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Check FAQAbout Dave
UPDATED, NOV 2022: I am a freelance investigator, writer, editor, photographer and videographer with 11 years of experience in the newsroom; 10 as a reporter and one as a section editor. Currently based in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, I regularly undertake work for Reach Plc: Britain's biggest news publisher. My bylines have appeared in numerous regional, national and international titles. I also undertake freelance copy editing work for academics and academic publishing houses, with three full-length works (This is Bop: Jon Hendricks and the Art of Vocal Jazz; Linguistic Penalties and the Job Interview; Two Bold Singermen and the English Folk Revival) and numerous journal articles to my name. I previously read traffic and travel bulletins on Bauer Media radio stations Magic 999 and Magic 1152, as well as presenting a weekly community radio show on Redroad 102.4 FM, playing jazz/blues and talking about the people behind the music. I have also hosted an award-winning web series (The Sneak Peek with Dave Doyle, Runner-up, O2 Media Awards 2013) and was the video production expert at Regional Media Ltd. My special interests are health, social justice and the arts (particularly jazz, theatre and dance), but I'm happy to apply my skills to almost any topic you would like me to cover. Please get in touch if I can augment your news or feature coverage, particularly of goings-on in Gloucestershire. Please see https://muckrack.com/dave-doyle for examples of my most recent work.
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Portfolio
Jazz at the Ballroom • Flying High: Big Band Canaries Who Soared
Jazz at the Ballroom, a non-profit organization, has been celebrating classic jazz since 2016, focusing on the Great American Songbook. Their latest release, 'Flying High,' highlights female jazz singers who transitioned from big bands to solo fame. The album features the Champian Fulton Trio and an international cast of vocalists, each bringing unique styles to classic tracks. The article praises the album's range of vocal styles and Fulton's piano talent, while noting a personal preference against one vocalist's style. 'Flying High' is available on CD and vinyl, coinciding with a US tour.
Max Jones Spills the Beans About More of Your Jazz Heroes
Max Jones, a renowned British jazz journalist, shares insights from his encounters with jazz legends Johnny Hodges, Eddie Condon, and Billie Holiday. Jones's memoir, 'Talking Jazz,' reveals his deep admiration and personal relationships with these musicians. He recounts his friendship with Hodges, highlighting their shared experiences and Hodges's views on music as a powerful tool. Jones also describes Condon's unique style and humor, as well as his own close bond with Holiday, whom he defended against intrusive media questions. The article emphasizes Jones's role in promoting jazz and his compassionate approach to journalism.
The Reunion Jazz Band and The ‘Band Aid’ of Jazz
The article highlights the success of the Jazz Against Polio project, a collaboration between Rotary International and the Reunion Jazz Band, which significantly contributed to the global fight against polio. The project, initiated by pianist Ton Hameeteman, raised substantial funds and awareness, contrasting with the less effective Band Aid efforts. The Reunion Jazz Band, featuring members from the Dutch Swing College Band, produced a well-received album that combined musical excellence with a charitable cause. The article praises the project's impact and calls for renewed efforts to combat the resurgence of polio.
Jug Band Millionaire
The article reviews the album 'Jug Band Millionaire' by the Muddy Basin Ramblers, a Taipei-based band composed of British and US expats. The band blends African-American blues, country folk, swing jazz, and traditional Chinese music, featuring novelty instruments and playful lyrics. The album includes both genre classics and original tracks, with a standout feature being the vocal talent of the band members. The reviewer praises the album's variety and recommends purchasing the physical version for its impressive packaging.
Eyal Vilner Big Band • Swingin’ Uptown
The Eyal Vilner Big Band's latest release, 'Swingin’ Uptown,' is a celebration of Harlem's jazz and dance heritage, featuring a mix of classic and original compositions. The album, praised for its danceable tunes and innovative arrangements, highlights Vilner's talent as a bandleader and composer. Notable tracks include 'Chicken An’ Dumplings' and 'Is You Is Or Is You Ain’t [My Baby],' with standout performances by vocalist Imani Rousselle. The album is a tribute to jazz dancers and is recommended for its vibrant and engaging music.
Starting on Piano (and Finishing Somewhere Else)
The article explores a trend among jazz musicians who often start their musical journey with piano lessons before transitioning to other instruments that bring them fame. It highlights several musicians, both historical and contemporary, who began with the piano but later focused on instruments like clarinet, saxophone, and trumpet. The piece delves into reasons why the piano is a common starting point, citing its accessibility and prevalence among music teachers, but also discusses why many musicians eventually abandon it for more portable or personally resonant instruments. The narrative is interspersed with anecdotes and reflections on the piano's role in jazz and its perceived limitations and advantages.
The Timber Men Stompers • Jig Time
The Timber Men Stompers, a group known for their unique blend of old-time jazz and close harmony singing, have released a new record titled 'Jig Time'. The album, available on Bandcamp, features a mix of hot continental jazz, barbershop vocals, and New Orleans instrumentation. The group, influenced by the Mills Brothers, has been performing for two decades across Europe, North America, and Shanghai. 'Jig Time' is praised for its superb production and danceable tracks, making it a must-listen for fans of vintage vocal groups and jazz.
The Hot Toddies Jazz Band
The Hot Toddies Jazz Band, a supergroup led by Patrick Soluri, features a lineup of accomplished musicians including Gordon Webster, Justin Poindexter, Brandi Disterheft, and Hannah Gill. Their debut album offers a fusion of swing and jazz, with innovative takes on classic tracks. The album is praised for its danceable music and high-quality production, appealing to both jazz enthusiasts and casual listeners. Notable performances include Queen Esther's soulful vocals and Gabe Terracciano's violin solos. The album is available on Bandcamp, offering both digital and physical formats.
Rhythm in Gloucestershire: The 2024 Cheltenham Jazz Festival
The 2024 Cheltenham Jazz Festival in Gloucestershire offers a diverse lineup, featuring artists like Dionne Warwick, UB40, and Robert Plant, alongside jazz acts such as Bettye LaVette and Dee Dee Bridgewater. The festival is praised for its eclectic mix and laid-back atmosphere, though some performances are criticized for high ticket prices. Highlights include performances by the Gloucestershire Youth Jazz Orchestra and the Clare Teal Seven. The festival's charm lies in its ability to blend a traditional festival vibe with the elegance of a Regency-era town, making it a recommended destination for jazz enthusiasts and travelers.
Amber Rachelle & The Sweet Potatoes • Two Sweet
Amber Rachelle and The Sweet Potatoes' album 'Too Sweet' is a vibrant and dynamic collection of jazz and swing dance tracks, praised for its characterful vocals and impressive instrumental performances. The album features a mix of swing dance staples and lesser-heard numbers, with a sound that is both jazzy and poppy. The review highlights the distinctiveness of Rachelle's voice and the skill of the instrumentalists, particularly drummer Rowan Cowan. While the production values are generally high, the reviewer notes a preference for a more live-sounding mix. Overall, the album is recommended for swing dance enthusiasts and is available on Bandcamp.
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