Benny “King Of The Swingers” Lee
(Vox & Trumpet) The leader of the pack.
Some say he has the voice to silence a thousand angels. Others proclaim his
trumpet playing would rival Gabriel himself. Nobody says his dancing would
wipe the floor with Fred Astaire.
Hannah “The Voice” Brine
(Vox) With one foot firmly entrenched in the jazz camp, another in
the world of pop, and a third (?!) in DJ-ing, Hannah's musical diversity shines
in the eclectic stance of The Whistlestop Five. Her melodies sweet, her phrasing
sublime, she leaves people stunned with her rhythm and rhyme.
Dean “The Lean, Mean Sax-machine” Masser
(Tenor Sax) This
guy has to be heard to be believed. Not since the playing days of Sam Butera
has anyone produced a sound so perfect for jive and party. He stands almost
seven feet tall (which is one of the reasons everybody is so complimentary).
He is Benny's chief sideman/inspiration/
bodyguard and prefers venues with
high ceilings.
Lee “Slide” Hallam
(Trombone) Almost every jazz trombonists'
nickname in history is “Slide”, however Lee's
name is derived from a most unfortunate accident at the local park aged just
6. By sheer good fortune, this accident has left him with an incredible high
note register, and he only occasionally has to stop playing for a quick yelp.
Ray “R” Kelly
(Piano) Often confused with his R&B Rapping and Music
Producing brother of the same name, Ray is not only a dazzling pianist, but
has the expertise to sort out any electrical conundrum, and boasts a collection
of amps and fuses for every occasion (not CORGI registered) - “Ooooooh, he's
the World's Greatest”.
Phil “The Chap” Steel
(Drum Kit) Phil by name, Fill by nature… This guy
is truly one of the most gifted drummers you are ever likely to hear, and
is absolutely perfect for The Whistle Stop Five's “vintage” sound as he lives
like he's in the 1950's. His dedication to authenticity stretches as far
as his vintage Rover V4, which occasionally manages almost fifty miles an
hour.
Nicola “Jazzcat” Farnon
(Upright Bass) This northern stunner has graced the jazz circuit for several
years now with her own unique vocal and bass combination. The Whistlestop
Five would not be the same without her (it'd be one less) and her vocal
talents are put to good use – when trying to get cab home after the gigs.
“Benny, you and the band did a top job! Everyone has said it's the best Christmas party we've ever had. Particularly liked the A-ha tribute — same time next year?” Ali, Indigo Print Christmas Party, Bristol.
