Peter Magill

FANS of Count Basie and Chuck Mangione will hear echoes of the jazz greats with the latest release by a fast-rising Warrington brass brand.

And with their second CD, entitled Higher, the sky would appear to be the limit for the 19-strong outfit.

Director Chris Jones, from Stockton Heath, believes the album encapsulates where the band is at right now.

Progress

He told the Guardian: "The title sums up everything about High Brass perfectly. It's all about progress.

"We're always aiming that little bit higher.

"The band is very proud of this album. There is some outstanding musicianship on offer."

Recorded at Parr Street Studios in Liverpool, under the tutelage of resident producer Andrew Wright last July, the 12-tracker also features the stylings of Stan Kenton, Pat Metheny and Maynard Ferguson.

Rapidly becoming firm favourites on the north west jazz circuit, the ensemble has played to rave reviews at a number of venues and festivals.

Their first effort, committed to disc in November 2001, was a snapshot of their live repertoire at the time.

And the band will be aiming to win even more new friends when they headline the third annual St Catherine's jazz festival on September 21, at Preston's Guildhall.

Later this year they will be back in town, performing at Alford Hall Sports and Social Club, at the fourth annual reunion of Warrington Drums Corps Alumni.

The CD is available by logging onto the band's web site - www.highbrass.org.uk - or at any live gig.