My thanks to the charismatic promoter Ray Jones for the VIP invitation to the Crypt in St Martins-in-the-Fields this evening, to enjoy the TJ Johnson band. TJ is widely considered to be one of the UK’s most charismatic and highly revered jazz, blues and country singers.
Backed by his group of top London-based musicians – Al Nicholls (tenor sax), Denny Ilett (guitar and vocals), Simon Read (double bass) and Wesley Gibbens (drums) – pianist TJ delivered an engaging range of crowd-pleasers that called upon classics from jazz, blues, soul, country and gospel.
The two excellent 45 minute sets featured songs made famous by such luminaries as Ray Charles, Willie Nelson, Alberta Hunter and Dean Martin, including Georgia on my mind, Stormy Monday and Roll up and smoke me. Thanks guys!
