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Grace Jones with Sly and Robbie (22 Jan)
Keane (29 Jan)
James and Athlete (12 Dec)

BBC Big Band Play Atomic Basie

Source: List.co.uk (Issue 581)
Date: 1 August 2007 (updated 25 July 2008)
Written by: Kenny Mathieson

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Jazz classic is an atomic explosion

Basie fans will need no nudging to spot the reference in the title of this Jazz Festival celebration of the great pianist and bandleader’s music. The Atomic Mr Basie was first issued in 1957, and remains one of the touchstone recordings in the continuing development of the Basie band as it metamorphosed from its origins in Kansas City in the 1930s.

The big band bearing his name is still going strong, and played in Nairn and Edinburgh last year, but this concert will feature the familiar BBC Big Band, joined by a special guest in former Basie-ite Butch Miles, who will drive proceedings from the drum kit. And drive is the word – his big sound and compelling swing were entirely evident with the Basie Orchestra last year, and he will help set a spark to the 40th anniversary celebration of one of his former employer’s most enduring testaments.

Queen’s Hall, 668 2019, 4 Aug, 8.30pm, £19.50 (£16).

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