We had a great gig at this fabulous venue playing to the Marina crowds with the stunning backdrop of Mr Disneys ship full of Micky Mouses moored next to us on the Tyne.
Here we see our youngest band member Ben blasting out a fantastic trombone solo watched on by his very proud dad Nat. Thanks to Immy for working the video and cameras.
A beautiful autumn day. A trip to the coast, a look in at Cullercoats Crescent Club (quiet), a wander round Tynemouth Metro station market (busy), a visit to Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade (this was Heritage Open Days’ weekend, but it’s open year round) overlooking the Tyne estuary and out to the North Sea, and on to Coble Dene to catch one of the region’s most popular big bands.
Royal Quays Marina reeks of money, squillions of small pleasure craft moored adjacent to the Port of Tyne ferry terminal, a world away from the less well off housing estates just up the road. Mark di Suvero’s Tyne Anew sculpture stood in the shadow of two towering cruise ships – Disney Magic and DFDS – preparing to set sail. Also in their shadow, Dave Hignett’s Tyne Valley Big Band was busy entertaining residents, resting cyclists, walkers, cafe diners and a few jazz fans.
Today’s edition of the TVBB boasted no fewer than seven trumpets, a full compliment of reeds – Sophie Speed and Andrea DeVere blowing some great tenor sax – Caroline Guirr on bass and David Johnson, drums, yes, many familiar faces were on parade. Quincy Jones’ Soul Bossa Nova, Henry Mancini’s ever-popular The Pink Panther Theme, Barbara Hignett belting out Paolo Nutini’s Ten Out of Ten and Aretha Franklin’s big hit, Respect, a typically energetic set from the Tyne Valley boys and girls.
Closing out a fine set, Dave Hignett’s crew went out on Erik Morales’ Feelin’ the Funk. It was time to head up to Black Storm Brewery’s tap room then on to Newcastle for some last minute shopping. Russell