Piano trio the Boogie Woogie Troop are no strangers to playing sell-out performances. Having worked in top recording studios and with leading international artists, Matthew Gest (piano), Sam Walker (drums) and Jim Mortimore (bass) were surprisingly humble in their clear enjoyment, playing The Brunswick as part of the Brighton Festival Fringe.
The low lighting, intimate candles and electric atmosphere pleasingly reflected the band’s New Orleans influence in their music. Taking inspiration from the likes of Professor Longhair, Ray Charles and Champion Jack Dupree to name a few, the trio effortlessly incorporated a few friends and fellow musicians who injected a saxophone fusion into the proceedings on more than one occasion.
The group played an assortment of well-known classics as well as their original tunes and album tracks. The jubilant way in which they managed to get even the most sedate of the crowd tapping along by the end is perhaps a testament to not only the band’s technical skill but also their ability to adapt and cater to all crowds, large or small.
It was clear by the end of their set that whatever it was the Boogie Woogie Troop were playing, it was hard to resist the infectious beat and leave without a smile on your face.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here