordon Solomon’s “ Phoenix Jazzmen” from Newcastle in the 1960s before I got into the Big-Band scene at the “Oxford Galleries in Newcastle with Jack Hawkins “ Sound of the Seventies” showband, Great times, lots of fun. Derek Dalton

13/05/21 - My father, Douglas Enefer, was the Northern show columnist for the Empire News in the 1950s-1960s and interviewed Louis Armstrong when he performed in Manchester in 1956. I have been trying to find a copy of the published interview, so far without success, and wonder if by chance any of your readers might have a copy among their memorabilia. - Susan Enefer, Sidney, BC, Canada

13/05/21 - There was a duplicated question in Wednesday's quiz, this has now been sorted.
 

12/05/21 - Curly Jones has retired from running the RiverCity Jazzmen. He's sent me a pictorial history of the band's memorable gigs, and says that, "It would be lovely if we had some feedback from musicians with memories of playing with the band when they see the photos!".  Let me have your memories and I'll add them to the page.

12/05/21 - Hi Fred,  Picked up on this band from your Jazz Site . Bria Skonberg is a the leader on trumpet / vocals . https://youtu.be/qcxXEAF1MOo. Hope you enjoy this. - Peter  Darwin

12/05/21 - I'm emailing you on behalf of the Alsager Golf & Country Club Jazz Society to say that we are starting up again on 20th May, weekly on Thursdays as before but with all the necessary social distancing rules for indoor music & drinks that you would expect. We kick off with Gair Carson on sax/flute with Richard Wetherall & the house bass & drums for rhythm section. Then we have Darren Lloyd on 27th May, followed by Alex Clarke on 3rd June. Details can be found on our website, linked via yours. A big welcome is assured to all our old gang & hopefully some new faces too. - Kind regards Sarah

12/05/21 - I know that we're not North West but in case any of your readers take boating holidays here goes. Our little band J for Jazz plays traditional jazz every Friday lunchtime at the Foxton Locks Inn, Foxton, nr Market Harborough, Leicestershire. The area is very beautiful, and visitors come from all over the world to see the series of ten locks, and the inclined plane which was used to drag canal traffic up the hill. The pub serves food in a large conservatory overlooking the canal, and there are usually several real ales on the go. J for Jazz is the longest running jazz band in Leicestershire. It is led by cornetist 'Rev' John Timms, renowned for his gospel and blues singing. On trombone is Avo Avison, still blowing strong in his 80s, famous for playing with Acker, and then for years with the Bob Wallis band. Musicians are always welcome to have a blow, so we hope that sometime some Northern folks can join us. - John Irwin (Well at least I know there's one person from that area that reads my emails, thanks John - Fred)

12/05/21 - I've emailed all musicians on my mailing list to inform them that all unconfirmed residencies and gigs currently appearing as 'cancelled', will not appear in What's On after 16th May,  unless told otherwise. Responses are now coming in.

12/05/21 - Mike Feltham sent me an interesting article from The Telegraph which suggested that listening to jazz can influence you in making better dietary choices.  Researchers found that a slow high pitched jazz melody  played on the piano, nudged people towards a healthy meal!  Well that's where I've been going wrong then, I've been listening to fast foot tapping stuff in the belief that the  exercise would help my weight problem! Unfortunately if you click the link you might find you can't read the article unless you are a Telegraph subscriber.

12/05/21 - John and Marie Howell who run Jazz Club 90 in Albrighton, writes, "I told you that we were planning to start on May 30th then we had some bad news yesterday!  After all the planning and working out the "safe" capacity of our new venue would be 65-70 we were told that it is reduced to only 50, this means our already booked audience of 67 would have to be whittled down.  The problems this would create in deciding who couldn't come for the gigs in June meant the only fair way to do it was to cancel them all.  This then meant the lovely job of cancelling the bands and notifying the audience....who'd be a promoter?!!  Fortunately we have had no complaints and everyone is happy to wait until July.   I will let you know how we get on as several of the musicians in your area play for us"

12/05/21 - It's Wednesday, and time for the penultimate quiz No. 59 from Bert Thompson. This week it's about  jazz bands who are non-U.S. and non-U.K. Name the country from which each hails/hailed.
 

11/05/21 -  Lovely to catch up on dear old Horst's travels from John Muskett but how many of us realize that Horst had a big part to play in our everyday safety? Read more from Jeff Roberts at the end of the updated page.

11/05/21 - With reference to Don Armstrong asking about a Carlisle band in the 50's it sounds as though it was the Gateway, the leader being Mick Potts whose brother played clarinet. Mick played trumpet & piano and vocals . My late husband Colin Smith ( who had the nickname Sycamore) played washboard originally ( as in this photo ) he then taught himself tuba and later double bass. The tuba player in the photo is Peter Myers ( who I am still in touch with). Al Potts is on clarinet. I'm not sure who the banjo player and trombonist are on the photo but can find out. I can give more history if Don would like to know more. Colin later went on to play with Mart Rodger Manchester Jazz.-  Linda Smith (Click picture for full size - Fred)

11/05/21 - Re the Peter Bledge info. re the above. The Gateway played at the Garret Club, Devonshire St., Carlisle during the 50/60s. I shared the trumpet chair with Mick Potts when my army duties allowed from 1955 until 1957. When I was available Mick took over the piano stool his first love. The line up was Al Potts clar, Mick. Norman Healy Creed tmb., Albert Holliday dms,. Colin Sycamore Smith tuba, the banjo was shared between Buddy & Cooky. Sorry I can't remember their full names, it's an age thing. - Bill Robinson.

11/05/21 - In order to clarify what's happening in the North West regarding jazz clubs and jazz gigs, as from 17th May, I've removed all residencies andt gigs that were previously marked as cancelled during the pandemic,  All bands will need to notify me of any residencies that have resumed, and any new bookings so that they can be added to What On

11/05/21 - I'm pleased to say that The Original Panama Jazz Band will resume its first and third Wednesday  night residency at The Irby Club on 7th July, 8.00 start, free admission as usual.  The Club has gone to great effort to ensure a safe environment for all the staff and customers. It has had successful visits from Covid compliance officers;  also the Club has been "fogged": meaning that all surfaces have been disinfected prior to the re-opening and is as safe as it can be.  It will be great to see all the regulars again. Hope the band isn't "foggy" as well! - Jon Critchley
 

10/05/21 - Monday and time for another record on the jukebox of recommended albums from yourselves. This week is a departure in that I recently discovered that one band name that appeared on the site over the years and I hadn't heard on record, was the Zenith Six. Now I've found it on Spotify and can well understand why it was so popular. 17 tracks of sheer joy!  Unfortunately this will be the last album in the series unless I get another recommendation, it doesn't appear to be a popular addition to the site.

10/05/21 - The mention of the Gateway Jazz Band re Don Armstrong’s enquiry brings back many happy memories of Mick Potts. Mick left us in 1993 at the age of 57 after his 3rd heart attack, a true legend in his own lifetime. His older brother was Al Potts who Mick taught to play clarinet and they formed the Gateway in1953. Mick was a classical trained pianist who after getting the jazz bug taught himself to play the trumpet.   Mick was a close friend of Wild Bill Davison and they played together in Carlisle with Mick on piano although I recollect Jim Willis Gateway’s pianist taking Mick's place when Mick suffered one of his heart attacks. Think the venue was near the cattle market.   Mick brought many big names to Carlisle . Oscar Peterson,George Chisholm, Alex Welsh, Britains Greatest Jazz Band, Sammy Rimington, WASO and even Jimmy Deuchar which showed that whilst he was a traditionalist in the mould of Armstrong he could enjoy Modern.   Yes my highlight of any week was travelling the 33 miles from Dumfries down to Carlisle every Sunday Sing Something Simple on the car radio at 7, 0 clock and then entering the real world of Micks Club at 7.45 before returning home suitably refreshed with English Bitter {our wives took it in turn to drive} and JAZZ HOUR on the radio at midnight. Shame I had to go to work on the Monday. - Peter Bledge

10/05/21 - Thanks to John Muskett for his feedback. I’m doing ok here near Paris, i have a steady jazz music teaching job, and hopefully the gigs will pick up soon. On the bass front, no, I have no intention of tuning in fifths! Trading fours between myself (arco to pizzicato) was the idea of session producer French saxophonist Francois Jeanneau. I just practiced soloing pizz with the bow in my hand, so i could switch back fast. I was fortunate to see Red a couple of times in Paris in the 1990’s. For me one of his best recordings is live in Paris salle Pleyel with Mulligan and Brookmeyer in 1954, check it out!  - Gary Brunton

10/05/21 - Long time site visitors  will no doubt cringe when they hear the name Horst Kitzinfangel. Well he's back, and John Muskett has been digging into Horst's early years. For those who were not lucky enough to catch him first time round, you have a lot of catching up to do, simply click here. The rest of you will have to scroll to the bottom of the page to reveal the latest. Jeff Roberts reckoned the trianglist was born in Bermuda, I wonder how he got to Austria, in one of these perhaps?
 

09/05/21 - Many Happy returns on Monday to Norman Gibson (right), who is celebrating by having his hair cut!  On Tuesday it's Happy Birthday to Darren Lloyd, and on Wednesday to Martin Bennett. John Barnes, will be having his 94th birthday on Saturday still residing in a care home  as far as I am aware.

08/05/21 - I enjoyed listening to Gary Brunton’s tribute to Red Mitchell. A number of us tuning in to Fred’s site probably like jazz in a variety of styles, though I struggle with some of the developments after the post-bop era. Gary gets a lovely springy plucked sound from his bass, and it was good to hear some bowing. On more than one occasion when switching between pizzicato and arco I’ve managed to drop the bow – I’m not sure what the musical term is for the thud as the bow hits the deck (I know what my expression is).  Red was a superb, if idiosyncratic, bassist. Has Gary tried his tuning in fifths? A favourite CD of mine is Jive at Five by the Clark Terry/Red Mitchell Duo. I hope that Gary has managed to find enough playing and teaching work to sustain him over the last twelve months. I’m beginning to wonder whether I’ll get any gigs (paid or unpaid) ever again. - Best wishes to you Fred and Barbara, to all your readers, et bonne chance à Gary. - Harmoniously, John Muskett

07/05/21 - Following on from the 'shed building' comments, Ian Royle submitted this which came from Lee Slater-sax player from Stone. "The longest drum solo was 10 hours and 26 minutes-and was performed by the child sitting behind me on Delta flight 963 from LA to Tokyo".

07/05/21 - Terry Birkinhead has sent in another interesting photograph taken in May 1995 of the Wirrorleans Jazz Band doing their bit to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of VE Day.

07/05/21 - On 26/04/21, Mart Rodger's widow, Janet, mentioned George Buck and the Zenith Six.  Janet kindly told me a little more about Mart's acquaintance with George Buck, and I've added that to the bottom of George Buck tribute page. It was in response to me wondering about the Zenith Six's other recordings.

07/05/21 - After trawling my site, Don Armstrong now seems to feel the name of the band was the Gateway Band from Carlisle, and the leader was Mick Potts. If anyone can add further information, please let me know and I'll pass it on - Fred

06/05/21 - I played Clarinet in the Panama Jazzmen on Tyneside in the 1950's and had a great blow on one occasion, depping for one of the brothers from Carlisle, at a King's College Newcastle Arts Ball at the Oxford Galleries. The other brother led the band and played fine trumpet and I think the name of the band was the Castle Jazz Band??   Do you have any information re their musical careers etc. If not no probs but I often tell people about the great night I had without being able to name names. I now live in Adelaide and play quite often with Derek Dalton and in 2019 I was in UK and played a couple of sessions with Bob Wade and Gordon Solomon in the River City Jazz Band at Ashington Jazz Club. - Don Armstrong

06/05/21 - John Brunton's son Gary, has emailed to say, "I know you guys are mainly concentrated on New Orleans jazz but please take look at this video put together by my record label on a tune i wrote and recorded as a tribute to the great Red Mitchell. My album « Second Trip » will be reviewed in Jazzwise July edition. All the best from France.

05/05/21 - I enjoyed Andrew Liddle’s excellent interview in May’s edition of “Just Jazz” with vocalist Tatiana Eva Marie. She is of French/Swiss nationality and is usually based in New York. Partly as a result of the Covid crisis, she has been staying and performing in France these last few months and we had provisionally booked her for Fest Jazz in July along with a great young New Orleans style band led by Joë Santoni. I was on the point of sending you some videos for your site as I’m not sure many UK jazz fans had heard of her. Sadly for the festival, and happily for everyone else, the health situation has improved and she is returning to Switzerland and the States. No reason however for your readers not to see some of the videos which have millions of followers: https://youtu.be/a5Za8pKGT2E  and https://youtu.be/N4zOi8h-Uds. There are dozens of others on You Tube. I am sure many of your readers will appreciate her. Hopefully, so will we at Fest Jazz 2022…. - Trevor Stent

05/05/21 - Time for the Wednesday Quiz from Bert Thompson, and this week you have to Name the town or city alluded to in each song.

03/05/21 - Hi Fred, Re: Savannah Jazz Band, I met Bob Wade when I was visiting the northeast, he is a great player and a nice guy, I used to sit in with the band at Culler-coats on the coast, - Derek Dalton

03/05/21 - Keith also comments, "Re shed building - Tony Hobson of the Eagle Jazz Band invariably used to follow a Barry Norman drum feature with "You'd have to go a very long way - slight pause - not to hear that".

03/05/21 - Monday is album time and this week Keith Garner suggests we have a listen to Dutch Swing '55! and I have to agree it's exciting, well let's just say I can't stop my leg jumping up and down as I type! It also starts with one of my favourite numbers, Riverside Blues. There's no more albums in the pipeline, so get your thinking caps on and let me have your suggestions for next week!

02/05/21 - Many Happy Returns today to Trevor Stent, the only NW musician (or ex NW musician) with a birthday this week, unless you know different?

APRIL 2021

29/04/21 - This item of news from the Savannah Jazz Band web site - "The Savannah Jazz Band is pleased to welcome Bob Wade to the line up. He will lead the front line on trumpet, cornet and flugelhorn.  For further information on Bob click here then click on his picture. Following the long lay off due to Covid 19 The band has been invited to play at a number of venues during 2021".

29/04/21 - Please don't take the album page down - I enjoyed Jon's selection very much. I actually have the original 10" LP somewhere, but have lost sight of it since I went electronic. I've never got round to digitising most of my LPs and so hadn't listened to it recently - or over the last twenty five years probably. I agree with him about Ken Simms but I do seem to remember Tony Davis playing a version of one of the marches which had Bob Wallis on trumpet, so the arrangements were presumably developed over a period rather than being done for the record.- Keith  Garner

29/04/21 - Hopefully THE  version of the Ken Colyer cymbal story- The late Dave Evans ,with whom I had the pleasure of playing alongside for many years, told me what happened to him.  Ken liked Dave’s drumming as did many including Al Casey in particular.   Ken with his aversion to sizzle and similar cymbals rounded on Dave to stop playing that cymbal. Dave replied “It is not set up and in fact still in the case.  "Yes “   said Ken “But it’s there !!” - Ken Ames
 

28/04/21 - Lowther Gardens in Lytham has a small theatre which has come up with an innovative idea during lockdown. It has created an online Silver Screen with those self isolating or living in a care home. This week is Jazz Week and Cafe Society can be seen on the screen.  You can view the screen by clicking here

28/04/21 - Voting is now open for the 2021 Parliamentary Jazz Awards, which this year will take place online. Entries are open to anyone, with the final deadline set for midnight on Tuesday 14 May 20201. The Parliamentary Awards celebrate and recognise the vibrancy, diversity, talent and breadth of the jazz scene throughout the United Kingdom. To vote please go  here

28/04/21 - I've now got the latest article in the Jazz Promoter series, and this one is about a jazz promoter some might describe as a 'bit of a character'. Those who have been to Rochdale's Jazz on a Sunday will know what I mean. I asked chairman Tony Sheldon to write about his experiences of promoting jazz, but he initially left out an important part of the story, the bit about himself and the things he gets up to, so after a little delay, Here it is.

28/04/21 - The latest issue of Just Jazz has arrived. I was very sorry to read in it, that Tony Davis who led the Zenith Hot Stompers on their many visits to the North West in the past, had died on 13th March, aged 83. The ZHS opened our very first jazz event at Ingol Golf Club in Preston IN 1999, and in a review which Keith Allcock wrote for me at the time, He said, "New Orleans came to Preston via Birmingham last Thursday when local traditional jazz buff Fred Burnett and his wife Barbara presented The Zenith Hot Stompers at Ingol Golf Club. This popular Midlands band was doing a week's tour of the North-West and had a blank date until Fred stepped in to fill it. It was his first attempt at promoting jazz, but the success of the gig is proof that Preston has a healthy audience for traditional jazz. The large clubhouse was nicely full as the band launched into the opening bars of its first number, On Treasure Island". The ZHS subsequently returned in Feb 2000 to what became our regular jazz club at Fulwood & Broughton Cricket Club.

28/04/21 - Wednesday, and time for the Lockdown Quiz. This week see if you know the first names of some of the listed musicians in Quiz No. 57
 

27/04/21 - A new recording for you to listen to, is one by Acker Bilk and his Paramount Jazz Band recommended by Jon Critchley. There are no more in the pipeline, so come on and tell me which album you think other people might like to listen to otherwise they will all be my favourites. The alternative is to close the page down. Click here to listen

27/04/21 - Terry Birkinhead has sent in two more photographs for the lockdown series. These are of the Delta Jazz Band of Buenos Aires, Argentina, at the 1st Keswick Jazz Festival in May1992, and the Royal Flush Jazz Band from Kobe, Japan at the Whitley Bay Jazz Festival in July 2000. You can see them on Lockdown Pictures No. 8

26/04/21 - There was a Zenith Six gig when Mart was about 24. Ken Colyer's band was top of the bill and he seemed to have approved of the Zenith Six and their playing. However, we went to hear him in, I think, the Wilmslow area not long after and I was with Mart when he went over to speak to Ken Colyer. When he mentioned the band, Colyer was unpleasant and told him that the Zenith Six was a b****y awful band. He was really rude and turned away leaving us both speechless. The Zenith Six was certainly good enough to record for George Buck for his company GHB Records when George moved his business from Decatur to New Orleans. - Janet Rodger

26/04/21 - Another Ken Colyer legend, He had a young drummer as a recommended dep. Not heard but assured by someone that kid was well up to it. He was indeed, but too modern for Ken, who had driven him to the gig. On the way back, Ken's face was like thunder so he asked Ken what was the problem. "That bloody ride cymbal... If you want to do the 2nd of the two gigs, don't bring that cymbal."   OK... If you had said something, I would have used less or even stopped." On the way back from the following gig, Colyer had another cob on.  The young drummer asked again. "That damned cymbal. It's b****y awful!".   "But like you asked... I didn't bring it!"   Colyer scowled. "I know.. It's just the thought of it!" .  If that's not true it ought to be! - Howard Murray

26/04/21 - The Ken Colyer story from Brian Legan seems to have done the rounds for years, and was believed to be true, but it seems some facts stand in its way. The story has been embellished over the years. I can’t explain as I would have to name names, and that’s not fair on the individuals. Let’s just say it wasn’t quite like that. But let’s not destroy the myth!  Clubs ‘down south’ who are kick starting in late June, early July – Colchester Jazz Club, Sidcup Jazz Club, Reigate Manor Jazz Club, The Concorde Club, Hadlow Manor Jazz Club, Amersham Jazz Club. The Bay Jazz Club (Botany Bay, Enfield) are starting outdoor, lunch-time sessions in May (!2.30pm-3.00pm), Bring a seat and a picnic, but use the club’s bar for drinks!! - Pete Lay
 

25/04/21 - My shed building experience was in helping a friend erect and garden shed and his comment was “Be careful - wood like that doesn’t grow on trees you know!” - Chris Walker.

25/04/21 - More good news as bands are confirming to me that they are raring to go and play again. The Chicago Teds, Old Green River, Cafe Society, High Society, Harmony Hounds, North Euston Orpheans, are just a few of them.

25/04/21 - Good news! Eagley Jazz Club will be back in action, starting on Monday 5th July, 8pm, with the wonderful Tame Valley Stompers! This will be followed on 19th July by John Hallam and the Tom Kincaid Trio. Further bookings have been made and will be revealed later! - Ann Lord. That's good news Ann, because when I checked the TVS web site (and indirectly their page on my site), it came up page not found. I'm not suggesting this is the reason, but I do know some bands decided not to pay the web hosting costs when they were no allowed to play. - Fred

25/04/21 - Lots of musicians celebrating birthdays this week. Many Happy returns to Eric Brierley today who shares his birthday with Digby Fairweather, and to Anthony Mason, Laurie Cooper and Martyn Sharp who all have birthdays tomorrow. Jon Critchley will celebrate his birthday tomorrow Wilf Jenkinson will share his birthday with Sammy Rimington on Thursday. Finally it's happy birthdays to Dave Pogson, Norman Pennington and Sue Parish on Friday.
 

24/04/21 - The River City Jazz Band based in North Wales is now defunct, so Ian Royle tells me. Some of the members apparently have health problems, which seems to be the case with many unfortunately.
 

23/04/21 - Eagley Jazz Club is raring to go - starting Monday 5th July, first and third Mondays of the Month! Bookings are now being made and if anyone would like to be added to our mailing list for details of our gigs programme, please email me on eagleyjazzclub@gmail.com. - Ann Lord

23/04/21 - I can't help with your shed building query but it reminded me of two stories I have heard over the years. The first was when Ken Colyer's drummer's bass drum pedal packed up on the last number of the evening. At the end of the number Ken turned to the bass player and asked "Do you always play like that? The bassist, anticipating praise said that he did and Ken snarled "You're fired". The second was when Wild Bill was touring over here. He turned to a fellow musician and asked "Are these guys paid by the note?". Brian Legan.

21/04/21 - Following on from Ann's email, could any musicians who have been told that the band they played with pre Covid has now disbanded, please let me know, and don't rely on the band leader to tell me. This web site is an advert for bands, which is embarrassing if they are no longer playing, as it also lowers the credibility of the site . - Fred

21/04/21 - An interesting question from Ann Lord, - Would you happen to have a list of bands who are continuing to play after Covid? Well I should say that as far as I've been made aware, they are all still playing, but Ann says, "Good news about Eagley Jazz Club - we're now planning our up-coming schedule for our hopeful ''release from Jail'' card after 21st June. Our Ted Watton is now busy booking bands. Sadly we've lost a couple of well known bands, who have decided to call it a day. Very sad as they were some of my favourites!  It would be great to have all of the stalwarts appear at our club again"

21/04/21 - I know just three on this latest quiz, 3,8 and 10, as I've been in them all in New Orleans  The Palm Court Jazz Cafe on Decatur is, or was, run by George Buck's wife Nina, ex of Sammy Rimington.  One of the most memorable performances there was by Lloyd Washington in 2003. Lloyd, 82 then, delighted in telling the audience that he was the last surviving member of the Ink Spots group. I believe he was with the group for about 20 years from 1945. It amazed my wife and I that the performance was just so like it must have been at a live show of the original Ink Spots. Sadly he passed away the following year. - Norman Gibson

21/04/21 - Well here we are already, Wednesday, and normally it would be time for a new quiz, but seeing as the last one didn't go on until Monday, I'll leave it until next week. We are fast approaching the last Quiz which will be No. 60,  That should appear in the same week we can eat inside pubs and restaurants and perhaps an apt time to end the Lockdown Quizzes which started in April last year..

19/04/21 - Something went wrong with the Wednesday Quiz. I prepared it, but never uploaded it, so somewhat belatedly it's on now and is quiz number 56 and you have to name the city in which the listed  jazz venue is/was located. Soon be time for the next one.

19/04/21 - My next show (22 April at 9PM UK time on www.mykindamusic24.com), will feature the music of British saxophonist/clarinettist and composer, Sir John Dankworth. A compendium of his work, including a few tracks with Cleo Laine from 1953 to 2007, when he made his final recording. - Frank Griffiths

19/04/21 - Time for another Spotify Album, and this week it's my turn. Someone said to me, "Can’t think how anyone can have just one favourite album unless they lead a very blinkered life, I’ve got loads".  I suppose I have too, but there's a special place in your heart for the first one you ever bought, but I'll bypass Beethoven and Rimsky-Korsakov, as they were my first LP albums., But before albums there were EPs, and the first I bought were of Lonnie Donegan's skiffle group. I love them today as much as the day I bought them and as they are now on an CD I want to share them with you. Click here to listen

18/04/21 - Re shed building, I recall at some time in the past reading about a band leader who turned to the drummer and asked him with a snarl if he was building a shed back there, but I can't recall who said it or when.  I keep thinking Eddie Condon or Wild Bill Davidson, but I just can't be sure if it was one of them or someone else.  If I come across it again, I'll let you know. - Bert Thompson.  Anybody out there know the origins of the term?

18/04/21 - Last Monday we had our first blow as a full band for over twelve months (see picture). It was great to see everyone again and have a catch up. We’ve booked a two hour slot in a studio every Monday until life gets back to normal. Due to social distancing we could only have five musicians in the room at any one time. It was all very strange but great fun. We have bookings at the Palm House every Tuesday until the end of the year but can’t see us playing there until July at the earliest. Looks as though we're trying to remember how to tune and put our instruments together again. -  Peter Swensson & The Savoy Jazzmen.

18/04/21 - Many Happy Returns today to musician Jack Wilson, on Thursday to Chris Mitchell, and on Friday to Derek Vaux.

18/04/21 - A new 'Lost Recording' has been discovered by John Westwood. Did you know that Alistaire Cook of 'Letters from America' fame was born in the North West. He also recorded some jam sessions for the BBC with some well known musicians. John had them on tape. Check it ot

17/04/21 - Hi Fred,  Its ages since I heard the expression "Shed Builder" describing some drumming styles.  I have use it a few times over the years and I think it originated years ago In the 1950s.  I came across it just after onset of "Rock" when it came over around 1956,  and most drummers then were playing Big Band swing and volume was a totally different dynamic.  I have played many styles over the years ...so I can't be too critical !  How times have changed! - Peter Eddowes.

17/04/21 - One question which pops up from time to time is - "How do I post something on your website, there doesn't seem to be any way of doing it?".  Unfortunately there is no direct input other than by me. So you need to send me an email and I'll post it for you. It might mean a delay in posting, but you can be assured that nothing gets on the site which I consider to be unacceptable, and no links to dodgy sites get on either, a small price to pay.  .

17/04/21 -  Pete Darwin opines for a ' jazz-loving crowd ' being required in making a good jazz club. True.  It wasn't a jazz club but years ago the MJB were playing a social club heavily populated with a young ( sic) audience. While playing their usual music the audience showed little interest. Quiet and the empty dance floor bore testament to that.  The band were also fed up , For a lark and some mischievous micky-taking ( they were good at that ) they embarked on a bizarre version of March of the Mods, deliberately playing all the wrong notes in all the wrong places. Within minutes the floor was full of dervish-dancers . The more crazy the band played the wilder the dancing.....and a good time was had by all. Another great Mersey's night.  Yes you do need a jazz-loving audience, but........   - Bob Lamb

17/04/21 - Andrew Liddle deserves our thanks for analysing and writing up the findings of the Covid Lockdown Customer Survey so thoroughly, coherently and beautifully. Well done, Andrew! - Pops Coffee

17/04/21 -  The tone of Matthew Wright's excellent little book Jazz and Cricket : An unlikely combination, which you mention, is set from the beginning when the author describes leaving .a pub with a group, en route to scattering the remains of Jim Godbolt, for many years a member of the Ravers cricket team.  Noticing Wally Fawkes with an earpiece plugged into a radio the author enquired as to what he was listening.." Cricket " Fawkes replied, " The Ashes *  Totally sums up this book which informs, entertains and gives cause for many smiles. It's said that nostalgia ain't what it used to be Not true, it's alive, kicking and very enjoyable throughout this book - Bob Lamb

17/04/21 - No updates yesterday because I was busy 'shed building'. No I haven't taken up playing the drums, I was helping my sun construct a shed, although I think it might have been easier learning to play the drums though, as the instructions were less than useful.
 

15/04/21 - The tone of Matthew Wright's excellent little book Jazz and Cricket : An unlikely combination, which you mention, is set from the beginning when the author describes leaving .a pub with a group, en route to scattering the remains of Jim Godbolt, for many years a member of the Ravers cricket team.  Noticing Wally Fawkes with an earpiece plugged into a radio the author enquired as to what he was listening.." Cricket " Fawkes replied, " The Ashes *  Totally sums up this book which informs, entertains and gives cause for many smiles.  It's said that nostalgia ain't what it used to be Not true, it's alive , kicking and very enjoyable throughout this book - Bob Lamb

15/04/21 - Re Jazz & Cricket, a friend’s wife was expecting, and he rang the maternity ward to see how she was getting on: He rang the cricket club by mistake.  “How’s it going?” he said. Man said “Very well:  We’ve got three out so far, hope to have them all out by teatime.  The last one was a duck”. - Jon Critchley

15/04/21 - Jazz survey - Great work Fred.  Re the question "What qualities do you look for in a jazz club?" and Andrew's composite answer - "Something like ‘a variety of good, professional and entertaining bands with good rapport with the audience, in a comfortable venue with good acoustics, a dance floor and a lively jazz-loving crowd.’  - Wonder how many Clubs fit this criteria and meet all of these qualities? - Pete Darwin

15/04/21 -  Your plug for 'Jazz and cricket', reminds me of one of the best cricket stories I ever heard, and it involves jazz. - At one of the early Hayfield Jazz Festivals, a charity match was held between Hayfield C C and the musicians, and my old pal Tony Iddon, of Red River Jazzmen fame was one of the musos who played. Now Tony had played some cricket in his time, his father played for England and Lancs and Tony had played for Lancs 2nd's and for Stockport in the Central Lancs league for many years. The match was on Sunday afternoon, immediately after the morning session, and, as we only lived 5 miles away, Carole and I went home for a bite of lunch. When we returned the match was over and I asked Tony how it had gone. Now I can't remember the result, but I can remember what he said afterwards. He told me that he had played a lot of cricket, but he had seen something that afternoon which he had never seen before on a cricket field. He said that the bowler had appealed for leg before wicket and the umpire gave a wide!! Priceless. - Bernard Selby

15/04/21 - Whatever happened to Bill Brunskill?  That's the question asked by Walter Love on his latest Jazz Club programme on BBC Radio Ulster. Well worth a listen.
 

14/04/21 - Frank Griffith writes, "My show on www.mykindamusic24.com on Thursday 15 April "Anglo Saxony #1"  will showcase British sax players of note".

14/04/21 - Time for the Wednesday Quiz and this week you have to match tune titles with their alternative names. It's Quiz number 55
 

13/04/21 - Your readers might be interested in "Jazz & Cricket – An Unlikely Combination", by Matthew Wright. It tells of the links between the two, through historical information and anecdotes, and features many names you will be familiar with : Mick Mulligan, Bruce Turner, Wally Fawkes, Max Jones, Frank Parr, Jim Godbolt, Vic Lewis, Spike Hughes, Campbell Burnap, and many more, in the traditional area of jazz through to modern players.  It has only recently been published, but already has had favourable reviews: - Matthew Wright. See  flyer for details

13/04/21 - THE RESULTS ARE IN.  Many thanks to all who completed the recent survey of jazz fans and their thoughts about resuming club activity. We can now announce the results. Andrew Liddle has analysed them for those who like to look beyond the graphs. Click here to view
 

12/04/21 - John Howell has recommended George Lewis at The Free Trade Hall in 1957.for the latest "favourite album on Spotify". What's yours? I've only had this one suggested so far, and I don't want them all to be mine.  Click here to listen & enjoy
 

11/04/21 - Five more photographs for you to look at on the lockdown pictures series. These are on Lockdown Pictures 8 and feature many musicians from the NW who sadly are no longer with us.

11/04/21 - Many Happy Returns tomorrow to Andy Henderson, and sadly I can't wish Chris Barber a happy birthday this year, he would have been 91 next Saturday.

11/04/21 - My thanks to Barrie Marshall for the latest in The Lost Recordings series. It's the Newwhall Jazzmen who were based in the Lake District. It's a lost LP rather than a tape.
 

09/04/21 - Sad news I’m afraid; John Beaumont trumpet player with the Lune Valley Jazz Band died yesterday. Apart from Brian Gordon he was the last surviving founder member of the band. His cornet playing was straightforward melody with beautiful tone, it anchored the band. His deteriorating health saw him leave the band four years ago. He would have been eighty this year, if I remember correctly!  - Steve Lister. His tribute page is currently under construction - FB
 

08/04/21 - The Definitive History of Jazz in Britain, Jazz FM Sunday Night from 10 o`clock for an hour. The first programme started on Sunday 4th.April with the early years up to and including the 1920s. It is still available on “listen again” online and is absolutely fascinating. It goes into great detail about the first touring Americans, their influence on British musicians and the part played in the development of jazz by dance halls and radio. I am looking forward eagerly to the rest of the series. - Jim Heap

08/04/21 - What a lovely surprise for me to read your mail from Rene Van Westen in The Netherlands. Here are photos of the covers of the Smoky City albums he has in his possession . The first album was recorded at The Royal Northern College of music in autumn 1977, and was supported by John Hallam's Dad, the lovely Harry Hallam. It has great sleeve notes by Ray Colman of the Melody Maker, and by the singer and author George Melly . The Band Members - Sheila Collier vocals & band leader, Bill Smith Trumpet & Flugel Horn John Hallam Clarinet, Soprano Sax, Alto Sax & Flute, Terry Brunt, Trombone & Euphonium, Roger Godfrey, Piano,  Roy Tweedie, Banjo & Guitar, Brian Morrison, Bass, & Bob Jones, Drums.  The second album was recorded 'live' at The Harbour Jazz Club Rotterdam, in October 1979. The Banjo player at this time was Charlie Bentley from Sheps Banjo Boys.  This great Jazz Club no longer exists, it was situated right by Central Station in Rotterdam . The Club proprietor was Albert. The photo of the Band for The Harbour Jazz Club Album was taken in Manchester- with appropriate ' Smoking Towers '! - and me in a white boiler suit ! - Sheila Collier

07/04/21 - Another lockdown photograph from Terry Birkinhead, taken in the lovely surroundings of Keswick. This is in Lockdown Pictures No. 8

07/04/21 - I just received a couple of links this morning from John Westwood, which are more big band than traditional jazz, but with names like Duke Ellington, Guy Lombardo, Louis Armstrong, Tom Dorsey and more, albeit impressions, I thought you might enjoy these Jack Hylton recordings - Ellingtonia and  Dinah to start your day.

07/04/21 - The jazz survey will close on Friday this week, so whoever you are, wherever you are, if you like live jazz, please click here to complete it  if you haven't already done so. The more entries we get, the more accurate the picture. Although it mentions clubs, please include live jazz venues which you have visited regularly, such as pubs, tea rooms, garden centres, pavilions etc.

07/04/21 - It's Wednesday and time for Bert Thompson's Quiz No. 55
 

06/04/21 - My name is Rene van Westen and I come from The Netherlands. I did a search for Sheila Collier.  I have 2 records and all with signatures on the Smoky city jazz band album (vinyl sleeve) and on the harbour jazz club live albums (on the back). Fantastic music and musicians.
 

04/04/21 - Many thanks to the 50 people who have so far completed the anonymous survey which it is hoped will give an incite into your thoughts about live jazz after the pandemic. Whether it's an organised jazz club, or regular visits to the pub to listen to a band, we'd like your thoughts. If you haven't already filled it in, please do it, it won't take long, just click here.

04/04/21 - Many Happy Returns this week to Jim Lucas on Tuesday, and to Mike Hayler & Matt Palmer on Thursday.