The distinctive, mystical and wistful ballads that set Blue Magic apart from other 1970's Rhythm and Blues groups will be heard once again in Bermuda on New Year's Eve.

Blue Magic performed several times here during the decade to sold out shows and organisers promise all of the old magic.

The New Year's Eve Black and White Ball and Celebration, with Master of Ceremony Webster B. Tucker will be presented in the Southampton Princess' Atlantic Room at 9 p.m.

The show will be produced by Master Rhythm Productions and Zintech International, and will feature complementary champagne and party favours.

A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of a special Performing Arts Award to bandleader and trumpeter Vernon "Ghandi'' Burgess.

Organiser Eddie Nunn said the award is in recognition of the contribution of Mr. Burgess to jazz and popular music here.

"Ghandi was chosen because of his legacy and longevity and all of the work that he has done to set a foundation for artists to build upon,'' Mr. Nunn said.

Mr. Nunn said his backers wanted to attract a "sophisticated and mature'' audience on New Years Eve.

He added: "That means you can be young or old or in-between. We want people who can appreciate going out and celebrating in style while appreciating quality entertainment.'' "Blue Magic -- still with the original members -- have an ability to reproduce exactly the same sound on stage that you hear on their records and CDs.'' Mr. Nunn said the supporting acts, local band XTacy featuring Sheila and Broadway singer and actress Janice Nelson promise to make a splash.

"In 1991 Janice Nelson was in the off-Broadway play `Your Arms Are Too Short to Box With God','' he added. "One of the surprises will be Janice's duet performances with one of Bermuda's top male vocalist. It will be magnificent.'' The $85 Tickets are still available from the 27th Century Boutique, the Music Box, Music World, and Personalised Jewellry. No tickets will be sold at the door, which opens at 8 p.m. and the show will begin at 9 sharp.

KICKING IT OFF RIGHT -- Blue Magic blasts in 1999 at the Southampton Princess, New Year's Eve.