GARETH WILLIAMSGareth has unquestionably established himself as one of the country’s leading modern jazz pianists. A fiery and creative player his remarkable talent has been seen with an impressive array of top level artists, from Jazz/Hip Hop band “US3” through to World class Jazz musicians such as Joe Lovano, George Coleman, Dave Liebman, Iain Ballamy and Jim Mullen. MD for iconic UK vocalist Claire Martin for some years now he is widely regarded as amongst the very best of the European based jazz pianists. As well as being a world class pianist he is also an accomplished guitarist and has a great voice too, so if you’re lucky he may just sing a song or two! Fantastic modern jazz piano playing.
“..dynamite pianist” Evening Standard
“.. fantastic improviser” The Guardian
“..a jewel of a player” Jazziz
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HENRY ARMBURG JENNINGS QUINTETStill only 21 years old Henry Armburg Jennings already has an enviable reputation on the UK Jazz scene as a fluent and creative hard bop trumpeter. He includes work at Ronnie Scotts, the Royal Albert Hall, the Jazz Café and the 100 Club and performances with the likes of Sir John Dankworth and Cleo Laine, Pete King and Clark Tracey on an impressive cv. Recently returned from New York, where he worked and studied for some months, Henry brings his current quintet in to the Club this evening featuring the terrific playing of award wining saxophonist Sam Mayne (Dave Brubeck, Billy Cobham) and pianist Leon Greening (Ed Jones, Alex Garnett).
“Fine bebop trumpeter HAJ leads a high calibre sextet through classic bop standards and engaging originals.” Time Out
Weds 2nd 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!
Since settling in London from his native USA Mike Janisch has rapidly established himself one of the leading acoustic bass players on the scene. A powerful and fluent player he includes the likes of Joe Lovano, Dianna Reeves, Shirley Horn and Clark Terry on an impressive cv which also includes gigs at the Hollywood Bowl and the Monterey Jazz Festival. Playing all styles of music from classical to soul, Michael has been featured on over 20 albums, playing both electric and acoustic bass. The band tonight features a stellar line-up including the Award Winning saxophonist PAUL BOOTH, Award Winning guitarist PHIL ROBSON and Award Winning trumpeter JAY PHELPS. Impressive music from some very fine players.
“Janisch’s…bass solo got the cheers and the rousing applause it deserved” LondonJazz “Crockatt....haunting lyricism…ruggedly inspired playing” Guardian
This 7 piece salsa band, formed by famed Colombian singer Martha Acosta, has been “salsa-ing” across the UK and Europe for almost 5 years now. Martha, best known for her work with her all woman Latin band “Candela” and Roberto Pla’s “Latin Ensemble”, drives the band along with her searing Latin vocals and powerhouse personality. And she is ably supported by some of the finest Latin musicians on the scene, including Don Fiora (bass), Satin Singh (percussion) and Paul Jayasinha (trumpet). One of the best salsa bands working the scene today.
"Ripping funky Salsa from the finest Latin musicians of London, guaranteed to induce all manner of heel-stamping and handclapping” Fact Magazine
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Patrick Clahar is one of the leading saxophonists of his generation. A powerful, post-Coltrane, tenor player his playing is tempered with a strong sense of melodic improvisation influenced by the great American tenor player Sonny Rollins. A leading light of the Julian Joseph big-band and small group Pat achieved world wide recognition as the sax player with the Bill Bruford Band. An established player on the studio scene Pat also includes work with the likes of Jazz Jamaica and the TV show “Strictly Come Dancing” (it’s a great band, trust me!). Widely respected throughout the Jazz fraternity. Pat’s world class pedigree is undoubted.
GEORGIA MANCIO 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 her swinging and sophisticated set. 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. The repertoire she performs is an eclectic mix of Jazz standards, gentle Latin and infectious Brazilian music and not surprisingly she has a wonderful band accompanying her. Featuring the terrific up-coming pianist Tim Lapthorne this promises to be a great gig from one of the developing stylists of the UK Jazz scene.
“Supremely elegant …one of the hottest singers on the circuit.” Evening Standard “..has assurance and allure.” Mojo
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The “Queen” of studio and backing vocals you may not know Mary’s name but you will certainly have heard her fantastic voice. Her powerful, soulful vocals have been heard with the cream of the Jazz, Soul, R&B and Pop world, including the likes of Lionel Ritchie, Grace Jones, Chaka Khan, Courtney Pine, Mica Paris, Beverley Knight, Culture Club, Marcella Detroit, Donna Summer, Roy Ayres…..the list goes on. As well as more than 15 years as a studio singer Mary has also featured as a lead vocalist with a number of “Groove” and Dance bands, most notably the band “Up Yer Ronson” (who thought of that name?!). The 2004 release of “Young Hearts” with Kujay Da Da once again brought Mary to the forefront of the Dance Music industry, culminating in her show stopping performance at the 2004 House Music Awards. After many years of making other singers sound good Mary has finally decided to step in to the limelight with her own band, much to the delight of those of us who have known and admired her work for so long. So, if you like great Soul and “Groove” vocals then you definitely have to make it to this gig, you won’t be disappointed, I guarantee it! “
“Signed, Sealed, Delivered” is a tour de force for Pearce, who sings upfront and strong…..” Guardian
“Formidable…” IndieLondon
al Wynette’s“Birthday Gig” The Al Wynette Band is our regular Mainstream quintet who have been working the first Friday of the month virtually since we opened. Featuring Al on trumpet (and occasional vocals!) and Ron Findon on sax and clarinet this is terrific “good-time” jazz featuring music primarily from the twenties and thirties, and great fun. Al will be celebrating his Birthday tonight so expect plenty of Surprises and come prepared to have a Good Time!
JANE PARKER Best known for her work with the band “Lush Life” Jane sings a terrific swinging selection of jazz standards from the 30’s to the 90’s. A highly experienced performer Jane includes work at venues such as Ronnie Scott’s, Café de Paris and Le Cafconce (Casablanca) on a lengthy and impressive cv. Accompanied by her excellent trio Jane’s hypnotic renditions of classic standards are quite special.
“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.
“TRIO” featuring JOHN CRITCHINSON, DAVE CLIFF, ALEC DANKWORTHJohn 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! Dave Cliff is generally considered to be one of the finest straight ahead guitarists in Europe. He has accompanied many visiting artists, the great American tenor player Scott Hamilton going on record saying that Dave was one of the finest jazz guitarists he had ever worked with. Alec Dankworth is a terrific musician who first came to prominence with his father, John, but has since gone on to become one of the most respected acoustic bass players on the scene today, including a lengthy stint with the band of Jazz icon Dave Brubeck.
“John Critchinson...one of Britain's finest jazz pianists” Guardian “Dave Cliff…..superb guitarist” Jazzsteps “Alec Dankworth, the paragon of bass uprightness”Observer
Bryan Springis undoubtedly one of the finest modern jazz drummers in the world. His dynamic playing is highly regarded just about everywhere, and musicians dropping in to see him perform are a common sight. Featuring the marvellous pianist Mark Edwards and leading British bassist Andy Cleyndert the trio interplay on this acoustic gig is riveting, producing a range of musical colours and styles that is quite wonderful. World class music.
“group improvisation of simple but eloquent power…a drum virtuoso who's also a complete musician, and with a band to match” 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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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
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SUN 13thSUNDAY LUNCHTIME SPECIAL (1:00pm-4:00pm). SUNDAY AFTERNOON GOSPEL BRUNCH WITH THE **“606 GOSPEL GROUP”** AND SPECIAL GUEST EDWIN FAWCETT
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 is drawn from a pool of some of the finest Gospel singers on the scene with some terrific singers signed up to work with us. Our Special Guest this month is EDWIN FAWCETT who has made an impression with the 606 Gospel Group and St Pat’s Gospel Choir as both performer and arranger. Before the age of twenty he’d written a full-length musical and in 2005, his Venite Adoremus, commissioned by the Vatican was performed in five languages in Rome. And don’t forget this is our family day so children are more than welcome.
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One of the most exciting singers on the Jazz/Soul circuit, Ola combines the sophistication of modern Soul music with the power of his African roots. A charismatic vocalist, Ola has put together a set of his brilliant original material plus some classic Soul and R&B songs that captivate his audiences with their sheer range and power in a show that is full of passion, joy and humour. He has guested with some of America's finest soul and jazz artists including Diane Reeves, Gladys Knight, Al Jarreau, Patti Labelle, Roberta Flack, Joe Zawinul, Natalie Cole, and Roy Hargrove. A well established artist in Europe as well as the UK Ola’s 2008 show for the Leverkusen Jazz Festival was broadcast on WDR Television and his 2009 show is also slated to be broadcast on the same channel, one of the few artists ever to be broadcast twice on WDR from the same festival. Other festival appearances in 2008 included the Edinburgh Festival, Ingolstadt and Aalener Jazz Festivals as well as a show with the WDR Big Band of Cologne at the Cologne Philharmonic Concert Hall. Ola’s remarkable talent is also becoming increasingly recognised in North America with his visits there becoming ever more frequent. He has already performed at the Kennedy Centre, Washington, Joe’s Public Theatre in New York as well as several appearances at the Blue Note in Manhatten and his filmed concert in Syracuse has received numerous broadcasts on PBS. Summer 2009 saw Ola touring Canada including an appearance on the main stage of the Montreal Jazz Festival which was filmed for broadcast by Canadian TV. He currently has 7 albums released under his own name, the last 6 on his own label, Rugged Ram Records. 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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Award winning US ex pat singer/pianist Charlie Woods is a talented and versatile singer, songwriter and keyboardist whose eclectic musical style incorporates elements of popular music, jazz, blues and traditional r&b. Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Charlie learnt his trade touring with iconic blues guitarist Albert King before settling back in Memphis. For over fifteen years the Charlie Wood Trio performed nightly at the King's Palace Café on Beale Street, with guests including the likes of Rufus Thomas, B.B. King, George Coleman and Joey DeFrancesco. Numerous awards from that time include the N.A.R.A.S. "Premier Player Award" for Keyboards and the Beale St. Merchants' Association "Entertainer of the Year" award. In 2009 Charlie decided to move to Europe to extend his musical background and find a wider audience for his particular brand of eclectic, jazz influenced, music making. Since settling in the UK he has rapidly attracted attention from some of the finest players around, including the likes of Robert Plant, who recently joined Charlie on stage to sing some Memphis “classics”, and Cleo and the late John Dankworth who asked him to perform at Wavendon with them. Tonight Charlie will be performing songs from his latest CD “Flutter and Wow” which includes not only his own excellent originals and some classic R&B and Jazz standards, but also songs from the likes of Tom Waits, Paul Simon, Mose Allison and Elvis Costello. Not surprisingly the band he is working with features some of the finest UK musicians around, including Andy Panayi (BBC Big Band)–sax; Mark Nightingale (Sting)–trombone and Simon Woolf – bass. This is a unique opportunity to hear this highly charismatic performer in the intimacy of the 606 Club and definitely not to be missed. Highly recommended.
“Remember the first time you heard Dylan, or Springsteen, or Costello, or Waits? Charlie Wood delivers that same jolt. First, there's his exemplary taste in songwriters… then there are his own tunes, wry, funny, tack-sharp, intelligent and crafted with the same respect for wordplay as Porter or Frishberg. There's his singular way with a keyboard and finally there's the melting pot of influences that Wood synthesizes….brilliant” Jazz Times
“..a born storyteller with a slight drawl and strong old-school Memphis soul/R&B undertones….a la Dr. John and Mose [Allison]…Charlie Wood embodies hepcat worldliness and barroom empathy…he's got style!” JazzReview
DAN REINSTEINAmerican 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. This gig also features the excellent trumpet playing of Paul Jayasinha.
“impressive hard-bop saxophonist” Time Out.
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DILL KATZis 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
CAROLINE LOFTUS Australian born, with London very much her home and inspiration, singer Caroline Loftus sings original compositions and personal interpretations of standards in a moving and delightful way. An artist of International standing Caroline was featured on a number of tracks for the 2009 BBC Children in Need album and includes work at prestigious venues around the World, including the Sydney Opera House, Hong Kong Arts Centre and the Nederland Dance Theatre. The quartet tonight features pianist Grant Windsor whom she describes as “full of sensitive complexity” and the wonderful Award winning guitarist Femi Temowo (Soweto Kinch, Jason Rebello) performing an exciting mix of Jazz standards, Brazilian and original music. A sophisticated, gig from one of the masters of Jazz vocals.
kevin figesis a very talented sax player from the Bristol area who has performed at the Club as a side man on a number of occasions but tonight will be appearing with his own quartet performing primarily original material in the more contemporary side of the Jazz spectrum. An excellent, fluent, player with a strong sound and interesting approach.
“Equally proficient on alto saxophone and flute, he gets a pleasingly warm sound from both while continuing to develop as a composer.” Guardian.
THURS 17thTHE WESTBROOK TRIO Featuring KATE & MIKE WESTBROOK and CHRIS BISCOE-sax
Composer, arranger Mike Westbrook, who was awarded an OBE in 1988 for services to music, has long been regarded as one of the UK’s most creative and influential Jazz/contemporary composers. Widely admired and respected worldwide, he has over 50 albums to his name and an International reputation that has quite literally taken him around the globe. His settings of the poetry of William Blake, “The Westbrook Blake”, have been described in The Independent on Sunday as “Perhaps the greatest work in all British Jazz.” Singer Kate Westbrook’s repertoire embraces Contemporary Music and Cabaret, as well as Jazz and Popular Song. She has written libretti for Opera and Music Theatre. Her recent album, “Cuff Clout” was reviewed in Downbeat magazine “Westbrook sets her witty and eccentric texts to bold and fascinating genre-crossing music.” Over the last 30 years saxophonist Chris Biscoe has featured in many leading ensembles, notably Chris McGregor’s Brotherhood of Breath, George Russell's Living Time Orchestra, and the Orchestre National de Jazz, based in Paris. As a soloist Chris works in a great variety of contexts, performing and recording with some of the finest UK musicians around. A composer in his own right he leads various ensembles and his current album Gone in The Air features Chris in partnership with fellow Award winning saxophonist Tony Kofi. The Trio is the longest established and most widely travelled of all of Mike’s ensembles. It’s combination of composition, song, and improvisation being at the heart of many of his projects, from the seminal Brass Band of the ‘70s to the current New Westbrook Orchestra. Of the Trio’s 20th Anniversary album “L’ascenseur/The Lift” Observer critic Dave Gelly wrote “No one has succeeded in creating a more distinctive body of work than Mike and Kate Westbrook. Their mixture of jazz, music-theatre, poetry, street entertainment and visuals is rich and unique. That just three people can create such a variety of sounds is hard to believe". The Trio's programme at the 606 will include Classic Theatre Songs by Cole Porter and Kurt Weill, originals, and some lesser known Jazz Standards. A rare chance to hear this combination in the intimate setting of the 606 Club.
“A showcase for the zestful, powerfully dramatic vocal style of one of the UK's most individual singers, Kate Westbrook - her extraordinary impact is best savoured live.” The Times “Mike Westbrook is a Master of jazz orchestration. He can suggest a carnival, a ballroom, or greasy back street with a few cunningly placed notes. The full effect is awe inspiring” The Observer “..Chris Biscoe is an inspiring and hard hitting saxophonist.” The Scotsman
Jackie sang in dance bands from the age of 17, until she got her break touring with Suzi Quattro. She had numerous top twenty records with several different groups before joining Shakatak, with whom she made 3 albums (two of which went gold!). Since leaving Shakatak, she has toured with and recorded vocals for numerous artists, including Gary Numan, Celine Dion, Cher, Elton John, Eric Clapton and many more besides!
Jaquii has just finished recording a solo album of soul, funk, gospel, blues and jazz songs with a spiritual, inspirational, and devotional nature to the lyrics. The album has led to her being described as “England’s Aretha”, and her powerful, soulful voice combined with her inspirational lyrics and attitude will make this gig quite special.
SAT 19th MARK CROOKSQUINTET featuring ROBERT FOWLER-sax
Mark is a very impressive musician, equally fluent on both tenor saxophone and clarinet. A stunning clarinet player Mark was was invited to play the part of Artie Shaw in a gala tribute concert in Dublin in 2006 that was so successful he was immediately invited back to perform the Benny Goodman role the following year! He has since then performed the repertoires of both these great musicians around the UK and Europe. Demonstrating his versatility his flowing, melodic, tenor sax playing is also a real joy and his bands always include some of the best players around. Tonight he features one of the country’s finest be-bop sax players, Robert Fowler, in a line up that echoes the great two tenor sax line up of the classic Jazz era, Zoot Sims and Al Cohn. Also featured tonight is the be-bop influenced piano playing of the excellent Leon Greening. A really musical gig from some of the best swinging musicians around.
“Mark Crooks…exceptional” BBC “Crooks takes on anything from hard bop to straight-ahead jazz as he demonstrates his sizable talents as a leader...” Jazzwise
This charismatic, powerhouse, Blues singer has established herself over recent years as one of the leading UK performers. Hugely respected on the Blues scene it is little surprise that she has been voted “Best UK Female Blues Vocalist” seven years in a row. Supported by a classic blues band this Liverpool based performer has an enviable reputation not just in the UK but all around Europe. It is a reflection of the high esteem with which she is held that she was chosen as one of the featured artists to launch Liverpool’s year as European Capital of Culture (just before Ringo Starr!). The Times report of that performance: “Connie Lush belted out I Put a Spell on You with a voice like a 3am whisky and enough electricity to power the national grid.” The Scotsman described her as
“….a battle scarred sandpaper edged cross between Tina Turner and Aretha Franklin, attacking barenuckle R&B and slow burn torch songs with equal power and passion”. Now that you can’t miss!
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CHRIS GARRICK. 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 Gordon his quartet’s cd, “Different Strokes” was described as “…the outstanding British album of the year..”. Sunday Times. And if all that wasn’t enough Nigel Kennedy, who turned up at one of Chris’s gigs at the Club recently, rates him as one of the best Jazz violinists in Europe. A true master of his instrument.
“..exquisite musician…violin superstar” Guardian.
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NIC FRANCE with JOHN PARRICELLI and PATRICK BETTISON.One of the most respected drummers of his generation it is with great pleasure that we welcome 606 Club regular Nic France to the Club with, for the first time, his own trio. A “first call” player for so many musicians Nic first came to London in the early 80’s and was quickly immersed in the Jazz scene, working with the likes of Ian Carr’s “Nucleus”, the iconic big band “Loose Tubes” and the Ronnie Scott Quintet. However his powerful playing and impeccable time and approach was soon picked up and it wasn’t long before he was working and touring with the likes of Bill Withers, Working Week and Tanita Tikaram. Since then he has worked constantly in an eclectic variety of musical settings, an excellent Jazz drummer he is also a brilliant “Groove” player, a skilled Latin player and one of the few modern jazz drummers who can also play authentic Brazilian rhythms, both on kit and percussion. As well as constant work on the Club, Festival and Concert circuit he also has had a formidable career in the studios and includes the likes of Pete Townsend, Thomas Dolby, Annie Lenox and Nigel Kennedy on a massive cv. To give some idea of his versatility his recent live work includes Pink Floyd’s Dave Gilmour, Jazz saxophonist Andy Shepard, South African Township band Mbawula, “Groove” icon Terry Callier and Julian Lloyd Webber’s “Boss Nova Band”. And of course he is best known at the Club as the regular drummer with the Jazz/Brazilian band “Samara”. Also featured in Nic’s trio tonight are guitarist John Parricelli and bass player Patrick Bettison.
“..this kind of music is critically dependent on pulse and Nic France’s drumming really floats the boat.” Jazzwise
GEOFF SIMKINSis one of those sax players who has been quietly plying his trade on the jazz scene for many years, and earning an enormous amount of respect from his fellow musician’s in the process. An alto sax player of great charm and melodic inventiveness Geoff performs in a style reminiscent of the great American “West Coast” players Lee Konitz and Paul Desmond (the man who wrote “Take Five”). This is a lovely laid back gig from one of the masters of melodic sax playing.
“relaxed, well constructed…small group interpretations” All About Jazz.
SPIKE WELLSAn 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. Also featured tonight is the wonderful pianist Barry Green.
A powerful and lyrical player, Paul is without doubt one of the leading saxophonists of his generation. A multi-award winner he includes a number of prestigious awards on his cv, including “Most promising young Jazz player”, “Best modern Jazz player” and the American “Clifford Brown/Stan Getz Award”. More recently he has toured the world as the featured saxophonist with the “Riverdance” show, worked with the likes of Eric Clapton and Matt Bianco and is currently a member of the Steve Winwood Band. The quintet that Paul is bringing to the Club tonight also features the wonderful pianist Phil Peskett, the fluent guitar playing of Phil Robson and the striking bass playing of Mike Janisch (Thur 3rd).Paul’s quintet performs Jazz standards and excellent originals in a relaxed and melodic style that is a joy to listen to.
“Blistering saxist” Independent “Exceptional talent” Sunday Times
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“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
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SAT 26th Christian Brewer with Special Guest JIM MULLEN.
Christian has now established himself as one of the most creative of the saxophonists who specialise in the “post-bop” style associated with the early sixties. He has a fluent, melodic, style which combined with a lovely, liquid, alto sound produces a wonderfully musical and highly enjoyable gig. Tonight Christian’s guest is one of the country’s finest Jazz guitarists, Jim Mullen. An iconic figure Jim has been a leading figure on the UK Jazz scene since the 80’s. Performing a mixture of Jazz standards and originals this is always a gig worth catching.
One of Europe’s great male jazz vocalists. Named Best Vocalist of the year twice(!) at the BBC Jazz Awards, multi Award Winning Ian Shaw is a huge talent with the most engaging personality and an ability to make every song his own. At the same time nobody slips more happily into rattling bebop with warmth, intelligence and swing. Described as “the voice of the decade” it is not by chance that he was the first British Jazz vocalist to be signed to an American label, Milestone, which resulted in a number of highly acclaimed US recordings. Watch out for his latest release on Splash Point Records “Somewhere Towards Love”, a fabulous collection of his original material, out now. Booking advised
“One of the scene's class acts..”The Guardian “..our finest Jazz singer” Time Out “an eye-watering vocal range and bucketloads of soul” BBC “an artist on top of his game” Jazzwise.
KAREN LANE. Ex pat Australian vocalist Karen Lane has made something of an impact on the UK scene since settling in London. Originally from Perth, Western Australia, she moved to Sydney in the early 90’s where she honed her skills with a variety of bands before forming her own band in 1993 to perform much of her original material. After 4 years of performing in Festivals, Clubs and Concert halls around Australia Karen moved to Singapore before finally making it to the UK in 1998. Since that time she has performed with some of the finest Jazz musicians around, including the likes of Tom Cawley (Acoustic Ladyland), Nic France (Dave Gilmour) and Robin Aspland (Van Morrison). She has performed at venues such as The Pizza Express Dean Street, Pizza on the Park, The Stables Theatre, Corsham Arts Festival, Southport International Jazz Festival and the Soho Jazz Festival. Currently with 4 albums to her name the music is an eclectic mix of Karen’s originals, Jazz standards and beautiful Brazilian classics. Also featured on the gig tonight will be Nigel Price - Guitar, Nic France - Drums and Andy Hamill - Bass.
“A lovely singer. Highly Recommended” Michael Parkinson, BBC Radio2
“…an engaging confluence of varicoloured moods and tender lyricism. The singer’s unfailingly intelligent and immensely subtle arrangements provide fresh perspectives on even the most well worn standards” Jazzwise; “Refreshingly good” Independent. www.karenlane.co.uk/
ALAN RUSHTONAlan’s drumming has been a feature of the British Jazz scene for more than 30 years now. His cv is vast, including stints with 60’s Jazz/Blues icon Graham Bond, resident drummer on T.V.’s “PlayAway (remember that!), Kiki Dee, Ray Russell, Slim Gailard and a host more. The quartet he leads features the powerful sax playing of Greg Heath and the music is very much in the swinging, classic, modern Jazz mould.
Multi award winning pianist Stan Tracey has been a pivotal figure on the British Jazz scene for more than 50 years. His influence and stature were nicely captured by the title of the recent BBC TV profile, “The Godfather of British Jazz”. A self taught musician by the early 60’s he was the “house” pianist at the original Ronnie Scott’s Club, in Soho. During this period he worked with many of the finest Jazz musicians in the world, establishing an international reputation in the process. Through the 60’s he produced a number of highly acclaimed works, including the “Under Milk Wood” suite and “Alice in Jazzland”. He embraced the turbulent era of 70s improvisation and free jazz, and throughout the 1980s and 90s his triumphant career as an interpreter, arranger and composer earned him the affectionate title of “The English Ellington”. Stan continues to write and work extensively, and it is with enormous pleasure that the 606 Club welcomes one of the greatest British Jazz musicians of all time.
“Stan Tracey....one of the greats of British Jazz” The Guardian