Mike Durham, a trumpeter, founded the band in Newcastle upon Tyne back in 1984. The band specializes in jazz from the 1920s, including over 600 tunes. It also includes some “hot dance” songs like The Charleston. King Oliver, Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington are some of the most beloved sources. The Rhythm Kings can also play a program of 1930’s Swing music with guitar and stringbass, rather than banjo or tuba. This includes the works of Fats Wallace and his contemporaries. The band is well-known nationally and internationally as a jazz band and festival performer. They have played at over 40 festivals in the last five years. The Rhythm Kings can be booked for weddings, anniversary, retirement parties, garden fêtes, store openings and product launches, dances and riverboat cruises – or just about any other occasion where jazz music is needed. Recently, the WJRK returned from a successful four-city tour in the mid-western U.S.A. They played in Davenport, Chicago, Milwaukee, and Kenosha (Wisconsin), respectively. The Bluebird Inn in Milan, Illinois was a highlight. This is where Louis Armstrong, Bix Beiderbecke, and other jazz legends were known to have performed in the twenties. The band has also broadcast on BBC and Independent radio. They have had records released on American labels Stomp Off, G.H.B. and the U.K. Lake labels. “Jubilee Stomp”, (2003) on Lake Records, and “Way Up North,” (2005) on their WJRK Records label. The West Jesmond Rhythm Kings have a diverse repertoire that includes ragtime, classic jazz, and hot dance. You can be certain of excellent jazz and entertainment when you spend time with them. from http://www.wjrk.co.uk
