Those that can do, those that cannot become critics and reviewers,. I fall into the latter category. At least my background has allowed me to listen and learn at rehearsals for the past 25 years. I have also been fortunate to get close to some of the top big bands in the world, and am now able to understand the problems and articulate my thoughts after a fashion.

One thing I have never forgotten is that no-one goes into a studio to create a bad recording, they do their best, and that fact should engender encouragement rather than criticism from those who appoint themselves as authorities. Sometimes you are forced to call upon reserves of character to transcend unkind criticism and move onwards. I thought I would get that off my mind and out of the way!

This excellent big band is a descendant of the legendary Squadronaires or Royal Airforce No 1 Dance Orchestra. Many great British musicians were called into service during war time. This ensured that the original band was of a very high standard. It is remarkable that there is a pool of musicians now, in the RAF to justify a rebirth of that infamous wartinme big band.

This is the second CD by this group. To say that they have made progress is an understatement. This is a first class swing album. The music is selected from the back catalogue of Bob Florence, Sammy Nestico, Neal Hefti and obviously Count Basie.

Sgt. Jamie Deighton (leader and alto), knew that listeners would expect the second CD to be an improvement on the first. To this end baritone player Jay Craig, who not only leads his own rehearsal band, but can boast a career with Sinatra, Rich, Torme, Sammy Davis Jnr. The Syd Lawrence Orchestra and the BBC Big Band, was brought in to direct and I guess, to mentor the group. He did a great job nurturing the enthusiasm and confidence that is palpable when you listen to the CD.

The formula worked very well and you can now listen to the result and be proud that those ultra smart guys on the stage, not only grace our armed services but are fine musicians too. An excellent CD guys!

I am hoping that with this sort of introduction to the general public, the idea of the band touring the U.K. is seriously considered.

Tracks: Norwegian Wood Doin' Basie's Thing Come Fly With Me Cute From Russia With Love Just In Time It's Oh So Nice Ya Gotta Try Switch In Time Without A Song Basie Straight Ahead Avenue C The Nearness Of You Aces And Faces Tickle Toe April In Paris