Thurs 1st JOHN CRAWFORD featuringGUILLE HILL-guitar
John is one of the finest Latin/Jazz pianists on the scene. His unerring musicality and impressive technique have taken him all over the world, including Spain, Denmark, Germany, and the USA. He includes work with the likes of Latin legends Airto Moreira, Giovanni Hidalgo, Eumir Deodato, Frankie Morales (Tito Puentes last singer), Jesus Alemany's Cubanismo, and Danny Silva, as well as UK based artists like Snowboy, Guida da Palma’s Jazzinho, Negrocan, Roberto Pla, Robin Jones, Samara and Viramundo on a glittering cv. In addition to all that his non Latin work includes gigs with the likes of Bjork, Tanita Tikarem, Andy Williams and Kirsty McColl. He is also a founder member of the popular band Grupo X. And just to prove his versatility he is also one of this country’s leading exponents of Spanish music and his set tonight will include his remarkable arrangements for piano of some classic Flamenco pieces. John’s Special Guest tonight will be the excellent Uruguayan guitarist Guille (pronounced “GeeJay”!) Hill who brings his own brand of Latin Jazz to this quite exceptional gig. Highly recommended.
“Glorious…a skilful and imaginative soloist” Jazzwise “With pianist John Crawford on hand, there is so much style and imagination” Jazz Review.
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 Ray Crespo 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 centre of London. Perfect for all lovers of Latin music and Jazz alike.
“Latin and Cuban sounds from this authentic eight-piece band that bring their exultant vocals to the heart of Chelsea.” Time Out
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Sat 3rd PETER KING QUINTET with Special Guest MORNINGTON LOCKETT.
After taking the scene by storm in the early sixties with the Ronnie Scott quintet, Peter 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. The featured saxophonist with the Charlie Watts band his playing has made him famous worldwide. Peter has always been a great supporter of the Club and it is with enormous pleasure that we welcome this saxophone giant. Peter’s special guest tonight is the remarkable Mornington Lockett. One of the UK’s leading tenor sax players Mornington worked with the Ronnie Scott quintet before moving on to work with singer Sarah Jane Morris and the Tracey’s, Stan and Clark, as well as being the driving force behind the briliant “Celebrating the Jazz Couriers” quintet. 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
Sun 4th LIANE CARROLL **Winner BBC Jazz Awards 2005/6**.
The first artist ever to win two BBC Jazz Awards in the same year, for ‘Best Vocalist’ and ‘Best of Jazz”, Liane is a multi award winning dynamic vocalist and pianist whose amazing talent has been captivating audiences around the world. She is recognised as one of the finest singer/pianists on the scene, working with the likes of Gerry Rafferty, Ladysmith Black Mombazo and Paul McCartney and has been a featured performer at the Glastonbury Festival. Her albums on Splash Point records have been received with universal acclaim and led to an hour long “special” on BBC TV featuring her performance at the Brecon Jazz Festival. A world class performer her powerful, blues tinged, voice combined with strong piano playing and exciting infectious material, not to mention a wicked sense of humour, make this a truly remarkable gig.
“..swinging like hell one minute, brutally expressive and heartbreakingly tender the next….utterly brilliant” Time Out "A jazz force to be reckoned with…the real thing" The Independent “..world class” Guardian “..deeply soulful” The Times “..fizzing with creative energy” The Observer “…unswerving honesty and molten intensity…burningly expressive” Jazzwise.
Mon 5th**NOTE MUSIC ALBUM LAUNCH**FeaturingBOB HADDRELL, DINO COCCIAandNIGEL PRICE.
Tonight Note Music, specialists in Blues and Jazz CDs, will be launching not one but three! great albums.
“A Shaded Spot” is keyboard player and singer Bob Haddrell’s latest album. Bob, a veteran of the UK Blues and jazz scene has played, written and recorded with some of the finest Blues musicians on both sides of the Atlantic, including the likes of Billy Swann, Jimmy Dawkins and Dave Specter. Known at the Club for his work with the “Barcodes”, his powerful piano playing and rough hewn vocals have been impressing audiences around the World for many years now.
“A beautiful solo from Bob Hadrell's Wurlitzer is a highlight” Blues In Britain
Dino Coccia, also a “Barcodes” alumni, is a versatile and impressive drummer. On the Jazz scene he includes work with the likes of Andy Shepard, Alan Barnes and Grace Jones and on the Blues scene he has worked both in the UK and the USA with, amongst many others, Jo Ann Kelly, Homesick James, Lowell Fulsom and Sonny Black. Tonight Dino will be launching his latest album “Swung Drawn and Altered”.
“..drummer Dino Coccia drives the crew…as the music runs through the sonic light and shade that these musicians have mastered”Blues Matters
Guitarist Nigel Price is considered to be one of the most fluent and interesting guitar players on the UK scene today. His cv is massive including work with a host of major UK jazz artists including Pee Wee Ellis, Bobby Wellins, Alan Barnes, Dave O'Higgins, Julian Siegel, Mornington Lockett and and Peter King. His powerful, flowing guitar playing however is probably best known for his work with organist James Taylor’s classic “Acid Jazz” band “JTQ” with whom he worked for many years. A terrific player tonight he will be launching his latest CD “Live!”.
“..the skilful Price lovingly celebrated…languidly bluesy lyricism and breezy swing…with an irresistible conviction.” Guardian.
Tues 6th CHICO CHAGAS and DAVE O’HIGGINS band featuring simon mulligan - piano
Hailing from the Brazilian Amazon Chico Chagas is generally recognised as one of the great Brazilian accordionist/pianists in World music. His fluent style and remarkable technique have made him something of a star in his native Brazil, including work with the likes of Brazilian super-stars such as Nana Vasconcelos, Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, Djavan, Nana Caymmi, Joao Bosco and Elza Soares (for whom he was also Musical Director). His music is at once flowing and surprising, melodic and rich in Brazilian melody. Dave O’Higgins is undoubtedly one of this country’s finest modern jazz sax players.(see Sat 17th). The band also features pianist Simon Mulligan. A unique band on the UK scene.
“Chagas…a fine accordionist” Time Out “a super player..one of Brazil’s top accordionists” UK Accordion “Dave O’Higgins..…exceptional fluency. ..one of Britain’s finest musicians” Observer
606 Club Special **european exchange initiative** Marton Juhasz Group
The Marton Juhasz Group was born in 2009 in Boston, USA, at the city's prestigious Berklee College of Music. This fascinating group's diverse backgrounds and emphasis on interaction allows them to bring a fresh sound to the standard jazz repertoire. Award Winning young drummer Marton Juhasz studied extensively in his native Hungary, winning national first prize for solo percussion in 2005, before re-locating to study in London. After being awarded the prize for top overall student on his course, in 2007 he was accepted in to Berklee College of Music. Since then he has performed and recorded extensively both in the US and Hungary, including performances at the14th, 15th and 16th International Drum Festivals. Alto saxophonist Jonathan Orland was born in Paris where he studied extensively before moving to study in Boston in 2007. He currently lives in Montreal where he performs and attends graduate school at McGill University. Bassist Dylan Coleman hails from Massachusetts, USA and is currently working extensively in both the USA and Europe. Multi Award-winning pianist/composer Alan Benzie is a fast rising star of the UK jazz scene. BBC Scotland Young Jazz Musician at only 17, he moved to Boston to study at the Berklee College of Music where in 2008 he won the prestigious Berklee Jazz Piano Performance Award, in 2009 he received the Alex Ulanowski Prize for Outstanding Composition and in 2010 was nominated for the Billboard Award for Most Promising Musician. This is a rare chance to catch this quartet of outstanding young musicians and not to be missed.
“Pianist Alan Benzie showed extraordinary and commanding fluency” Jazz UK
This gig is part of an ongoing “European Exchange” initiative promoted by the 606 Club to provide a platform for some of the finest European musicians, in return for which the Club arranges for UK based musicians to perform in the home country of the guest artists. In this way it is hoped that the music of these fine players can be brought to a wider audience around Europe.
An ‘inspired and inspiring’ keyboard player, Janette’s work encompasses jazz, pop, indie and world music. This versatility has made her a sort after sideman with artists as diverse as Claire Martin and Ian Shaw to legendary singer/songwriter Robert Wyatt, and top pop acts Oasis, Suzanne Vega and Seal. These days she divides her time between performing and writing music for Film and T.V. Her gig, featuring music from her acclaimed album “Alien Left Hand”, is a mix of great originals and Jazz standards in an acoustic line-up
Thurs 8th **CD Promotion** EILEEN HUNTERwith Special GuestSTEVE BROOKSTEIN
Eileen is not only a wonderful vocalist with a lovely, breathy delivery but also a highly accomplished musician, being fluent on both piano and flute. Classically trained she moved from her native Scotland to study Jazz at the Leeds College of Music before embarking on a career as a professional Jazz vocalist. She has since established herself as a dynamic, hard-working jazz artist performing in many of the UK’s most prestigious jazz venues. With her excellent quartet she performs a mix of Jazz standards and swinging originals in an assured and fluent style. Tonight she will be promoting her debut CD “Eileen Hunter”, a powerful reflection of Eileen’s passionate journey from the heart of the Scottish music tradition to world-class jazz, along with her excellent band featuring guitarist Nigel Price (JTQ) and Special Guest Steve Brookstein (the X-Factor winner). Now championed by JazzFM you can expect to hear much more from this sophisticated and creative musician.
“Eileen is an exceptional talent. She not only provides an inspirational vocal performance, she is an amazing musician, a considered writer and has an arresting grace on stage.” Jazz FM “Eileen has it all…” Tina May
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.
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Sat 10th DON WELLER
Don Weller is widely recognised as one of Europe’s leading hard-bop tenor sax. players. A big man with a broad sound and great charisma, Don, a veteran of more than 30 years standing on the British Jazz scene, has worked with some of the finest British and American players, including Alan Price, Stan Tracey and Gil Evans. A great guy and a fabulous gig.
“..captivating ...one of the most entertaining, straight-ahead saxophonists on the UK circuit” Guardian
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Well, we here in Jazzland are not completely oblivious to the goings on of the outside world! So tonight we will be adjusting our programme to allow for the World Cup Final. Which means the music will start a little later than usual, at around 9:15pm, so you can watch the match and then come down to celebrate, commiserate or just continue having fun. Should England, incidentally, reach the finals (no sniggering at the back!) then we will be looking to show the match down here in the Club before the gig. Call for details.
9:15pm TONY O’MALLEY 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.
“..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
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Mon 12th JOE STILGOE
JOE STILGOE is a highly talented singer/pianist who is currently attracting a lot of attention on the UK music scene. Working in a style reminiscent of the classic Jazz singer/pianists such as Nat King Cole and Harry Connick Jr, Joe brings his own, unique, blend of charm and musicality to his set of Jazz standards and excellent originals. Although still in his 20’s he is a highly experienced musician, including appearances at Ronnie Scott’s, the Royal Festival Hall and the Groucho Club as well as live broadcast from The Stables, Wavendon with the John Dankworth Band. His recent work in New York was also met with universal praise. If you like Jamie (Cullum) you’ll love this guy! The quartet tonight also features the wonderful sax playing of Tom Richards.
“Many a musician twice his age might listen with a mixture of envy and admiration” Cabaret Scenes, New York “Great” John Dankworth.
**CD Launch** Laura CollinS with Special Guest JEAN TOUSSAINT
Laura began her musical career playing classical cello and piano, but after studying choral music at Cambridge she turned her hand to jazz singing. Since bursting onto the professional scene she has created a huge buzz with her sophisticated vocals and strong sense of style and wit. Tonight Laura is launching her debut CD, ‘Baltimore Oriole’, a delightful collection of standards and fascinating material, with her great band featuring Barry Green on piano and Special Guest ex-pat US saxophonist Jean Toussaint. ‘…An outstanding debut...’ Claire Martin ‘…intense and lyrical…’ Jazz Journal.
Multi-Award winning vibes player/drummer/pianist Jim Hart is unquestionably one of the most talented multi-instrumentalists to emerge for many years. Formerly the drummer for NYJO, in recent years he has played regularly with the likes of John Dankworth and Cleo Laine, Phil Woods, Stan Sulzmann, Gwilym Simcock, and Mornington Lockett. A founder member of London’s LOOP collective he is also busy with his own projects, “Gemini” and The Jim Hart Quartet and has a number of recordings to his name. A British Jazz award winner in 2006, 2007 and 2008 he received the Worshipful Company of musicians Bronze medal in 2006 and was recently selected to be a participant of the Jerwood/PRS Foundation Take Five Initiative. A fluent and enormously creative musician Jim will tonight be leading his own band featuring Ivo Neame on saxophones & piano, performing a mix of his originals and classic Jazz standards.
“Outstanding” Financial Times “..percussive directness, fleetness of phrasing and classic-swing” Guardian “..spinning vibes magic” JazzUK “...a revelation” The Times
John Donaldson is a fine British pianist who was based in America for a number of years before returning to this country and reminding us all of what we had been missing. A “musician’s musician” his lyrical, flowing piano playing has been heard with the likes of US sax legend John Handy, Don Weller, Norma Winstone and Alan Barnes. Tonight John will be featuring music written or performed by the late, great, South African pianist Bheki Mseleku. Bheki, a very old friend of the Club, sadly passed away last year but has left behind him a significant body of recorded and written work and it is from this that John and the Quartet will be drawing this evening. Also featured with the quartet tonight will be the fine saxophonist Ian Price. A rare chance to hear Bheki’s quite brilliant writing and highly recommended.
**CHANGE OF BILLING** ANDREA VICARI
Andrea has established herself in recent years as one of the leading UK contemporary pianists. As well as work with the likes of US greats Art Farmer and Eddie Harris Andrea is also a highly respected Jazz educator, holding the positions of Professor of Jazz Piano at London's Trinity College of Music and Musical Director of the Dordogne Jazz Summer School.
"Andrea Vicari….one of the most brilliant jazz musicians in the UK - an outstanding pianist and superbly fertile composer" Penguin Rough Guide to Jazz
Simon, one of the country’s leading Jazz bass players is one of the most musical and tasteful players on the scene, and his band reflects his interest in melodic, straight-ahead, Jazz. The repertoire of the group consists of Simon’s originals plus a variety of classic Jazz standards, all arranged by Simon, and performed by some of the finest players around. The front line tonight will feature the brilliant Gareth Lockrane on Flute, the beautifully melodic Mark Crooks on sax and clarinet and the wonderful trumpet of Steve Fishwick.
“The London Horns” are the new sound of the modern Jazz horn section, with a stylistic versatility and a “groove” driven feel that gives them an explosive live impact. Recently returned from the Kylie Minogue world tour the “London Horns” have established themselves as one of the most formidable musical front lines in the world. Barnaby Dickinson, who includes work with Jamie Cullum, is one of the best trombonists in Europe, award winning saxophonist Graeme Blevins is rapidly becoming regarded as one of the most creative and fluent performers around and trumpeter Graeme Flowers has been heard with Kyle Eastwood and JTQ. This amazing three horn front line create an electrifying, powerful and highly musical sound performing music which is a mix of groove originals and high energy Jazz standards. Highly recommended.
“….world class players” BBC Music Magazine “…Dazzling” Guardian.
DAVE O’HIGGINS is undoubtedly one of this country’s finest modern jazz sax players. His powerful, driving, style has been a feature of the scene since the early 80’s, and includes work with the likes of Cleo Lane & John Dankworth, Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Jimmy Smith and Annie Lennox. A multi award winner (British Jazz awards twice!) he has produced 9 albums to date of his own work, and has appeared on numerous sessions and festivals around the world. Currently he is working with his own, terrific, quartet, a storming 10 piece band (the “Biggish” Band) for which he also writes and arranges, an organ based “groove” band (“Organic Grooves”) and has now teamed up with one of New York’s leading sax players, Eric Alexander, to form a classic two sax “hard bop” quintet to perform on both sides of the Atlantic. In addition to all that he includes playing, writing and recording work with the “Jazzcotech Dancers” and has recently formed a band with two Norwegians and a Swede which has performed at venues around the World. Dave is also a respected Jazz educator teaching at Leeds College of Music, Goldsmiths College, Royal Academy of Music, Guildhall School of Music, Wavendon, Royal Northern College of Music and the Universities of Natal and Cape Town. The music is a mixture of jazz standards and great originals and is powerful yet always lyrical and accessible.
“…exceptional fluency. ..one of Britain’s finest musicians” Observer “….virtuoso jazz/fusion saxophonist”Time Out “….world class player” BBC Music Magazine “…Dazzling” Guardian
Singer/composer Louise Clare Marshall was pretty much born in to the business of singing, performing with her family at an early age and then studying at the specialist music school Chetham’s before winning a scholarship to the Guildhall School of Music. In her spare time she started to sing with function bands and join the world of session singing and hasn't looked back since. A truly versatile performer, Louise is equally at home singing jazz and groove (as she will be tonight) as she is singing rock, musical theatre, or providing powerful vocals for dance music. Over the years she has worked with Beverley Knight, Robbie Williams, Bryan Ferry, Ronnie Wood, Van Morrison, Madeline Bell, and Steve Winwood. She has performed in London's West End in Jesus Christ Superstar, Whistle Down the Wind, The Genius of Ray and Soul Train. Jools Holland was certainly one musician impressed with Louise’s work and for some years now she has been the featured singer with his band “Jools Holland and his Rhythm Orchestra”. Louise is also busy promoting her debut CD as a solo artist “Wait For You”, tracks from which will be featured this evening.
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, featuring fellow “Strictly” band members Dave Arch-piano and Trevor Barry-bass, playing 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!
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.
“impressive hard-bop saxophonist” Time Out
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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, the guitar playing of Leon Stenning and the Harmonica of Patrick Bettison.
“Superior jazz-rock quartet led by ex-Nucleus electric bassist Katz” Time Out
is a singer who performs a wonderful mix of passionate, sultry jazz and inspired vocal acrobatics with her own take on jazz, blues and funk along with a sprinkling of original material. She worked as an actress before studying at the Royal Academy and the Trinity College of Music and is a great performer, enhancing her songs with her skills as a highly trained vocalist, actor and lyricist. The album ‘Fever’ being launched tonight includes original arrangements of songs by Elton John, Stephen Sondheim, Galt MacDermot, Cole Porter, Rogers and Hart and a fantastic treatment of the iconic ‘Fever’. Verona’s band includes Alec Dankworth on bass, Mark Fletcher on drums and Special Guest Fiona Clifton-Welker on harp
“…one of the best versions of Fever I’ve ever heard….great voice” UK Jazz Radio.
TIM LAPTHORN has unquestionably established himself as both a bandleader in his own right and the pianist of choice for many of the UK’s leading players. A fluent and creative player his subtle technique and melodic improvising have been the mainstay of numerous gigs and bands and he includes the likes of Eddie Henderson, Ian Shaw, Bobby Wellins and Clark Tracy on a lengthy and impressive cv. As well as a performer Tim is also a talented composer and respected teacher and tonight he and the trio will be playing songs from their most recent album on Basho Records “Seventh Sense”.
“..joyful and unpretentious” Jazz Review "marvelous - ****” Penguin Guide to Jazz on CD “Brilliant pianist.... sparkles with originality and colour” Humphrey Lyttleton
“EARLS COURT LITERARY AND MUSIC FESTIVAL AT THE 606 CLUB”
***A CONVERSATION WITH BILL BRUFORD***
with
TIM GARLAND
IN ASSOCIATION WITH YAMAHA AT THE 606
This evening the 606 Club will be playing host to the Earl’s Court Festival with a fascinating evening featuring not only a fantastic gig from one of the UK’s finest saxophonists but also a rare chance to hear one of the country’s great musical stylists in conversation. The first part of the evening will be taken up with saxophonist Tim Garland interviewing his old boss, the drummer Bill Bruford, about his wonderful self-penned autobiography (details below). This will then be followed with Tim’s own band performing for the later part of the evening. We are expecting a great deal of interest in this evening so booking is definitely advised.
TIM GARLAND IN CONVERSATION WITH BILL BRUFORD
BILL BRUFORD is a rock musician with the temperament of a classical musician who became a jazz musician, defying all the clichés about what drummers do. He first made his name in the late 60’s with the eponymous groups “King Crimson” and “Yes” taking in work with the likes of “Genesis” and “Gong” on the way. In the early 80’s Bill pioneered the use of electronic drums and by the mid 80’s he was ready to pursue his love for jazz, forming the first incarnation of his Jazz/Fusion band “Earthworks”. They produced a series of award winning albums and sold out tours, through to the mid 90’s when Bill returned to the “King Crimson” fold. The late 90’s saw the second edition of “Earthworks” featuring saxophonist Patrick Clahar. More CD’s followed as electronic percussion made way for the warmer looser style of the more conventional sax-piano-bass-drums line up as Bill continued to bring the best of the young British players to the attention of a rapidly growing international audience. Around 2003 Pat left to be replaced by UK saxophonist Tim Garland, at that time a regular with Chick Corea’s band. Led by one of the most exciting and innovative players on the World Jazz scene this band was widely acknowledged as one of the finest to have come from the UK. Tonight Bill will be in conversation with Tim discussing his unique career spanning almost 4 decades, as told in his brilliant self penned book Bill Bruford: The Autobiography.
‘The most extraordinary autobiography I’ve ever read on music’. Performing Musician “Bill Bruford is …a fantastically inventive, responsive and technically gifted player, with a sound and style that is instantly recognisable……performing intelligent acoustic fusion, finely played.” BBC
TIM GARLAND’s “LIGHTHOUSE PROJECT”.
Tim’s powerful and distinctive sax playing made a serious impression on the British Jazz scene when he first appeared with the likes of John Dankworth and Kenny Wheeler. He then went on to establish himself as a major voice on the local scene with his Jazz/Folk fusion band “Lammas”, but it was when he first went on the road with Chick Corea’s band “Origin” that he claimed world attention for his wonderful playing. Now a seasoned International performer Tim is also an accomplished and highly regarded composer, writing for ensembles from trios to full choirs and orchestras. Tonight Tim will be appearing with his newest band the “Lighthouse Project” that features, not surprisingly, some of the finest players in the UK (and 606 Club regulars) Mike Outram on guitar, Pat Bettison on bass and Asaf Sirkis on drums.
“…one of the most important British Jazz musicians..” Jazzwise “special..swings with momentum and grace” Time Out “exemplary work…utterly distinctive” The Times “A world class player” Evening Standard
www.timgarland.com
The 606 gratefully acknowlege the support of Yamaha UK without whom this gig would not be possible.
Fri 23rd “1 UP” featuring DAVE LEWIS & POLLY GIBBONS-vocals
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 heard with a notable list of artists including John Martyn, Bryan Ferry, Joan Armatrading, John Mayall and Eric Clapton. His own band, featured this evening, is an impressive array of talent fronted by the wonderful singer Polly Gibbons. Tonight the band will be performing material from their latest album “Turn It Round”. Great band, great gig this.
“A soulful….vocalist destined to be a star”Time Out “Remarkable” Evening Standard
“..spine tingling”Guardian “..brilliant…great music”BBC Radio London
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. The music is a wonderfully melodic mix of classic jazz standards and beautifully arranged originals performed by some of the finest players on the scene. As well as Matt on sax the line up also includes fellow saxophonist Steve Main, and young trumpet star Henry Armburg Jennings. A terrific jazz gig from some great players.
“Elegant and affectionately crafted… the soloing is very high class” The Guardian
SUN 25th SUNDAY AFTERNOON GOSPEL BRUNCH WITH THE **“606 GOSPEL GROUP”** AND SPECIAL GUESTS THE ST PAT’S GOSPEL CHOIR
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 Gospel ensemble, the “606 Gospel Group”. This is a group comprising of a 4 piece band who will be supporting our Special Guests this month, the 16 voice (yes, that’s 16!) St Pat’s Gospel Choir. Promises to be quite an afternoon. And don’t forget this is our family day so children are more than welcome.
SUN 25th ** 606 CLUB SPECIAL**LILLIAN BOUTTÉ with Denny Ilett-guitar.
It is with enormous pleasure that we welcome to the Club the brilliant New Orleans singer Ms. Lillian Boutté. On the music scene for more than 30 years Lillian is a monument to Jazz, Gospel and R&B. She has performed and recorded with a myriad of legendary musicians including Jay Mc Shane, Harry 'Sweets' Edison, Milt Hinton, Gus Johnson, Doc Cheatham, Arnett Cobb, Dr. John, Professor Longhair, Clark Terry and our own Humphrey Lyttleton. She has quite literally travelled the world performing her brand of New Orleans Jazz and R&B. Named "New Orleans Musical Ambassador" in 1986, she was only the second jazz legend in the city's history to be accorded this honour - the first being Louis Armstrong. A successful actress and stage performer as well she appeared in and sung on the sound track of Allan Parker’s “Angel Heart” and was for 4 years a featured performer in the classic stage show “One Mo Time”, performing with the show in New Orleans, Sweden and Brazil. In 1992 she took the show “Spirit of Louisiana” to Germany, in 1992 to 1994 she toured “Gospel United” around Europe culminating in 1995 with Lillian and her group performing in Denmark with a 3,000 voice Gospel choir. Lillian has been touring almost non-stop for the last 18 years doing concerts, club dates and festivals all over the world and with the help of 17 albums featuring jazz, pop, blues, soul and gospel has striven to convey New Orleans’s unique atmosphere to an international audience. Although now based in Europe this has become particularly important for Lillian post Hurricane Katrina and she has been widely praised over the last 3 years for her tireless efforts to raise money for victims and to enable reconstruction work in her devastated home town. A unique singer who blends all that is best in Jazz, Gospel and R&B in one high energy, enormously entertaining package. The band Lillian leads tonight also features one of the UK’s finest guitarists, Denny Ilett. Booking advised.
“A versatile singer from New Orleans now based in Europe, ……she takes a song like "All of Me" and turns it into a work of jazz art. Her rendition of "He Touched Me" reflects the depth of her feeling for her gospel roots. The ballads "I Cried for You" and "For All We Know" are perfect vehicles for showcasing the soft and subtle way that she engages in a song and "Go Back Where You Stayed Last Night" shows her bluesy side. One can understand upon hearing Lillian Boutte sing why music is her life” All Music Guide
Singer Nette Robinson’s “Little Big Band” has been touring the UK over the past few months to promote their debut album “The Little Big Band Plays”, attracting considerable interest and praise from critics and the media in the process. Band-leader Nette Robinson has been described recently as a “very fine, accurate, emotional” singer (BBC Radio 3) “possessing the smoothest of timbres” (Jazzwise). “The Little Big Band Plays” celebrates big band legends Count Basie and Duke Ellington, but with a twist. Despite the album being a salute to two pianists, Nette Robinson’s outfit includes no piano, giving the classic tunes a fresh interpretation with a great sense of space and musical freedom. Musicians featured in the band tonight include the excellent saxophonist Tony Woods and the fluent trombone of AdrianFry.
“The Band tackles Ellington and Basie with fire and imagination that belies its size.” Yorkshire Post “A hard swinging unit.” Time Out
A wonderful modern jazz pianist whose fluent and melodic playing has made a significant impact on the UK Jazz scene in a relatively short time. Barry includes Anita Wardell, Christine Tobin (both BBC Jazz Award winners), Bobby Wellins and Ingrid Laubrock on an eclectic and impressive cv. Already with two albums to his name his latest, “The Music of Chance” on Moletone records, features his New York trio of US based musicians Jeff Williams (drums) and Ben Street (bass). Great classic Jazz piano trio.
“..Green’s work can be both intricate and assertive and is constantly inventive.” Jazz UK “The one who really shone was pianist Barry Green. Watching his imagination unfurl was an engaging experience and turned out to be the keenest musical pleasure of the evening”. Daily Telegraph
The John East Project is led by vocalist and Hammond organ player John East, who is making a welcome return to the Club after his extremely successful debut earlier this year. John has played the Hammond for many years and worked with musicians such as John Etheridge, Mark Johns and Katie Kissoon. He has a stellar band, comprising Mark Fletcher on drums, Neville Malcolm bass and the Award winning Phil Robson on guitar. The band will be playing a mixed set featuring their interpretation of well known standards and some instrumentals, with the emphasis on melodic jazz, driven along by the distinctive Hammond sound.
“(East) and the band...brought the house down” City AM.
RICHARD BUSIAKIEWICZ
is a lovely pianist whose trio specialises in the more mainstream side of the music. 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 “..top mainstream-to-modern jazz pianist.” Time Out “classy” Scotsman
It is with great pleasure that the 606 Club welcomes to it’s stage one of the UK’s foremost Jazz saxophonists, the multi-Award winning Alan Barnes. Since joining the Humphrey Lyttleton band in the 80s Alan has been a major figure on the UK scene, including a stint as the leader of the Pizza Express Modern Jazz sextet. He has enjoyed a prolific career as a sideman, playing and recording for many bands including the BBC Big Band and Radio Orchestra and such jazz heavyweights as Dick Walter, Kenny Baker, Bob Wilber, Don Weller, Stan Tracey, Clark Tracey, Mike Westbrook and John Dankworth. Over the years Alan has won many Jazz awards including the 2001 and 2006 prestigious “BBC Jazz Instrumentalist of the Year” award. In November 2003 Alan was made a fellow of the Leeds College of Music and somehow, despite his busy schedule, he has also found time to establish his own record label, Woodville Records. As well as a consummate performer on clarinet and all the saxes Alan is a writer and arranger of some note, having been commissioned to write numerous works including two suites of jazz songs with Award winning playwright Alan Plater. If you like your music swinging and straight ahead then this gig is definitely for you. Recommended.
“meltingly gorgeous… assured, beautifully played jazz.” BBC “In an alternative universe, Alan Barnes would be as famous as Courtney Pine….(he) has such a fluent style and such a soulful sound that he's able…to express the extremes of emotion…while keeping close control.” Independent
“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
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