Jamison Ross

Jamison Ross was a new name to me until I heard about this gig and checked him out. He's a drummer with a great voice and wide open vocal range. He fronted a four piece band with long standing friends guitarist Rick Lollar, bassist Barry Stephenson, organist Chris Pattishall. They played a mixture of songs from his self titled album ('I couldn't think of anything else to call it' he mused)

In fact he talked a lot between numbers which was interesting, and he evidenced a great respect for his musical ancestors including singing drummer Grady Tate. Influences ranged from Muddy Waters to Carmen Lundy

You got the sense that he wanted the audience to participate in the gig which they did more and more as Ross' warm personality shone along with his fine singing.

The second half of the gig showed the band's blues credentials with some fine guitar work and fast driving interplay between guitar and bass

The venue had changed from the Jazz Cafe - which is undergoing renovations - to Nells Jazz and Blues Club in Fulham around the corner from West Kensington tube. My first visit here too - and what a friendly welcome. They've already had a stack of stars since Van Morrisson kicked off the programme and there plenty more to come looking at the posters. I'll be back soon