Kings of Swing!

The welcome return of Tony Pipkin, Ron Hills, Roger Heeley and Roy Dutton (aided and abetted by Len and Phil) lived up to everyone's pleasurable anticipation. Since that was a working majority of the wonderful Swing Kings, we were treated to an evening of the best in relaxed small band swing.

Tony Pipkin, as he always seems to do at Malvern, was giving us that mix of innovative improvisation and command of melody that marks him out as one of the Midlands' very best. Paired with Ron, who wraps himself round a great melody like a fur coat (and just as warm), its one of the most listenable front lines you're going to meet.

From within the rhythm section, I can tell you that working with Roger and Roy is like meshing with a well-oiled gearbox - you just can't help swinging.

John Ripper got up for a few with on the baritone, and as usual, was chucked straight in at the deep end of a few numbers he'd never played before, but it never seemed to bother him. (Wish I could say the same!).

For the sharp eyed among you, we hope you noticed (a) the new paint job on Len's bass (he's having central heating and new lino in it next) and (b) Phil's new guitar (provided by the lovely Mrs Probert out of her late Mama's will).

Finally just to say, thanks to all purchasers of the Greatest Hits CD. They've nearly all gone, and a useful sum has been added to club funds. Don't worry if you haven't got yours yet, we can run them off to order.