'Brentwood Gavotte', 1990s

Song written by Southend-based musician Chris Jones. Jones released this on his cassette “Local Radio: Songs written for BBC Essex 1988-1995” (Acc. SA140/5). He said it was written for his Brentwood resident friend and radio producer, Dennis Rookard, who was feeling left out by all the songs Jones was writing about the Southend area.

Does it capture the character of Brentwood? Is there something in the tune that shows it has been inspired by the town?

Technically, a gavotte is a tune for a fast dance, traditional in France. Perhaps Jones was inspired more by Gavottes biscuits. This music would certainly suit sitting down with a cup of tea and a crispy crêpe.