WHAT’S ON

Saturday lunchtime West Jesmond Rhythm Kings; Monday evening John Warren’s Splinter Group, both in the Garden Bar at Darlington Arts Centre, 01325-486-555.

CD REVIEWS

Duke Heitger with Ken Mathieson’s Classic Jazz Orchestra/ Celebrating Satchmo (Lake LACD286)

Although the best of Louis Armstrong’s own recordings remain unmatched and unmatchable this is an outstandingly good acknowledgement of his inspiration.

American trumpeter Duke Heitger leads the way with warm and convincing playing, no doubt greatly encouraged by the buoyant and sympathetic support he receives from Ken Mathieson’s super arrangements and some great solo and ensemble playing by his eight-piece band.

Dick Sudhalter/Legacy 1967-2001 (Challenge CR73298)

The late trumpeter/cornet player (and biographer) Dick Sudhalter was clearly a Bix Beiderbecke/Bobby Hackett enthusiast and his mellifluous horn – mostly cornet – reflects this throughout this wonderful selection of some 21 tracks by a dozen different ensembles. Many have not been issued before and they range from duets, trio and quartets to the 30-piece New Paul Whiteman Orchestra. Besides Sudhalter there are sparky contributions from John R T Davies, Eva Taylor, Keith Ingham, Bill Rank and many others.