The Brenton Blue is this rare butterfly that has been receiving a lot of caring publicity recently. Bands named after this winged creature, however, are not as rare. At last count there were two bands in South Africa trading under the same moniker. This is the Cape Town version, a four-piece "groove rock" ensemble who have released a five-song CD. The Blues' leader, Francois Du Plessis, formed the band after beginning his career as an acclaimed solo artist. He added three members, Maureen Malan, Paul Higson and Mark Lekas, and this is their first offering.

The five songs are all cut from a jazz, funk and rock quilt with the instumental strengths of the members creating a strong and melodious sound. The first song, 'Little Dancer', is the obvious single but 'Lisa's Song' is also a lovely ballad that could attract radio play. '2PM at Milton's' is a limited edition so grab yours while there are still a few copies floating around. Hopefully the success of this disc will see Brenton Blue recording and releasing a full album in the not too distant future. We must protect our natural assets, especially when they fly like a (rare) butterfly and sting like a bee-tles. (SS)

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