KEVIN CROWE, the spokesman for the South Devon based roots 'n' rhythm 'n' blues outfit The Wildcards contacted me earlier this week with an update on the band's activities.

Kevin said: "We're making our first appearance in the Bay since early this year on Friday night when we visit The Trawler on North Boundary Road, Furzeham, in Brixham.

"We're currently recording our third album and we'll be showcasing some of the songs from the CD at the Trawler gig. The album itself is due for release early next year.

"Around the same time, at the end of February, we'll be embarking on our latest European tour, and taking in dates in Belgium, Holland, Germany and Scandanavia."

JAZZ BAND'S CD LAUNCH

THE Night Train jazz quartet was formed by the well-known Torbay-based jazz saxophonist Brian Sage and the Exmouth-based pianist Paul Barnham two years ago. Drummer Jamie Smale and Torbay's popular bassist Nigel Pike helped complete the line up.

Over the past two years, Night Train has performed extensively at jazz pubs, clubs and festivals, and tomorrow night sees the launch of the band's debut CD entitled The Journey. The launch event is being held at Michael Caines' Bar and Restaurant in Exeter.

The new album features a mix of standards delivered in Night Train's distinctive style, plus ballads through to jazz funk and a couple of original tracks by Brian and Nigel.

Night Train will be performing at The Clifford Arms, Shaldon, and The Anchor at Cockwood in the new year where the album will be available.

Meanwhile copies can be purchased from Dawkes Music in Winner Street, Paignton. Any venue proprietors, event organisers or bookers who would like more information on the availability of Night Train, can call Brian Sage on 01803 664891.

VINCE AT GREEN ROOM

THERE'S a bit of a buzz on Torbay's live entertainment scene this week, and it's all over this coming Monday evening's appearance by singer and songwriter Vince Freeman at the Green Room on Victoria Parade in Torquay.

Cheltenham-based Vince said: "I have been performing and writing for about eight years now and during that time I've had the pleasure of playing alongside and supporting artistes such Jocelyn Brown, Lucie Sylvas, James Morrison, Nizlopi and others.

"Last year I won two UK Indy Awards, the People's Choice 08 and the Best Male Solo Act 08. I also performed a live concert for Pepsi at a place called Deep Rock Drive in Las Vegas. As a result of that engagement, I have spent 2009 in France writing and recording my new CD.

"The Green Room, Torquay gig is part of my current UK tour to promote the album."

NEW DRUMMER WANTED

TOP Devon-based soul and Tamla show band Joey the Lips will soon be auditioning for a new drummer. Any experienced musicians who believe they have the necessary qualities to fill this prestigious position are being invited to make contact with bandleader John George on-line at www.joeythelips.co.uk