sydney rocks

[Kenny]

Well sometimes you've just got to get lucky.

I love being on hols with Bennie - Darling Harbour and $$$$ yesterday, Luna Park and $$$$ today - but it did seem a bit silly being here when the music is there.

But last night, after bedding the boy down and leaving him in the capable hands of his aunty, I zipped off to the Sound Lounge.

And blow me down, it wasn't the Mike Nock Quartet but a rocking nine-piece instead.

A healthy crowd was there to hear 'em do a warm-up for their Melbourne show.

Nock
Toby Hall
Brett Hirst
James Greening
Phil Slater
Andrew Robson
David Theak
Roger Manins
James Muller

It was bloody fantastic.

I've seen variations of this band over the past couple of years, but none as sleek or solid as this.

I knew some of the material, but the new stuff was impeccable.

Muller played mostly a support role, and truth to tell I really like that. Everyone else solo-ed marvellously.

Go see 'em!

Although I count myself lucky to see them at this venue, as who knows what they'll sound like at the Forum.

The room is like Bennetts Jazz Lab, except maybe better - there are no pillars. Sound is fantastsic. Food even runs to the likes of pizzas and (I kid you not) pies.

Oh my what a lovely night. ;D

Gotta go ...

[jmac]

Must agree with you there Kenny, an allstar lineup. James took two great solos and supported beautifully. Really enjoyed Phil Slaters spot on Mikes' moving tribute to Roger Frampton 'elegy'. Dave Theak is playing well. Must thank the UIMF for the opportunity to hear this band in Sydney before they played Melbourne, how often do you get to this many great players together.

[Vicki H B]

John and Kenny stop showing off! I missed this gig in Melbourne because I am an idiot and didn;t plan what I was going to see when carefully enough including sleep time. All this jazz, hooray! And the 98 hourws thing starts tomorrow. Hey John you seem to know a lot, for a punter! '-) See you at Wang.