Isomatic UK Weblog

On Saturday evening we went to The Wych Elm in Elm Road, Kingston Upon Thames, where we saw the Gatsby Jazz Band. The rhythm section is very trad. comprising Sousaphone, Banjo and Washboard/symbol/spoons. The front line comprised trumpet (Alan Jenkins, with great vocals) plus good musicians on clarinet and trombone. Highlight for me was 'Its a Wonderful World' with Alan singing in Satchmo style. My wife Selina and I danced in slow smootchy style to that one. Well-known trad jazz fan Heather danced alone to two numbers to great acclaim and complimented Selina on her legs, fully displayed in her shortest microskirt.

Leader Mike on banjo referred to Alan as "ageing but still sexually active" and to a woman who walked past as "sophisticated crumpet". This gives a feel for his general level of conversation.
The Wych Elm is a proper old-fashioned pub with friendly bar staff and locals so I can recommend this venue just for a drink. It is a great pity that jazz is only once per month and sometimes we have to miss it because we are away.