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player between our sets and provision of all the PA and other equipment we need for our performance. We aren't VAT registered so there's none to pay.
Q: Can you provide lights too?
A: Yes, if the venue’s own lighting is unsuitable, we use one or two basic white floodlights to light the stage area without additional charge. By prior arrangement, we can bring 8 spotlights with coloured gels on stands operated by a sequencer or sound-to light trigger mechanism. This latter option adds a small amount to the total bill and increases our setting-up and taking-down times by 15 - 20 minutes.
Q: How long does it take you to set up?
A: In most cases, about an hour. The larger the stage (or reserved floorspace) the easier it is for us, and therefore quicker.
Q: How long do you play for?
A: At a typical private booking it’s usually 3 sets of about 45 minutes each OR 2 sets of about an hour. At public gigs 2 sets of 45 minutes are normally all that’s required. In all circumstances, the playing times are fully negotiable and we’ll do our best to fit in with your plans.
Q: How much space do you need?
A: 3 x 6 metres (10 x 20ft) is about the minimum for all 7 of us but we can sometimes squeeze into less. If the band is working as a smaller number then we can manage with less space.
Q: What do I have to provide?
A: The main things are 1) the agreed stage area (or equivalent floorspace) with a safe reliable mains electricity supply nearby. 2) For private functions, we also expect to be provided with a hot meal before our first set, and at least a couple of drinks each during the evening. 3) If you or the venue are providing lights there must be sufficient light over the playing area to allow music to be read. 4) A changing room as close as possible to the stage.
Q: What songs will you play? Can you play "It Had To Be You" (for example), for the first dance at our wedding reception?
A: We have a repertoire list of over 250 songs and tunes, centred on danceable jazz and R&B from the 1940s and 50s but including a selection of earlier and later jazz standards, rock'n'roll, 1960s soul and a few old pop classics. You are welcome to choose your favourites from the list and we'll include as many as we can. If you want a first dance that isn't part of our existing repertoire, we can frequently learn the song if you give us a couple of month's notice and a copy of it to listen to. If it's something so far away from our usual style that we don't feel able to tackle it we can play it from a CD or iPod which you supply, before starting to play live. Check out our current repertoire here.
Q: What will you wear?
A: Either our regular band "uniform" of black trousers and shirts with loud ties (with or without jackets) with bandleader Kit Packham dressed the same or in his amazing zoot suit - or all in dinner jackets and bow ties. (Your choice).
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