Easy does it as jazz club returns for 2018 season

A COUPLE of top jazz events have been lined up in the coming weeks to banish the winter blues.

First up for Darlington New Orleans Jazz Club is the visit of The Big Easy kicks on Saturday, February 3.

The club’s Ray Sams said: “They’re a young and energetic swing band from Leeds with a repertoire that’s designed showcase their lively and varied performances of the best swing from the 20th century.

“They exude class – but not at the expense of fun – when they play their brand of early jazz, New Orleans deep-south classics and lively jump-jive.”

Then on March 3, TJ Johnson is back with his band.

TJ is one of the country’s finest jazz and blues pianists and singers.

Backed by his group of top British musicians he plays a blend of music that covers jazz, blues, soul, country and gospel and is influenced by the likes of Ray Charles, Dr John, Louis Armstrong, Johnny Cash, BB King, Nina Simone, Alberta Hunter, Jimmy Witherspoon and many more. For his Darlington gig he will be joined by standout jazz trumpeter and club favourite Jamie Brownfield.

Darlington New Orleans Jazz Club meets at St Augustine’s Parish Hall, Larchfield Street, Darlington, at 12.30pm on the first Saturday of every month.

Admission is £10 on the door, and children go free.

St Augustine’s Parish Centre has a licensed bar and tea and coffee is available. Everyone is welcome to bring their own food along for a picnic while the band is entertaining.

For more information go to www.darlingtonjazz.co.uk or email Ray Sams at ray@ darlingtonjazz.co.uk, call 07860 368022 or email at Graham Foster graham@ darlingtonjazz.co.uk