The Occasional Orchestra gradually came together  to play the songs of Darrell Mitchell formerly mainstay and front man of indie guitar band HOME & ABROAD, who released records in many different countries including UK, Germany and USA but enjoyed their best relationship with the Spanish based Elefant Records.

After various enforced line-up changes the band eventually changed their name and recorded with Martin Rushent (Stranglers, Human League) before releasing the album Bee Keeping for Beginners,

After a self-enforced break from performing Darrell returned as a soloist for acoustic gigs during autumn 2007, soon being joined on stage by The Occasional Orchestra, a gathering of various friends and former band members who play all manner of instruments including 12 string guitar, bass guitar, bouzouki, and percussion as well as adding harmonies to Darrell’s singing.

The Occasional Orchestra released their first album “Japeeza” early summer 2009, in support of various festival appearances, mixing new solo and band tracks including an interpretation of the White Spiritual, Lonesome Valley, which also appeared on s CD tribute to singer and artist Kevin Coyne. Kevin’s son Robert has since guested with The Occasional Orchestra on electric lead guitar.

The 2nd Occasional Orchestra album, Dust & Satellites, 10 new songs arranged by the band, was released in Summer 2010 with a preview 2 track download single having been made available the previous December via i-tunes.

 The Occasionals have since released a 4 track CD EP in support of Cancer Research charity, Sarcoma Trust and have also contributed to two film soundtracks.

Quotes:

“Huge thanks; you were fab on the mainstage Saturday .. what a magical night”. Dave Newson, Bunkfest, Oxfordshire