Review: Big Band Crazy at Blackpool Grand Theatre

IF YOU were humming New York, New York on Sunday night and conducting along to your CD player you have probably just gone Big Band Crazy!

This laid-back show, premiering at The Grand before whizzing off across the country on a 70-odd date tour this autumn, stars band-leader Andy Prior, his American counterpart John Miller (Glenn Miller's nephew) and the 14-piece Andy Prior Orchestra.

This was enjoyable, easy listening punctuated by Andy and John's gentle banter. And although John's singing was not as honed as Andy's, it did have a pleasing ring of Tony Bennett.

The show received a hearty Blackpool welcome from a full, very warm, and mainly older house. Most of the audience were reluctant to get up and dance, but they were happy to sing along, and obviously approved of a selection including Sinatra, Glenn Miller, Ted Heath, Count Basie and many more.

The show lacks the glamour of a female singer or backing group but, apart from that, a smattering of new arrangements -- scored just for the Andy Prior Orchestra -- helps to keep the whole sound fresh and swinging.

Catch Big Band Crazy on August 19 at The Grand, starting at 7.30pm.