Will spring ever arrive? As the frosts and icy winds continue it's time to seek comfort and warmth in the intimate clubs and friendly pubs around the region, and renew the acquaintance of old friends.
Or maybe the blues is what you need to hear?
First, the old friends.
Marlene ver Planck is a singer with a history and an ever-enthusiastic desire to share it. A New York singer through and through (she even called a record that), she has sung with the Dorsey Brothers orchestra, with the Glenn Miller Band, in Carnegie Hall, alongside Mel Torme, in hours of studio sessions, on countless advertising jingles.
Above all, she continues to interpret the songs from the Great American Songbook with a clarity and grace that is ageless.
She makes regular visits to these shores and delights in the intimacy of a club gig.
The lucky punters this time are those who frequent the West Midlands Jazz Club International which meets at the George Hotel in Bird Street, Lichfield.
Marlene ver Planck, with Geoff Eales on piano and Roy Babbington on bass, play there tomorrow night from 8.30pm.
Tickets are £8.50 and there are more details at the other end of 01543 263538 or 01283 762120. Or book by credit card on 01543 412121.
And so to the blues, and one of Canada's finest exponents of the style.
The Drum's regular Live Box sessions play host on Sunday evening to Diana Braithwaite, a blues singer in the classic style.
Expect your imagination to be taken back in time and across the pond to the Delta. Diana has performed alongside John Lee Hooker, Albert Collins and Jeff Healey, so she has certainly paid her dues.
Live Box presents Diana Braithwaite is on Sunday from 7.45pm. Tickets are £7. For more information contact: The Drum, Potters Lane, Birmingham B6 4UU, Box Office: 0121 333 2444, Online www.the-drum.org.uk ..SUPL:
