The First Eleven
	It seems that the expansion of the Chris Barber Jazz and Blues Band from the previous eight-man "traditional" line-up to the 11-man lineup of The Big Chris Barber Band has stirred up almost as much controversy as the Drat That Fratle Rat sessions of more than thirty years ago. I have to admit that, to begin with, I was one of the sceptics, although I did enjoy most of the music on Chris's previous CD with guests from Bob Hunt's Ellingtonians, Misty Morning. A few listens to The First Eleven, though, and I was hooked. Although I didn't really need yet one more version of "Bourbon Street Parade" or "When The Saints" in my collection, there's no doubt in my mind that the expanded band and the wider range of instrumental voices add an entirely new life to these old "warhorses." There are some new tunes, too ("Alice Blue Gown," and the wonderfully orchestrated, almost brass-band-sounding "Sweetness"), but for me the highlight of this CD is the re-worked version of "Chimes Blues" and the sheer joy of playing that's evident in this piece – testified to by Chris's exuberant shout at the end of the track. Music: Chimes Blues, recorded at Birmingham Repertory Theatre, 16 December 2001. (Copied from the CD, The First Eleven, Timeless TTD650) Previous cover || Next cover || Covers: home page