By: Roy Stevens - Mon, June 20, 2011

“The Inspector Gadjo Trio take the spirit and flavour of Gypsy Jazz and stir in a cool helping of Bebop and Latin Jazz,” so ran the publicity blurb for their first album 'Samba 48'. It is not a mixture that readily appeals to me, but being unexpectedly impressed on listening to the album I was determined to catch the band live at the earliest opportunity.

The opportunity arose on Sunday evening when the trio made its debut appearance at the Chapel at No.1, Shakespeare Street, presenting a programme of stunning, high-octane swinging jazz and accompanied by the redoubtable Casey Greene on reeds.

Leading this remarkable outfit is guitarist/composer Will Barnes, a musician who displays a confidence and maturity beyond his years with the technical expertise to match. Will claims that Django Reinhardt, Charlie Parker and Kenny Burrell have been major influences in his work and this is evident both in the style of his playing and his selection of material. The repertoire being widely spread between Django’s 'Hot Club' favourites, bluesy and bebop standards and Will’s very tuneful and accessible originals.

Tommy Mills on bass and George Jackson on drums are not only the rhythmic heart of the band they also contribute some excellent solo passages. I was particularly impressed by the wonderfully full and mellow tone from Tommy’s bass and George’s fiery breaks and flurries always had a slight injection of humour.

The guest appearance of Casey Greene was an added bonus. Casey is equally adept on all the saxophones but he really does it for me with his flute playing. His aggressive and exhilarating solo on 'Samba 48' revealed his amazing dexterity on this instrument.

This was a thoroughly enjoyable evening that confirmed how seamlessly the various idioms of jazz music can blend and also proved that however good the album maybe nothing beats a live show.

On Sunday 26th June 2011, saxophonist Pete Canter brings his quartet to the Chapel at No.1, Shakespeare Street. This fine musician will present a programme of contemporary music drawing on the works of Horace Silver, Hank Mobley etc. The presence of the impeccable Jim Blomfield on piano will please his many fans. The concert commences at 8pm and for more info visit: www.stratfordjazz.org.uk

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