Review: Kansas Smitty’s House Band at the Adnams Spiegeltent

Normally to be found in their basement bar in London's Broadway Market, this jazzy, swinging seven-piece hit the Spiegeltent for just one night.

Mostly dolling out their own compositions, there was a lot skill on show here – particularly when the rhythm section's Joe Webb on piano and Pedro Segundo on drums were given their heads. Segundo's solo in particular was stunning - not the normal Buggins' turn indulgence.

Pete Horsfall fared better on trumpet than vocals, with his singing lacking the panache evident elsewhere; the band needs a singer not a stand in.

There's something a little tucked-in about the band; I prefer my jazz a little more sleazy. That said, with just one cover (a Jelly Roll Morton number) their own material – the inane Party Party Party aside – was inventive enough for a fun, hot May evening.

James Goffin

For more Norfolk and Norwich Festival stories click here

For a full list of Norfolk and Norwich Festival events click here