FROM the moment they struck their first chord, the beaming smile of front man Wayne Warlow reflected what the audience were thinking (writes Allan Morris).
This latest Fourcroft Jazz Brunch session was as good as it gets. Nothing clever, pretentious or over the top, just good, smooth occasionally toe- tapping jazz played to a very appreciative audience by musicians who were so obviously enjoying the performance as much as they were.
As one of the more regular bands to perform at the Fourcroft, the Wayne Warlow Quartet are very much at ease with their audience and surroundings. So much so, that on occasions, the session was so relaxed it was like an old-fashoned music session with your family. The informality was enhanced by Wayne's humorous introductions to each new number or backhanded compliments to his fellow band members.
The quartet made up of Dick Roberts on piano, Tommy Harris on tenor sax, Nigel Williams on drums and the inimitable Wayne Warlow on double bass, kept the audience enthralled for three hours with three high quality sets. Each musician taking his turn to display their individual brilliance before recombining into a fusion of sounds that freely flowed via many jazz classics. As usual at the Fourcroft Jazz Brunches, you never know just what to expect. Already well into their stride, the quartet suddenly became a quintet when they were joined by talented Narberth saxophonist Dominic Norcross. Astonishingly, this was not only the first time most of the band had played with him, but also the first time they had met him. All credit to Tommy Harris for ensuring Dominic slotted in seamlessly, adding a new dimension to an already excellent performance. I would somehow suspect that this was not the last occasion that Dominic will be performing at the Fourcroft or with the Wayne Warlow Quartet. The only downer on an excellent performance? Where was the encore? When you have an audience calling for more, give them what they want. It is a much better sound than when they ask you leave early. Still, unfazed, Wayne finished as he started, with a beaming smile across his face. This is a man who enjoys his work and it spreads to everyone around him.
Once again, live music is alive and thriving well in Tenby. Thanks to everyone at the Fourcroft for making it possible. Long may this tradition continue.