Jools offers big band boogie woogie

9:45am Sunday 6th July 2008

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“LET’S boogie woogie in the rain!”

Jools Holland’s words had an invigorating effect on the soggy but enthusiastic sea of people standing before him in a field of Eastnor Castle’s Deer Park.

The pianist, backed by the brilliant 18-piece Rhythm And Blues Orchestra, gave an outstanding performance on Friday night, despite the show beginning with almighty power failure which forced the band to rely on lung power alone. Fortunately somebody backed stage flicked the right switch; lights and sound were back on within two minutes with minimum disruption to the atmosphere.

The instantly likeable opening track was a new song called Fat Fred and it set the tone for the fast, feel-food show as good tune after good tune, hand clapping and mass sing-alongs ensued.

Quite rightly given the mantle queen of boogie-woogie, soul singer Ruby Turner came on stage half way through and performed a divine version of Georgia on My Mind.

Marc Almond’s guest appearance totally thrilled the crowd and, yes, the blues-infused rendition of Tainted Love went down very well.

There was an infectious festival feeling throughout the show. While the weather wasn’t enviable the rain held back most of the night, families tucked into picnics and enjoyed free ice-cream courtesy of event sponsors Carte D’Or.

It was ideal for Holland’s unique brand of rhythm and blues for the masses.

The pace, and perhaps the excitement, dropped a few songs in but certainly picked up and everyone – it was an impressive sight – was dancing by the end.

While it’s hard to choose a highlight, Enjoy Yourself –“it's later than you think” – was a fitting end to a near-perfect show.