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Half Dozen

In 2006 Digby (now celebrating thirty years in the music business) continues to lead Britain's most exciting young jazz band, his 'Half Dozen'. First formed in l995 the 'Half Dozen' has been constantly praised for its versatility, professionalism and showmanship. Of their first album in l998, Dave Gelly (in 'The Observer') said: "There cannot be another band with quite this range - from Dixieland via hard-bop to R'n'B - and as if this weren't enough they turn into a close-harmony vocal group at unexpected moments. Amazingly accomplished!" From 2003 to June 2007 they toured and recorded with blues-legend GEORGE MELLY and their first CD collaboration 'Singing and Swinging the Blues!' was voted the Observer's 'Record of the Week' in August 2003. George's 2006 release on the Candid Label, 'The Ultimate Melly' saw Digby and the Half Dozen join forces with co-stars including Van Morrison, Jacqui Dankworth, and the Swingle Singers and in March 2007 they recorded Melly's last album of all; 'Farewell Blues' for Lake Records.

Since Melly's death in July 2007 Digby and his Half Dozen have teamed with blues/pop legend Paul Jones (Manfred Mann, the Manfreds and the Blues Band) for a new show 'Blowin' the Blues' and their debut album will be released in Summer 2008.

For the last twelve years the Half-Dozen has appeared at jazz festivals clubs and concerts countrywide presenting a fusion of musical concepts with a strong vocal element. Close harmony is provided by four of the band members, adding a new and exciting strand to the show. The group's aim is simple; to play great music, regardless of style, and entertain their audience!

The Half-Dozen's most recent album (appropriately titled 'Things ain't what they used to be!') received enthusiastic reviews and was voted 'Record of the Year' by critics in both 'Jazz Journal International' and 'The Jazz Rag'. In 2005 and 2006 the group won the British Marston's Jazz Award for UK's 'Best Small Group'.

In 2007 they have dates available and would welcome your enquiries.

To book the band, please go to the Contact Digby page.