Little Rumbas musicians come from very different musical backgrounds which is why the band presents such a unique blend of styles.

John Hymas (violin, viola and accordion) trained as a professional viola player in the classical world. He is also a highly regarded composer and founder member of the contemporary folk band Hoover the Dog.

Singer and guitarist Pete Mustill was part of the original R&B boom in the 60s but subsequently had a Road to Damascus moment in the late 80s on first hearing the music of Astor Piazzolla. This led to the formation of The Tango Band, and a top three album in the Czech charts.

Little Rumbas inspirational bass player Jacqui Savage has provided the beat for a whole series of Border and Midlands bands most recently as part of the rhythm section of Paul Bridgwaters Electric Blues Rebellion.

They are joined on live gigs by two great players - the brilliantly all round musician and keyboard player Bertie Playle from the legendary band Psycho Betty and by the fabulous Welsh singer and songwriter Jess Hall.

The band writes all their own music and over the years this has developed an instantly recognizable house style, which owes debts to East Europe and South America as well as jazz and blues.

Recently a musician friend hearing the new album for the first time remarked, I know what this is. Its Tom Waits meets Tom Lehrer and indeed the music and the lyrics possess both humour and a haunting melancholy.

From Winchcombe Live Absolutely fantastic evening from you guys tonight. We had so many positive comments from the audience; very gratifying! Great musical talent, great humour, variety, and warmth of performance.