REVIEW: And All That Jazz, Chichester

Friday saw the opening of the new La Havana Jazz Club in Chichester from its intimate cellar venue. This new Club is being masterminded by one of the South Coast’s leading jazz pianists Nic Saunders and is to take place on the second Friday of each month.
jazz clubjazz club
jazz club

Expectations were surpassed as over 100 jazz enthusiasts and performers filled the new coolest hotspot in the City with the house band led by Nic Saunders on piano, Gary Simons on bass and John Hammond on drums providing masterful support to guest artist, and well renowned tenor saxophonist, Julian Nicholas. He has recently been performing a number of dates at Ronnie Scott’s with the legendary Loose Tubes.

The first set commenced with a Blues Medley establishing the highly skillful and vibrant playing of Julian Nicholas. Other standards followed with the house band each providing intuitive solo playing with a memorable improvisation from Nic Saunders in Green Dolphin Street and Julian Nicholas providing a wonderful interpretation of the memorable Ellington composition In a Sentimental Mood.

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As promised the second set kicked off with contributions by musicians from the floor providing a treat for both players and audience alike. The Nearness of You was the choice for the heartfelt vocal contribution from Kate Willet supported on trumpet by Dave Smith. The C Jam Blues- the jam tune of the month- saw exciting harmonica playing and a piano contribution from jazz students from Chichester College

The evening concluded with another set from Julian Nicholas and the house band, once again delivering exceptional playing and improvisation. Julian Nicholas said afterwards,“It was a roaring success! The trio was fantastic, the jam was great - thanks and see you again.”

A fantastic evening for all who attended.

This not to be missed new hotspot is featuring singer Imogen Ryall on the 13 November- tickets just £5 on the door. Doors open 8.30pam.

See website www.facebook.com/lahavanajazz for details.

Wendy Davies

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