The Black Tie Band presented a programme of
jazz and soul standards. They are a group of 7 young musicians aged
between 16 and 20. They are by no means the polished finished
product but they achieved a raw and likeable sound. There is perhaps
a lack of consistency, but each member has their moment when they
shine
If there is one potential star in the band
it is the amazing 16 year old Ed Blunt, keyboards and musical
arranger. Also, he composed one of the numbers. The rhythm section
of Lizzie Exell, drums, and James Hill, bass guitar, provided a
driving beat. Tom Lloyd on trumpet, and, Chris Tanton, on trombone,
after a slow start played several effective solos; they combined
well during the soul numbers. Harry McEntire on vocals, and he also
did the links between the songs, was more comfortable on the jazz
songs, such as ‘Fly me to the moon’, whilst the female vocalist,
Sinead McGeady was less inhibited in the soul songs.
Despite the deficiencies, it was
encouraging to see a young group of musicians having the courage to
take on the challenge of some mighty difficult songs. Gigs like this
will be really useful experience. There is no doubting that the
audience enjoyed their performance and wanted more.
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