One of the most respected pianists on the scene today Graham includes an impressive roster of high profile bands on his cv, including George Benson, iconic Acid Jazz band “Incognito”, the Hamish Stuart Band, the Laurence Cottle Big Band, and the BBC Big Band. Currently the featured pianist with singer Stacey Kent, Graham’s fluent and melodic playing has been heard and admired world-wide. Tonight Graham brings in his fabulous quintet which features Mornington Lockett-sax (Ronnie Scott); Mark Nightingale-trombone (Louis Bellson, Kenny Wheeler); Laurence Cottle-bass (Eric Clapton, Jason Rebello); Ian Thomas-drums (Eric Clapton, Natalie Cole). The music is a powerful mix of Jazz standards and swinging originals from some of the finest players in Europe..
“excellent” Jazzwise
Gareth Williams
Gareth has unquestionably established himself as one of the country’s leading modern jazz pianists. A fiery and enormously creative player his remarkable talent has been featured in the Jim Mullen band, as well as regular work with the band of the great Claire Martin. A world class pianist he also has a great voice and, if you’re lucky, he may just sing a song or two as well. Fantastic modern jazz piano playing.
“..dynamite pianist” Evening Standard
“.. fantastic improviser” The Guardian
“..a jewel of a player” Jazziz
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
US-born, London-based Julie McKee is turning heads with her jazz-influenced original songs chronicling the foibles of modern life. A classically trained pianist with a Masters in Jazz from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, she has been performing in and around London for a couple of years at venues including the National Theatre, LSO St Luke's, the Vortex and the City of London festival with some of the top names in jazz. Now, with her latest album, "What A Woman Shouldn't Do", she is gaining new recognition. Her witty, gorgeous songs are being picked up by radio all over the UK, Australia and in the US - where she’s already charted at no.1 on Que FM and been given a five-star rating by New York’s Wildy’s World. Joined by a stellar band, including Nigel Price on guitar, Simon Little on bass (Lea Delaria, Clare Teal, Divine Comedy) and John Blease on drums (Basquiat Strings, Joe Stilgoe, Newton Faulkner), and even a possible appearance of the club owner himself (!), this album launch is not to be missed.
"One of the finest collections of jazz-imbued pop you'll hear in all of 2008." Wildy's World, New York; “Julie's sound is truly unique ... relaxed yet upbeat and full of emotional power... she knows her craft well.” Que FM; “With a natural flair for the piano and the English language, this artist's fresh sound sets her apart.” Live Listings Magazine
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
Originally from Italy, Ugo has been in London for many years now. His Latin influenced modern jazz style has been heard to great effect with many bands over the years, most notably with the acid Jazz vocalist Carmel and artists such as Aierto Moreira, Steve Windwood, Ronny Jordan and Mica Paris. Probably best known at the Club for his work with Dill Katz and the Jazz/Brazilian band “Samara” this is a great Jazz/Latin piano trio gig from one of the leading lights of the UK Latin scene.
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
Driven by the spirit of 1950’s Cuba the “Sugar Kings” present old school salsa with a fiery modern sound. Band leader Flavio Correa and Musical Director Grant Windsor pave the way for their dynamic and talented team to entertain with the music of Latin America. A hugely experienced eight piece band featuring both timbales and congas as well as violin, flute and of course vocals, this steaming band plays music that brings Cuba to life in the heart of London. Perfect for all lovers of Latin music and Jazz alike.
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
Sat 5thJULIAN MARC STRINGLE BAND featuring JACQUI HICKS-vocals
Julian has established himself as one of the most versatile clarinet and sax players around. His Rock star persona and highly melodic music combine with a phenomenal technique to ensure an exciting and memorable gig. The dynamic line up, augmented by one of the country’s finest singers Jacqui Hicks, performs a combination of excellent funky original material as well as classic Jazz standards.
“Julian Marc Stringle is the best Clarinet player to emerge in British Jazz in several decades” John Dankworth CBE "Jacqui Hicks is..one of the most soulful singer in Britain” M.U. Magazine
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
Tony is unquestionably one of the most charismatic vocalists working in the UK. A featured performer since the late 60’s his cv is vast, including stints with the band “10CC” and his own seminal Jazz/Funk band “Kokomo”. His brand of jazz tinged contemporary soul and blues is really stunning, with his fabulous, smoky, velvety growl of a voice, delivering original material and some covers in his inimitable style. With 5 cd’s to his name, including one recorded live at Ronnie Scott’s plus a Jazz Standards album, Tony has established himself as one of the most original and powerful performers on the scene today. If you like contemporary R&B vocals with a touch of Jazz in the Blues Brothers style, then this is definitely for you. Currently based in mainland Europe this is a rare visit to the UK by Tony so my advice is book now!
“..the velvet gravel throated O’Malley is one of the UK’s most undersung vocal performers..the songs drenched in the deep soulful spirit that characterises everything he touches…one of the UK’s hottest properties” Jazzwise magazine
Marcina is a terrific singer with a hugely impressive cv who performs primarily her own music which she describes as “Global music with jazz/folk roots and strong rhythmic influences”. An accomplished percussionist as well as pianist and guitarist Marcina’s influences are unusually eclectic. She has worked with some of the finest Jazz artists in the UK including Steve Williamson, Jason Yarde and Bheki Mseleku as well as International artists Airto Moreira, Manu Ventura, Hugh Masekela, Busi Mhlonga and Eugene Skeef and was a member of Penise Saul’s South African Gospel Singers. She had a principal role in Fay Weldon’s “A Small Green Space” with English National Opera and has written and performed extensively for educational organisations such as London Sinfonietta, Glyndeborne Opera and the LPO. Marcina is a member of the 12 piece djembe (African drum) orchestra “ Moropa” and if all that wasn’t enough she is also an accomplished Dancer, performing in a variety of styles including Classical Indian “Kathak”. Accompanied by her band “The Love Rats” this extremely talented and highly eclectic performer produces a unique sound which is unmissable.
“Marcina Arnold….a secret of talent living in the heart of London” FeelTheSoul
With 6 cd’s to his name and over ten years as the featured guitarist with iconic drummer Billy Cobham, ex-pat Australian Carl Orr has certainly established himself as one of the leading players on the UK scene. A muscular and fluent musician he plays a set of standards and “funky” originals with passion and flair. Tonight on piano Carl will be featuring Sean Wayland, another Aussie ex-pat now resident in New York. Sean has over 10 CD’s to his name and the likes of Madeliene Peyroux on an impressive cv.
“..stylish, carefully wrought fusion with very hip harmony….cool and bluesy rather than fraught or frenetic..” Jazz Journal
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
John Critchinson
John was Ronnie Scott’s pianist for more than 12 years, and his strong, swinging, hard-bop piano playing has graced many a fine gig. One of the most established and highly regarded pianists on the scene, John’s high energy, driving, Jazz trio playing is legendary. His jokes are great too!
“..one of Britain's finest jazz pianists” Guardian
Russ is a wonderful Afro-Caribbean pianist who celebrated his 75th birthday at the Club some time ago, but who still plays as if he’s 21. Recently awarded an MBE in recognition of the wonderful work Russ has done for the UK music scene over the years he is an accomplished steel pan player as well as pianist and one of the founders of the Notting Hill Carnival. His brand of mainstream piano playing is still truly infectious, and everyone just has fun!
“..a primary force in jazz, calypso and steelband in England for over half a century” Calypsoworld.
Luc Floreani
Australian born Luc Floreani has been steadily making a name for himself on the “Groove”/R&B scene over the last 4 years or so. A writer as well as performer his first release “Taboo”, which featured Soul diva Angie Brown, achieved no 1 radio play lists on over 25 radio stations all over the world and was in the top 20 download charts for 5 weeks. Since then he has gone on to perform alongside artists such as Marcella Detroit, (Shakespear's Sister), Glenn Matlock and Darren Hayes in venues as diverse as the Royal Festival Hall, Café de Paris and most recently the Glastonbury Festival. Supported by a great band featuring some of the best “groove” players around the set is a terrific mix of classic numbers and Luc’s fine originals. Well known to us here at the Club expect quite a “festive” atmosphere for this gig!
Thurs 10thMARK CROOKSQUINTET featuring COLIN OXLEY-trumpet
Mark is avery impressive musician, equally fluent on both tenor saxophone and clarinet. His flowing, hard-bop influenced Jazz playing, particularly on tenor sax, is a real joy, and his bands always include some of the best players around. Tonight he features one of the country’s finest jazz guitarists, the Award winning Colin Oxley (Stacey Kent). A really musical gig from some very fine musicians.
“Mark Crooks…exceptional” BBC “..Colin Oxley, whose magnificent guitar is dazzling and deliciously melodic” Crescendo Magazine
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
Fri 11thJEREMY STACEY with Special Guest Jason Rebello-piano
A powerful and highly impressive modern jazz drummer Jeremy is equally at home playing pop, rock, funk or straight ahead jazz. His credentials are vast, having worked extensively in the recording studios as well as on many live gigs. Currently the regular drummer with American icon Sheryl Crow, Jeremy is one of the most respected players of his generation. This gig always attracts the best players around and tonight Jeremy’s band will feature Jason Rebello, one of the most impressive and highly regarded pianists on the scene. Jason, currently working with Jeff Beck, includes 5 years with Sting on a glittering, star studded, cv. Quite a band! Booking advised.
“..highly versatile drummer” Independent “..a fine jazz drummer with an infectious feel. His gigs are ..invariably enlivened by some top class guests” Time Out "... Rebello is possessed of a great pianistic gift… delicacy of touch, fluency of execution, a lyrical immediately attractive melody " The Times
Bobby Wellins is considered to be one of the icons of British modern jazz. Originally from Glasgow, Bobby was on one of the biggest selling jazz albums ever produced in this country, Stan Tracey’s “Under Milk Wood”, recorded in the late sixties. After taking a sabbatical from the music for 7 years, Bobby came back in the early eighties to lead the Charlie Watts Big band, as well as a number of small groups which re-established him as one of the finest melodic saxophonists in the world. His gentle sound and approach are unique, and make for a fine and highly enjoyable nights listening.
“..impeccable control, combined with a rich, luxuriant, tone” The Scotsman "A masterful display of controlled sensitivity from one of the most original voices in European Jazz " The Sunday Times
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
One of the leading UK Jazz singers for more than 15 years now Christine just gets better and better. With 4 cd’s, numerous gigs and a number of high profile interviews to her name she is without question one of the leading lights of the European Jazz scene. Highly versatile, she has recently gone back to performing her first love, straight ahead Jazz standards with her beautiful, clear, rich voice, and her set is a truly marvellous mix of originals, established and lesser known Jazz classics. A powerful yet sensual singer she describes the gig as “…singing contemporary and exciting arrangements of old and new standards”. A world class vocalist.
“One of the country’s finest musicians” Time Out
“..peerless” Jazzwise
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
Mon 14thDAN REDDING’S guitar-led “JAZZ PROOF” with MARTIN SHAW-trumpet
“Jazz Proof” are a 5 piece “Groove”/Funk band influenced by the likes of the Brecker Brothers, Weather Report and Jamiroquai playing excellent contemporary “Funk” originals. Although relatively new to the scene the core members of the band, Dan Redding-guitar, Duncan Eagles-sax, George Bone-keyboards, Max Luthert-bass and Louie Palmer-drums bring a unique energy and intensity to their accomplished, exciting, groove based originals. It’s a measure of the success of this relatively new band that they already include some of the finest UK musicians amongst their guests including Derek Nash (Jools Holland) and Mornington Lockett (Ronnie Scott, Sarah-Jane Morris) and their guest tonight is no exception. The brilliant trumpet player Martin Shaw is widely regarded as one of the finest trumpet players in Europe and has been heard with the likes of Sting, Natalie Cole and Cleo Lane. This is a really good, solid, groove band comprising some of the best young players around and featuring one of the finest musicians in Europe. Well worth catching.
American born but British educated, I first met Dan at the old Club when he was a medical undergraduate. Even then he was an impressive player, and after taking time off his medical studies to go to the Berklee School of Music he became even better. He returned to the USA in the early 90’s, where he became one of the world’s leading experts in laser eye surgery (he’s now officially Professor Reinstein). But he never stopped playing, and when he returned to London to live and work (www.londonvisionclinic.com) it was great to hear his fluent, classic hard-bop, muscular sax playing again.
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
DILL KATZ
Dill is appearing later with his regular quartet, playing the more contemporary side of the spectrum. Dill, frequently referred to as a “bass legend”, is one of the most experienced players on the scene today, having pioneered the use of the fretless bass in the mid sixties, and whose work includes stints with Ian Carr’s “Nucleus”, Barbara Thompson’s band “Paraphernalia” and Afro/Jazz band “District Six”. This gig also features the Jazz harmonica of the wonderful Patrick Bettison.
An experienced pianist and guitarist Patrick has gathered together an impressive quartet to perform his excellent originals, which he describes as “..accessible Jazz grooves, with a distinctive twist”. The gig also features saxophonist Mark Lockhart, along with “Samara” drummer Nic France and bassist Neville Malcolm.
“..the emphasis is on the compositions…exhilarating, inspired sounds” Time Out
Dave gordon
An assured and versatile pianist Dave is one of the few working jazz musicians who also works regularly in the Classical field. An accomplished harpsichordist as well as pianist Dave includes work with the likes of the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, has toured Europe and South America with the European Baroque Orchestra, and played at the Melbourne Festival and EXPO 98 in Lisbon with the Opera Theatre Company of Dublin. An award winning composer in both fields (Jazz and Classical) he has had works performed on BBC Radio 3 as well as performances at the Cheltenham Festival and QEH. As a Jazz pianist he has led his own trio since 1995 and is best known at the Club for his work with Jazz violinist Christian Garrick. He also includes performances with the likes of Andy Sheppard, Norma Winstone and US star Harry Allen on an impressive cv. A really fine, fluent, player this is always a thoughtful and inventive gig.
Thurs 17th**CD LAUNCH** ADAM GLASSER feat robin aspland with special guests anita wardell & pinise saul
When I first met Adam, some years ago now, he was a fluent and impressive Jazz pianist leaning towards the “township” feel of his South African background. However, in more recent years, as well as continuing and growing his piano playing, he has also re-invented himself as one of this country’s leading Jazz chromatic harmonica players. And just in case you think of the harmonica as the thing that wild eyed musicians beat in to submission on blues gigs, then you must check out this gig. Adam’s playing on harmonica is fluent, subtle and constantly inventive. His playing has been featured on innumerable gigs and sessions, including work with the likes of Joe Zawinul, Sting, The Eurythmics, BBC TV, Channel 4 and ITV Carlton. Tonight Adam is launching his album “Free at First” with the band from that album which features the brilliant pianist Robin Aspland (Van Morrison). His Special Guests include singers Anita Wardell, considered to be one of the finest Jazz singers in the country and the great South African vocalist Pinise Saul, known as the “Queen” of African Jazz, who over a 30 year period has championed the fusion of African rhythms and jazz vocal improvisation. A quite remarkable line up to launch one of the albums of the Year.
“Adam Glasser…..brilliant harmonica player” What’s On; “Adam Glasser…..remarkable” AllAboutJazz;
“Anita Wardell…..the most creative Jazz singer in London” Evening Standard; “Once the South African jazz singer Pinise Saul unleashed her warm, thrilling voice…..she was a force to be reckoned with, slipping effortlessly into a persona that was part diva, part shaman.” Evening Standard
Vanessa is a new, and enormously impressive, addition to the UK scene. Originally from Trinidad, where she worked to great acclaim for some years, she recently made her way to London, which is definitely our gain. She performs a mix of Soul and R&B originals and with her powerful, cultured, voice and commanding stage presence is quite stunning. And we are not the only people to think so as she is currently sharing vocal duties in the Van Morrison Band (and he knows a thing or two about singers!) She performs with a fabulous eight piece band that features some of the country’s finest “groove” players including bassist Paul Carmichael (Flight), Richard Bailey (Incognito) drums, Tim Cansfield (Seal, BeeGees) guitar.
“..chic, sultry singing..stylish and overflowing with promise..her future is guaranteed as a fixture in the soul firmament. Star potential” Musician Magazine “excellent…powerful voice and unique sound”Soul Brother
Patrick is one of the leading saxophonists of his generation. A powerful, post-Coltrane, tenor player his playing is tempered with a strong sense of melodic improvisation influenced by the great American tenor player Sonny Rollins. A leading light of the Julian Joseph big-band and small group Pat has more recently achieved world wide recognition as the sax player with the Bill Bruford Band. Widely respected throughout the Jazz fraternity, Pat’s world class pedigree is undoubted.
Wayne is one of those fantastic singers who has been using his considerable talents for many years to make others sound good. Hugely successful within the music “business” he has worked with the likes of Tina Turner, Gorillaz, Tori Amos, Blur, Grover Washington, Roberta Flack and Madonna. He has also toured extensively with Kool and the Gang and Regina Bell. With an Afro Cuban heritage which includes work to this day with the London Community Gospel Choir, along with living in New York for a number of years, Wayne describes his music as “…a living fusion of music styles from the Black music scene”. This multi-talented artist, who is also a well established songwriter and producer, produces a brilliant set of powerful groove music that defines the word “Soul”. A rare talent and absolutely not to be missed.
“..it was clear that Wayne had a very special talent, his voice, it was simply breathtaking” Livemusic.fm
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
This award winning young Jazz singer/songwriter is rapidly establishing herself as the talent to watch. Born in the Philippines to a creative family (mother a sculptress, father a writer/poet) Mishka studied in the UK before returning home to study music. Interestingly she did not major in singing but in the saxophone, fostering a depth of knowledge of instrumental music that can be heard in the powerfully lyrical songs she writes as well as the authentic renditions of the Jazz standards that make up a significant part of her repertoire. She writes beautifully crafted works, performed with a clarity and simplicity that is both touching and powerful. At the same time she also performs classic Jazz standards in a way that demonstrates a real feel and love for the music. A Candid Records (Jamie Cullum) artist, her debut CD “God Bless The Child” was released to great acclaim.
“..candour and winning simplicity.. communicating the song’s message is uppermost”Jazzwise
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
GARY HUSBAND’s “DRIVE” featuring JULIAN SIEGEL-sax
One of this country’s leading drummers and pianists the multi-talented Gary Husband is generally recognised as one of the foremost musicians of his generation.. He first came to prominence in the late 70’s playing drums with a series of iconic bands including Barbara Thompson’s “Paraphernalia”, the Jim Mullen/Dick Morrissey Band, Ian Carr's Nucleus and the Ronnie Scott Quintet (on piano). His 20 year collaboration with guitarist Alan Holdsworth helped establish him as a player on the World stage, leading to a lengthy stint with drummer Billy Cobham as well as work with the classic jazz/funk/pop giants Level 42, an association that lasts to this day. A World class performer, writer, arranger and producer he is an International artist of great renown whose vast cv also includes work with the likes of John McLaughlin, Jeff Beck, Randy Brecker, Georgie Fame and Gary Moore. The band he leads tonight also features one of the country’s leading modern jazz saxophonists, the award-winning Julian Siegel and one of the most talented young UK trumpeters on the scene Richard Turner. This is a rare chance to catch this remarkable band at the Club and absolutely not to be missed.
“Gary Husband…one of the major forces in contemporary music today” Jazz UK "Julian Siegel…a world class saxophonist" - Jazz UK
"PANCADA"
“Pancada” is the brainchild of two fine Uruguayan musicians resident in London, bass player Andy Lafone (resident in the UK for over 25 years) and guitarist Guillermo Hill. Both excellent musicians in their own right they include the likes of Airto Moreira, Mica Paris, Jazzinho, Negrocan (Andy’s own band), Snowboy and Da Latta on impressive cv’s. They describe the music as “a different kind of Latin music, inspired by the music of Uruguay but blending Candombe, with jazz and funk”, as heard on their recent album “Pancada”. Helping the music on it’s way tonight will be two of the finest UK based Latin players on the scene, pianist John Crawford and drummer Davide Giovannini. A fresh and exciting Latin sound.
Australian born, with London very much her home and inspiration, singer Caroline Loftus sings original compositions and personal interpretations of standards in both a moving and delightful way. The gig tonight features her trio of Dave Colton on guitar, whom she describes as “the master of harmony”, and Ben Hazelton on Bass and Caroline described the gig in this way: “..we've been doing these amazing and really moving gigs together, it's a very intimate vibe with intricate, detailed, soaring melodies…” which sums up the musical mood perfectly. A gentle, sophisticated, gig from one of the masters of Jazz vocals.
“ A voice like honey” Sydney Morning Herald
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
john escreet
London currently has an abundance of world class piano players, so to make a mark as a young pianist you really have to have something special going for you. So the fact that John, still in his early 20’s, has already worked with the likes of Dennis Rollins, Phil Woods, Andy Sheppard, Dave O'Higgins and Denys Baptiste speaks volumes for his talent and ability. A fluent and creative player his bands always impress and delight. Currently on sabbatical in New York John’s quartet also features another of New York’s brightest young talents, Ben Van Gelder on sax
Reg Webb is a wonderful pianist with an absolutely brilliant voice. A charismatic musician his trio performs a mixture of Jazz standards and more contemporary material in a quite unique style. His powerful piano playing and smooth vocal delivery, reminiscent of a cross between Stevie Wonder and the classic Jazz vocalists, drives the trio who count Lenny Kravitz, John McLaughlan, Linda Lewis, Jimmy Witherspoon, Steve Harley, Suzi Quatro, Roland Kirk, and Art Farmer amongst the many artists they have performed with. Resident on the East coast these vastly experienced musicians have been entrancing audiences up and down the country for many years now. Their visits to London are few and far between so my advice is catch them while you can.
“Samara” is a six piece jazz/latin group which I lead, and suffice it to say I think the guys in the band are just great! The pianist, Neil Angilley works with Vanessa Mae, Shirley Bassey and “Down to the Bone”, Dill Katz, the bass player is visiting professor at the Guildhall, Nic France the drummer has worked with just about everyone, including “Loose Tubes” and Bill Withers, the percussionist, Dawson Miller is generally recognised as one of the most versatile and experienced players on the scene, and the singer Liliana Chachian, who includes work with iconic dance band “Da Latta” and the influential “Negrocan”, is considered to be one of the finest Brazilian singers currently working in Europe. The music is an infectious blend of Brazilian Samba, jazz/latin and Soul, and we all have a great time!
“Cracking Latin-jazz quintet led by 606 proprietor Steve Rubie on flute and alto saxophone…explores these Latin jazz classics in great rhythmic style” Time Out
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
Gilad is a wonderful sax and clarinet player with a powerful sound and unique approach. His fiery, immensely fluent, playing and remarkable technique have established him as one of the most talented saxophonists in World music, performing a mix of classic Jazz standards and originals with an energy and enthusiasm that is hugely infectious. His most recent CD’s, along with his recently published novels, set him apart as one of the most original and creative players around. Passionate about both his music and his politics Gilad’s gigs are always stimulating both musically and intellectually. Special gig this one.
“A master…a jazz giant with a formidable International reputation” The Guardian “Astonishing” Time Out
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
Sun 27thAN EVENING WITH PETER CHURCHILL with special guest BOBBY WELLINS
Pete is highly regarded as both performer and teacher, playing jazz standards in the classic piano trio style, as well as being a marvellous vocalist. In addition to his singing Pete is also a terrific raconteur, making this a wonderfully interesting as well as a hugely musically enjoyable gig. Pete will play tunes from his latest CD, on 33 Records, “The Bad and the Beautiful” which features the superb playing of one of the county’s finest melodic saxophonists, Bobby Wellins who will also be featured on the gig tonight.
“Churchill has a warm, rough-edged, lived-in voice which brings added resonance to the lyrics…a lyrical and responsive accompanist” All About Jazz
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
Liverpudlian Tommy Blaize is a fantastic singer/keyboardist who is widely admired and respected throughout the music “business”. Although for many years an unseen figure “behind the scenes” his voice is familiar to millions from work with the likes of Tina Turner, Craig David, Brand New Heavies, Joe Cocker, The Osmonds, Take That, Gary Barlow, Marti Pellow and Lulu and from TV ads such as Coca Cola, Chanel, Cadburys, Levis, British Gas & British Airways. Considered one of the most in-demand session singers on the scene, he has been featured on numerous film and TV soundtracks, Tommy has been heard here at the Club with, amongst others, Madeline Bell and Guy Chambers (Robbie Williams). However, more recently Tommy has been finally achieving some hugely deserved recognition as a brilliant singer in his own right after his appearances as the resident singer on BBC TV’s “Strictly Come Dancing” (oh, that singer!). A great guy and a fantastic performer it is with enormous pleasure that we welcome Tommy to the Club this evening with his own fantastic band to perform a selection of classic “Groove” and R&B standards with possibly the odd Jazz tune thrown in for good measure. One of the great British vocalists this rare gig of the Tommy Blaize Band is an absolute must – trust me!
CHARITY NIGHT IN SUPPORT OF MEDICAL AID FOR PALESTINE featuring GILAD ATZMON, SARAH GILLESPIE, CELLOMAN, IAN SHAW and NICK MEIER with SURPRISE GUESTS.
Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) is a UK charity providing health and medical support to Palestinians and other vulnerable communities in the occupied Palestinian territory, Lebanon and the region. Established in 1984 in London, MAP works in partnership with local organisations to deliver health and medical care to those worst affected. As well as providing urgently needed food and medical supplies, MAP projects aim at improving Palestinian refugee health this includes running water, sanitation projects and public health education. They offer psychological support to children and adults traumatised by the conflict and work with disabled children and those with learning difficulties. MAP provides primary health care for isolated rural communities through mobile clinics, community health workers and ante-natal clinics. The music tonight will feature: SARAH GILLESPIE One of the primary organisers of the gig this evening singer/guitarist Sarah Gillespie is establishing a reputation on the singer/songwriter circuit as a unique and creative musical force. GILAD ATZMONa wonderful sax and clarinet player whose fiery, immensely fluent, playing and remarkable technique have established him as one of the most talented saxophonists in World music. “Gilad Atzmon….a master…a jazz giant with a formidable International reputation” The Guardian. IAN SHAW One of Europe’s great male jazz vocalists. A multi-award winning singer, Ian is a huge talent with the most engaging personality and an ability to make every song his own. “One of the scene's class acts..”The Guardian NIC MEIER Another multi-award winner, Swiss guitarist Nicolas Meier is one of the rising stars of the UK jazz scene. His trademark sound, as heard on his Naim albums, a mixture of Pat Metheny influenced jazz & spicy Turkish & world music rhythms. “Winner of the Grand Prize and 1st prize guitar at the Montreux Jazz Festival…but surely not the only prizes he will be winning” Fly GlobalMusic.
Quite a line up! One of the most important medical supports in the Middle East this inter-denominational charity is a worthy cause and one well worth supporting. £15.
A beautifully fluent and inventive player on both Alto sax and flute, Allison plays in a strongly melodic “West Coast”style reminiscent of her main influences Paul Desmond (of Dave Brubeck fame) and Art Pepper. Work in groups such as John Dankworth’s Big Band and “Generations” band have established Alison as one of the scene’s leading melodic sax and flute players. Supported by a rhythm section of some of the best players around, this is fine music from an excellent musician
“impressive….a talent to savour” Jazz UK
Click play if you wish to listen to a sample track by this musician
richard busiakiewicz
RICHARD BUSIAKIEWICZ is a lovely pianist who specialises in the more mainstream side of the music. Perhaps best known for his work with the tenor player Ray Gelato (Giants), it is a measure of Richard’s talent that he has established himself as the first choice for many visiting mainstream artists, including regular work with the likes of Scott Hamilton, Warren Vache, Bob Wilber, Art Farmer and Harry Allen. This is a great “swinging” gig from a master of the “straight ahead” style.
“seldom falls short of a good idea..splendid” Jazzwise
NEIL ANGILLEY is a brilliant pianist, equally at home playing Jazz, Latin or Classical. He has worked with the acid jazz percussionist Snowboy, violin virtuoso Vanessa Mae and was keyboardist and arranger for Jazz chart topping band “Down to the Bone” and includes work with the likes of Shirley Bassey, Michael Ball and “War of The Worlds” on a glittering cv. A great Latin/Brazilian player his remarkable playing is enormously respected throughout the scene. Look out for Neil’s debut album “Havana Club” featuring some of his renowned Latin/jazz original compositions. Also featured tonight will be his storming rhythm section of Davide Giovaninni on drums/timbales/vocals and Davide Mantovani on bass. Quite brilliant.
“Inventive” Observer “Lyrical…impressively fluid” The Times “rhapsodic..with shrewd use of space and restraint” Guardian