Let’s hope that Lichfield doesn’t have to wait too long before JTQ are back again!
The Lichfield Jazz Weekender brought an incredible celebration of jazz to the city from 4-7 June, featuring international stars, emerging talent and local artists. The festival utilised several diverse venues across the city and many events were free! And who better to close the event than the James Taylor Quartet at the intimate venue of The Hub at St Mary’s?
When James Taylor announced that it was 30 years since the Quartet had been to Lichfield, there was an audible gasp. Why had it been so long? But then, weren’t we lucky to have them here again?
The James Taylor Quartet was formed in 1987 and has been a leading presence on the acid jazz touring and recording scene since then. So much of their music is familiar, from film scores and their numerous album releases, making the tight performance of such talented and experienced musicians an absolute treat. The current line up is James Taylor on Hammond organ and orchestration, Mark Cox on guitar, Dan Drury on bass and Pat Illingworth on drums.
Expertly weaving a musical tapestry, the quartet thrilled a nearly sold out audience with superb improvisation and a collection of their soulful instrumentals and songs. Our language skills were put to the test, shouting 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 in different languages, and James kept everyone on their feet clapping up to the right and down to the left to the infectious beat.
The evening of groove and funk built up to the inevitable climax of The Starsky and Hutch Theme, which had most of the audience dancing. There was an electric atmosphere and the band continued through the cheers and applause with a fitting end to this amazing night with All Wrapped Up.
With so much energy and enthusiasm generated by their excellent performance, let’s hope that Lichfield doesn’t have to wait too long before JTQ are back again.
Look out for the return of the Lichfield Jazz Weekender again next year!
For information on upcoming gigs at The Hub, click here.