Conceived originally as an Al Capone - themed musical, Mama Chicago was re-imagined as something fresh and bold: an evening of jazz cabaret tailor-made forth e1970s Westbrook Brass Band, an affectionate nod towards authentic - period Ellingtonia, but with Westbrook’s distinctive compositional voice resounding through every note.

This 1980s film encapsulates its magic: Kate Westbrook’s sharp-suited spivs and herproto-Kylie girly whimpers, Phil Minton’s belcanto flights of fancy and a band eagerly grasping at the challenges Westbrook throws at them.

Also included is an intimate 1993 Westbrook Trio performance (Mike and Kate, with Chris Biscoe on saxophone), featuring Mama Chicago material in a new setting, and songs by Billy Strayhorn, Kurt Weill and the Westbrooks’ radical overhaul of “Love For Sale”.  Cole Porter like you never heard; jazz Westbrook style.

PHILIP CLARK
Journalist for The Wire and The Gramophone

This recording is available to buy online from Westbrook Records. We accept payment by PayPal. To make a purchase please email us with your name and address and details of your order.
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Excerpts from the DVD