January 3, 2008

5:54pm Thursday 3rd January 2008

Comments (0)   Have your say »

WHAT'S ON

Tonight Rick Simpson's Quartet at Opus 4 Jazz Club, Travellers Rest, Cockerton, 01325-469756.

CD REVIEWS

David Newton/Portrait of a Woman (Bright New Day Records BNCD033)
Renowned for being one of the most swinging of pianists, David Newton shows off his romantic side on one of the loveliest recordings he's made so far. All 13 songs are his own and he's supported by his regular rhythm section of Andrew Cleyndert and Steve Brown, plus guest guitarist Jim Mullen. Die hard jazz fans may be deterred by the string orchestra featured on several tracks, but it's certainly the right album for anyone who responds to beautiful music beautifully played.

The Jamil Sheriff Octet/Backchat (33 records JSLCD001)
The first of a new Jazz Services Recording Support Scheme, this is a fine showcase for this Leeds-based band. There's a strong rhythm section with Sheriff on piano, Zoltan Dekany bass, Pat McCarthy guitar and John Perry drums. With Andrew Colman and Kevin Holborough on flugel and trombone and Joel Purnell and Ben Martin saxes, you have a good mix for both ensemble and solo work. It's an album that grows on you with each playing.