Summer Jazz

Blues in winter are generally caused by the gloomy weather - but the musical kind of blues is warming the heart and soul during the club's regular Wednesday sessions in Bensons Function Room at the Richmond Club.

Our numbers have been down a little this year during the winter months, but we've also had some great nights with visiting musicians and some very spontaneous performances.

Trio Apoplectic led by drummer Alex Masso made a second visit to the club in May, as part of their Australian East Coast tour and the group led us on some pretty amazing musical journeys during their performance. With Alex was bassist Abel Cross and alto saxophonist Dave Jackson and the boys have expanded their original repertoire since we last heard them. Their support group was "The Three Omegas" led by guitarist Dave De Vries with drummer James Waples and bassist Mike Majkowski.. These three also represent the new generation of young Australian jazz musicians who definitely don't get stuck in the conventionalo groove, with a repertoire that is both structured and at the same time totally free thinking creating a tension in dynamics that makes the audience wonder what lies ahead.

The cold winter nights have been made just a little warmer hearing some great playing from young local musicians including St. John Clarke on keyboards.. he's a groovy performer with great feel and a nice placement of riffs and phrasing.Guitarist Cameron Henderson, in his first year at the Con, is also proving he's got what it takes to grab the listener's ear and his performances are showing developing maturity and musicality. Their inclusion in the club's core band has certainly enhanced the quality of the sessions and it's an interesting journey watching these aspiring musicians on the road to reaching their goals. We've also been lucky to have Austen Buckett join us on his breaks from the cold weather in Canberra where he's studying at the ANU.. he's hoping to bring his band to the club later in the year to co-incide with the launch of a debut CD.

So even if it's cold outside, it's kinda hot downstairs at the Richmond Club .If you're in need of some winter groove, blues, funk or jazz, come along and take in some great music. You might even like to become a member! More info, call Liz on 0403198485