You just had to be there when Esther Bennett came to sing. Bishop Auckland Jazz invited her to the monthly lunchtime jazz series and how we became enthralled under her spell.
She started with Wayne Shorter’s Fee-Fi-Fo-
Fum and quickly moved into some more familiar tunes like Angel Eyes and Rio de Janeiro Blues that she really enjoyed performing. In the latter she added egg percussion to great effect which really enhanced the Latin feel. Rick Laughlin on piano and Mick Shoulder on bass gave her great support throughout as each one unveiled solos of great complexity and interest. Hints of Billy Holiday, Jimmy Scott and Mark Murphy abounded throughout her vocal delivery as she continued with I Thought About You, Don’t Explain, Stolen Moments, You Go To My Head and You’ve Changed, before it was time for a finish with a rousing performance of Blue Monk.
I can honestly say this was one of the best gigs I have ever heard in Bishop Auckland or anywhere and all credit to #bishopaucklandjazz for giving us the opportunity to hear her. A seasoned jazz singer with tremendous personality and huge vocal and communication skills. I so hope she passes by these northern parts again.
The next lunchtime performance on 9th October will involve the Dean Stockdale Trio with a guest soloist to be announced.