Bill Smith – cornet
Roger Myerscough – reeds
Brian “Sam” Elis – trombone
Chris Marney – banjo
Tony Pollitt – bass
John Meehan – drums/leader

The Savannah Jazz Band never fail to entertain and you cannot help but enjoy their performances. They are one of the most popular and busiest bands on the jazz circuit and last night’s session proved this fact. They had a large audience to perform to and their repertoire was varied and enjoyable.Tunes played in the first set were When You and I Were Young Maggie, a beautiful tune called After Dark, a vocal by Roger of Lady Be Good, Bogalusa Strut, a brilliant version of Stormy Monday which was a request and featured Roger on soprano sax, Brian on piano, and Bill vocals and harmonica – a lovely tune. Frog-i-more Rag was followed by Higher Ground a vocal feature for Chris on banjo. Hymn To Freedom featured Roger, Brian again on piano backed by Tony on bass and John on drums. To bring the first set to a close they played You are My Sunshine which had a lovely duo vocal from Bill and Roger.

The second set was equally as enjoyable with tunes Together, Precious Lord, and then a vaudeville tune, which is also done by Keith Nichols, called Beedle Um Bum sang by Bill. I Want to be Happy gave leader John a feature on drums followed by Blue Turning Grey Over You and Se Se Rider with Bill showing his skills on the harmonica again. The lovely tune Isle of Capri and Going Home brought the evening to a close.

Why does time go so quickly! A great night was had by all and we look forward to seeing the band again in August at the annual festival 18/19/20 August 2017.