Blog

Another exciting and ambitious project by Michael Lamb and his team of hard-hitting swingers. The history of big band jazz from the 1920s to the present day done in 90 minutes. Some football teams can't score a goal in 90 minutes. On this occasion the SSBB scored plenty. Given the time allotted it is understandable that there were bands who missed the cut. However, their day (maybe) will come. Certainly no one could complain at what was delivered. Early Duke Ellington, Count

An evening of big band swing by two contrasting ensembles. One a hard-swinging outfit jam-packed with soloists, the other a powerhouse show band. First up was SSBB and the home team set a high bar. As always, Alice shone - her voice as sparkling as her gown. She dazzled on Lost in the Memory, Midnight Prayer and Cherokee. The latter tune had Alice scatting and trading fours with Steve Summers on alto. Less flamboyant, but equally talented was Sue Ferris on both piccolo and ba

Over the years I have been fortunate to see and hear live many of the world's greatest jazz clarinettists including: George Lewis, Edmund Hall, Peanuts Hucko, Buddy DeFranco, Bob Wilber, Kenny Davern, Jimmy Hamilton, Vic Ash, Sandy Brown, Adrian Cox and Alan Barnes. I think you'll agree that that is quite an impressive list so that when I say that Giacomo Smith is now a worthy addition to that collection of big hitters you'll realise the greatness we had in our midst last ni

Paul Booth, SSBB, the Beach Boys and a couple of extra singers including the venue's owner; put them all together and see what happens. It could be the biggest disaster since the sinking of the Titanic or it might just be an unmitigated triumph. I'm pleased to say it was undoubtedly the latter and no might just be about it When the band hit the deck with Light my Fire by the Doors we knew they would keep their end of the bargain. Next up, the man of the moment, Paul Booth, em

All arrangements and transcriptions by Stuart McLean-Fowler I love Mel Tormé, I love SSBB, I love Alice Grace, I love Latin music. The question was: would the combination of all four work? The answer - a qualified yes. Based around one of Tormé's lesser known albums, Olé Tormé!, which consisted of twelve Billy May arrangements - meticulously and accurately transcribed by Stuart Fowler - of Latin based numbers, some of which were familiar and some less so. The band performed

Brand-new single available to stream on all platforms now, plus a brand-new 360˚ video!

A somewhat different gig, if 'gig' is the word. The Strictly Smokin' Big Band thought it a good idea to record the band's next album in front of a 'live' audience. The Bridge Hotel serves as the the SSBB's rehearsal space with the occasional gig throw in for good measure. This evening the upstairs room on Castle Garth resembled a recording studio rather than a typical tables and chairs gig arrangement. Ascending the stairs at the appointed hour - not before 7:00pm for a 7:15

A monumental evening that will surely live long in the memory of those fortunate to be present on an evening of astounding, adventurous...

Friday 13th & Saturday 14th December 2024 Gosforth Civic Theatre Friday Review - Lance Liddle Zowie! When the SSBB brass section hits...

Tickets for all venues at strictly-smokin.co.uk/tickets

Friday 21st February 2025 The Glasshouse, Gateshead Michael Lamb’s Strictly Smokin’ Big Band returns to The Glasshouse with multi-award...

"Buoyant up-tempo grooves, strong ensemble work and engaging arrangements make this an exemplary big band recording."

Get hold of and listen to this bold and vibrant album and go with the musicians on a musical journey through contemporary big band music.

"...two top singers and a kickass big band..."

Strictly Smokin’ Big Band presented a spellbinding evening of swing magic with a programme featuring the iconic sounds of Ella and Ellington

"Together they pack a powerful but beautifully controlled punch."

"Strictly Smokin’ outfit preaches the gospel of big band jazz with joyous and at times blistering zeal"

❝Compelling writing, tear-away execution, and a bevy of star guests excelling: a shoe-in for my 2024 Top Ten.❞

If you weren't there, buy the album. If you were there, buy the album.