The Kevin Clark Trio: The Sandbar Sessions
By Nick Batt
Pianist, trumpet player, composer and arranger Kevin Clark lists his occupation as musician on his letterhead. He is absolutely correct. ‘The Sandbar Sessions’ were recorded live at The Sandbar (in Paremata) over two nights in September 2004. The quality of the recording is excellent and while it can’t match the experience of being there it’s as close as you could hope to get. Clark (limiting himself to piano this time) is joined by faithful sidekicks Rowan Clark (bass) and Richard Wide (drums) and a plethora of guest artists (Hannah Griffin-vocals: Colin Hemmingsen and Alex Nyman-saxophones: Lance Philip-percussion:, Michael Taylor-trumpet and Wade Sharp-guitar). Together they apply their magic to a mixture of standards, originals and Latin jazz. This is quality stuff and you have to keep reminding yourself that it’s a live performance - not studio take number 14, but then these guys are professionals and Kevin Clark is a master. The trio is at the Sandbar on the first and third Sundays of the month. It’s your mission to be there.
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