Ferg Ireland, Jay Phelps, Robin Katz, Giacomo Smith. (Out of shot: Moses Boyd) Boisdale Canary Wharf, 3rd April 2013

Sebastian writes: I heard a lively, friendly, swinging, civilized new band playing approachable music to rather distant diners in the cavernous Boisdale Canary Wharf restaurant last night.

Bandleader clarinettist/soprano sax Giacomo Smith, from the upper reaches of the Hudson in New York state, via Boston, played unamplified in the style of the Bob Wilber and Kenny Davern and in the shadow of Bechet. His sound and presence are a welcome addition to the London scene. Trumpeter Jay Phelps (originally from Vancouver) shared the front-line duties, and found the temptation to tag the first phrase of I’m in the Money a few times understandably irresistible. Robin Katz was  elegant and rhythmic on guitar. Bassist Ferg Ireland was both impeccable and creative, although bass is always hard to hear against the ambient noise in the room. Moses Boyd who can be forceful in other contexts was suitably serene here. (This band also works with Pedro Segundo.) A smart and forward-looking piece of booking by Boisdale – definitely a band to watch out for as it develops and builds its repertoire.