There seems a natural connection between music and food, doesn’t there? At their best, both are creative and satisfying – and essential for a happy existence.

Music is, after all, the food of love. And now jazz star Erin Dickins has combined her love of the musical and culinary arts to produce Sizzle and Swing – a book and CD, uniting mouth-watering recipes and toe-tapping tunes.

Erin was a founding member of The Manhattan Transfer, spending five years with the hugely successful vocal group, before expanding her horizons as one of the most sought-after singers in New York.

She has recorded and toured with such legendary performers as Leonard Cohen, Bette Midler, James Taylor, Talking Heads, James Brown, Barry Manilow, and Ashford & Simpson.

“I don’t know many good musicians who do not dabble in the culinary arts,” said Erin. “It makes sense: both music and food are creative, compelling and sensual arts.

“So it occurred to me that if musicians are having a love affair with food, then what about music lovers? What do they eat or drink when listening to a great CD? What if they haven’t learned to cook yet?

“Good food and good music should be accessible. No Cordon Bleu education required – anybody who loves music can cook! It’s all about the feel, the mood, and the passion, right?”

Absolutely right, Erin! The CD is a fabulous collection of jazzy numbers, including such timeless favourites as Java Jive, and Tain’t Watcha Do, while the book itself would grace any kitchen bookshelf as the go-to volume for exciting and appetising meals that shouldn’t be too challenging to produce, but will be as gratifying as the music that accompanies them.

You can buy your copy here. Bon appetit!

And, if you like Erin’s music (and why the heck wouldn’t you?!), you might be interested in these posts on the Love Supreme Festival, Brigitte Zarie’s latest album, and Gregory Porter at Brecon Jazz.