SUN 1stLEA De LARIA with Special Guest CHRIS BERGSON
US born multi-award winning stand-up turned actress Lea DeLaria has so many talents it’s hard to know where to begin! After starting her career in San Francisco in the early 80’s she became a successful, if controversial, “alternative” stand-up comedian working the Clubs for some years before moving in to TV and film work as an actress. Through the 90’s she worked regularly in musical theatre, culminating in 1997 with her award winning Broadway performance in “On the Town”. Her powerful voice was soon recognised by Warner Bros records who produced her first Jazz vocal album, hailed by the Times as “..the best Jazz album of 2001”. Now moving between comedy, singing, musical theatre and film acting this unique and enormously talented artist is receiving the attention that she so richly deserves. The gig tonight, under the musical direction of pianist Janette Mason, also features the excellent New York singer/guitarist Chris Bergson who includes the likes of Norah Jones and Annie Ross on an impressive cv which includes being appointed a “Jazz Ambassador” by the Kennedy Centre and US State Department (!) The music is a mixture of swing, humour and the faintly kitsch! Absolute must this gig!
“Lea DeLaria…every inch a star!” New York Times “Chris Bergson….versatile, inspired, playing with vocals to match” Guitar One
Australian born singer Nina Ferro is universally respected as an artist of class and style. She has a warm sensuous voice, full of character, which along with her impeccable timing and stunning vocal range have done much to help her establish an enviable International reputation. Her wealth of experience has seen her perform at festivals, Clubs and concerts throughout North America, Europe, Asia and Australia as well as numerous TV and Radio appearances. She has appeared with some of the World’s great artists, including Tony Bennett, Ricky Martin, James Morrison and Les Paul and she also includes appearances with the likes of The Australian Pops Orchestra and The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. It’s a reflection of the esteem with which she is held that she was chosen as the featured vocalist at the opening ceremony of the 2007 Commonwealth Games. Now based between London and New York it’s a pleasure to welcome this great performer who sings quite wonderfully.
"A fabulous performer with a knockout voice" Tony Bennett "Ferro's voice is a pleasure to hear... natural, sexy and effortless" Cadence Magazine, New York
TUES 3rd GERARD PRESENCER presents “JAZZ FROM THE ACADEMY”
This gig is being presented in collaboration with The Royal Academy of Music, and is part of the Club’s ongoing policy of providing a platform for the younger musician’s. This month the gig is being presented by the Director of the Academy’s Jazz Course, the Internationally acclaimed trumpet player Gerard Presencer. The playing of the students is of an extraordinary high level, and if you want to spot the next Jazz stars, this is the gig to be at!
Russ is a wonderful Afro-Caribbean pianist who celebrated his 84th birthday at the Club recently, 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
And Russ’s trio will be alternating through the evening with the
AL WYNETTE BAND featuring JANE PARKER-vocals
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
Kevin first appeared in the late 80’s as a percussionist and proceeded to work on the jazz scene for almost 10 years with the likes of Steve Williamson, Ed Jones, The Jazz Warriors, Jean Toussaint and Courtney Pine. Then, in 1996 following time spent studying and playing in New York, he formed the first incarnation of his band “Groupo Elegua” in which he featured on both percussion and saxophone. The band, even at that time, was influenced by Kevin’s great interest in what became known as World Music and he sites the time he spent in Cuba studying and playing Afro-Cuban music as an important influence on his original band concept. At the same time he was becoming more and more interested in African music and rhythms, particularly the Nigerian Yoruba tradition, the name “Elegua” is actually the name of a Yoruba deity. As he says he was “…looking for a way to create within the modern Jazz harmony and traditional African music themes.” As a percussionist working on the UK scene Kevin felt he wanted to approach other like-minded percussionists to form a group where they could not only play but also work together. So in the late 90’s he approached a number of the Caribbean, Latino & British percussionists to work in the Groupo Elegua project, mainly “…guys who could play Afro Cuban Percussion and Cuban Bata drums”. 10 years and 4 albums on the current 10 piece band features some of the finest players around performing a storming mix of Afro-Cuban, African and Jazz influenced music. Tonight the 7 piece version of the band, featuring 4 percussionists as well as a fine rhythm section, will be launching their latest album “A jo se po” (“Unity”) so expect a lot of fun and some surprise guests. This promises to be a fantastic gig from a rare appearance at the Club of this powerful and unique band. Booking advised. £10
“Haynes’s musical project is a throbbing mixture of jazz improvisation and Afro-Cuban rhythms” Time Out “Combining Afro-Cuban rhythms with Coltrane-style jazz the saxophonist and his colleagues produced a series of arresting tunes” Independent
Austrian born bass player Stefan Redtenbacher has, over the last 10 years, established himself as the UK’s “groove” bass player of choice for many artists, both live and recorded. The roster of artists with whom he has worked includes Steve Winwood, Sam Brown, Herb Alpert and Danny Gotlieb. His own recordings feature “Jazz/funk” legends Fred Wesley and Elliot Randall (Steely Dan) and he has also established himself as a producer and educator of some note. The band that he leads tonight is his 5 piece “Funkestra”, the name of which pretty accurately describes the high energy and style of the music. Boasting some of the best players in Europe this band performs original “groove” music with an authority and style that is hard to beat.
“The Governor of Bass” BBC Radio2 “..a near perfect slice of jazz-funk bass from one of Europe’s great players” Bass Guitar magazine
Christian has now established himself as one of the most creative of the saxophonists who specialise in the “post-bop” style associated with "sixties" Jazz. He has a fluent, melodic, style which combined with a lovely, liquid, alto sound produces a wonderfully musical gig.
Working with some of the finest Jazz musicians in the country, including pianist John Donaldson and iconic drummer Spike Wells, the gig is a swinging mix of classic Jazz standards and melodic originals.
1:00pm-4:00pm SUNDAY AFTERNOON GOSPEL BRUNCH WITH THE **“606 GOSPEL GROUP”** featuring Special Guest SHARON McPHERSON
After two years of hosting some of the finest Gospel performers around we decided that it was time that we formed our very own Gospel Group! So, under the auspices of 606 regulars, keyboardist Miko Giedroyc and bass player Andre Gabriel in association with the brilliant Gospel singer and choral director Tracey Campbell, we present our very own 10 piece Gospel ensemble, the “606 Gospel Group”. This is a group comprising of a 4 piece band accompanying a 6 voice Gospel choir under Tracey’s direction. The choir will be drawn from a pool of some of the finest Gospel singers on the scene and is already creating real interest, with some terrific singers already signed up to work with us. Our Special Guest this month is the wonderful Sharon McPherson, a singer whose powerful and exciting voice is already well known to regulars at the Club as she is frequently featured with the Choir. This month, however, we are very happy to have persuaded her to step in to the Guest spot. So expect some great music and plenty of fun. And don’t forget this is our family day so children are most welcome.
Then, in the evening:
TINA MAY
Tina May is an award wining vocalist who has established a well deserved reputation on the UK scene as a Jazz singer of great sophistication. From collaborations with musicians such as Stan Tracey, Dave Newton and Colin Towns through to work with the likes of Ray Bryant, Tony Coe and pianist Nikki Iles her pure toned voice and faultless delivery have earned her the respect and admiration of both audiences and musicians alike. With more than a dozen CD’s to her name she is widely regarded as one of the UK’s leading vocalists, producing some remarkable gigs and albums.
“..one of the best jazz vocalists anywhere today” The Observer
A fine tenor saxophonist Daveis probably best known at the Club for his work with the great Tony O’Malley. After studying at the world famous Berkeley school of music in Boston, USA, Dave returned to this country to a wealth of work. His robust and melodic tenor playing has been featured with a variety of artists, and his own band, featured this evening, is an impressive array of talent. Also featured tonight is the iconic R&B/Soul singer Noel McCalla. Noel first came to prominence with the seminal funk band Morrisey/Mullen and has for the last 15 or so years been the voice of Manfred Mann’s “Earth Band”. A brilliant singer it is with great pleasure that we welcome him to the Club. Tonight the band are launching their latest CD “Turn it Round” so expect plenty of great music and some surprise guests.
“..a confident, individual voice, graceful and dynamic" Independent on Sunday “..spine tingling” Guardian
Since moving to London in 1999 Karen Sharp has established herself as a straight-ahead saxophonist of great skill and imagination. Her impressive playing has been featured with the likes of Sir John Dankworth, Jim Mullen, Clare Teal and Esther Miller. She is probably best known, though, for her work with the late (and much missed) Humphrey Lyttelton with whose band she has worked since 2004. As well as numerous gigs around the UK she also includes festivals in Norway and Hamburg on an impressive cv. She has 3 excellent cd’s to her name and continues to be a well sought after musician in Clubs and Festivals around the UK. Aperformer, teacher and composer, award winning musician Nikki Iles is widely regarded as one of the finest modern jazz pianists in Europe. After establishing her credentials through the 90’s as both performer and educationalist Nikki made the move to London in the late 90’s. Since then her fluent and enormously creative playing has been heard with a wide variety of the finest UK musicians, including the likes of Kenny Wheeler, Stan Sulzmann, Norma Winstone and Tina May as well as with her own trios and quartets. A greatly respected teacher she is currently a Senior Lecturer at Middlesex University and was recently awarded the International Association of Jazz Educators Award for Outstanding Services to Jazz Education. And as if all that wasn’t enough she is also a highly regarded composer, with commissions over the last 14 years ranging from the London Sinfonietta to Tim Garland. This promises to be a terrific quartet gig from two of the most highly regarded musicians on the UK scene.
“Nikki Iles…a formidable UK jazz presence… intelligent, sharp and very musical” Guardian “Karen’s sound is warm and full, her improvised lines bold and clear, and her compositions full of surprises.” Observer
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
Trumpeter Andy Davies formed his first band in 2004 in Wales, where his fluent, highly melodic style of playing was recieved to some acclaim. By the end of that year this highly talented musician was invited to perform with the band in Tokyo, including taking workshops for the local musicians. The following year he released his first CD which was followed by a successful tour of Italy, receiving impressive reviews wherever he went. In September 2005 the Andy Davies Quartet received a ‘special mention’ by the jury of Jazz Granada 2005 and the quartet continued to gain an international reputation, performing in Jazz Terrassa, Sunset Jazz Club and the renowned Jamboree Jazz Club in Barcelona, Spain. A finalist of the Peter Whittingham Jazz Awards the quartet received a special “Development Award” because of their ‘exceptional standard’. In November 2007 Andy was once again in the spotlight, this time as the featured trumpet player in the critically acclaimed play “Speedball” about the iconic US trumpet player Chet Baker, performed here at the 606 Club. Andy’s warm sound combined with his sophisticated and melodic style perfectly fitting the role of the late, great Jazz musician. Tonight he will be appearing with his quintet which also features the wonderful saxophone of Josephine Davies and the impressive piano playing of Ivo Neame.
“Andy Davies has a lovely trumpet sound” Observer “a trumpeter gaining a name for a particularly lyrical, melodic style” Independent
PETE SABERTONQUARTET featuring MARK LOCKHART-sax
Pete 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, tonight featuring the wonderful sax player mark Lockhart. 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
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
Robin Jones has become something of a regular at the Club in recent times, 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 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
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sat 14th PeteR King quartet with Special Guest MORNINGTON LOCKETT
After taking the scene by storm in the early sixties with the Ronnie Scott quintet, Pete has gone on to establish himself unequivocally as one of the finest alto saxophonists in the world. His fabulous technique allied with an unerring sense of harmony has made him one of the greatest players this country has ever produced. Currently the featured saxophonist with the Charlie Watts band his playing has made him famous worldwide. Pete has always been a great supporter of the Club and it is with enormous pleasure that we welcome this saxophone giant. Pete’s special guest tonight is the leading UK tenor saxophonist Mornington Lockett. After working with the Ronnie Scott quintet for almost three years he went on to be featured on numerous sessions and gigs. Perhaps best known for his work with singer Sarah Jane Morris and the Tracey’s, Stan and Clark, he is also the featured sax player on drummer Martin Drew’s cd tribute to the late Ronnie Scott, as well as the driving force behind the remarkable “Celebrating the Jazz Couriers” quintet (Sat 28th). He has a powerful and hugely impressive sound and approach. This gig is a rare chance to hear two of the finest saxophonists in World Jazz playing together and is an absolute must for anyone interested in great modern Jazz.
“Peter King….plays with...searing authority” Guardian “Lockett..plays with tremendous fluency and drive” Evening Standard “World class” Jazz Journal “inspired” Jazzwise Magazine
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sun 15th GEORGIA MANCIO
Georgia is a marvellously talented award-winning singer who has been working steadily on the Jazz scene for some years now. She has a lovely tone and direct style that lends itself perfectly to the Jazz and Latin standards that she performs. It’s a measure of her impressive ability that she recently won the Brussels International Young Jazz Singers Award, beating 85 contestants from around the World. She, not surprisingly, has a wonderful band featuring the terrific flute playing of Gareth Lockrane and the brilliant pianist John Pearce. Promises to be a great, swinging set.
“Supremely elegant …one of the hottest singers on the circuit” Evening Standard “..has assurance and allure” Mojo
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An old friend of the Club it’s with great pleasure that we welcome back this wonderful singer. Miriam has, over the last few years, established herself as a terrific live performer as well as a session singer in great demand by some of the best performers in the UK. Her cv includes work with Sir Paul McCartney, Candy Dulfer, Kylie Minogue and Dave Stewart and she includes work at the likes of the London Palladium and Ronnie Scott’s. Mim is a highly experienced singer with a beautiful voice that combines power and soul with subtlety and precision to produce a unique and enormously engaging sound. She is also a talented writer who cites James Taylor and Joni Mitchell as her influences and the gig will be a mix of her excellent, melodic, originals combined with some modern arrangements of Jazz standards and some classic R&B and Stevie Wonder added for good measure. Featuring pianist Tom Pilling and the excellent guitarist Nigel Price (also featured with Eileen Hunter on the 2nd, incidentally!) with support from drummer Steve Vintner, this promises to be a gig well worth turning out for. A rare visit to the Club by Mim and her band and not to be missed.
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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.
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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 guitar playing of Leon Stenning.
JANDIRA SILVA with Special Guest CHICO CHAGAS “A TRIBUTE TO TOM JOBIM”
Born in Rio de Janiero, Jandira Silva is a highly talented young singer whose voice conveys the power of popular Brazilian music. Singing professionally since 1997, her search for wider artistic horizons has taken her from Brazil to Lisbon where she became the resident vocalist at the Casino do Estoril. Now living in London she performs a wonderful selection of rhythmic, enchanting and seductive songs, accompanied by her terrific Brazilian band. Brazilian born Chico Chagas is generally recognised as one of the finest Jazz/Brazilian accordionists in World music. His fluent style and remarkable technique have made him something of a star in his native Brazil and it’s our gain that he has now decided to split his time between London and Rio. A real character his music is at once flowing and surprising, melodic and rich in Brazilian melody. The music that Jandira and Chico will be performing tonight will be a homage to the great Bossa Nova genius Antonio Carlos Jobim (the man who wrote “Girl from Ipanema”, “One Note Samba” etc) so if you like your music gentle and sophisticated, this is definitely the gig for you.
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MIKE PIGGOTT/JEFF GREEN
Mike, an old friend of the Club, has been one of this countries leading Jazz violinists for many years. A player of great depth and versatility his CV is certainly impressive, including stints with the likes of Gary Potter, Ralph McTell and Phil Collins. His playing is fluent and inventive, and swings like mad, showing the influence of his great heroes Stuff Smith and Stephan Grappelli. He is currently promoting his latest cd, based on the playing of these two legendary players, called “Blues for Stuff and Steph”. Jeff is a guitarist whose work with Stephan Grappelli and Nigel Kennedy has certainly established him as one of the scenes leading mainstream players. As Mike said, the guys are just looking forward to a “good blow”. Should be fun!
“...master..of the Jazz violin” Jazz UK
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One of the country’s leading bass players, Arnie’s has worked with likes of James Moody, Annie Ross, Alan Skidmore and Claire Martin as well as playing on numerous T.V. and film sound tracks. On top of all that, he is also visiting lecturer at the Birmingham Conservatoire. His band “Ambulance” first appeared on the scene in 2004, performing several nights at the World famous Ronnie Scott’s Club. Consisting of some of the most talented and exciting musicians in the UK the band quickly became established as one of the most interesting and innovative on the scene. As Arnie says the aim of “Ambulance” is to sound like a “band”, not just a vague group of musicians. In 2006 the band was chosen for the first-ever jazz residency at Snape Maltings in Aldeburgh, Suffolk, which gave it the rare chance to develop a new set of original material which developed even further through live gigs around the country, including the Cheltenham International Jazz Festival, the Aldeburgh Festival and headlining once again at Ronnie Scott’s. The result of all this is their latest album “Accident and Insurgency” on Linn Records, which has been received with enormous acclaim. The band tonight consists of the brilliant young pianist Tim Lapthorn, terrific saxophonist Rob Townsend and one of the finest young drummers on the scene Dave Smith. “Ambulance” is the epitome of sophisticated, truly creative, modern Jazz and not to be missed.
“Engagingly fresh, full-bodied, subtle” The Guardian “Muscular, oblique and witty” The Independent; “Mellow swing and rhythmic swagger, full harmonies and funky beats” The FT “When Somogyi launched Ambulance…..he delivered in style” TheTimes
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fri 20th “Samara”
"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 the Latin jazz classics in great rhythmic style” Time Out
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Clark Tracey is a wonderful, highly experienced, award winning drummer/bandleader/composer/arranger. Originally featured with the band of his father, Stan, Clark has gone on to establish himself in his own right as one of the country’s leading modern jazz drummers. As a drummer he includes work with the likes of Johnny Griffin, Pharaoh Sanders, Scott Hamilton, Ronnie Scott and Kenny Wheeler. He has recorded over 90 albums (9 as a leader) and performed in around 50 countries. He has been awarded "Best Drums" title three times in the British Jazz Awards and Ronnie Scott's Award for “Best Drums” in 2007. As a bandleader he can boast some of the finest musicians in the UK have passed through his ranks including the likes of Guy Barker, Nigel Hitchcock, Dave O'Higgins, Mark Nightingale, Mornington Lockett, Julian Arguelles, Gerard Presencer, Alec Dankworth and and Zoe Rahman. As well as composing and arranging for his own group he has composed for the Berkshire Youth Jazz Orchestra and the Appleby Festival big band and written string quartet arrangements for vocalists Claire Martin & Joan Viskant. The band Clark is leading tonight performs powerful, straight ahead, modern Jazz and features some of the brightest young stars on the scene - Piers Green-sax, Paul Jordanous-trumpet, Lewis Wright-vibes, Pete Billington-piano and Ryan Trebilcock-bass. A great combination of youth and experience!
“…..one of the most impressive jazz drummers in Britain today" The Times
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SUN 22nd
1:00pm-4:00pm SUNDAY LUNCHTIME SPECIAL with FRAN LANDESMAN featuring SIMONWALLACE-piano and Special Guest SARAHMOULE-vocals
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 was part of the highly successful cabaret club The Crystal Palace in St Louis. The Palace soon became the “hip” cultural centre of what was to become known as the “Beat” generation. It was at this time that Fran started writing lyrics to songs 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”. Fran (and husband 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. Her attitude to life was 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!” Tonight Fran will be celebrating 8 decades so expect plenty of partying and some Surprise Guests.
“..subtle songs from the great Fran Landesman” Time Out
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 latest CD focussing on the songs and repertoire of the great Nina Simone.
“Poised between pop, jazz and cabaret Jungr’s tributes..are among the most thoughtful of the last decade.” Sunday Times “genius” Time Out
Mon 23th ADAM PHILLIPS and his 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, 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
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A Jazz violinist of considerable power and musicality, Chris is also highly regarded for his work with the likes of The Brand New Heavies and Brian Ferry, as well as appearing on a significant number of film and TV soundtracks. He is also no stranger to the classical concert halls, but it is his Jazz violin for which he is best known. A fluent and inventive player with a string of awards to his name his subtle yet always driving playing is a testament to a thoughtful but at the same time joyous approach to the music. Featuring pianist Dave Gordan his quartet’s cd, “Different Strokes” was described as “…the outstanding British album of the year..”. Sunday Times. A true master of his instrument.
“..exquisite musician…violin superstar” Guardian.
“JAZZ FROM THE ACADEMY” THE COMPOSERS BAND
This gig is being presented in collaboration with The Royal Academy of Music, 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 Academy’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!
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 will be a great opportunity to hear this remarkable player lead his own trio.
“…simply marvellous” Allaboutjazz
LEON GREENING
Leon Greening isyet 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.
Thurs 26th BENET McLEAN BAND featuring STEVE WILLIAMSON-sax
Benet is a fine young pianist whose powerful, driving piano playing has been heard with the likes of Kevin Haynes and Dennis Rollins’s “Badbone & Co” with whom he has toured and recorded. The music is primarily Benet’s excellent compositions, which are an intriguing mix of Jazz, “groove” and hip-hop as featured on his tremendous new CD “Cliches (For Another Day)”. The gig tonight also features one of the country’s leading saxophonists Steve Williamson.
“Fast-rising young pianist Benet McLean has a piano technique that seems to bring Art Tatum's music into the 21st century, drawing on classical music, post-bop, hip-hop and beyond” Guardian “Mclean…concise, witty, solos..” BBC
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Sat 28th“THE NEW COURIERS” feat. MORNINGTON LOCKETT-Sax, JIM HART-vibes, MARTIN DREW-DRMS
This Band features one of the finest tenor sax players in Europe, Mornington Lockett, and one of the most talented of the new crop of young players, vibraphonist Jim Hart. The band is based on the old Ronnie Scott “Couriers” band from the ’60’s (which featured Ronnie and the legendary Tubby Hayes). Also featured is Martin Drew, considered to be one of the great British drummers. The music, which is drawn from the original charts, highlights the intricate interplay of the two front line players, who provide without doubt one of the most powerful line-ups currently working anywhere in the world. This is the epitome of hard driving modern Jazz, and an absolute “must see”.
“the relaxed confidence allied to virtuosity is quite outstanding” Oberver
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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 “a voice that is beautifully clear and appealingly textured....with a range and smoothness that recalls singers such as Luther Vandross” Guardian “compelling” Independent “a killer voice…. Ola is a class act” Jazzwise “Ola Onabule has a stunning voice of enormous range and emotional clout.” Proper Music magazine
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Jazz and Blues singer of great quality. She has a powerful delivery and unique approach which make her gigs not only highly enjoyable musically, but also great fun. A one time finalist on the Jonathan Ross “Big Talent” show Gill, with support from some of the finest Jazz musicians around, produces a gig to remember. Tonight Gill will be launching her latest album “With a Song in My Heart” so expect plenty of surprise guests and much fun.
“rich-voiced and expressive singer” Observer “Gill's voice is nothing short of electric....singers with this much control and technique are a scarcity nowadays” Jazz on CD Magazine “breathtaking performance” Evening Herald