<div dir="ltr"><div>While in London on the 1st and 2nd September I went to hear two bands: Bob Dwyer's Bix and Pieces at the Globe in Morning Lane in Hackney on the 1st and the Vitality Five at the Spice of Life (Cambridge Circus) on the 2nd. Unfortunately, I seem to have misplaced my notes, so I cannot be sure as to the line-up. I believe it was Hugh Cozier (p), John Bayne (bs, bass sax), Duncan Hemstock (clt,ten), Laurie Chescoe (drums) and an excellent young German cornet player. While I cannot remember all the numbers, I find it hard to believe that any listmate will be too surprised that the repertoire consisted mostly - although not solely - of Bix-related numbers, unfortunately including the inevitable Friends with Pleasure. The band was energetic, hot and enthusiastic, clearly enjoying what it was doing. And I just love the bass saxophone! Entrance was free, so one just had to help by ordering some brews! The atmosphere was bonhomie, which was rather unfortunate as the level of conversation sometimes completely drowned out the music, but nevertheless it was definitely worthwhile.</div><div>The atmosphere at the Spice of Life was different altogether. People paid to enter and njoyed their music - just lovely! The band, in addition to the usual culprits -
David Horniblow (Clarinet/Bass Saxophone),
Andrew Oliver (Piano), Martin Wheatley (bjo/guitar) and
Nicolas D. Ball (Drum) included one of the best contemporary trumpeters, Enrico Tomasso rather than the usual Michael McQuaid.. I am not sure whether that was better or not, as the tight arrangements demanded players used thereto. But Tomasso is SO good! The repertoire was very interesting. I cannot recall hearing "That's No Bargain" live other than at Red Nichols tributes! It included rarely paled numbers of the '20's big bands, black and white. The band played with a lot of verve, apparently responding to the appreciative audience. And, to me, the presence of the big horn made it even better. And excellent band! I am looking forward to hearing it again soon at the Mike Durham's International Classic Jazz Party in Newcastle.</div><div>Cheers,</div><div>Marek<br>
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