Blues Brothers | Mordi Jazz Orchestra

And what a finale …

The Jack Earle Bigband kicked us off to a great start. The young Jack is an extraordinary musician and he’d put together a very slick band to showcase his arrangements and some of his own compositions. I particularly enjoyed the sound that Martin West can summon from that tenor sax of his.

Then the Australian Army Band, diminished by Wayne Swan’s attempt at a surplus, only half a band and they could only play crotchets … no, in fact, showing all the courage we expect of our service men and women and giving a very professional and entertaining account of themselves.

Followed by an arresting performance, groan, from the Police.

Swing Central, once again got the crowd in the mood to participate, they have done such a good job for us.

And then, top of the bill, to a splendid crowd once again …

But I am getting ahead of myself.

First the regular set, including the infamous Tea for Two, which once took two hours to complete but can now be played in less time than it takes to introduce it. Does give us time to check the key signature,though.

And also including Mature Dave’s inappropriate jokes. There are some good photos of Dave but I guess there’s no point putting them on the blog.

But you might like these …

All photo’s Gail D’Alton, click on them to enlarge.

And the Blues Brothers were once again located in the bar across the creek, once again feasted on the audience food and wine. And what an educated audience, even the dog couldn’t be persuaded to say “I feel good”, too soon.

I have tried to listen to as much of the festival as possible, I harbour the notion that I might well learn something from the very fine musicians that come to play. One thing I have learnt is that some bands, good bad or indifferent, are there to please the audience while some are there simply to please themselves. I most enjoy those that are there to entertain …