"Real books" are collections of American jazz standards used by musicians as sources of repertoire. They are popular among music students. Result: tunes in "real books" get played more than others. The first British "real book" was put together in Manchester a few years ago, and now five leading British jazz musicians, including saxophonist Andy Schofield and guitarist Mike Walker, have recorded 15 of the best numbers from it. Are these tomorrow's standards? With their ear-catching themes, enlivened here by some sparkling solos, they could well be.
