jazz steps

Last night I went to the Bonington Theatre, Arnold, Nottingham to see 'The Angelo Debarre Quartet'. Thursday evening jazz sessions at this venue have been a regular feature of the local jazz scene for a number of years (see www.jazzsteps.co.uk). The Bonington gives mainly local people the chance to choose from an unending stream of highly talented jazz style performances. I like jazz, but I'm no jazz anorak, so don't expect a technical analysis of the event.

The flyer 'forecast' the following line up: Angelo Debarre and Dave Kelbie (guitar), Andy Crowdy (bass) and Christian Garrick (violin). Before the band emerged our master of ceremonies informed us that Mr. Garrick was not available, and the violinist would be Andy Aitchison. A full house of 170 eagerly awaited for the band to take the stage. They were led on by an elegant, slim, black shirt and trousered, pointy shiny black shoed, italian/gypsy violinist. Then came a couple of typical 'jazz-music clad' down-and-outs. Last to emerge was another simmering Italian type who turned out to be Angelo DB.

Within a few seconds Angelo had made a massive impact with an explosive start of high volume, complex gypsy-jazz rhythms supported by the other three, all feverishly plucking or stroking their instruments. Think Django Rheinhardt and Stephane Grappelli. The audience was also twitching away enthustically and even the occassional 'Yeh!' could be heard. Andy Aitchison was at the forefront of the performance delivering a string(!) of vibrant solos with the aplomb of a true, suave, romano geezer.

After three or four numbers the seated Dave Kelbie introduced the players and explained that the violinist had been drafted in less than 24 hours previously because he was 'available and cheap'. Not only that, he mentioned that Andy Aitchison comes from Lincolnshire. I think Spalding was named. Maybe I should have spotted the clue to his non-romany background in his first name. Dave also explained his own discomfort at playing so far North as he is from London. How we all laughed. I did enjoy Andy's occasional repartee between numbers. After all, showmanship does matter. Dave and Andy Crowdy on bass provided a sparkling, animated accompanyment to the two main players.

Angelo is a brilliant musician and I will certainly seize any opportunity to see him again. He is an intense, focussed performer. It would have been nice if he could also have engaged more with his audience.

Thanks to the organisers and to the Angelo Debarre Quartet for a great night out.