Reporter: Tony Sheldon
Date online: 11/06/2008

Chris Blount was a virtuoso who was called by 'Gabriel's' Horn far too soon and his fellow bandsmen have been carrying on his brand of New Orleans jazz for the past three years under 'The Blount Band' name. Their title has recently been changed to 'New Orleans Heat' and an enthusiastic Castleton crowd welcomed their return visit with rightful acclaim.

A seven piece outfit led by pianist Barry Grummet produced an evening of sheer delight with a selection of blues, spirituals and Orleans favourites. A strong frontline of Bill Dickens (trumpet), George Berry (reeds) and Alan Birkinhead (trombone) were backed by Grummet, the quiet men; Tony Peatment (banjo), Harry Slater (bass) and the not so quiet Dion Cochrane (drums). Vocals by five of the band and fine arrangement made the heat of the evening even hotter!

The first set featured the rousing 'Whoopin Blues', 'In the Sweet Bye and Bye', 'Darkness on the Delta', a fine muted trumpet solo on 'When I get too Old to Dream' and two trombone solo's on 'Lou-Easy-Ania, and '2.19 Train Blues'.

A jumping second set started with 'Telephone Call' and 'All the Girls Go Crazy' then Berry's solo clarinet and sax featured on 'Does Jesus Care', 'St Philip Street Breakdown' and 'Sweet Georgia Brown' with superb backing from Grummett and the rhythm section.

The final set meant 'Careless Love' caused 'Move The Body Over', 'Way Down Upon the Swanee River'! Which other band would bring the house down by rocking the night away with 'Rebecca, Rebecca Take Your Big Fat Lega Off Me'. Amazing!

The heat will surely be on again soon.

Jazz on Sunday
July 2002