Mark settles in for a chat with budding drumming sensation, Joe Sykes, DJA's freshest face. With a youthful exuberance, Joe shares his unabashed passion for all things big band and his profound joy at being part of DJA's latest recording venture. However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for Joe, as he candidly recounts the trials and tribulations of adjusting to the studio environment—battling his inner doubts, grappling with a finicky muffler, and how solving problems on day one at British Grove Studios actually helped him.

Amidst the mickey-taking and camaraderie, they reflect on the distinct challenges of studio sessions versus live performances, each offering their own unique insights and anecdotes. And of course, no conversation is complete without a playful jab at Bob Florence's rainforest-endangering antics. Through it all, Joe's youthful energy and unwavering determination shine bright, a testament to the resilience and spirit of DJA's newest generation.

In their follow-up conversation, Mark and John delve into the laborious yet heartwarming journey behind the conception of "50 Years", the latest opus from DJA. John recounts the arduous task of cherry-picking tracks for the album, a feat made slightly less daunting thanks to the invaluable assistance of Reuben Fowler. They share anecdotes about the profound influence of esteemed composer and arranger, Sammy Nestico, whose musical spirit continues to resonate deeply with DJA's musicians.

They also explain the origins of an original composition, penned by none other than one of John's cherished musical maestros, Tom Kubis. With each note and melody, a piece of DJA's soul is woven into the fabric of the album, a testament to the enduring passion and creativity that has defined the group for half a century.

Mark and multi-instrumentalist Al Wood engage in a lighthearted exchange, about Al’s adventures in ironing and navigating the bustling streets of Sunny Donny! On a more serious note (pun intended), Al's deep knowledge of the UK big band scene and his extensive experience are the stuff of legend. Delve into the fascinating connections between Al's tenure at Leeds College of Music and its profound impact on the current roster of DJA members.

Amidst the laughs, Al shares a poignant reflection on how the "50 Years" project served as a beacon of light during a particularly somber period in his life and explains how he got Mark out of a tricky situation in the studio using his amazing arranging chops! Cake was also involved.

In their inaugural podcast together, John Ellis MBE and his son Mark embark on a journey down memory lane, weaving through the tapestry of the past five decades of John’s beloved endeavor—the Doncaster Youth Jazz Association. They discuss when Duke Ellington graced the presence of royalty, the sight of John masquerading as Glen Miller, and the enduring charm of The Earl of Doncaster Hotel, a beacon of their shared history.

Amidst the sepia-toned anecdotes, they bicker over the notion of natural talent and wax nostalgic about a bygone era, where risk assessments were but a distant concern and the melodies of youth flowed freely through the streets of France, Russia, America and beyond.

They celebrate the unsung heroes, the tireless volunteers whose unwavering dedication breathed life into John’s life’s work. For without them, the symphony of DJA’s collective memories would have been very different….

Your Doncaster Jazz Alumni host, Mark Ellis, tells us what to expect on this unique podcast, 50 years in the making….