IF there was an act to put a very successful Devizes Festival to bed (in black satin sheets) then the Zoe Schwarz Quintet were born to the task.

Selections from the great American songbook, with covers of the likes of Nina Simone, Ray Charles and Billie Holiday, alongside original songs that contained a more contemporary edge, the whole set held a very 'come hither' quality with every song another lingering step on a gently spiralling staircase.

Backed by the sweet toned guitar of Rob Koral and by the much garlanded jazz pianist Dave Newton, Zoe - the archetypal long cool woman in a black dress - gave a performance of giggly intensity, a cheery cross of Marlene Dietrich, Marilyn and Betty Boop. But the chuckling baby doll voice could become a grounded growl when her man done her wrong.

Sultry, sexy, all the usual jazz diva clichés apply, and a useful fillip for those who thought the smoking ban applied in all venues.

A velveteen au revoir until next year.

JOHN LOVELESS