If the name "trad jazz" rings a bell, you might be a purist or over 60.
Bolton’s Eagley Jazz Club is one of the six places in the North West you can hear live traditional or trad jazz.
The "old-fashioned" sound started in 1920s New Orleans and had a UK comeback with acts like Chris Barber.
The Bromley Cross club shows its passion for the music. It is not-for-profit and entirely volunteer-run.
Most of those who attend its twice-monthly events are over 70.
Ann Lord, a committee member, said: “It’s a great outlet for them because many don’t have a social life apart from coming to our club.
“They were young around the time it came back in the 1950s and retain a love of the music.”
Their oldest regular is 96.
Bands playing trad jazz are also often older.
Ann said: “Some of the bands are in their 70s and 80s which is amazing.
“I think it’s the music that keeps them going and gives them a reason to carry on.
“Not only is it good for the audiences it’s great for the musicians as well.”
On August 5, the Original Panama Jazz band will play live at Eagley Jazz Club’s venue, the Dunscar Conservative Club.
The Wirral band’s original lineup formed in 1954 and is going strong with original members like Jon Critchley and new members like Andrew McKenzie who joined after the lockdown.
Ann said: “They’re traveling quite a distance to get to us.”
Not only musicians are willing to travel to Bromley Cross for Eagley Jazz Club.
Ann said: “We’re famous for being one of the best clubs in the north offering traditional jazz.
“We have people coming to us from Burnley, South Manchester, Rochdale, they come from quite a wide radius.”
The club also tries to give back.
On July 15, it hosted a Hotpot Supper to raise funds for Bolton Hospice. It ended up raising over £2,000.
Because punters are older, the club takes pride in keeping events fun and accessible.
Ann said: “Our venue, Dunscar Conservative Club is on the ground floor so there’s no stairs to climb and very easy access.
“The bar in the room has club prices, so it’s not too expensive because most are on pension.
“All in all, it’s a great night out.”
Eagley Jazz Club hosts events on the first and third Mondays of the month starting at 8:00 PM.
The venue, Dunscar Conservative Club, is on Hardmans Lane, Bromley Cross.
To see the Original Panama Jazz Band on August 5, email eagleyjazzclub@gmail.com
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