Jazz Extra
First posted 3 January 2012
Phil Brooke Quartet at Milestones Jazz Club
On the first day of 2012, my good lady, myself and some of our friends made one of our occasional visits to Milestones Jazz Club. The attraction was to see and hear the appearance of the Phil Brooke Quartet, a band of superb musicians comprising Phil himself together with Jasper Smith (gtr), Brian McAlister (drums) and Mike Harris (d.bass).
Whilst we waited to be admitted into the club, Phil Brooke emerged and, upon recognising two or three people at the head of the queue, he stopped to exchange a few words in his customary genial manner, albeit expressing some foreboding that the audience numbers may be depleted due to it being new year's day. His worry was soon proved of no consequence however, as the numbers had quickly swelled to a full house by the time proceedings began.
There have been many great presentations at Milestones, covering a wide spectrum of the huge mosaic of modern jazz music. The group of associates and friends to which I belong pertain to a broad view, and are quite happy to give respect to all styles of jazz, including those not normally catered for at Milestones. This ‘easy listening’ session by Phil and his group was, for me, possibly one of the best I have heard at Milestones, delivered in a most civilised and relaxed manner.
I don't know enough to be able to attempt a long technical treatise, but I do know that my ears, and to some extent my eyes, were telling me I was a small part of the large and very appreciative audience, totally enthralled at the expertise on display. There was also the bonus of Milestones promoter Steve Mynott himself being invited up to the stage with his guitar, where he added his own talent for a few numbers.
The evening progressed with the usual smooth precision, and thanks go to Steve for persevering with his monthly jazz presentations at Milestones. He has always been supportive to the cause of good music, whoever may be presenting it. Jazz has suffered with frequent ‘ups & downs', hence it is good to see his club keeping the beacon burning, especially in Lowestoft, a locality which has struggled with this genre.
The Hotel Hatfield management also deserves a generous measure of praise for hosting Milestones at their venue, which is eminently suitable for these presentations.
Check out Milestones Programme at www.milestonesjazzclub.co.uk