Hint of Swing Big Band

What a musical treat to hear this amazing big band, all top-flight musicians ripping into their compendious choice of material.

They started with everybody’s favourites, including “In the Mood”, “Twinkletoes”, “South of the Border” and “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)”. Then they left the beaten track with off-beat classics: the main theme from Sleepless in Seattle, “Hay Burner”, Charlie Parker’s “Yardbird Suite”, John Coltrane’s “Impressions”, and “Song for My Father” featuring John Conley on bass guitar. Then the “Cantina Band” from Star Wars, and “Big Swing Face”, made famous by legendary drummer Buddy Rich, featuring the incredible virtuosity of Graham Lockwood on his wild Nord keyboard.

They have a fabulous trombone section, with James Henshaw doubling as lead vocalist, serving up those legendary Sinatra numbers with pizzazz. The sax section, starring Emma, Jodie, Dave Katz and Dicky Sturmer, was brilliantly anchored by Bob Young, strongman of the baritone. How nice to hear that overlooked instrument thundering out at full power!

Jan Pieri and Nino DiMarco completed the rhythm section on guitar and drums, and the whole show was masterminded by Ivan Cocking. We look forward to their next appearance. Go the Hint of Swing!