Reviewed by Doug Holland

It is difficult to imagine any way in which the latest recording from HTB could disappoint aficionados of this genre. A considerable amount of variety and textures are evident across the song list and copious amounts of drive, energy and enthusiasm (for instance "True Courage" and "Army Of The Nile") are balanced by plenty of subtlety and sensitivity (eg, "The Victors, 2nd Movement"). The playing is excellent and the solos are outstanding (notably the cornet leading "Victorious"). As the title of the CD suggests the thread holding all of it together is the theme of "hero" and the song list seeks to represent a variety of these (heroes of battle, of faith and of service amongst them). The sleevenotes list and provide information about the pieces played; if these are not known to the listener then this will remain of course simply as an instrumental recording to be enjoyed. 17 tracks provide 77 minutes of top quality brass band music that even non-aficionados will find hard not to like.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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