Afleveringen
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In this final bonus episode, Mark, Ruben, and Tom pull back the curtain on the four-year journey behind DJAâs landmark album. They celebrate the unsung heroesâengineer Jeremy Murphy, studio British Grove, the ever-reliable Gaz and James, designer Ollie at Split, label partner Martin at Ubuntu, and funder Paul Walfordâwithout whom none of it would have been possible. Through stories of weddings, stag dos, unexpected friendships, and hernia recoveries, this episode captures what DJA has always been about: connection, care, and community. A thank-you to everyoneâand a nod to the next generation.
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The album closes as it beganâwith intent, history, and heart. Sax No End, originally played live at Ronnie Scottâs and witnessed by John Ellis himself, was long thought lost. But thanks to Rubenâs deep-dive transcription and a bit of musical archaeology, the DJA band was able to bring it back to life. From mystery suitcases to Mark Whiteâs final snowflake of sound, this final track celebrates the powerful legacy of Francy Boland and a big band era nearly forgotten. A fitting closer to a monumental projectâand a tribute to the man who inspired it all.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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A Donny favourite finally gets the studio treatment it deserves. Show Me the Way to Go Home has been part of the DJA fabric for decades, passed between generations and marked with the handwritten notes of past players. This swinging Sammy Nestico chart closes the first day of recording with warmth, soul, and standout solos from Mike and Martin. In this episode, the team reflect on the legacy of Nestico, the timeless charm of this arrangement, and the joy of honouring a composer who helped shape their musical roots.
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This isnât My Favourite Things as you know it. Arranged by the multi-talented Steve Parry, this 3/4 reimagining of the classic standard brought intensity, wit, and a blistering groove to the DJA sessions. Tom reflects on his connection to Steve and the origins of the piece, while the team unpack the meticulous editing, standout sax soli, and standout solosâincluding a ripping one from Reuben. Joeâs drumming gets another shout-out for his work shaping one of the most muscular tracks on the album.
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Elegant, yes. Easy? Definitely not. Elegant People demanded every ounce of sectional discipline and groove the DJA band could muster. In this episode, the team discuss how this Bob Mintzer chartâsecured with a direct emailâbecame one of the most rhythmically complex and rewarding tracks on the album. Through intricate woodwind doubles, sectional rehearsals, and a dryer mix to bring the detail forward, this tune evolved into a fierce showcase of DJA precision and power.
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Naima nearly didnât make the albumâbut its emotional significance, and the determination to do it justice, made it one of DJAâs most quietly heroic efforts. Originally recorded under tight time pressure, the team later returned to repair and rebuild the track through a mix of studio takes and remote overdubs. This episode tells the story of how a meaningful piece for John Ellis and Mark was rescued, refined, and finally realisedâbringing Pete, Mark, and other key players back into the fold. A celebration of persistence, respect, and the power of a second chance.
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Opening the second half of the DJA album, Victor is a swinging barnstormer packed with fire, groove, and deep roots. Originally known as Cannon Fodder in the Nigel era, this Alan Ganley chart showcases standout solos from Dean on baritone and Jacob on trombone, plus a late-session burst of trumpet fireworks from Tom and Damien. Mark, Reuben, and Tom reflect on the tuneâs journey from rehearsal rooms to vinyl grooves, with insights into arrangement changes, solo swaps, and a thunderous close to recording day two.
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When Andy Vinter sat down at the piano to open Body and Soul, no one in the studio expected what followed. A single, unrehearsed take captured something so delicate and moving that the room fell silent. In this episode, Mark, Tom, and Reuben reflect on the Bob Florence arrangement that became one of the most memorable tracks on the album. From missed coffees to whispered reverence in the control room, this is a behind-the-scenes look at a rare moment of pure musical magicâbacked by one of DJAâs most heartfelt performances.
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Track five of the DJA album explodes into life with Bittersweetâa blistering Lawrence Cottle composition that pushes players to their limits and showcases an outrageous solo break from saxophonist Nadeem. In this episode, Mark, Tom, and Reuben relive the studio magic that left jaws on the floor as Nadeem fired through take after take, each one different, each one electrifying.
They unpack how the band pulled together a monster of a chartâcomplete with overlapping grooves, high-octane trumpet lines, and solos recorded at such intensity they lifted the entire room. Thereâs reflection on the challenge of performing such a complex arrangement, insight into Lawrence Cottleâs underrated genius as a UK arranger, and a confession that the tune was almost named⊠Giblets.
With ferocious energy, deep admiration, and a big dose of musical adrenalineâthis oneâs for the players and the fans who love it fast, funky, and fearless.
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Over the Top kicks off the DJA recording sessionsâbut not without drama. In this episode, Mark, Reuben, and Tom relive a chaotic first morning at the studio, where a broken drum muffler delayed everything and threatened to derail the tightly packed schedule. But rising to the challenge was young drummer Joe W., who stepped up with grit, precision, and arguably one of the finest drum performances on a DJA record.
Originally composed by DJA alumnus Al Wood, the piece had seen many formsâa waltz, a balladâbefore landing in its final incarnation. The team discuss Alâs evolving composition process, the delicate mixing decisions that shaped the final sound, and the unique style that sets this chart apart from the rest of the album.
With a hat-tip to Joeâs resilience, Nadimâs ever-flowing solos (described as âliquid goldâ), and a respectful nod to Alâs musical visionâthis is the behind-the-scenes story of how a rocky start turned into a standout track.
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In this lush and cinematic instalment, Mark, Tom, and Reuben delve into Mandevilleâtrack three on the DJA album and a clear outlier in the bandâs usual repertoire. With sweeping French horn harmonies, extended percussion, and an unmistakable Hollywood flair, the piece became a standout recording and a full-circle moment for many involved.
Originally composed by the late Patrick Williams, Mandeville gave the band a rare opportunity to feature a three-part French horn sectionâincluding Markâs dad and Karen, who also performed on DJAâs very first album as a teenager. The track sparked reflection on the evolution of DJAâs sound, the subtle power of mood pieces, and the creative risks that come with venturing beyond âgigging bandâ territory.
A heartfelt nod to the past, a bold step into new textures, and a gentle reminder that sometimes the most unassuming charts carry the deepest resonance.
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In this deeply personal follow-up to episode 014, Mark, Reuben, and Tom revisit the story behind You Know It Makes Senseâa track commissioned as a tribute to DJA founder John Ellis and his legendary catchphrase. What started as a speculative email to arranger Tom Kubis soon turned into a bespoke big band belter, tailor-made for the DJA family.
Tom and Reuben share the behind-the-scenes magic: from the lightning-fast turnaround by Kubis, to secretly delivering the score to John during lockdown (complete with tea and cake). The episode also reveals how one soloist recorded their part from Brazil, in a nod to the new age of remote collaboration, and how several of the âold guardââincluding Pete, Andy, and Winstonâcame together to leave their mark on a track thatâs as much about community as it is about groove.
A celebration of loyalty, legacy, and sax section solidarityâwith a few near-missed hernias along the way.
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In this special three-way session, Mark sits down with Reuben and Tomâtwo of the driving forces behind DJAâs latest album releaseâfor an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at the making of the record. From selecting tracks to shaping mixes and even puzzling over vinyl track orders, the trio unpack the creative decisions that brought the album to life.
Starting with the ambitious opener Hello and Goodbye, the conversation dives into how the track challenged the band musically, split early opinion, and ultimately won them over. The episode shines a light on the duoâs painstaking approach to phrasing, harmony, and production, and how a spontaneous listening session (possibly involving beer) sparked inspiration.
Expect a thoughtful blend of banter, detail, and deep respect for the craft as the team reflect on everything from unison nightmares to bookending the album with meaning.
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Join host Mark Ellis as he chats with Tom Tait, a key figure in the Doncaster Jazz Alumni. In this episode, Tom shares his inspiring journey from growing up in a musical family in Huddersfield to becoming a professional trumpet player. Discover how his father's influence and early experiences in school jazz bands shaped his passion for music. Tom talks about his transition to the Doncaster Youth Jazz Association, his experiences at Leeds College of Music, and the significant mentors who guided him. Learn about his latest endeavors, including his dream gig in London's West End, and the pressures of performing in a show. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with personal anecdotes, insights into music education, and the enduring legacy of the Doncaster jazz scene.
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Join host Mark Ellis as he sits down with Reuben Fowler, a key figure in the Doncaster Jazz Alumni, to discuss his remarkable musical journey. From his early influences and first steps into jazz, to studying at the prestigious Royal Academy of Music, Reuben shares how his passion for music evolved. Discover how mentorship, perseverance, and a love for big band jazz led him to perform at iconic venues like the Albert Hall and collaborate with artists like Paloma Faith and Noel Gallagher. Tune in for an inspiring episode filled with personal anecdotes, insights on composition, and a celebration of jazz legacy.
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In a heartwarming reunion, longtime pals and stalwarts of the DJA sax section, Mark turns the spotlight on Dean, unearthing a musical odyssey of hidden talents and cherished memories. With a bond forged since Dean's tender age of 11, these two comrades-in-arms regale us with a treasure trove of memoriesâ from touring France, Germany and America to exploring unlikely attractions like a gas museum, all while narrowly escaping the brink of a band mutiny.
Freshly discharged from the Army, Dean recounts his remarkable journey from tinkering with the piano as a wide-eyed youngster to mastering a multitude of instruments, culminating in his current role as the mastermind behind DJA's bookings. Amidst the anecdotes, they share tender recollections of Dean's late father, Pete, a revered figure amongst the DJA alumni whose legacy continues to shape Dean's path, even if it involved a notorious incident involving the band football in a German car parkâa tale forever etched in the annals of DJA lore.
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In their latest exchange, father and son eagerly hash out their visions for DJA's future as they set their sights on the horizon of 2025 and beyond. True to form, their ideas differ âJohn harbors grand aspirations of staging Duke Ellington's lesser-known opus, "The Queenâs Suite," while Mark champions the release of a vintage recording featuring Bob Florence from a bygone 1985 performance alongside DYJO, fueled by his own amusing memory lapse from that night.
Yet amidst the banter, they find common ground in the importance of honoring jazz royalty, with both eagerly supporting a tribute to the incomparable Ella Fitzgerald featuring the talents of new member Kate Peters. Additionally, they both get behind the idea of spotlighting DJA's array of stellar soloists, recognizing the wealth of talent within their ranks.
John also wistfully shares his dream of gracing the stage at the esteemed Cheltenham Jazz Festival, a lofty aspiration tempered by the ticking clock of time. As the sands of time slip away, the duo remains steadfast in their commitment to charting a bold and vibrant course for DJA's future, fueled by passion, ambition and some pizza.
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In the first episode featuring a non-alumnus, we're treated to Martin Longhawn's captivating tale of navigating the infamous "Leeds-Doncaster Divide" and unwittingly finding himself entangled in the enigmatic web of the Donny Mafia. A much sought-after pianist, Martin regales us with his initial foray into the musical tapestry of Doncaster, including nostalgic jaunts to Foxâs Music nestled in the Arndale Centre during his formative years.
Martin's musical journey took a different path from the typical DJA member, a fact he delves into with candor, emphasizing the importance of âknowing the musicâ and spotlighting the profound influence of MD Al Wood during his tenure at Leeds College.
Amidst the anecdotes, Martin offers a unique perspective on immersing oneself in the rich tradition of the Doncaster Jazz Alumni as an outsider, shedding light on John Ellis' boundless fervor for the music and unwavering dedication to his band members. And of course, no conversation would be complete without a nod to the unforgettable experience of venturing to Limonest for the first time and THAT legendary Andy Vinter solo piano intro one sunny, Saturday morning in October at British Grove StudiosâŠ.
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Once again, father and son reunite, this time to celebrate the extraordinary bond between DJA and a special place known as Limonest, guided by the legendary figure of Andre Gicquel. Since 1989, this cross-channel connection has flourished through exchanges, tours, and unforgettable concerts that have united young musicians on both shores.
Prepare for a rollicking ride as John's distaste for oysters rivals Mark's painful first encounter with French cuisine. Amidst laughter and memories, they reminisce about their French comrades, regaling tales of whirlwind schedules encompassing three gigs a day and narrowly escaping brushes with the law!
But the jovial mood takes a serious turn as Mark launches into a tirade against ineffectual politicians and laments the stark disparities in arts support between the UK and its European counterparts. Through their banter and reflections, a poignant truth emerges: the power of music to transcend borders and unite hearts, a testament to the enduring legacy of friendship and collaboration fostered by DJA and its French allies in Limonest.
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Mark catches up with âbonist Dan and discovers why he chose what he affectionately calls "the poor manâs trumpetâ. After a brief Public Service Announcement on the perils of hearing loss and the hazards of band life, the two dive into Dan's musical journey, exploring his unconventional path to the trombone and the serendipitous twists and turns along the way. Prepare to be immersed in Dan's personal saga of grappling with "DYJO-LIMBO," a rite of passage familiar to many DJA members, as he navigates the ebbs and flows of musical identity.
With infectious enthusiasm, Dan shares his fondest memories of youthful musical escapades, including a triumphant performance at the illustrious Royal Albert Hall at the tender age of 15. He waxes poetic about the golden era of DYJA, fondly reminiscing about our beloved old haunt, The Jazz Centre. For Dan, being part of the "Golden Generation" of DYJA was nothing short of a stroke of luck (and some healthy parental intervention) - a cherished chapter in his musical odyssey that continues to shape his life to this day.
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