Thanks for all the information, and the video links.
Having watched the basic footwork video for East Coast Swing that you linked to, the basic step timing is the same as Rock'n'Roll (and basic Salsa too, for that matter). But at least the Rock'n'Roll danced here has more foot movement to it (for the lead: step left, close right to left, step right, close left to right and transfer weight, rock back on the right, rock forward with right; the basic for the follow is the mirror), and the rock step is on the other foot. So I think it'll feel "familiar but different". (I see what you mean about Cha Cha danced to the same music, but the triple step I learned for Cha Cha is a travelling one, whereas it looks like the triple step in East Coast Swing is basically on the spot.)
Given the relatively easy availability of small-class beginners East Coast Swing here, the timing and some of the moves seeming familiar, and the fact it's danceable to more music, it's probably the best place for me to start. (There are is also some West Coast Swing, and Lindy Hop beginners classes, as you mentioned. Which was part of what made it harder to figure out where to start. Besides, there's not much country music played around here.)
Ewen
PS: Having now watched the video of your Hustle dance partner, I see what you mean about the lead who was complaining. The lead is obvious (a good thing!), but it appears he's basically just being in the right place at the right time (also good, but not sufficient for "great dancer").
Re: Hustle
Having watched the basic footwork video for East Coast Swing that you linked to, the basic step timing is the same as Rock'n'Roll (and basic Salsa too, for that matter). But at least the Rock'n'Roll danced here has more foot movement to it (for the lead: step left, close right to left, step right, close left to right and transfer weight, rock back on the right, rock forward with right; the basic for the follow is the mirror), and the rock step is on the other foot. So I think it'll feel "familiar but different". (I see what you mean about Cha Cha danced to the same music, but the triple step I learned for Cha Cha is a travelling one, whereas it looks like the triple step in East Coast Swing is basically on the spot.)
Given the relatively easy availability of small-class beginners East Coast Swing here, the timing and some of the moves seeming familiar, and the fact it's danceable to more music, it's probably the best place for me to start. (There are is also some West Coast Swing, and Lindy Hop beginners classes, as you mentioned. Which was part of what made it harder to figure out where to start. Besides, there's not much country music played around here.)
Ewen
PS: Having now watched the video of your Hustle dance partner, I see what you mean about the lead who was complaining. The lead is obvious (a good thing!), but it appears he's basically just being in the right place at the right time (also good, but not sufficient for "great dancer").