Hauts-de-France (Conductor: Luc Vertommen) -

An atmospheric start from Hauts-de-France - the textures sparkle, though there are some intonation issues.

Lovely cornet, and there's some superb ensemble - if on the speedy side.

There's some great detail here, just the odd moment of unease - particularly at the end of lines.

It's well paced, and the shapes are evident, especially the source material - just a bit chaotic in places with execution not quite matching itention.

We lose the focus in some of the tutti sounds - with the melodic line lost within the overall texture.

Nice euphonium and trombones. There are some scuffs, but there's a great sense of musicality and cohesion, and some great balance between brass and percs.

We head into the agitato with intent and there are some great points of detail - but while there is a great depth of band sound, the balance doesn't always come off.

I'm not sure on the swing - it's a bit rigid.

There are some great sounds into the final chorale - especially troms who stand up to really show off.

The ensemble is organised well by Vertommen to a jubilant finale - and fantastic sound to close.

This could be up there, but in such a fierce competition, we'll see!