Concert review - Neon Quartet at Lichfield Guildhall
Once in a while a new jazz group emerges on the scene and makes a huge impact.
Neon Quartet
Guildhall, Lichfield
Concert review by John Watson
Once in a while a new jazz group emerges on the scene and makes a huge impact.
The Neon Quartet, which appeared at Lichfield's Guildhall, is certainly one such group.
Three of its members are outstanding young musicians: Vibraphone player Jim Hart is a dynamic, inventive and furiously energetic performer, pianist and keyboard player Kit Downes has become of the most creative players and composers on the scene and drummer Tim Giles is the driving force behind other leading young bands.
The fourth member of the Neon Quartet, saxophonist Stan Sulzmann is, by comparison, a veteran with a huge amount of experience in many leading bands. In his 60s, he continues to play with exceptional musical energy and inventiveness.
The Neon Quartet's concert was a festival of the up-temp and funky, taking many unexpected and joyous twists along the way.
