Narberth Jazz’s fourth annual garden party at Lampeter House was held on a beautiful day, with sun and blue skies.

Late in the afternoon on July 28, the party started with gypsy jazz from the Swinging Nettles, writes Gordon Barry.

“The Swingin Nettles” are a four-piece gypsy swing band from South Pembrokeshire, who inspired by the swinging music of 1930s legends Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grapelli, play the infectious rhythms of that time.

The Swingin Nettles at Narberth Jazz Garden Party, Lampeter House
The Swingin Nettles (Narberth Jazz)

Next up it was the Keith Marshall quartet with Angharad Sanders providing the vocal refrains who performed many well-known show standards for the audience. The quartet was a nicely balanced combination of piano, reeds, bass and drums, with Anghard weaving the melodic refrains.

Keith Marshall quartet at Narberth Jazz Garden Party, Lampeter House
Keith Marshall quartet (Narberth Jazz)

Then it came time for the Keith Marshall Little Big Band to take the stage.

The Keith Marshall Little Big Band is an exceptional jazz and swing ensemble with a big sound that creates memorable musical experiences. The South Wales-based band produced a powerful sound, keeping the energy high. Their music bristled with expert musicianship and enthusiasm, including some memorable individual jazz solos. Additionally, vocals from both Angharad Sanders and Andy Matthews highlighted many show tunes and jazz standards.

The Keith Marshall Little Big Band at Narberth Jazz Garden Party, Lampeter House
The Keith Marshall Little Big Band (Narberth Jazz)

The band’s extensive repertoire includes different styles of music that span decades: jazz, swing, ballads, as well as some arrangements of more recent popular tunes. The band delivered contemporary styles as well as the classics of jazz and swing. This group of exceptional musicians presented a big sound, delivering terrific live music for our pleasure.

Altogether a wonderful afternoon and evening was had by all, with beautiful weather, picnics and Pimm’s adding to the musical enjoyment. Narberth Jazz would like to thank Julian Williams for his hospitality and allowing the club to user Lampeter House once again.

Narberth Jazz’s next event at the Plas Hotel, Narberth will be with Dale Storr - one of the UK’s leading exponents of New Orleans piano, with plenty of stories to tell about his much-loved piano heroes. This will take place on Thursday, September 19. See the website for details.