ALEX HITCHCOCK JAZZ AT THE HIDDEN ROOMS
Alex Hitchcock on his saxophone
New York based Alex Hitchcock is that strange figure, a prophet returned to his own Country. But unlike the Biblical version, this commanding performer is accepted - in fact he is feted a the Modern Jazz Club where he once played warm- up sessions for older more experienced acts. He has made some magnificent strides in the Jazz world since then, and it is easy to see where adulation comes from - chiefly his technique, command of jazz musicality . John Coltrane is murmured in homage to this remarkable player.
Even the musical Press go overboard. 'Ridiculous technique and harmonic proficiency combined with progressive creativity that sees him leading the charge in terms of new jazz music being created in the UK'
Dynamic Drums by Michael Harris
The gig at Hidden Rooms was a delighted homecoming celebration for all the crowd who knew Alex when he was a student here in Cambridge, pleased to play second - saxophone to visiting stars. And like any old friend Alex did some reminiscing about the old days - it sounded alarming when the Hidden Rooms were almost buried under a deluge of water from a burst pipe , it ruined the piano apparently.
And the music was great, confident, classy technically tops. However Alex and the International band of jazz experts play a seamless, non stop set through the first half - it did remind me of Dudley More on that piano spoof ,where the maestro didn't know where to stop and -hilariously kept going without an end. And Alex’s sheer versatility left others puzzled and out of their musical depth.
But Cambridge Modern Jazz has a range of talent through the door, from International stars to emerging talents, flourish.
Possibly the best comment is to had over to the not one but two photographers Michael Harris and Trevor Lee to get the vibe in perfection. The is jazz after all.
Alex in full form from photographer Trevor Lee
Photographer Michael Harris
'Ridiculous technique and harmonic proficiency combined with progressive creativity that sees him leading the charge in terms of new jazz music being created in the UK' Jazz UK
