WHAT'S ON

Keith Stephen's Gypsy Jazz, with violinist Mike Piggott, Darlington Arts Centre, lunchtime Saturday and the C B Inn, Arkengarthdale, Sunday (probably sold out), and pianist Alcyona with saxophonist Robin Fincker, St Oswald's Church, Askrigg, Wednesday, both Swaledale Festival, 01748-880019

CD REVIEWS

Swing City Trio/Just Us, Just We (CAV Records CACCD01) Roly Veitch, guitarist with Keith Stephen's groups, has appeared on several enjoyable CDs lately, but this new one is probably my favourite. Now focusing on acoustic guitar (a 1947 Epiphone Broadway here) he's accompanied by tenor saxophonist and clarinetist Steve Andrews with Roy Cansdale providing the gentlest pulse on double bass.

There's a lovely, nostalgic selection of tunes from Stardust to This Year's Kisses on a comfortable, laid back album. Available from Roly on www.rolyveitch.20m.com.

Nicholas Meier/Silence Talks (Naim CD 113) Meier is featured on several different guitars on this, his third album, with Gilad Atzmon on saxes and clarinet, Asaf Sirkis drums and Tom Mason bass. It's a beautifully cohesive and mutually supportive group who incorporate the many different influences into a satisfying mix.