They unpack how the band pulled together a monster of a chart—complete with overlapping grooves, high-octane trumpet lines, and solos recorded at such intensity they lifted the entire room. There’s reflection on the challenge of performing such a complex arrangement, insight into Lawrence Cottle’s underrated genius as a UK arranger, and a confession that the tune was almost named… Giblets.

With ferocious energy, deep admiration, and a big dose of musical adrenaline—this one’s for the players and the fans who love it fast, funky, and fearless.

Originally composed by DJA alumnus Al Wood, the piece had seen many forms—a waltz, a ballad—before landing in its final incarnation. The team discuss Al’s evolving composition process, the delicate mixing decisions that shaped the final sound, and the unique style that sets this chart apart from the rest of the album.

With a hat-tip to Joe’s resilience, Nadim’s ever-flowing solos (described as “liquid gold”), and a respectful nod to Al’s musical vision—this is the behind-the-scenes story of how a rocky start turned into a standout track.

Originally composed by the late Patrick Williams, Mandeville gave the band a rare opportunity to feature a three-part French horn section—including Mark’s dad and Karen, who also performed on DJA’s very first album as a teenager. The track sparked reflection on the evolution of DJA’s sound, the subtle power of mood pieces, and the creative risks that come with venturing beyond “gigging band” territory.

A heartfelt nod to the past, a bold step into new textures, and a gentle reminder that sometimes the most unassuming charts carry the deepest resonance.

Tom and Reuben share the behind-the-scenes magic: from the lightning-fast turnaround by Kubis, to secretly delivering the score to John during lockdown (complete with tea and cake). The episode also reveals how one soloist recorded their part from Brazil, in a nod to the new age of remote collaboration, and how several of the “old guard”—including Pete, Andy, and Winston—came together to leave their mark on a track that’s as much about community as it is about groove.

A celebration of loyalty, legacy, and sax section solidarity—with a few near-missed hernias along the way.

Starting with the ambitious opener Hello and Goodbye, the conversation dives into how the track challenged the band musically, split early opinion, and ultimately won them over. The episode shines a light on the duo’s painstaking approach to phrasing, harmony, and production, and how a spontaneous listening session (possibly involving beer) sparked inspiration.

Expect a thoughtful blend of banter, detail, and deep respect for the craft as the team reflect on everything from unison nightmares to bookending the album with meaning.

Freshly discharged from the Army, Dean recounts his remarkable journey from tinkering with the piano as a wide-eyed youngster to mastering a multitude of instruments, culminating in his current role as the mastermind behind DJA's bookings. Amidst the anecdotes, they share tender recollections of Dean's late father, Pete, a revered figure amongst the DJA alumni whose legacy continues to shape Dean's path, even if it involved a notorious incident involving the band football in a German car park—a tale forever etched in the annals of DJA lore.

Yet amidst the banter, they find common ground in the importance of honoring jazz royalty, with both eagerly supporting a tribute to the incomparable Ella Fitzgerald featuring the talents of new member Kate Peters. Additionally, they both get behind the idea of spotlighting DJA's array of stellar soloists, recognizing the wealth of talent within their ranks.

John also wistfully shares his dream of gracing the stage at the esteemed Cheltenham Jazz Festival, a lofty aspiration tempered by the ticking clock of time. As the sands of time slip away, the duo remains steadfast in their commitment to charting a bold and vibrant course for DJA's future, fueled by passion, ambition and some pizza.

Martin's musical journey took a different path from the typical DJA member, a fact he delves into with candor, emphasizing the importance of “knowing the music” and spotlighting the profound influence of MD Al Wood during his tenure at Leeds College.

Amidst the anecdotes, Martin offers a unique perspective on immersing oneself in the rich tradition of the Doncaster Jazz Alumni as an outsider, shedding light on John Ellis' boundless fervor for the music and unwavering dedication to his band members. And of course, no conversation would be complete without a nod to the unforgettable experience of venturing to Limonest for the first time and THAT legendary Andy Vinter solo piano intro one sunny, Saturday morning in October at British Grove Studios….

Prepare for a rollicking ride as John's distaste for oysters rivals Mark's painful first encounter with French cuisine. Amidst laughter and memories, they reminisce about their French comrades, regaling tales of whirlwind schedules encompassing three gigs a day and narrowly escaping brushes with the law!

But the jovial mood takes a serious turn as Mark launches into a tirade against ineffectual politicians and laments the stark disparities in arts support between the UK and its European counterparts. Through their banter and reflections, a poignant truth emerges: the power of music to transcend borders and unite hearts, a testament to the enduring legacy of friendship and collaboration fostered by DJA and its French allies in Limonest.

With infectious enthusiasm, Dan shares his fondest memories of youthful musical escapades, including a triumphant performance at the illustrious Royal Albert Hall at the tender age of 15. He waxes poetic about the golden era of DYJA, fondly reminiscing about our beloved old haunt, The Jazz Centre. For Dan, being part of the "Golden Generation" of DYJA was nothing short of a stroke of luck (and some healthy parental intervention) - a cherished chapter in his musical odyssey that continues to shape his life to this day.

Together, Mark and Sarah reminisce about tours and exchanges in France and Germany, sharing anecdotes about serendipitous moments and the Jazz FM incident. Yet, amidst the laughter and nostalgia, Mark bemoans the current state of music education in the UK, lamenting the dwindling support and opportunities for young musicians. Sarah's insights, steeped in her experience as an educator, offer a beacon of hope, illuminating the transformative power of music in the lives of children and advocating for its indispensable place in education.

Amidst the mickey-taking and camaraderie, they reflect on the distinct challenges of studio sessions versus live performances, each offering their own unique insights and anecdotes. And of course, no conversation is complete without a playful jab at Bob Florence's rainforest-endangering antics. Through it all, Joe's youthful energy and unwavering determination shine bright, a testament to the resilience and spirit of DJA's newest generation.

They also explain the origins of an original composition, penned by none other than one of John's cherished musical maestros, Tom Kubis. With each note and melody, a piece of DJA's soul is woven into the fabric of the album, a testament to the enduring passion and creativity that has defined the group for half a century.

Amidst the laughs, Al shares a poignant reflection on how the "50 Years" project served as a beacon of light during a particularly somber period in his life  and explains how he got Mark out of a tricky situation in the studio using his amazing arranging chops! Cake was also involved.

Amidst the sepia-toned anecdotes, they bicker over the notion of natural talent and wax nostalgic about a bygone era, where risk assessments were but a distant concern and the melodies of youth flowed freely through the streets of France, Russia, America and beyond.

They celebrate the unsung heroes, the tireless volunteers whose unwavering dedication breathed life into John’s life’s work. For without them, the symphony of DJA’s collective memories would have been very different….