Reviews
The Weave (23rd April 2014)
This sextet from Liverpool crackled and fizzed with energy. Their front line of two trumpets and a guitar marked them as different, and their repertoire consisted entirely of original compositions - with one exception the work of trumpeter and leader Martin Smith. They had interesting melodies and were skilfully arranged.
The other trumpeter, Tony Peers, closely matched Martin in both sound and ability, making for a seamless quality when playing melodies together. Both musicians used flugelhorns, their fat, buttery sound being a nice contrast to the steely, silvery quality of the trumpets.
Often, guitarist Anthony Ormesher played the tune together with the trumpets. This both widened and softened the sound, and when passages of fast fingering were required, these were thrillingly accomplished.
The rhythm section was notable throughout. Andre Baranek - deputising for the regular pianist - coped magnificently; whether melancholic on 'Our Fathers' or happily romping through 'I'm In Your House'.
Double bass player Hugo Harrison - who provided that one composition not by Martin - was a crucial pivot and a nimble soloist.
Drummer Tilo Pirnbaum demonstrated nuance, swing and excitement, whether in his ensemble work, or showing wit and invention when soloing.
There were many highlights; the guitar solo on the brisk 'Hoily Dancer', the skilled and measured bass solo on the ballad tempo of 'Our Fathers'. Tony Peers's solo on 'Apart From That Mrs Lincoln' was notable, as was Martin's on 'Trumpet Ear'.
'Cold, Wet and Sockless' had an extraordinary drum solo. We were treated to an extensive 'wah wah' passage from both trumpeters (Martin with a plunger mute - Tony with a wine glass) on 'Abrams Air'.
The Weave were electrifying and triumphant, and had the audience shouting their appreciation.
One cannot ask for more from an evening of jazz.
Dick Armstrong
