First there was Chris Dagley, then Martin Drew and now, sadly, Jack Parnell who died yesterday (Aug 8) aged 87. Three great drummers from three eras.
Jack came to prominence with the Vic Lewis/Jack Parnell Jazzmen before joining Ted Heath just after the war. After leaving Heath he formed his own big band. I recall hearing them many times back in those distant days when big bands roamed the land.
Drummer, singer and later frontman the Parnell Orchestra featured all the big band hits of the time - The Hawk Talks, Skindeep, The Champ, Night Train. There were also epic drum duets with Phil Seaman or Kenny Clare.
However, the media seen only interested in his role as band-leader on the Muppet Show - how sad is that?
Very much missed - think I'll listen to the CD pictured and wallow in memories.
Lance.
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