AN appreciative audience at the Plas Hotel Narberth, on the 21st March, enjoyed an evening of sophisticated jazz with a night of musical delights from the Dave Jones Quintet, writes Gordon Barry. 

The jazz night coincided with Dave Jones’ 60th Birthday celebration; it was also a showcase for the Welsh pianist and composer. 

The programme brought together two of his jazz projects: the Dave Jones Quintet’s recent set of arrangements of Kenny Garrett’s Music (by Andy Hague), and Dave’s new set of arrangements of his own compositions for the Quintet. These included ‘A Hole In One’ and ‘Happy People’ amongst the extensive set presented to the audience during the evening.

The Quintet recently played to a full house at Pizza Express Jazz Club in Soho, London where they recorded their new live album, which has now been pressed for the second time.

Along with Dave Jones were Andy Hague (trumpet and flugelhorn), Ben Waghorn (tenor Sax and flute), Ashley John Long who forsook his usual ‘bull fiddle’ for a bass guitar and, finally, Adam Merrell on drums to drive it all home.

For April’s delight at the Plas Hotel, Narberth Jazz presents the Eddie Gripper Trio.

The 23 year old pianist, Eddie Gripper, brings his band to Narberth Jazz for the launch of his new album ‘Home’, as part of the UK/IE Album Tour.

Described as “a critically acclaimed debut that’s already garnered comparisons with the greats” (Jazzwise) and “a remarkably mature-sounding trio album” (London Jazz News).

The performance starts at 7.30pm on Thursday, April 11. Tickets are available from www.narberthjazz.wales.