Jools Holland at Birmingham NIA - review
Genial pianoman Jools Holland unwrapped his latest bundle of feelgood rythmn, blues and good old fashioned boogie woogie for a belated Christmas party at Birmingham's NIA.
Jools Holland at Birmingham NIA - concert review
Genial pianoman Jools Holland unwrapped his latest bundle of feelgood rythmn, blues and good old fashioned boogie woogie for a belated Christmas party at Birmingham's NIA.
"Let's pretend it's Christmas," he urged a rather sombre-looking audience.
The show had originally been scheduled for Saturday December 18 but was snowed off, leaving Jools and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra to recreate the traditional festive treat last night.
It was always going to be harder to set the scene for a celebration on a midweek evening after the onset of the January blues. But the fast pace and gutsy sound gradually seduced the audience.
Husky-voiced Alison Moyet joined the band as a guest for four numbers including her old Yazoo hit Only You.
But it was probably Birmingham's own "Queen of Boogie Woogie" Ruby Turner who stole the show with her sparkling stage presence and magnificent vocals.
The party was well and truly under way.
