The Merseysippi Jazz Band was formed in 1949 and still has a weekly residence in Liverpool with four original members in the line-up. The MJB is in demand for jazz festivals throughout the UK and has regularly appeared at international jazz festivals in Sacramento.

Through first-hand interviews with members, past and present, Spencer Leigh tells the engaging story of a group of musicians who loved playing jazz and yet never wanted to become fully professional.

With a fordewold from Professor Stanley Unwin and a further forward by Hunter Davis.

CONTENTS:
I Push The First Valve Down: jazz - the first 50 years
The Music Goes Round And Round: Liverpool - UK jazz to 1950
And It Comes Out Here: formation of Merseysippi Jazz Band
Temples And Idols: the temple - Louis Armstrong in Liverpool
Underground Movement: Cavern - Clinton Ford
Is That Your Vinyl Answer? Esquire Records
Trad Mad: Mardi Gras - trad boom
Back O'Town Blues: Liverpool residencies - Jill Martin
Oh, You California: Sacramento jazz festivals
Closing Time? Hartley's - today's repertoire
APPENDICES: Personnel; Venues; Discography

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