Swing Machine, December 1986

Mike Barnard and his 26-strong Big Band with some nostalgic jazz numbers of the ’30s.

The show combined the Count’s “Basie spark” with tap-dance and jive, provided by the rhythmic rappings of Buck and Wing Weston and the jitterbugging of Kansas City Jive.  Some additional solo appearances made for a tight but relaxed ensemble of tempestuous brass and driving rhythm in true Basie style.