Last years musical hit of the Fringe for me was ‘Eurobeat – Almost Eurovision’ a big budget production now touring the UK prior to a season in London’s West End. So far this Fringe I have been totally wowed by a much smaller budgeted show with a cast of five, two musicians and small select crew. West End International, Newpalm Productions and Andy Barnes Productions present ‘Departure Lounge’ a musical by Dougal Irvine. In Malaga airport we meet four lads returning home to receive their exam results, prior to growing up, splitting up and having to go their own ways. This holiday was a final celebration of their friendship but just how has the past 7 days affected these close friends? J.B. (Mike Shearer) tall, hunky and posh. J. B. seems to feel responsible for Ross to the extent he almost mothers him. Is this because the only person to even have noticed he is not at home is the family Butler? Pete (Luke Kempner) at first glance Pete is a typical English yob, full England football kit with tomato red burnt skin to clash. Pete has a guilty secret, but a lads needs come before friendship, don’t they? Jordan (Stuart Matthew Price) always a hit with the girls, quieter than the others, never gets too pissed but is prone to seeing things he wishes he hadn’t. Some would say the conscience of the gang. Ross (Tim Edwards) a bit of a mummies boy let off the leash for the first time. Sadly although he meets the love of his life Sophie, nothing happens because he is always vomiting after drinking too much. Finally Sophie (Hayley Angel Wardle) the lass they meet on holiday. The lads are stuck in the ‘Departure Lounge’ on the way home when tempers flare and a few home truths are aired. Told by both narrative and song the style of which changes frequently. We see humour, pathos and tragedy. Created and written by Dougal Irvine who also plays guitar on stage with Phil James who is also the musical director. Beautifully written with an obvious insight to the subject matter.  This show has a fresh rawness about it I have rarely seen since my first visit to ‘Saucy Jack and the Space Vixens’ some Fringes ago. Many of the musical numbers could stand alone and the melodies and words linger till the next knockout song. The fact that this quartet of gorgeous young talented men fulfils the requirements for any successful boyband in today’s almost cheesy pop culture. must be a bonus. Poor Hayley as Sophie almost seems incidental to the plot and is never on stage singing. They already seem to have gained a small cult following. judging by the front row who were singing along and gave the a standing ovation. Despite the basic set and some camembert  moments I loved every second of the show and would go back if given a chance. Look out for the whole cast and creative team and look out Andrew Lloyd Webber. Be prepared to stand down the youngsters are coming. *****