Reviewed by Phil Thomson

I think the title says it all. This is class, with hardly a stereotypical march in sight. Such is the high regard for this award-winning band that they can reward their followers with the cream - a world-class performance yet again, demonstrating the range and virtuosity in settings of Philip Sparke (rhythm and blues), Vivaldi ("Winter" from The Four Seasons), Rimsky Korsakov (Capriccio Espagnol) and Malcolm Arnold (Padstow Lifeboat) among the 15 tracks. Everyone knows the 'brass' world is a tight-knit community, surviving on total dedication, an obstinately competitive streak, and awfully good sight-reading. Yet there has to be more - and in Foden's Motor Works Band (original name 1902) it lies in their continuity. What comes through is a keen sense of history, with the current members maintaining the excellent standard synonymous with Foden's. There are only nine principal players, headed up by principal cornet Mark Wilkinson, which makes the sound rich and intimate. Recorded in a Grammar School (William Hulme, Manchester) by World Of Sound, whatever the post-production of Messrs Goldsmith and Barker, 'Patron's Choice III' has a lightness of touch which sets each of the arrangements apart; the music is for you alone. And that is surely the most discerning audience.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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