The Raid


Flowers Band MD – Paul Holland, reviews one of two recent Da Haske recordings from 2015 National Champions.

The Raid

Cory Band

Conductor: Philip Harper
Da Haske DHR 03-063-3

On first inspection of the track-list, there is little to get too excited about. There are no major works of Championship Section credentials that you may expect from this power-house of a band, but more a track-list for the average enthusiast aimed, perhaps, at the mid-section marketplace?

Indeed the title track Raid by ‘royalty’ brass band composer, Oliver Waespi, has just been used as the Swiss Section 2 test-piece and the second larger-scale work on the
CD, Time Machine by the equally impressive Thomas Doss, was used at the Section 1 Dutch National three years ago. Miniature epics teetering in substance on Championship Section standard writing, but ever so slightly watered down. Both are, however, performed with immense authority and relative playful ease - it is stirring and brilliant playing from Cory.

Oliver Waespi’s second title, Theme and Variations, is an easy-on- the-ear, ten-minute transmogrifying piece that works through a kaleidoscope of variations and colours. It is hard to see where this may appear in concert and it doesn’t hit the test-piece tick-list either. In any event, it is more great writing from a wonderful musical voice.

Philip Sparke has two original works included: Moon Song, Sun Dance featuring flugel soloist,
Helen Williams and With Clouds Descending. The flugel solo is a delight, with elegant Sparke hallmarks throughout. In two contrasting movements, it could be likened to the composer’s cornet solo Song and Dance, although the lyrical, often lofty first movement in particular would be a brave choice for any ‘live’ soloist. However, Helen delivers both movements in a masterly fashion. Bravo!


In a lighter style, the remaining tracks Cortege de Bacchus, A Norwegian Hymn and The Three Towers are pleasant, contrasting and well-played works that will find favour.

Overall this is a release that has hidden magical content tucked amongst the inevitable ‘ ller’ items. For me The Raid, Time Machine and Moon Song, Sun Dance are highlights. The only relative disappointment lies in an uninspiring CD cover with a very plain font.

Programme 3/5
Performance 5/5
Recording 5/5
Presentation 3/5