Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra will be heading to the Alban Arena at the end of this month.

The orchestra will feature British drummer Gilson Lavis, famed for playing in the 1970s band Squeeze, in which he played alongside Jools as well as for his portrait artwork. Yet another band member is set to perform, singer and songwriter Chris Difford.

Guest vocalists for the show will be Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall. In the 1980s Ruby was asked to join 'Culture Club' at the height of their stardom, an offer of a solo record deal closely followed and she soon signed to Jive Records.

Four albums and a Best of compilation album were released over the next few years making Ruby a household name. Hits included I'd Rather Go Blind, If You're Ready (Come Go With Me) and in the It's Gonna Be Alright.

Louise, began her session singing career prior to joining The National Youth Choir of Great Britain in 1990, where she wrote several Gospel arrangements, many of which remain in circulation worldwide.

She has worked with Beverley Knight, Michael Ball, Marti Pellow, Chris Difford, Robbie Williams, Bryan Ferry, Ronnie Wood, Van Morrison, Eric Stewart, Madeline Bell, Sheila Ferguson, Sam Brown, Russell Watson, Steve Winwood, Paul Young, Don Blackman, Solomon Burke, Karl Jenkins and John Rutter, to name but a few.

The Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD, Wednesday, May 31, 7.30pm. Details: 01727 844488