The first Fourcroft Jazz Brunch of 2012 got off to a flying start with a sparkling performance by Cafe Jazz, a five-piece outfit that had the full house audience of regular Jazz Bruncher's (and some well impressed first timers) asking for seconds.

The blend of Dixieland style traditional jazz was a perfect start to what will undoubtedly be another year of very memorable live music sessions. Great food. Great music. All in the very heart of Pembrokeshire. We may be living through the worst recession in living memory, but for a few short hours it was a world away.

Led by Fourcroft regular Tudor Thomas (on trombone), with Peter Berry (double bass), George Sykes (banjo), John Davies (trumpet and flugel horn) and Brian Sansbury (clarinet), Café Jazz were as pleasing to watch as they were to listen to. They made no secret of the fact that some of their numbers were unrehearsed if practised at all. All it took was a nod or a simple hand gesture from Tudor and each musician simply slipped into a solo and back out again.

The whole performance was as relaxed as a practice session, but as polished as the last night at the proms. These were talented and very experienced musicians who enjoy what they do, and they do it with aplomb. The audience loved it.

Vocals were shared between Tudor, Brian and John. When I say shared, it was amusing to see them haggling over who was going to sing the next number. They were all keen to perform, but Tudor took the lion's share and why not, he has a great voice for jazz and he was in charge. Their performance was one that had something for everyone. Nothing fancy or too heavy for the audience to enjoy, just pure simple joyful jazz played by a band as happy to be there as the 'brunchers'. From 'Deed I do' to 'When the Saints go Marching in', they took the audience with them and earned their respect.

I and several other regulars were surprised that the set-up did not include a drummer. However, our concerns quickly diminished when the combination of Peter Berry and George Sykes on double bass and banjo carried the rhythms superbly. Meanwhile, John Davies and Brian Sanbury were both class acts.

Tudor Thomas has an infectious enthusiasm for his music that quickly spreads to the audience. He pops up in many different guises. This is a man who is passionate about live music and cares about the future. He wants everyone to know everything about each number and its origins. With him around, 'live' music will always have a future. Live music and jazz in particular can have no finer ambassador.

Once again, a huge thank you to Chris, Cath and the staff at the Fourcroft for another fantastic live music session.

A.M.