And All That Jazz!

 The Maid's Head: Act 3 Anolah And The Bonez

Another trio. Same format, but wow, how different can you get?  I was again concerned, when I entered the room, that this band were already into their set, but with everyone in the substantial audience chuntering away!  I should have remembered where I was. Norwich gig goers have utmost respect for their musicians. As soon as the trio were ready everyone, bar two, stopped chatting and tuned in.

With the light fading outside, the stage lighting came into play, giving Anolah's understated band just the right level of lux to cast a sultry spell on an audience still buzzing after the previous bunch had done their work.

This trio were lounge jazz with a bit of edge. Anolah's voice, was pure, hot chocolate; a classic jazz vocal. Not wanting to be unnecessary, I am going to use word the 'sexy' to describe it, because there are few other words for its tone and delivery. A gorgeous singing voice.

Bass, played from a chair, was laid back, totally in sympathy with that voice.  The drums were delightfully played.  Do not start me off on how difficult jazz drumming is to fit a mood, it can be ruinous, but not here. 

A habit of checking whether the audience liked a song, 

was endearing, although wholly unnecessary. They loved each song and were then rewarded by another lovely number, until it was suddenly the last song, Suck My Toes. This finale belayed any remaining misapprehensions the audience may have had of the band's cuteness, with punchy lyrics (sung a la mode), a driving bass line and a closing drum crescendo, this number came from a worldly wise writer, with a bit character and a band who don't just do laid back, cool stuff to fill an hotel lobby air.  Excellent.

Next stop, St. Laurence's for more jazz. 

Spencer Ide

16/10/2025