NEWCASTLE BIG BAND STING ON BASS
£
160
$
212
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Description
"NEWCASTLE BIG BAND was born in 1968 as a student band at the University, but really only toddled in October 1969 when Andy Hudson, its leader, met John Pearce, well-known jazz veteran who knew all the players to fill the gaps. The band reached puberty on the International jazz circuit in 1970-72 (and probably lost its virginity at the same time). After our Continental successes we achieved even more popularity with our new maturity back home. We hope that this, our first record, doesn't die a death. Here's to the immortality of Newcastle Big Band!"
These are the liner notes from what may be Sting's first album. He is listed as Gordon Sumner, and can be seen on the bass in the cover photo. I used to go and listen to them most Sunday lunchtimes and picked this up at one of those gigs.
It hasn't been played much and looks in good condition. I haven't had a turntable since 1991, so it hasn't been played at all since then. Let me be honest and say that it wasn't played that much when I did have the means to do so. The music is only so-so at best, and the quality of the recording leaves much to be desired. In my opinion this is more an album for Sting fans and collectors, less for fans of big band jazz, though if you are interested in the music, the track listing is:
- Adam's Apple (Alan Broadbent) (arranged by John Pearce)
- MacArthur Park (Jimmy Webb) (arranged by John Pearce)
- Li'l Darlin' (Neil Hefti) (arranged by Neil Hefti)
- Hey Jude (John Lennon/ Paul McCartney) (arranged by John Pearce)
- Mercy, Mercy (Joe Zawinul) (arranged by John Pearce)
- Trane Ride (Don Rendell) (arranged by Don Rendell)
- Love For Sale (Cole Porter) (arranged by John Pearce)
- Better Get It In Your Soul (Charles Mingus) (arranged by Nigel Stanger)
As I remember, this is pretty much what they played on Sunday lunchtimes too.
Wait a minute!! Is that an autograph in the top left corner on the back?? Well, yes. Unfortunately, it does not say "Best wishes from G Sumner", it says "Only 5yrs old & still selling Nigel Stanger". Nigel is the dude in the shades on the front row, and played good alto. There were some other good guys in the band too, most notably Pat Crumley. Of course I could kick myself now, but who back then would have sought out the bass player for an autograph? Not me.
Condition looks OK. The record is clean and dust-free, with no visible scratching or warping. As I said, I have no means of playing it to check. The sleeve is intact if a bit rubbed. It might clean up, but I'll leave that to you.
On 14-Mar-07 at 17:12:00 GMT, seller added the following information: Pay instantly with your debit or credit card through PayPal.price rating
