George Duke is the keeper of the keys

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

Hitting town last night on the last leg of a gruelling European tour — "No offence, but we just wanna go home" — Duke maintained remarkable energy and creativity at the head of a brilliant young band about one-third his age. Drummer Ron Bruner, five-string bass‑guitarist Michael Manson and fuzz‑toned guitarist Jeff Lee Johnson set up high-tension beats as Duke stretched out on various synth keboards.

Their opening number, Homeland, was a medium-fast bossa with changes similar to the A section of Giant Steps. Its joyful vibe recalled Duke’s first Latin-American album, A Brazilian Love Affair. The next, Up On It, was an extended funk classic from the early fusion days, with sensational solos from Manson and Bruner.

Only then did Duke finally introduce vocalist Shannon Pierson, who until that point had offered only backing vocals while smiling angelically from the wings. It seemed a long time to keep a lady waiting but Duke sounded inspired. He was a monster player 30 years ago and, bless him, he still is.

What a shame this was a one-night stand.

George Duke
Ronnie Scott's
47 Frith Street
Soho
London
W1D 4HT