The Jazz Wizard

I wondered why he was dressed a bit smarter when I met up with him to head into town. I didn't mention it though. It was just a fleeting thought. The weather was its usual silly self for summer. We headed into the centre discussing various things. David said that after the workshop that we would be attending he was going to a Jazz night in Parr Street Studios, his aunt and cousin would also be present. Asking if I wanted to come along.

Why not, sounds good to me. I had no other plans. The workshop had been cancelled - so we stayed in the coffee shop for a little while with a few drinks chatting and people watching. One particular eccentrically dressed man made us chuckle. I am aware of the skinny jeans look - but this brother was sporting ultra, ultra skinnies. How he got them on doesn't bare thinking about.

Drinks finished and we headed out. Wok & Go was spotted and we declared our love for the Chinese eatery. Looking at the place longingly - like two salivating dogs. Detour before the studios, Capoeira class to see a friend quickly - who turned out not to be there. Might try this Capoeira business one day. A few friends do it and speak highly of African/Portuguese movement.

Needing to meet up with him we had to find a place to wait until he arrived from his changed venue. The two slightly hungry canines decided why not in Wok & Go. And whilst in there it would be rude not to purchase some oriental cuisine. Well what a great idea. Food was ordered and dispatched as we waited for Pedro.

It's summer and the rain still treacles down. The area of the city centre we are located seems to house many "cool" and eclectic individuals. This was mentioned as I noticed the different trends dotted around.

Food and meet up with Pedro (and his random mate done) - we sauntered to the studios to see some Jazz.

Noticing an interesting looking new haunt nearby I commented to David that Liverpool has many new places springing up that look like good places to investigate.

"The entrance is just over there." Said the helpful lady - as we had gone into the wrong section of the building.

We opened the correct doors to be greeted by a girl taking money at a table. My attention was quickly disturbed by the sounds that greeted us even more nicely than she did. Music furnished the stylish room.

Drums, Percussion, Saxophone, Guitar, Double Bass... And a man that looked like a wizard. He was sat at a keyboard, playing and singing in a manner that summoned  the present audience to listen. They were captivated. I was a little spell bound. His talent, and the that of the bands were undeniable.

The man on the drums and percussion was the youngest of the group. He was probably born in the 70's but for the rest - they looked as though they were born BC - Especially the wizard. He had a long white beard that had a split in the middle of it. Long hair in a pony tail which was covered by a small hat and a colourful waist coat that was underpinned by his generously proportioned stomach. (Of course he wore trousers, but I can't recall them). There was also a woman who played the Sax' (It is rude to guess an older females age). She was all woman, and played with sass. Double Bass man appeared to be at one with his instrument. His fingers caressed it as though he was making love. His face a picture of contentment.

Spontaneous evenings and nights can usually be the best ones. The Jazz music reiterated this to me. Head and feet bopping and tapping in tune with the fine music that the wizard and his troupe served up. He sang with verve and passion - then when the song required it - he stopped and played his trumpet into the microphone. His cheeks becoming a cherry coloured complexion and his beard bristled as he blew the little trumpet.

The crowd had to acknowledge his talent and clapped like a group of happy seals. I followed suit, but semi awkwardly - as I did not want to spill my drink.

Good fine music was the potion that the wizard gave us. The little portly man sang about women, he covered classics and did them justice and then when he wanted a rest he instructed the lady to play her Saxophone - "Play girl! don't let me down." A little solo cameo, she didn't let anybody down.

The music did more than charm us - it enchanted us. Just as the great Nina Simone sang "I put a spell on you." Equally, so did the wizard.


Submitted by Demola, The Collective