Last Stand

(for James Last 1929-2015)

(i)

Hansi in Haiti

A special musical guest

at the birthday party

of "Baby Doc" Duvalier

Leading the orchestra

in spirited renditions

of Mamy Blue and Stormy Weather

He says "Music is like Vodou,

tying body and soul together"

Now he's started a conga

and like an excited trouser snake

it keeps on getting longer

 

 

 

 

(ii)

 

I dreamt James Last was Zardoz

A huge floating stone head

spewing out trombones and saxophones

spreading happy music throughout the land

The Brutals tooted flutes in their red nappies

and joined up with the band

 

"Do not fear the melody

Embrace the syncopation

I will orchestrate your love

with a flick of my baton"

 

B.R. 10/06/2015