Mark Lockett is bringing his jazz quartet to Whanganui Musicians Club this Friday. Photo / Supplied
Musicians Club is Jazz artist's first choice
By Ken Chernoff
When internationally renowned powerhouse drummer Mark (Pocket) Lockett picked the North Island venues for his quartet's 4 towns in 4 nights tour, he insisted on including Whanganui. When asked why, he said, "Something's cookin' in Whanganui." And he feels at home
in the fabulous Musicians Club hall. It also made logistical sense. The band play Napier, Auckland and Hamilton before arriving here.
Drawing on his love for the music of iconic jazz innovator/saxophonist Ornette Coleman, Pocket Lockett has penned a suite of hard groovin' compositions for the cordless quartet. Although a little unconventional, having no piano or guitar allows musicians the freedom to improvise without being bound by complex harmonies. The all-star quartet features some of the who's who on the national jazz scene. Lucien Johnson (saxophone), Oscar Laven (trumpet) and Umar Zakaria (bass) have all played in Whanganui in various bands. Each one is an accomplished musician, and hearing them together in Lockett's music will be something special.
The Musicians Club continues to attract a vast array of contemporary musical styles, and this is another opportunity to be part of something completely new. Come along and join the fun.
The Details
What: Mark Lockett Quartet
When: Friday, April 23, 8pm
Where: Whanganui Musicians Club, Drews Ave
Tickets: Tickets at the door $20, Musicians Club and Jazz Club Members $15
