IF there was a competition to name the most popular, as well as one of the most talented jazz musicians in the UK, then I'm pretty certain that Alan Barnes would be the winner.
He would definitely be my nomination, for besides being the brilliantly-talented player of a comprehensive range of reed instruments, he is a raconteur of some note and a heck of a nice man, too.
Alan, who hails from Stockport, will be back in the North-west, where he has a loyal and enthusiastic following, next Tuesday at The Rhythm Station, in Rawtenstall, when he will be featured at the penultimate concert of this year. Alan is a regular at the venue, where he has fronted his excellent sextet, playing the music of Horace Silver.
Next Tuesday's presentation, entitled Liquorice Stick Allsorts, will be a Benny Goodman-type evening, with Jim Hart (vibes) and Paul Clavis (drums). Knowing Alan's ability to make any concert go with a swing, I can forecast a hugely entertaining night for those who make the trip to Rawtenstall.
The final concert of 2007 at The Rhythm Station will also feature one of the club's favourite bands, The Northern Jazz Orchestra, led by drummer Paul Rigby. As usual, the management will be handing out free glasses of sherry and mince pies. Organiser Denis Dundon expects Paul and his fabulous band to end the year's programme on a high note. Literally! Admission for the Alan Barnes concert is £9. For The Northern Jazz Orchestra it is £7.
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