STYLE: Brass Band RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 127044-19318 LABEL: Doyen 25200 FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1 RRP: £13.95
Reviewed by Stephen Luff
The joy in reviewing albums by the Black Dyke Band is the appearance of many amazing solo performances - now here thankfully many have been brought together on one album! The album opens with a storming jazzy version of "Oh When The Saints" played on the soprano cornet by Paul Duffy. Alongside this there are great performances by flugel horn soloist Zoe Hancock on the beautiful "That'll Do", and - how's this for a surreal brass band repertoire choice? - Jackie Wilson's "Reet Petite". It works of course and is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. This is followed in total contrast by "Carrickfergus" played by baritone soloist Karrina Marzella. This illustrates a minor criticism of there being too much variation on one album for some ears. This, however, should not distract from the superb playing by outstanding musicians such as bass trombonist Adrian Hirst on the classic "New York State Of Mind" written by Billy Joel, one of the many highlights. A great compilation.
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Product Description
If there was a worldwide brass band Hall of Fame, there would be a great array of former principal players of the Black Dyke Band amongst its membership, great names of the past who have attained legendary status.
Today, the band's 'hot seats' retain the same magical appeal and are much sought after. This fact is made manifest on the band's Soloist Showcase disc, featuring all the principal players displaying their superlative talents with musicality, rich tone and wondrous technique.
Each section of the band is also showcased along with some of the younger players, all of which adds a splendid variety to the programme. The tracks progress, with slight variation, in a concert seating formation starting with cornets and ending with percussion.