About Us
The Not Quite Big Band first made waves in the buzzing student bars of Manchester, trading pop hits for beer money and packing out venues with their high-energy performances. Their unique setlist - jumping from Beyoncé to Michael Bublé to Muse - might have seemed unexpected, but audiences couldn’t get enough of the sheer power and infectious energy of a full-scale big band.
With a fresh vision under the direction of Will Dakin, the band evolved, refining its line-up and strengthening the chemistry between its musicians. More than just a group of performers, NQBB became a close-knit family, and that camaraderie shines through on stage. Recognizing the band’s limitless potential - and fuelled by a deep passion for the project - Will made the bold decision to go all in, dedicating himself fully to turning The Not Quite Big Band into something truly special.
What started as a fun student venture had evolved into a powerhouse ensemble with the talent and drive to take things to the next level. With a fresh line-up of top-tier musicians and the effortlessly smooth vocals of frontman James Stephens, the band set out on their professional journey, with a clear mission: to deliver electrifying performances, whilst enjoying themselves at every moment. And this was just the beginning.
The band played their first major gig on 27 November 2022, marking the beginning of an incredible residency at the prestigious five-star Hotel Gotham in Manchester. What started as a single performance quickly turned into a sensation, leading to an impressive run of over 50 sold-out shows.
Their show paid homage to the golden era of entertainment, channelling the effortless wit, charm, and smooth vocals of the legendary Rat Pack. With a setlist packed full of swing classics, they transported audiences straight to the glitz and glamour of old-school Las Vegas, where the drinks flowed, and the dance floors buzzed with energy. But The Not Quite Big Band didn’t just recreate the past - they reinvented it. Infusing their signature big band sound with high-energy party tracks and modern hits, they ensured every night ended with guests on their feet, singing at the top of their lungs and dancing well into the early hours.
With every gig bursting with laughter, joy, and unforgettable moments, the band quickly formed a deep connection with their audiences. They thrived on the energy of familiar faces, with many loyal guests returning time and time again - some even becoming close friends of the band. It became clear that The Not Quite Big Band was more than just a group of musicians; they were the heartbeat of an experience that people couldn’t get enough of—a vibrant, feel-good celebration that kept audiences coming back for more.
Spending countless hours together, both on and off stage, the band’s bond grew stronger, evolving into a tight-knit family. It didn’t take long for everyone to realize they shared the same vision for the project - a collective ambition to push the boundaries and see just how far they could go. With a shared passion and unwavering drive, they set their sights on something bigger, ready to take the band to new heights together.
After a thrilling start, The Not Quite Big Band set their sights beyond Manchester's King Street, determined to make their mark on a bigger stage. It wasn’t long before they became one of the most sought-after acts in corporate entertainment, rapidly climbing the ranks to perform at prestigious weddings, award ceremonies, and high-profile corporate events. Their impressive client list includes the Oldham Business Awards, BOSS Federation, Barclays Medical Practice, and DF Capital Bank.
With a packed schedule, the band travelled extensively across England, Scotland, and Wales, bringing their signature energy and showmanship to every event. Along the way, they created unforgettable moments - not just for their audiences, but for themselves, forging lifelong memories with every performance.
After an incredible run at Hotel Gotham, The Not Quite Big Band embarked on their next exciting challenge - transforming their electrifying show into a full-scale theatrical production. Determined to capture the magic that had captivated audiences night after night, they set out to create something even bigger, bolder, and more immersive. Bringing along all the elements that made their performances unforgettable - sharp wit, timeless swing classics, and high-energy party anthems - they also introduced fresh faces, new creative twists, and an expanded repertoire.
The result is 'Then, Now and Always: The Big Band Experience', a dynamic, nostalgia-infused spectacle that pays tribute to the golden age of swing while reimagining it for a modern audience. Set to debut at The Oak Theatre in Ormskirk on April 26th, this show promises to be a celebration of music, storytelling, and showmanship like never before.