Alter Ego - Splinter @ The Bridge

Dave Hignett (tpt), Keith Robinson (alt), Niall Armstrong (ten/flt), Andy Hawking (pno), Ian Paterson (bs.gtr), David Francis (dms).

Now a sextet, Alter Ego continue to work in the rich vein of jazz that emerged on labels such as Blue Note and Prestige during the 1950s and, in the process, stamping on it their own contemporary brand of jazz.

What I find refreshing about this band is that every member doesn't always solo on every number before descending into the inevitable round of fours!

Fours, when used sparingly, can be effective. However, when they become routine...

Fortunately, Alter Ego avoid the 'fours trap' with the result that each number is a polished entity.

All six guys were on form - not allowing the depressingly small audience or the afternoon's football fiasco to detract from the performance - and we were treat to the familiar and not so familiar items from the pad.

Catch them again on Friday at Queens Hall, Hexham.

Photos.

Lance.