Cheltenham Jazz Club Nothing could spoil an occasion like this! Not the temporary indisposition of the star, nor the fact that the redecorated Pillar Room has become an echo chamber, minus the carpet which grounded its acoustic. Forty years ago, teenage tenor–saxist Steve Grossman served his apprenticeship with Miles Davis' jazz-fusion band. Subsequently, he has become a great jazz-proper soloist. Though he mainly remained seated and played short solos, what he did play was inspirational. And another Steve, sound engineer Steve Cooper, worked damage limitation miracles. Like his hard-bop heroes: Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon and John Coltrane, Grossman improvised with a touch of divine authority, guarantying exciting journeys and logical endings. He certainly inspired his frontline partner, cornet player Damon Brown, whose creative energy levels were colossal. Whilst an attempt to assemble the UK's best rhythm section succeeded, with pianist Robin Aspland, bassist Mark Hodgson and drummer Sebastian De Krom. As to the best performances I'd choose the ballad Soul Trane with Grossman's fine tone underwritten by moving harmonies, and Joy Spring in which his succinct genius provoked Brown into extended and ever better exploration. Perhaps it's as well there were problems. 100% efficacy might have just too much joy to bear. Offers and Vouchers
