virus

Led by clarinettist Chris Tanner, Virus is one of the most exciting traditional jazz bands on the Melbourne scene, combining the exuberance of youth with the wisdom of experience they play hot New Orleans jazz. Chris (who has earned praise for his brilliant playing with The Hoodangers and Allan Browne's New Orleans Rascals) decided to form his own band in 2000, when he was sick with shingles (hence the name). He simply wanted to play some hard-swinging, classic jazz material with people who shared his love of the style. Joining him are Eamon McNelis (trumpet), Don Stewart (trombone), John Scurry (guitar, banjo), Andy Ross (bass) and Lynn Wallis (drums). Virus have worked at the Melbourne International Jazz Festival, Wangaratta Jazz Festival and other local venues including The Rainbow Hotel, Transit Lounge, Bar Open and The Laundry in Fitzroy (where they can be heard every Saturday afternoon, 4-7pm). They have released 2 CD’s, With Her Dixie Eyes Blazin’ and Gypsy Tea Room, both recorded live at the Laundry. While Virus is an excellent band, appreciating dancers, The Laundry is a small venue with a small dance floor. While recent renovations at the venue have produced a new, wooden and smoother floor, dancers should remember that this is primarily a pub, and that floor conditions may vary. As it is a pub/club, the Laundry is often smoky, and the presence of lindy hoppers on the dance floor often encourages drinkers to do likewise. The Saturday afternoon Virus gigs also tend to attract the much older Melbourne jazz community members, making for an odd mix in the venue. Female dancers should note that these older male jazz fans can be unpleasantly sleazy, whilst the younger locals are far more respectful and quite appreciative of dancers' abilities. Thought you would love to see what other people think! However please enjoy the music for what it is. The vibe in the venue is great and that is what it is all about. PS put some money in our tea pot. Love CT. You should create your own MySpace Layouts like me by using nUCLEArcENTURy .COM's MySpace Profile Editor !