WHEN jazz trumpeter Colin Steele got his much-loved quintet back together last year, having gone on hiatus after the recording of their third album, he was shocked to discover that what had been intended as a “short break” had actually become a gap of a decade.
Nevertheless, the band he assembled for a few live dates last March was almost the same as the previous incarnation, with Michael Buckley on sax, Dave Milligan on piano, Stu Ritchie on drums and “new boy” Calum Gourlay on double bass.
“I’m always apprehensive when starting on a new project with a set of new tunes,” Steele admits.
“Will the music be as strong as previous sets? How will the band fit together?
“I’m lucky to be able to work with such fantastic musicians who take my tunes and allow them to grow, develop and reach their potential.
“One of the main things that was remarked upon last year was how clearly the band enjoy working together, and how much they enjoy each other’s playing, which makes me very happy.”
The Colin Steele Quintet has a new album due for release later this year and, as a taster, they’re performing at The Blue Lamp in Aberdeen on Saturday March 19 as part of the Aberdeen Jazz Festival.
For this gig, which will showcase mostly new tunes and an occasional “goldie oldie” from previous recordings, Konrad Wiszniewski will fill in on saxophone.
“I’ve played the Aberdeen Jazz Festival with many different line-ups over the years,” says Steele.
“I was actually the very first musician to be booked by Jazz Aberdeen many moons ago, and I’ve always enjoyed playing there, especially in The Blue Lamp, which has one of the best atmospheres in the country.”
As well as playing with the quintet, Steele also lines up with Alison Affleck’s Copper Cats on Thursday March 17 at the Carmelite Hotel.
Nudged for a few tips, he mentions Alan Barnes and Brian Kellock (Carmelite Hotel, March 18), Soweto Kinch (The Blue Lamp, Sunday 20) and the 14-piece band Fat-Suit. Given that the last lot play The Blue Lamp immediately after the Colin Steele Quintet clear the stage, that’s one gig that just might fit into his schedule.
For full programme details, see www.aberdeenjazzfestival.com
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