This brilliant South African multi-instrumentalist has, over the last 15 years, established an enviable International reputation. A creative pianist and fluent saxophonist Bheki first settled in London in the early 80’s, performing regularly at the old Club. However, by the early 90’s his reputation had earned him an impressive World wide following, particularly amongst musicians, and he started recording the first of a series of albums featuring a who’s who of modern jazz musicians. Artists featured on Bheki’s highly acclaimed albums include Joe Henderson, Pharoah Sanders, Abbey Lincoln, Elvin Jones and Courtney Pine. Over the last  two decades this brilliant musician has continued to excite, impress and inspire audiences and fellow musicians with his remarkable musicianship, his quiet authority and deep spiritual involvement with the music that he loves to perform. Also featured with the quintet tonight is the excellent young flautist Gareth Lockrane. A rare chance to see this wonderful artist in concert. Booking advised.

“sensational…heartfelt…formidable” Guardian


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Tues 3rd

JAN PONSFORD
is widely recognised as one of the UK’s most original vocalists, effortlessly covering jazz, south American and eastern European influences. She performs and records with some of the world’s finest musicians, and features alongside the Greats in the book ‘Singing Jazz’. She also has her own section in the Virgin Encyclopaedia of Jazz, and is in the Penguin Who’s Who of Jazz. Tonight Jan will be launching her latest CD “Same Air” on Symbol records, featuring award winning pianist Francis Knight.

“her voice….a deep, honeyed sound of shimmering textures and unexpected inflections.” Guardian.

LEON GREENING
is yet another truly impressive pianist to emerge in recent years. Fluent and melodic his mature playing in the classic be-bop tradition places him without doubt in the vanguard of the British modern jazz scene.

“..stole the show..phenomenal” Jazzsteps


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Weds 4th

SPIKE WELLS TRIO FEAT GWILYM SIMCOCK .
An icon of the British Jazz scene, Spike is generally recognised as one of the finest modern Jazz drummers of his generation. A quiet but imposing figure since the late sixties, Spike’s tasteful but powerful playing has supported virtually all the major Jazz artists from this country as well as many visiting artists. Although he has never stopped playing, after his ordination as a minister several years ago he became less active on the scene. However, he is now stretching out musically again and tonight he will be featuring the remarkable piano playing of one of the country’s most talented young pianists, Gwilym Simcock (John Dankworth, Billl Bruford).

. “…simply marvellous” Allaboutjazz.

JAZZ FROM THE GUILDHALL FEATURING MICHAEL CHILINGWORTH-SAX
This gig is being presented in collaboration with The Guildhall school of Music and Drama, and is part of the Club’s ongoing policy of providing a platform for the younger musician’s. Each month the best of the students from the Guildhall’s Jazz course perform a set of standards and original material. The playing is of an extraordinary high level, and if you want to spot the next Jazz stars, this is the gig to be at! 


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Thurs 5th JEAN TOUSSAINT

is an ex-pat. American tenor saxophonist who first came to this country with the Art Blakey band in the 80’s, and is now one of the most highly regarded modern players on the scene. His blistering technique and lyrical sound have graced many great bands, from Art Blakey through Wynton Marsalis, Gil Evans and the Julian Joseph bands to his own International quartet. A World class musician.

“..brilliance, wit, verve and memorable, elegant, sax lines..." The Times; “..terrific” Guardian

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Fri 6th JEREMY STACEY WITH SPECIAL GUEST JASON EBELLO

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. Currently the keyboard player with Jeff Beck, Jason includes 5 years with Sting on a glittering, star studded, cv. Quite a band! Booking advised.

"... Rebello is possessed of a great pianistic gift… delicacy of touch, fluency of execution, a lyrical immediately attractive melody " The Times


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Sat 7th 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 HERE TO BOOK

Sun 8th GLENN MACNAMARA

Scottish born singer Glenn Macnamara has been making quite an impression of late with his smooth, sophisticated and highly professional take on the “Rat Pack” style, made famous by the likes of Frank Sinatra and more recently Harry Connick jnr. After making his first professional appearance at the age of 15 Glenn went on to win a scholarship to the prestigious Guildford School of Drama, and has since carved a successful career in Jazz, Swing and Musical Theatre. He has performed around the World, including a concert for the Duke and Duchess of Wessex at Hampton Court and the PPI Music Awards in Dublin. His love for the classic American songbook combined with a great sense of swing and unerring musicality make this an un-missable gig for anyone who appreciates high class, melodic, swinging jazz.
www.glennmacnamara.com.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Mon 9th **BANK HOLIDAY SPECIAL** THE ADAM PHILIPS BAND FEATURING JOE BURT

Adam is perhaps best known at the Club for his wonderful guitar work with the Hamish Stuart Band, but he also includes work with the likes of Cher, Tom Robinson, Tina Turner, Rod Stewart and Whitney Houston. And as well as all that he is also a very fine singer in his own right. Leading a band of some of the finest players in the country, Adam produces a roaring set of great “urban” Blues. Also featured is the terrific bass player and singer Joe Burt, and when the two of them get going it’s really something special

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Tues 10th

PATRICK WOOD'S "THE WORKS"
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. 

PETE SABERTON
is generally considered to be one of the finest contemporary pianists in Europe. An old friend of the Club, his fluent and highly inventive playing has been a feature since the early eighties (when we were still at the old place). His writing is also highly regarded, and is a particular feature of all his gigs. It is a measure of his high regard that he can always command the best players around to work with. A sophisticated and impressive gig, if you want to know what’s happening with British Jazz at the moment, check this out.

“..elegance, thoughtfulness and lucidity” The Times

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Wedns 11th Closed for a Private Party.

Thurs 12th Closed for a Private Party.

Fri 13th ROBIN JONES

rOBIN has become something of a regular at the Club in recent years, due very much to public demand. Generally considered to be one of the finest percussion players around, Robin’s shaven head and distinctive earring can be seen in groups from his own “King Salsa” to Top of the Pops sessions and a huge variety of studio work. The 6 piece Salsa band that he leads at the Club, which also features arrangements and originals from saxophonist Nick Walker, produces a truly infectious Latin vibe which is always rhythmic and exciting.

“..world class conguero..” Overload


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Sat 14th MATT WATES SEXTET

Matt is a lovely, melodic, alto saxophonist who performs in the classic be-bop style. One of those players who studied in America, his impressive technique and liquid sound are testament to a fine talent. His writing is also superlative and this great six piece band, boasting a 3 horn front line, is quite brilliant.

“Elegant and affectionately crafted… the soloing is very high class” The Guardian

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Sunday 15th LUNCHTIME SPECIAL 1:00PM - 4:00PM AN AFTERNOON WITH FRAN LANDESMAN

FEATURING SIMON WALLACE WITH SPECIAL GUEST SARAH MOULE

An iconic figure in the world of Jazz and poetry for almost 60 years, Fran has established a reputation as a fiercely creative, humorous and provocative writer and performer. Born in New York in 1927 by the early fifties Fran, along with her husband Jay and his brother, had established the highly successful cabaret club The Crystal Palace in Jay’s home town of St Louis. The Palace soon became the “hip” cultural centre playing host to both established names and the more avant garde performers of what was to become known as the “Beat” generation. It was at this time that Fran started writing lyrics to songs written by the house pianist Tommy Wolf, the most famous of which is still played throughout the world to this day, the mesmeric ballad “Spring Can Really Hang you Up The Most”. After writing lyrics for several musicals in the US Fran (and Jay) re-located to London in the mid sixties where she continued to write lyrics for well known Jazz musicians as well as for shows. In the 70’s Fran turned her attention to writing poetry as well as lyrics and continues to do so to this day. Since the late 80’s she has collaborated with the wonderful UK pianist Simon Wallace who regularly performs and records her material with the marvellous singer Sarah Moule. Still as incisive and witty as ever Fran’s shows, ably assisted by Simon and Sarah, are an absolute must see. Her attitude to life and the establishment are beautifully summed up on her appearance on the BBC Radio show Desert Island Discs at the age of 70 when, as her luxury item, she requested “…an inexhaustible supply of marijuana!” Absolutely not to be missed.

“..subtle songs from the great Fran Landesman” Time Out


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

And then in the evening

Mon 16th JANEK GWIZDALA FEATURING ELLIOT MASON WITH SPECIAL GUEST GARY HUSBAND

I first met Janek in the late 90’s while still in his teens and even then he showed remarkable promise. Since moving to New York in 2001 he has established himself as a bass player of great authority, playing on the international music scene with some of the most respected musicians in the business. Currently Musical Director and bass player for ATO/RCA recording artist JEM and bass player for Jazz Guitarist Mike Stern, his credits also include work with the likes of Randy Brecker, Airto Moirera, Flora Purim, Arturo Sandoval and Stevie Winwood. Another UK born player making a real name for himself on the International scene is Elliot Mason. Now one of New York’s leading trombone players his massively impressive cv includes work with the likes of the Count Basie Orchestra, Maynard  Ferguson, The Temptations, Natalie Cole, Willie Nelson, Shirley Bassey, Joe Zawinul, Randy Brecker, Mike Stern, Gary  Burton and Lionel Hampton. Gary Husband, an old friend of the Club, is one of the country’s leading drummers and pianists. A World class performer, writer, arranger and producer he is an International artist of great renown whose vast cv includes work with the likes of Billy Cobham, Alan Holdsworth, Level 42, Jeff Beck, John McLaughlin and Gary Moore. This is a rare chance to catch this “super-group” in the UK and absolutely not to be missed.

“Gwizdala… best new talent on electric bass who can play any style…His solo is all effortless linearity and lyricism, showing ..that he's in an elite class of players” AllAboutJazz;
"Elliot brings innovation, imagination, intelligence, fire and fierce swing to the trombone" Michael Brecker;
“Gary Husband…one of the major forces in contemporary music today” Jazz UK.


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Tues 17th

JOHN CRITCHINSON
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.

JIM HART'S "GEMINI"
Award winning vibes player/drummer/pianist Jim Hart is unquestionably one of the most talented multi-instrumentalists to emerge for many years. The drummer with NYJO for some time, he now plays vibes for Mornington Lockett’s “New Jazz Couriers” and Gwilym Simcock’s Big Band, as well as drums and piano in a variety of high profile bands. A fluent and enormously creative musician Jim will tonight be leading his own band “Gemini” featuring Ivo Neame on saxophones & piano, and will perform a mix of his originals and classic Jazz standards.

“..percussive directness, fleetness of phrasing and classic-swing” Guardian; “..spinning vibes magic” JazzUK


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Weds 18th

ANGLO-SWEDISH QUINTET FEATURING TERRY SEABROOK, ROLAND KAISJER , KJELL BURGALAND, PETER JANSON AND SPIKE WELLS
This is a fascinating combination of musicians from the UK and Sweden. Pianist Terry Seabrook’s flowing, rhythmic, playing is perhaps best know for his work with his Jazz/Latin band “Cubana Bop”. A respected teacher as well as performer Terry has been a force on the UK scene since the mid eighties. An award winning musician in Sweden Roland Kaisjer’s highly regarded muscular, hard bop, sax playing has, over the last 25 years, been heard in a variety of high profile settings from concerts to recordings. Since settling in the UK in the 80’s Kjell Berglund’s melodic, bop inspired, trumpet playing has been heard regularly both on the UK and Swedish jazz scenes, re-uniting with his old friend Roland in 2004. The quintet is completed by the Internationally established Swedish bassist Peter Janson and one of the country’s finest drummers Spike Wells (Wed 4^th). The music is a mix of Jazz standards and swinging originals performed in the classic 60’s hard bop style. Highly recommended.

“Terry Seabrook…gleaming with feshness…the ensemble playing is flawless” Evening Standard

ALEX HUTTON
The UK is currently blessed with a team of hugely talented young pianists, and Alex is most certainly at the forefront of these. Trained in the USA he returned to Britain to find work with a host of high profile British musicians, including Jim Mullen, Gilad Atzmon and Art Themen. His fluent, inventive, bop influenced playing has been heard in a variety of settings, from straight ahead trios and quartets to film and theatre. Look out for his wonderful new trio CD “We’ll Cross that Bridge” full of original compositions covering a range of musical colours.

“A hugely engaging modern jazz pianist…both melodically and technically gifted…” Jazzwise


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Thurs 19th TIM WHITEHEAD'S "big jam"

Since the mid-seventies Tim has worked with just about every major UK modern jazz performer and is considered to be one of the most consistent and inventive sax players around. His set is a mix of classic jazz standards and what he likes to term “new standards” such as Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On”, with some of his wonderful originals thrown in. Showing dedication beyond the call of duty, Tim has also volunteered to host a “jam session” with impromptu guest musicians being given the opportunity to play with the band for the last two sets of the night.

“..one of Britain's most thoughtful composers and improvisers…attractive, accessible yet finely crafted music.. marked by a sense of grace and economy.” The Times; “…arguably the finest tenor player in Britain today'' Jazz Review


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Fri 20th CLOSED FOR A PRIVATE PARTY

Sat 21st GILAD ATZMON

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 HERE TO BOOK

Sun (9:00) OLA

One of the most exciting singers to emerge on to the Jazz/Soul circuit for some years, combining the sophistication of modern Soul music with the power of his African roots. A charismatic vocalist, Ola has put together a set of classic Soul and R&B songs that are impressive and great fun. His cv as a supporting artist reads like a who's who of contemporary music, including Diane Reeves, Natalie Cole and Tower of Power as well as various T.V and Film projects. He has released 4 albums and appeared on numerous festivals, all under his own name, was the featured vocalist with Courtney Pine and the BBC "Music Live" Jubilee Concert, and on top of all that he is also well established these days as a composer. A consummate artist, this gig is a must for anyone interested in contemporary Soul

"...one of the UK's most powerful voices" Blues and Soul


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Mon 23rd ***EARLY EVENING SPECIAL*** SOPHIE MILMAN 7:30pm - 8:15pm

The much hyped beautiful 24 year old Russian born Israeli Jazz vocalist Sophie Milman makes her only UK appearance at the 606 Club with an early evening free show on Monday April 23rd at 7.30 PM.   Her debut self titled album hit #1 on the iTunes Jazz album chart in the USA, Japan, France and Canada and went on to sell over 75,000 copies.   Still a full time University student, Sophie is on a quick tour with her band during reading week of Paris, Berlin and London to showcase for media and concert buyers, and those lucky few general public who happen to know about these special unlisted shows.

Doors open 7:00pm. Free.

Mon 23rd DAMIEN FLOOD 9:00pm - 12:30am

After achieving an Honours degree in Jazz and Theatre Damien has spent the last 5 years performing his unique and extremely impressive mix of “groove” based originals and classic R&B and Soul around the country. A powerful singer whose rich voice draws comparison to the likes of Michael McDonald and Craig David as well as a striking pianist, Damien’s charismatic delivery of his excellent original songs definitely deserves wider recognition. Brought to my attention by the iconic UK Jazz singer Ian Shaw, who rates him very highly, his impromptu performance at Ian’s gig her at the Club recently brought the house down. Accompanied by a wonderful 7 piece band that includes two backing vocalists, this promises to be quite a gig. Highly recommended.  £8


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Tues 24th

DAN REINSTEIN
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

DILL KATZ
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 tenor sax playing of Harrison Smith and the Jazz Steel Pan of Mick Hutton.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Wedns 25th

RUSS HENDERSON
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.

Alternating with the

THE AL WYNETTE BAND FEATURING JANE PARKER
Our regular Mainstream quintet featuring Al on trumpet (and occasional vocals!) this is terrific “good-time” jazz featuring music primarily from the twenties and thirties, and great fun. Appearing with the band tonight is the fine young vocalist Jane Parker, best known for her work with the band “Lush Life”, who will be joining the guys to sing a selection of jazz standards from the 30’s and 40’s.

“Jane Parker's breathy vocals, reminiscent of Rickie Lee Jones or sometimes Billie Holliday, are both sultry and steamy as the bayou itself.” Blueprint magazine.


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Thurs 26th GUY CHAMBER'S "SLEEPER SHOW"

Probably best known for his work as songwriter/producer for Robbie Williams pianist/guitarist Guy Chambers has had a long and successful career in the music business. After studying at the Guildhall School of Music in the 80’s Guy went on to perform in a variety of bands, including “The Waterboys” and “World Party” before forming his own band “The Lemon Trees” in the early 90’s. By the mid 90’s he was producing and writing for the likes of Cathy Dennis and in 1997 he was introduced to Robbie Williams. Since then Guy has turned his impressive talents to work with the likes of Diana Ross, Queen, Tom Jones, Beverley Knight, Will Young, Charlotte Church Brian McFadden and Jamie Cullum. The gig tonight features Guy’s band performing a range of music, from his own originals to some of his favourite covers. And expect some interesting Special Guests, from upcoming new talent to some of his more established friends. Booking advised. £10. 


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Fri 27th "Samara"

is a seven 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 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!


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Sat 28th ED JONES

Over the last 10 years or so Ed has established himself as one of the most innovative and sought after sax players on the scene. His muscular and highly accomplished bop influenced tenor playing has been featured in a wide variety of contexts, most notably with the Jazz crossover groups “Us 3” and “Incognito”. But his Jazz credentials are just as solid, with work alongside artists such as George Benson, Dianne Reeves, Horace Silver and Claire Martin. The group that he leads performs a mixture of Jazz standards and Ed’s fine originals.

“..a formidable saxophonist” Jazz UK, “One of the most exciting Bands on the circuit” The Independent, “One of the most gifted Jazz musicians from the 80’s” Time Out.


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Sun 29 BARB JUNGR

Variously described as “Britain’s most gifted song stylist” and “one of Europe’s most intriguing and intelligent interpreters of the contemporary song” Barb Jungr has successfully combined the intricacies of cabaret with the power of Jazz to create a unique concept of the popular song. It is little surprise that her 4 CD’s have been variously Album of the Year in The Sunday Times, The Telegraph and The Washington Post, and she also won “Best International Artist” in New York's Backstage Awards for Excellence in Cabaret. The intimacy and power of her performance is highlighted by the use of her wonderful trio featuring Jenny Carr on piano and Jessica Lauren on organ. Barb will tonight be performing material from her CD 'Walking In The Sun' on Linn records focussing on her love of blues and gospel. 

“Poised between pop, jazz and cabaret Jungr’s tributes..are among the most thoughtful of the last decade.” Sunday Times; “genius” Time Out;


CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Mon 30th HAMISH STUART

Probably best known for his work as the original lead singer/guitarist with “The Average White Band” Hamish has had an illustrious career as both songwriter and performer. He has worked with the likes of Diana Ross, George Benson and Chaka Khan (for whom he wrote the No. 1 chart hit “Whatcha Gonna Do For Me”) culminating in six years with the Paul McCartney Band. Since ’94 he has led his own band, which is a “super-group” in every sense of the word and very much out of the R&B tradition, although considerably more sophisticated than the 70’s version. It’s great that Hamish likes working at the Club so much as this is always a fantastic night, and definitely requires booking to guarantee a seat.

 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Tues 1st HAMISH STUART (tbc)

CLICK HERE TO BOOK