The
Rae Brothers New Orleans Jazz Band
“The Rae Brothers New Orleans Jazz Band are masters of ensemble playing. Their
playing is simple, relaxed and heartfelt, I call them the gentle New
Orleans Band”
Mac and Dave Rae made their debut on the jazz scene in the 60’s when they joined
the rhythm section of the “Vieux Carre Jazzmen” resident at the New
Orleans Club, Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
During the 70’s with Colin “Kid” Dawson on trumpet they founded the Onward New
Orleans Band (UK). With this band they had the good fortune to present a variety
of musicians who were over from New Orleans at that time, and several top
British jazz musicians including Ken Colyer.
In 1995 the brothers teamed up again; this time Mac playing clarinet, the
instrument he played as a teenager. They formed “The Rae Brothers New Orleans
Jazz Band”, Jim Blenkin (trombone), John
Robinson (bass) and Kenny Milne (drums). All are dedicated to playing in the
style of the bands led by the “old master” Bunk Johnson and the way Bunk wanted
it, which is with few solos, emphasising the creative strength of the old style
New Orleans ensemble. The feel and sound described by Ken Colyer as the New
Orleans Bounce.
In the spring of 2009 a
new line-up was formed, this time with Mac switching once again to cornet - an
instrument he played in the 1980's. We also welcomed Liz Bacon on
clarinet, husband Paul Bacon on drums and the band is frequently joined by
excellent young pianist, Ian Wynne.
Based at Springwell Village Hall, Gateshead in the North East of England, their
aim is to sustain the feeling and bounce of the old New Orleans ensemble bands.
Appearing on Saturday afternoon (Station Hotel) and Church service on Sunday (Castlehill
Parish Church)