STUDIO recording techniques have advanced so dramatically in the last decade or so that it is now possible to do almost anything with anyone, musically that is.

Of course it helps if the artist has talent and can sing in tune, but even those with limited natural ability can be made to sound world-class with the help of state-of-the-art technology.

In recent years, major entertainers of the quality of Francis Albert Sinatra have been brought back from the dead, in a manner of speaking, with remastered CDs of their early recordings. Therefore it was no big surprise when I received another example of the outstanding creativity of studio technicians who have managed to produce an amazing CD, featuring the late Ray Charles and The Count Basie Orchestra.

Produced by Concord Music Group, and co-released and marketed with Starbucks Hear Music, "Ray Sings, Basie Swings" brings together two elements of the entertainment industry, acknowledged as "giants" in their respective areas. They often shared the same bill but never recorded together, and there is quite a story behind this CD.

John Burk, A&R chief for Concord Records, unearthed some unheard tapes, marked Ray/Basie, in 2005, while exploring the company's vaults. Research revealed the original concert tapes had been made in 1970 by the late Norman Granz, legendary impresario/producer, famous for his wonderful "Jazz at the Phil" LPs.

"The quality of the reels was not great", Burk recalls. "They appeared to be recordings from the live' soundboard, with Ray's vocals way up front and the band in the background. At first the tapes seemed unusable, but Ray sounded so fantastic that I decided to persevere. Further investigation revealed that he was performing with his own band, not the Basie orchestra. I was disappointed that Ray wasn't with Basie but thought we could re-record the music, using the current Basie band".

The result is an astonishing compilation and a CD containing fabulous offerings of 12 numbers. "Ray Sings, Basie Swings", is a fitting tribute to Ray Charles, The Count Basie Orchestra.

l Bolton-based swing and bebop band Jeriatric Jazz will play the refurbished Rumworth Hall club in Prescott Street, off St Helens Road, Bolton, for the first time on Wednesday, November 8. Rumworth Hall could become a regular monthly date if it is as successful as the band's regular gigs at Astley Bridge Conservative Club and Jolly Carter in Little Lever. Starts 8.30pm and admission is free.

l Another reminder for big band and dance enthusiasts that Andy Prior and his Orchestra will headline the special weekend at Pontins Holiday Centre, Blackpool, from Friday, November 3, to Sunday, November 5. Accommodation and all entertainment costs from £149 per person. Call 0870 6045606, quoting BB06.