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The New Jazz Couriers, Azule Serape

Trio Records TR567 (Recorded live May 2004)

Martin Drew, drums; Mornington Lockett, tenor saxophone; Jim Hart, vibraphone; Paul Morgan, double bass; Steve Melling, piano

Martin Drew formed the New Couriers to commemorate the original band led by Ronnie Scott and Tubby Hayes, but this is a celebration that says ‘let’s see where it can take us’ rather than trying to be a ‘let’s do it like they did’ cover band so beloved by the Wynton Marsalis gang. Although we have just one tenor here, the inclusion of Jim Hart on vibes adds another taste of Tubby, as he played vibes too. Another vibraphone player is remembered here: the title track is a Victor Feldman classic and two others are included.

Should you have been expecting, for some weirdo reason all your own, that such an echo might be merely the wail of a moribund world, I can tell you that such pessimism is doomed. The first three tracks hurtle through space, especially perhaps the opener, Some of My Best Friends Are Blues, a Ronnie Scott original. Serenity is a welcome respite while Azule Serape reminds us to get a firm grip before racing for the line with Opus Ocean.

There is a sense of devotion to the saxophone here, not only from the tenor but also from the vibes whose scintillating treble and phrasing owe more to virtuoso sax playing than to any number of deservedly starlit vibes musicians. The power of the tenor is further uplifted by the powerhouse rhythm section; forceful but controlled drumming from co-leader Martin Drew, tight, fast bass lines from Paul Morgan and superb timing with captivating chord colouration and melodic improvisation from Steve Melling. Mornington Lockett’s playing is imposing in his solos and the whole band propels itself into the music with obvious intensity.
Altogether a prodigious live recoprding. This band is no steamer: it’s a white Merc with fins.

Reviewed by
ken cheetham
July 2007