Review by Bandmaster Jonathan Corry, Enfield
The Salvationist, 5th September 2009

The Household Troops Band's latest recording juxtaposes two of the styles of music that brass bands are known for - classic style marches and easy-listening, jazz/swing arrangements.

Given the nature of this band and its annual ministry in various seaside towns throughout the UK, it might be obvious to most people that its music would be easy listening and (dare I say it?) 'jolly' to engage with the general public.

I was greatly encouraged to hear several vintage marches that are seldom heard nowadays - 'Stand To Arms' (George Marshall), 'Sons Of The Army' and 'Deeds Of Valour' (Bramwell Coles). The inclusion of such marches, constructed by master craftsmen, should encourage bandmasters to dig deep into the band cupboard and retrieve those near-fossilised march books from bygone times. The march 'The Jolly Salvationist' by Norwegian Klaus Ostby, with its folk-like modal key, hints at the composer's militaristic upbringing and its upbringing and its airing on this recording - with the bonus of providing a title for the CD - should be welcomed.

As for the lighter music, I feel the band is comfortable in this style with several satisfying tracks including Martyn Thomas's 'Comfort and Joy' and Eiliv Herikstad's 'All To Jesus'. Personal highlights for me are the solo contributions in Stephen Bulla's 'Joshua Swings The Battle' and Barrie Gott's 'Swingtime Religion' from principal cornet Daniel Robson.

In contrast, two tracks break the structure of mirth and merriment and provide a welcome change from the march/swing sandwich. Neil Blessett's full sound in the tenor horn solo 'Depths Of His Love' and the late James Wright's delightful arrangement of 'As The Deer' lead us to thoughts of the divine.

The first thing that struck me on receiving the CD was the front cover, featuring a very jocular Martin Blessett, a gent who epitomises the title of this album in every regard. The CD booklet contains concise and informative programme notes by Bandsman Ralph Brill (Enfield) and relevant details regarding band personnel, leaders and the band's mission.