Fownhope’s Heart of Oak Society traces its roots to the age of friendly societies, when communities provided their own safety net. Its anniversary celebrations reveal a tradition still very much alive, says MARK SEDDON
THE last time that I heard him play his tenor saxophone was in 1975 on the grassy slopes in front of Ally Pally, where on a baking summer afternoon his golden horn whirled in joy and beauty.
He came from that swooping, howling, gushing tradition of Texas tenor stalwarts, the same tradition that produced James Clay and David “Fathead” Newman of Corsicana and Arnett Cobb of Houston.
Except that Buddy Tate (born in Sherman, Texas in 1913) had another great jazz element implanted within him: the seed of relentless swing.
CHRIS SEARLE recommends a new album featuring Pat Thomas and Ahmed, and marvels at the tempestuous power of a live performance
As part of the 2025 London Jazz Festival Rich Mix offered intriguing sessions titled 'Persian Jazz,' CHRIS SEARLE was there
Re-releases from Bobby Wellins/Kenny Wheeler Quintet, Larry Stabbins/Keith Tippet/Louis Moholo-Moholo, and Charles Mingus Quintet
CHRIS SEARLE speaks to saxophonist and retired NHS orthopaedic surgeon ART THEMEN


