Band Profile

Band Info

Mike Daniels’ Delta Jazzmen. In 1948 trumpeter Mike Daniels formed his first band – the Delta Jazzmen – with three friends jointly fired with enthusiasm to create traditional jazz. Major local influences included the pioneering v aGeorge Webb Dixielanders at Bexleyheath’s famous Red Barn. The Jazzmen played regularly at the Catford Jazz Club until the offer of a session at the London Jazz Club (now the 100 Club), alternating with Graeme Bell’s Australian Jazz Band at its final British appearance. In the audience was radio presenter Mark White, which led not only to wider appearances, including the ‘BBC Jazz Club’, but also a series of successful recordings on the Delta Label. During the 1950’s the band included several familiar names such as Charlie Galbraith (trombone), Cy Laurie (clarinet) John Barnes (reeds) Peter Hodge (trombone), Keith Nichols (piano/trombone), and Mickey Ashman (bass). In 1963 Mike formed a big band with fellow trumpeter John Chilton, specialising in early Duke Ellington and Fletcher Hendersons arrangements, gradually extending its repertoire to include equally authentic material from the Swing Era and beyond. Although Mike is no longer personally involved, that organisation lives on as the appropriately named New Delta Big Band. After a 15 year break pursuing interests in Spain, Mike returned to the UK and in 1992 re-formed his Delta Jazzmen along traditional lines since when they have frequently performed to all types of audiences at clubs and venues across the country including the annual prestigious festivals held in Edinburgh and Bude. The re-united Delta Jazzmen have broadcast on BBC’s Jazz Parade, recorded on Pann Video. Mike is also a regular guest with other bands that value his consistently musical trumpet playing, the quality of which is universally admired.