On a warm August evening, jazz aficionados eagerly welcomed the return of Dale Storr as they gathered at the Plas Hotel in Narberth for the monthly jazz event.

The performance that evening took the Narberth Jazz audience on a spirited journey through the rich sonic landscape of New Orleans, the Big Easy. With his encyclopaedic knowledge and effortless technical skill, Dale Storr was at the height of his powers as he channelled the city’s music - a heady brew of rhythm-and-blues, jazz, ragtime, gospel, rock ‘n’ roll and boogie-woogie.

With nimble fingers dancing across the keys, he invited the audience into the lineage of pianists who shaped the city’s musical identity, conjuring up the spirits of Mac Rebennack (Dr John) and James Booker (The Bayou Maharajah). This music, at once raucous then refined, evokes the bright Mardi Gras revelry, the solemn hush of a gospel service, and the smoky intimacy of a late-night jazz bar.

Dale’s selection that evening included signature pieces such as the opening standard ‘St James Infirmary’ then ‘Dorothy’ and ‘Mississippi Mud’ by Dr John, and then a hauntingly beautiful take on ‘A Taste of Honey’ and ‘Goodnight Irene’ from James Booker’s canon.

Dale Storr is more than a pianist. He is a custodian of memory, a scholar of sound, and a generous spirit whose artistry bridges centuries and continents. In his hands, the piano becomes a portal to the heart of New Orleans, where music is a way of life.

Next month Narberth Jazz welcomes the Coltrane Dedication Quintet to the Plas on Thursday, September 18.

This is not a tribute band but a group of musicians who are passionate about the style and music that John Coltrane created. As usual, tickets can be purchased from the Narberth Jazz website or at the Plas on the night.