On Friday, 18th June, our club presented a truly spectacular jazz band, namely, the Storyville Jass Band from Holland. They came highly recommended to us by Robert Duis of the Limehouse Jazz Band, also from Holland. Thank you Robert, they were marvellous and exactly what our club loves - good ol’ traditional jazz, but with a difference – very professional and relaxed. We can, in all honesty, say that wherever you are in the world, remember the name and if you come across them, we strongly recommend you make a point of going to see/hear them (and that applies to both bands too). They were all individually great, with superb singing from Rudd, Jelle and Peter. The audience raved about them - such talent. I cannot pinpoint any one thing, it was all terrific. Perhaps I can mention that they even played ‘The White Cliffs of Dover’ for us (also on their DVD) and there was a brilliant drum solo from Berry. Thanks to you all and that includes Henk on clarinet and Hein on bass too. Once again, there was plenty of dancing going on, but also plenty of listening too. As expected, due to a Jazz Weekend and to England playing Algeria in the World Cup, we had a small crowd, but a few of you turned up after the game, some even before it had ended! However, where were you Algerians? None of you turned up to celebrate, did you? Seriously, terrible game and well done to the Algerian (in West Wickham area), who flew his flag from his car on Friday afternoon.
OK, what’s next? Well, of course we have the Vintage Jazz Band this coming Friday, 25th June. Terry has arranged a great line-up, with Mike Barry on trumpet, John Lee on clarinet & sax, Barry Palser on trombone, ‘Dipper’ Duddy on drums and of course Terry Knight on double bass (please read this newsletter again later, as I shall update it to include who will be on banjo). I should think we will have a big crowd this week, because I’m sure you will all be ready for some fun, after so much football!!!!! (I am a football fan, but too much is … well, I’ll say no more!)
Diane and Keith
P.S. There are a few Fridays left when England will be playing, if they manage to win on Wednesday. Please record the games for later and come to the club – for ‘live’ jazz, especially on 9th June, when Ron Russell’s Vintage Jazz will be there, with the fantastic and famous trumpet player, Digby Fairweather – not to be missed, because we can certainly promise you a brilliant night to remember.