The Frank Popp Ensemble - The Swinging Library Sounds Of... (Universal)

If you believe the fantastic artwork accompanying this release, then Frank Popp is the epitome of cool. He drives an MGB coupe (from the days when they were cool) with the registration FRNK 01, wearing a sharp suit and looking like he's been transported from a detective movie.

Of course he is a partially fictional character, although his name appears to be real. Happily the music exhibits the same effortlessly fashionable vibe, doubtless coming to an advert near you soon, if it hasn't already. The 'swinging library sounds' of the title are almost all credited to Popp, with the exception of the marvellous Goo Goo Muck, sung by Sam Leigh Brown, and they funk irresistibly. His orchestral band is tight, opening up into the breezy Catwalk - surely opening title material - or supplying the right level of cheese for the Hammond-driven Slaughter At Primrose Hill.

Universal get into the spirit as well, resurrecting the famous Ace Of Clubs branding for the cover. It's a joyous escape for some twenty minutes, and a CD to throw open the windows to.