Daniel John Martin with Swing Manouche @ The Old Library, Auckland Castle - Nov. 10

Daniel John Martin (violin, vocals, whistling); Mick Shoulder (guitar); Dave Smith (rhythm guitar); Paul Grainger (double bass)

The Old Library in Auckland Castle is an historic setting - the Land of the Prince Bishops etc - and long before the one o'clock start the room was all but at capacity. Mick Shoulder's Swing Manouche outfit is an attraction in and of its self, add Daniel John Martin to the bill and you've got yourself an unmissable occasion. 'DJM', as Martin is known, opened with I Love You. Brilliant, simply brilliant.

A one hour set, so much music to hear, so little time. An engaging character, a casual air, a virtuoso, DJM is all these things and more. The material familiar (the set list almost identical to the previous evening's Claypath Deli concert), the performance of the highest quality, that's DJM - and Swing Manouche. Yes, Swing Manouche - guitarist Mick Shoulder sharing the solo spotlight, great guitar playing. The rhythm boys - Dave Smith's piston-like guitar playing, Paul Grainger's metronomic bass playing - providing the foundation, Swing Manouche, it's one great band. 

Daniel John Martin is to the region next year. When the tour dates are announced don't hesitate. Russell         

Set list: I Love You; The Anniversary Song; Dinette; Djangology; Danse Norvegienne (Norwegian Dance); Oh, Lady Be Good!; Douce Ambiance; The Sheik of Araby; Oriental Shuffle; Troublant Bolero; Nuages; Minor Swing.