Take a bowlful of Trad Jazz classics, add a sprinkling of more contemporary New Orleans music, then fold in six cool guys with infectious grins and good dose of talent and bind together with a loose and flexible set list. Serve in a Spiegeltent accompanied by an enthusiastic Edinburgh full house and garnish generously with laughs.
Drums, sousaphone, banjo, trumbone, trumpet and saxophone. The Louis Armstrong-like depths of James Williams' voice, the more melodic tones of Sam Friend for contrast, and some fun backing vocals. Whilst the tunes are totally familiar to jazz fans, and the overall treatment follows the standardised mix of ensemble playing and solos for all, there's a freshness about the musicians that prevents this being a stale rerun of so many similar offerings. That's partly a reflection of the high standards of musicianship, partly the humour the band bring to their stage act. For a finale the four front men did a circuit of the venue, playing mightily, and that was a good reflection of the way they bonded with their audience.
The Donkeys might not be musically challenging or innovative, but they do major on fun and what's wrong with that? Miles Lyons' trumbone solos sparkle with mischief, and even though I've another ten shows to see in this year's festival, I'll be surprised if I hear a sax solo to improve on the one Marcus Miller brought out during a long medley. You couldn't walk out without a smile on your face.
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