Monday 6th July

Hi Festival Goers

Sunday's sensations were The Night Trippers at the Brasshouse. They were raucous and they socked it to 'em, getting the crowd, both inside and out, on its feet dancing.

If you missed Pee Wee Ellis at Star City (pictured above) then you missed out. The delighted crowd was treated not only to the incredible Pee Wee, a saxophonist with an awesome musical pedigree - it also got to witness a fantastic backing trio, which included the hugely talented drummer Mark Mondesir. A class act indeed.

Also of note were Tipitina, who played two shows yesterday. At the Ha Ha Bar & Grill the band's lovely version of 'I Wish I Knew How It Feels To Be Free' together with the Tom Waits song 'I wish I was in New Orleans' were real crowd pleasers.

Festival Patron Digby Fairweather arrives in town today with performances at the Brasshouse (12.30pm) and the Ibis Hotel (6pm). Commuters are sure to have a smile put on their faces with performances by Becky Brine, The Shuffling Hungarians and The Jazz Ramblers, all presented by the Colmore Business District - see the programme for times and locations.

Richard Cartridge of Play Jazz UK, part of the Play Radio Network, makes the first of five daily live broadcasts between 3pm and 6pm. Appearing at a different Festival venue each day from Monday through to Friday, you can catch him today at the Lord Clifden.

There is a slight programme change tomorrow (Tuesday): Greg Abate's performance will now be at 5.30pm at the Waters Edge Bandstand, instead of 6pm at the Old Contemptibles. Also both Thursday performances by the Kings Bruton Big Band will take place at City Inn.

As always, we welcome your feedback. Post your comments and gig reviews here or on our web site http://www.birminghamjazzfestival.com