In February 2009, the Leyland Band began an exciting new venture, a series of matinee concerts which have become highly popular and successful. Each concert is musically themed, for example the annual ‘Romance in Brass’ is a real favourite. The series is now firmly established and expanding to new venues.

This recording takes its inspiration from these matinee concerts, drawing on the music which has been showcased in the first six concerts of the series. Leyland Band is one of the world’s most accomplished bands, and the repertoire presented here is unashamedly ‘easy listening’ orientated, reflecting the success and appreciation of the wonderful series of concerts Leyland Band has produced.

Music from the movies, musical theatre and popular culture is instantly recognisable and engaging. Great arrangements including ‘633 Squadron’ and ‘American Trilogy’ sit effortlessly alongside original features in ‘Congestion Charge’ and ‘Peace’.

John Doyle is quite stunning in his performance of ‘Blessed Assurance’ on flugel and trumpet. Other featured soloists are Philippe Schwarz (euphonium) and Matt Balson (soprano).

The band’s own arrangers contribute some unique items. Iain McKnight’s excellent transcription of ‘La Cambiale Di Matrimonio’ and the lovely ‘When the Stars Began to Fall’. Gary Westwood offers an upbeat arrangement of Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, and great mash up of Semper Fidelis and The St Louis Blues March in ‘Semper St Louis’.

If you like your music light but performed with panache and style this CD from Leyland Band could be just the ticket!