ARRIVING at the Alexandra Theatre in April, Platinum-selling recording artist Andy Abraham's hotly-anticipated 26-date theatre tour is probably the must-see concert of the year.

The History of the Big Bands sees the incredible vocal talent of Andy transport the audience back to the music of the Big Band era, swooning and crooning to the irresistible sound of swing!

All the legendary standards from the world's greatest Big Band leaders are here, with influences including Harry James, Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey , Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Woody Herman and Buddy Rich, to name a few.

Characterised by its swinging rhythms and room-filling orchestrations, Big Band music grew out of Dixieland and Hot Jazz in the 1910s and '20s, spreading from New Orleans to Chicago and New York through the popularity of Louis Armstrong's All-Stars and other much-loved bands of the era.

Its songs and instrumentals are some of the best known and most recognisable of the 20th century and endure.

The History of the Big Bands sees Andy backed by a 13-piece big band featuring world-class soloists taking on the famous solos as played in the jazz clubs and concert halls of New York, such as the Savoy Ballroom. The audience is guided on a musical journey from one band leader to another by Abraham.

Dubbed the man and voice of the people, Andy shot to fame in 2005 on the X Factor where he wowed the judging panel and won the hearts of audiences across the nation with his soulful voice and charm.

Andy's career continues to go from strength to strength as he impresses audiences with his stage presence and voice.

Andy's vocals bring the classic jazz sound right up to the minute.

The History of the Big Bands promises an outstanding evening of high energy, virtuoso musicianship and timeless classic songs.

See the show at 7.30pm on April 13 at the Alexandra Theatre. Tickets are available from http://www.atgtickets. com/Andy-Abrahams-History-of-Big-Bands-Tickets/242/1033/