Reviews

Sunday saw the welcome return to Newport Jazz club of the Chris Ingham Quartet with the music of Hoagy Carmichael. Known simply as "Hoagy" he was one of the most loved and successful songwriters of the 1930s' and composed several hundred songs, including 50 that achieved hit record status.

Not only were the audience treated to a twenty number set of classics interspersed with a few rarities but they were also treated to a masterclass lesson in the history of Hoagy and the background to each number performed.

Opening with one of Hoagy's earliest compositions Riverboat shuffle we were next treated to arguably his most famous number Georgia on my mind. Thereafter we were treated to a led into Stardust as Chris went on to lead the audience through Hoagy's career. Highlights were many but feet were tapping throughout with a very well received version of Rockin' chair made famous by Louis Armstrong before a rousing finale with My resistance is low.

Chris handled vocals and piano, with occasional guitar, and was well supported by Paul Higgs on trumpet, Marianne Windham on bass and George Double on drums.

The next concert will be on Sunday 6th August when the club welcomes the trad jazz of the Louisiana Rhythm Kings. The concert starts at 3.00pm at the Apollo Theatre, Pyle Street, Newport and tickets are available from Bill Wills on 523879. .