World class big-band writing and soprano playing from one of Britain's most distinctive musicians, with the legendary NDR BIGBAND and ex-Loose Tube's drummer Nic France. 'Days Like These' is Mark Lockheart's first big band album. The culmination of many years of writing for large-scale ensembles, this superbly recorded album is sure to further establish him as one of the UK's most exciting and original composers. Featuring seven beautifully crafted and highly original compositions, the writing on Days Like These allows ample space for the great soloists of the legendary NDR BIGBAND to shine through, frequently punctuated by exciting and memorable contributions from Lockheart's soprano sax-playing on almost every track. The command and authority of the writing, with its sheer volume of imaginative ideas, demonstrates yet again Lockheart's 'no boundaries' approach to jazz composition. The romp of an opening 'Rag' is a real highlight, reminiscent of 'Ragtime', keystone cops and Chaplin. 'Busby Berkley Parts 1 and 2' pays homage to the great Hollywood choreographer Busby Berkeley, with swirling ostinatos that are evocative of the huge surreal patterns featured in Busby's work, while the atmospheric restrain in the Weather Report inspired ballad 'End Of A Chapter' is a master class in dynamic and orchestral control. Contemporary, accessible and compelling, 'Days Like These' continues to reinforce Lockheart's reputation as one of the UK's most exciting modern jazz composers. Tracks; Rag / Busby Berkeley parts 1 and 2 / Days Like These / Strange Remark / In Two Parts / Man With A Yellow Case / End Of A Chapter
