OHMS Paperback – 27 Nov. 2015

Surprisingly since Spike May’s “The Band Rats” Very few books have been written by British Army bandsmen giving their account of life in an Army Band, this is the only book I can think of written by an ex Bandmaster.The years he served were perhaps the golden years of serving in an Army Band, and Michael gives a good account warts and all of his time.Some of the details of what he has said and done back in the day would these days be inappropriate. He mentions several characters and I am glad to say me did not disrespect anyone by name, and as anyone who has served in an Army Band knows you come across some good people and some awful people, of all ranks.I really enjoyed the book, Michael wrote candidly of himself which was very humbling, I even enjoyed reading the mundane details because it is peoples stories that I am interested in.It’s a good read and I wish there was more books like this on the shelves.

Too many inaccuracies with regard to the personalities mentioned, or omitted, and the book, although attempting to be chronological, fast forwards on occasions which can make the story a little confusing at times. His story does show that a weakness or flaw in a person can seriously affect a career path as demonstrated in this book.