From busker to headliner

Aug 15 2008 By Andy Coleman

DEVON-BASED songstress Becky Brine, one of the most popular discoveries at this year's Birmingham International Jazz Festival, makes a quick return to Brum to headline Picnic In The Park at the city's Botanical Gardens tomorrow.

Joining Becky and her Rhythm Boys will be eight-piece jump jive swingers The Dr Teeth Big Band, whose current CD, Rhythm Is Our Business, is out now.

Becky found favour with the festival audience thanks to her impeccable delivery, wide repertoire and the sheer verve of her performances.

Becky usually spends her summers as a street busker in Devon, serenading the holiday-makers with her classic jazz songs, dressed in evening gown, over-the-elbow gloves a nd 1940s-style piled-up hair.

Devon's street cabaret loss is the jazz world's gain, with offers to perform, tour and record now coming in from all quarters.

TicketInfo

The Picnic in the Park, supported by Mateus Rose, runs from noon till 6pm at Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Westbourne Road, Edgbaston. Tickets are £7 (adults), £4.50 (children), under-5's free.