Andy Scott
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| Photo: Neil Walker |
| DB5 + Laura |
Andy Scott - saxes
John Barber - trombone
Ulrich Elbracht - guitar
Ollie Collins - bass
Dave Hassell - Drums
Credible jazz nights are a rarity, even in the big cities, so why Winsford? de.bees music bar plays host every month to some of the finest jazz musicians in the country. Luck has it that sax man and renowned composer Andy Scott resides in Winsford, as does epic trombonist Johnny Barber. Together they have created a formidable 5 piece ensemble joined by vocalist Laura Beth. The atmosphere is unique - attentive enthusiasts showing appreciation with spontaneous applause, and chilled out onlookers relaxing in the wings. Highly recommended for the discerning.
The group started off in July 2003 as a good excuse for a bunch of excellent musicians to get together, make great music and have a really good time. With the added support of the club owner, Damon Horrill, the jazz nights at de.bees are establishing themselves as a night not to be missed and attracting a loyal following.
These gigs were a lone beacon of jazz amongst the cover bands playing live in Winsford when the group first started. Now having had their 3rd birthday at de.bees, not only is there now more live jazz in the town from other jazz groups, but DB5 + Laura have gone from strength to strength and are now spreading their wings and performing outside of de.bees!!
For enquiries about the bands availability please email Laura at www.laurahassell.co.uk/contact
Often, friends of the band will come along to the gig, so from an audience point of view you never know who will end up being on stage with the band, but you can guarantee that they are good and that you will have a good time!
Guests with DB5 + Laura have included Rob Buckland on saxes, Neil Morley on trumpet, Paul Kilvington on keyboards, Frank Grimes on bass, Charlie Ashby on drums, Dave Walsh on drums.
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| Photo: Lauren Scott |
| Andy & Rob trading 4s on a DB5 gig |
"The atmosphere was absolutely amazing. The place was buzzing. It was unreal."
Branford brings all that jazz to de.bees
From the Guardian Series, first published Thursday 26th Feb 2004.
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| Photo: Caroline Tresman | |
| Branford Marsalis & DB5 | |
Branford Marsalis, a world-renowned saxophonist, flew over from the United States and could not resist paying a visit to the fortnightly jazz club last Wednesday.
The 43-year-old Grammy award-winning musician is a performer, composer and, as the head of his Marsalis Music label, a producer for both his own projects and some promising jazz artists.
Damon Horrill, owner of de.bees, said: "Nobody could believe it when Branford walked in. He was on stage within three minutes of being in the room.
"The atmosphere was absolutely amazing. The place was buzzing. It was unreal."
"This is such a prestigious coup for de.bees. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity."
Jazz band DB5, headed by saxophonist Andy Scott, play a regular spot at de.bees but had no reason to expect that they would be joining forces with one of their biggest inspirations.
Damon said: "Branford has been in the UK playing with the Halle Orchestra.
"Andy Scott bumped into him and told him about the jazz night at de.bees - but we couldn't believe it when he actually turned up."
"We'd welcome him back with open arms any time.
"It was one of the best nights I have ever seen at de.bees."
From the Guardian Series
www.thisischeshire.co.uk
© Newsquest Media Group 2004
Special Thanks go to Jim Muirhead of the Halle Orchestra for making the gig with Branford happen.
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| Photo: Caroline Tresman |
| Branford Marsalis & DB5 |
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| Photo: Caroline Tresman |
| Branford Marsalis and Laura |
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