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Ian Shaw and Barry Green: sublime vocal and piano pairThe wonderful Georgia Mancio brings her quartet
and Derek Nash brings "Picanti" to Fleece Jazz.
Our doors open 7:30pm on Fridays
18 October, £18 buy Benn Clatworthy Quartet tickets
Benn Clatworthy Quartet
"Some of the most emotive and creative jazz this side of Sonny Rollins" * Edinburgh Evening News
Benn Clatworthy Tenor sax, John Donaldson Piano, Simon Thorpe Bass, Darren Beckett Drums
Benn was born in Hastings. He became a protégée of Ronny Scott on the London Jazz scene, and went on to study at Berkley College, Massachusetts. He settled in Los Angeles in 1980 and has remained on the Californian Jazz scene ever since. In the 80 Benn was in Horace Silver’s band, and since then he has played with many greats, including Cab Calloway, Cedar Walton - and the LA Philharmonic too. Benn shows hints of 50s Coltrane and of Sonny Rollins.
"a tough personal tone and a wide emotional range that extends from ballad tenderness to gladiatorial torrents of controlled aggression at fast tempos." - Chris Lee, Inside Jazz
Benn’s Fleece debut was in 2001. John & Simon are now his UK Quartet regulars.
Darren, is famous for his original, ground-breaking beats. He was born in Belfast and started on drums at the age of 4. After winning an award in his teens, he went to study Jazz in New York, where he still lives. He has performed round the world, including in the Carnegie and Royal Albert Halls.
John has appeared many times at Fleece Jazz. His previous performance was in July, leading Hexagonal. When a student, John was in the Cambridge Modern Jazz Club’s trio; frequently backing guest performers. He spent 11 years in California, but is now resident in Hastings.
Simon, is also resident near Hastings and was here with Hexagonal. His strong melodic double bass sound makes him is a Fleece favourite, He has appeared here with many of the other masters of jazz. He is plays and arranges for his own London swing band “Jivin' Miss Daisy”.
More Benn Clatworthy Quartet
Benn Clatworthy Tenor sax, John Donaldson Piano, Simon Thorpe Bass, Darren Beckett Drums
Benn was born in Hastings. He became a protégée of Ronny Scott on the London Jazz scene, and went on to study at Berkley College, Massachusetts. He settled in Los Angeles in 1980 and has remained on the Californian Jazz scene ever since. In the 80 Benn was in Horace Silver’s band, and since then he has played with many greats, including Cab Calloway, Cedar Walton - and the LA Philharmonic too. Benn shows hints of 50s Coltrane and of Sonny Rollins.
"a tough personal tone and a wide emotional range that extends from ballad tenderness to gladiatorial torrents of controlled aggression at fast tempos." - Chris Lee, Inside Jazz
Benn’s Fleece debut was in 2001. John & Simon are now his UK Quartet regulars.
Darren, is famous for his original, ground-breaking beats. He was born in Belfast and started on drums at the age of 4. After winning an award in his teens, he went to study Jazz in New York, where he still lives. He has performed round the world, including in the Carnegie and Royal Albert Halls.
John has appeared many times at Fleece Jazz. His previous performance was in July, leading Hexagonal. When a student, John was in the Cambridge Modern Jazz Club’s trio; frequently backing guest performers. He spent 11 years in California, but is now resident in Hastings.
Simon, is also resident near Hastings and was here with Hexagonal. His strong melodic double bass sound makes him is a Fleece favourite, He has appeared here with many of the other masters of jazz. He is plays and arranges for his own London swing band “Jivin' Miss Daisy”.
25 October, £18 buy A Portrait of Cannonball tickets
A Portrait of Cannonball
"An absolute blast, one of the most exciting gigs of the year … a brilliant all-round package."- London Jazz News
Alex Webb Piano, Tony Kofi Alto sax, Andy Davies Trumpet, Andy Cleyndert Bass. Alfonso Vitale Drums
Originally marking what would have been his 90th year in 2018, this live retrospective celebrates the music of one of the best-loved figures in post-war jazz, the legendary alto saxophonist, Julian ‘Cannonball’ Adderley.
A regular visitor to Fleece Jazz, Tony Kofi is a British jazz multi-instrumentalist, a player of the alto saxophone, baritone saxophone, soprano saxophone and flute. His fluent and fiery hard-bop style ensures that he is constantly in demand. He currently leads his own quartet as well as working with the ‘Organisation’ to perform hard-hitting blues, jazz and funk on baritone sax. Andy Davies comes from Swansea but is now based in London. He regularly performs at Ronnie Scotts jazz Club and often hosts the Ronnie Scott's Late-Night Jam Session. He leads his own quartet, which is a showcase for his composing.
Alex Webb is a songwriter and arranger, as well as a pianist. His songs have been recorded by jazz singers China Moses, Liane Carroll and Alexander Stewart, among others. He has created a number of 'words-and-music' productions, including 'Lush Life' (about Billy Strayhorn), 'Charlie Parker on Dial' and 'Cafe Society Swing'.
Andrew Cleyndert began playing bass while still at school before embarking on a musical career, backing jazzmen such as Peter King and Art Farmer. On moving to London, he began playing with Bobby Wellins, the Ronnie Scott Sextet and Quartet and for the much-missed Stan Tracey.
Alfonso Vitale started playing the drums at the age of three and became a regular fixture at his local jazz club ‘La Sosta’ in Messina, Italy, sitting in with visiting veteran stars like Bobby Watson and Kenny Barron. Soon after moving to the UK, he became a regular sideman with Renato D’Aiello at Ronnie Scott's Acoustic Jazz Lounge.
"Kofi’s spirited approach was supported by a tight rhythm section and Andy Davies, whose trumpet solos were sharp and clear." - Jazzwise
More A Portrait of Cannonball
Alex Webb Piano, Tony Kofi Alto sax, Andy Davies Trumpet, Andy Cleyndert Bass. Alfonso Vitale Drums
Originally marking what would have been his 90th year in 2018, this live retrospective celebrates the music of one of the best-loved figures in post-war jazz, the legendary alto saxophonist, Julian ‘Cannonball’ Adderley.
A regular visitor to Fleece Jazz, Tony Kofi is a British jazz multi-instrumentalist, a player of the alto saxophone, baritone saxophone, soprano saxophone and flute. His fluent and fiery hard-bop style ensures that he is constantly in demand. He currently leads his own quartet as well as working with the ‘Organisation’ to perform hard-hitting blues, jazz and funk on baritone sax. Andy Davies comes from Swansea but is now based in London. He regularly performs at Ronnie Scotts jazz Club and often hosts the Ronnie Scott's Late-Night Jam Session. He leads his own quartet, which is a showcase for his composing.
Alex Webb is a songwriter and arranger, as well as a pianist. His songs have been recorded by jazz singers China Moses, Liane Carroll and Alexander Stewart, among others. He has created a number of 'words-and-music' productions, including 'Lush Life' (about Billy Strayhorn), 'Charlie Parker on Dial' and 'Cafe Society Swing'.
Andrew Cleyndert began playing bass while still at school before embarking on a musical career, backing jazzmen such as Peter King and Art Farmer. On moving to London, he began playing with Bobby Wellins, the Ronnie Scott Sextet and Quartet and for the much-missed Stan Tracey.
Alfonso Vitale started playing the drums at the age of three and became a regular fixture at his local jazz club ‘La Sosta’ in Messina, Italy, sitting in with visiting veteran stars like Bobby Watson and Kenny Barron. Soon after moving to the UK, he became a regular sideman with Renato D’Aiello at Ronnie Scott's Acoustic Jazz Lounge.
"Kofi’s spirited approach was supported by a tight rhythm section and Andy Davies, whose trumpet solos were sharp and clear." - Jazzwise
1 November, £18 buy Calum Gourlay Quartet tickets
Calum Gourlay Quartet
Calum Gourlay is known for his deep warm tone and rock solid time and pulse.
Calum Gourlay Bass, Helena Kay Sax, Kieran McCloud Trombone, James Maddren Drums
Born in Glasgow, Calum Gourlay began his musical journey playing the cello and by the age of fourteen started the double bass. He became the first bassist selected for Tommy Smith Youth Jazz Orchestra and is now a mainstay on the London scene while performing with the Kit Downes Trio, The Tommy Smith Group and many other bands.
Fellow Scot, saxophonist Helena Kay , moved studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, graduating in 2016 She plays with various groups such Paul Towndrow’s Keywork Orchestra, Scottish National Jazz Orchestra, and has performed at various festivals.
Kieran McLeod is an award winning jazz trombonist and composer from Aberdeen. He graduated from the Royal Academy of Music’s Jazz course and is a current a member of the Jullian Argüelles Septet, Iain Ballamy’s Anorak XL and the Keith Tippett Octet. Kieran regularly tours the UK with his sextet, "New World".
James Maddren is a gifted drummer who studied with both Jim Hart and Martin France. He has, in recent years, become a ‘first call’ drummer of choice for both the younger and more established generation of jazz musicians in the UK such as Stan Sulzman, Michael Janisch, and Martin Speake. A talented young band who clearly illustrate the strength in depth in British Jazz today. An evening not to be missed.
More Calum Gourlay Quartet
Calum Gourlay Bass, Helena Kay Sax, Kieran McCloud Trombone, James Maddren Drums
Born in Glasgow, Calum Gourlay began his musical journey playing the cello and by the age of fourteen started the double bass. He became the first bassist selected for Tommy Smith Youth Jazz Orchestra and is now a mainstay on the London scene while performing with the Kit Downes Trio, The Tommy Smith Group and many other bands.
Fellow Scot, saxophonist Helena Kay , moved studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, graduating in 2016 She plays with various groups such Paul Towndrow’s Keywork Orchestra, Scottish National Jazz Orchestra, and has performed at various festivals.
Kieran McLeod is an award winning jazz trombonist and composer from Aberdeen. He graduated from the Royal Academy of Music’s Jazz course and is a current a member of the Jullian Argüelles Septet, Iain Ballamy’s Anorak XL and the Keith Tippett Octet. Kieran regularly tours the UK with his sextet, "New World".
James Maddren is a gifted drummer who studied with both Jim Hart and Martin France. He has, in recent years, become a ‘first call’ drummer of choice for both the younger and more established generation of jazz musicians in the UK such as Stan Sulzman, Michael Janisch, and Martin Speake. A talented young band who clearly illustrate the strength in depth in British Jazz today. An evening not to be missed.
8 November, £18 buy Simon Spillett Quartet tickets
Simon Spillett Quartet
“A miraculous player who sounds like a reincarnation of Tubby Hayes but with his own personality. Catch him wherever he is. Astounding!” - John Martin, The Jazz Rag
Simon Spillett Tenor sax, Rob Barron Piano. Alec Dankworth Bass, Spike Wells Drums
Encouraged by his semi-professional trombonist father, Simon Spillett studied music from early childhood. Early influences were John Coltrane, Johnny Griffin, Sonny Rollins and Ben Webster, although it was Tubby Hayes’ playing which created the biggest and most telling impression. After becoming a professional musician at 21, Simon built a strong reputation among peers and audiences with his inventive and original playing. He also writes knowledgably on jazz, especially British saxophonists, and his work has appeared in Jazz Journal International, Jazzwise and numerous CD liner notes.
Rob Barron started playing piano at the age of five. He moved to Leeds in 2000 to study Jazz at Leeds College of Music. During his time there he played with Bob Mintzer, Tim Garland and Soweto Kinch. He has played with many other jazz luminaries and with the BBC Big Band and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra.
A stalwart of the British jazz scene, Alec Dankworth is one of the best acoustic bass players around. Since the 1980s, Alec has worked with musicians from across genres including Nigel Kennedy, Dave Brubeck, Van Morrison and of course his parents John Dankworth and Cleo Laine.
Spike Wells took up playing drums in his early teens and was later tutored by Philly Joe Jones. In 1968, he joined the Tubby Hayes Quartet and continued playing with Hayes, in both his quartet and his big band, until the saxophonist's death in 1973. He also worked with many visiting soloists at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club, including Stan Getz, Roland Kirk, Joe Harriott, Art Farmer, Johnny Griffin and James Moody.
“. . . saxophone playing of the highest order, consistency of tone, infallible note production irrespective of tempo . . .” - Alun Morgan – Jazz Journal International
More Simon Spillett Quartet
Simon Spillett Tenor sax, Rob Barron Piano. Alec Dankworth Bass, Spike Wells Drums
Encouraged by his semi-professional trombonist father, Simon Spillett studied music from early childhood. Early influences were John Coltrane, Johnny Griffin, Sonny Rollins and Ben Webster, although it was Tubby Hayes’ playing which created the biggest and most telling impression. After becoming a professional musician at 21, Simon built a strong reputation among peers and audiences with his inventive and original playing. He also writes knowledgably on jazz, especially British saxophonists, and his work has appeared in Jazz Journal International, Jazzwise and numerous CD liner notes.
Rob Barron started playing piano at the age of five. He moved to Leeds in 2000 to study Jazz at Leeds College of Music. During his time there he played with Bob Mintzer, Tim Garland and Soweto Kinch. He has played with many other jazz luminaries and with the BBC Big Band and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra.
A stalwart of the British jazz scene, Alec Dankworth is one of the best acoustic bass players around. Since the 1980s, Alec has worked with musicians from across genres including Nigel Kennedy, Dave Brubeck, Van Morrison and of course his parents John Dankworth and Cleo Laine.
Spike Wells took up playing drums in his early teens and was later tutored by Philly Joe Jones. In 1968, he joined the Tubby Hayes Quartet and continued playing with Hayes, in both his quartet and his big band, until the saxophonist's death in 1973. He also worked with many visiting soloists at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club, including Stan Getz, Roland Kirk, Joe Harriott, Art Farmer, Johnny Griffin and James Moody.
“. . . saxophone playing of the highest order, consistency of tone, infallible note production irrespective of tempo . . .” - Alun Morgan – Jazz Journal International
15 November, £18
Nicolas Meier World Group
"The virtuosity is jaw-dropping and the sound is so big that you keep expecting to hear the roar of stadium applause. A real trip." - Hi-Fi Mag
Nicolas Meier Guitars, Richard Jones Violin, Kevin Glasgow Bass, Demi Garcia Percussion
In just a few short years, UK-based guitarist Nicolas Meier has carved out a reputation as one of the UK’s most original and uniquely talented guitarists. Drawing from a love of Turkish, Eastern & Middle Eastern music, Flamenco, Tango and more, Meier is one of the rising stars in a vibrant British jazz scene. His versatility and musical fluency extend well beyond that: his considerable talents drew the attention of rock guitar legend, Jeff Beck, who has since made Nicolas a mainstay in The Jeff Beck Group, with whom he played on two world tours during the last few years. His burning passion for both rock and jazz persists to this day.
Since his emergence on the UK jazz scene, violinist Richard Jones has been in demand as both a performer and studio musician, working with artists such as Gabrielle Ducomble, Christine Tobin and Robert Mitchell. Born in Wales and now based in London, he went on to study music in Bath, where he took time out to play with acclaimed British blues band ‘Kill It Kid’. Eager to expand his understanding and abilities in Jazz, he concluded his formal education in London at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.
Originally born in Scotland, bassist Kevin Glasgow has performed with Tommy Smith, Tim Garland and Clark Tracey, among others. He began playing bass guitar aged 16 before studying Popular Music at Napier University in Edinburgh and whilst there he played regularly on the Edinburgh jazz circuit.
Barcelona-born percussionist Demi Garcia has worked with a plethora of Flamenco artists, plus bassist Alec Dankworth's Spanish Accents and cellist Shirley Smart. He also teaches Cajon and Flamenco rhythms at the Flamenco Dance School in London.
"It’s rare to come across a musician whose vision for his instrument is so vastly expansive .... Even rarer still is finding a level of creative brilliance, precision delivered with conviction and authority" - Drumhead Magazine
More Nicolas Meier World Group
Nicolas Meier Guitars, Richard Jones Violin, Kevin Glasgow Bass, Demi Garcia Percussion
In just a few short years, UK-based guitarist Nicolas Meier has carved out a reputation as one of the UK’s most original and uniquely talented guitarists. Drawing from a love of Turkish, Eastern & Middle Eastern music, Flamenco, Tango and more, Meier is one of the rising stars in a vibrant British jazz scene. His versatility and musical fluency extend well beyond that: his considerable talents drew the attention of rock guitar legend, Jeff Beck, who has since made Nicolas a mainstay in The Jeff Beck Group, with whom he played on two world tours during the last few years. His burning passion for both rock and jazz persists to this day.
Since his emergence on the UK jazz scene, violinist Richard Jones has been in demand as both a performer and studio musician, working with artists such as Gabrielle Ducomble, Christine Tobin and Robert Mitchell. Born in Wales and now based in London, he went on to study music in Bath, where he took time out to play with acclaimed British blues band ‘Kill It Kid’. Eager to expand his understanding and abilities in Jazz, he concluded his formal education in London at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.
Originally born in Scotland, bassist Kevin Glasgow has performed with Tommy Smith, Tim Garland and Clark Tracey, among others. He began playing bass guitar aged 16 before studying Popular Music at Napier University in Edinburgh and whilst there he played regularly on the Edinburgh jazz circuit.
Barcelona-born percussionist Demi Garcia has worked with a plethora of Flamenco artists, plus bassist Alec Dankworth's Spanish Accents and cellist Shirley Smart. He also teaches Cajon and Flamenco rhythms at the Flamenco Dance School in London.
"It’s rare to come across a musician whose vision for his instrument is so vastly expansive .... Even rarer still is finding a level of creative brilliance, precision delivered with conviction and authority" - Drumhead Magazine
22 November, £18
Paul Higgs: Pavane
Trumpeter, pianist, composer Paul Higgs, has produced a gently atmospheric melange of classical, jazz and new age vignettes.
Paul Higgs Trumpet, Andy Watson Guitar, Chris Ingham Piano, Jerome Davies Bass. Natalie Rozario Cello, George Double Drums
Paul Higgs is one of the UK’s leading trumpet players and composers. Blending the traditions of classical and jazz, he has the rare ability to capture the most elusive of dreams in his music, expressing subtle emotions and bold exciting energy with equal ease. Guitarist Andy Watson is both player and educator. His experience as a session player includes live and TV work. As a solo artist he has performed nationally and internationally
A regular visitor to the Fleece Chris Ingham has lead over 150 performances of his Hoagy Carmichael, Dudley Moore and Stan Getz repertoire projects all over the UK. He is also a TV composer and a record producer. Jerome Davies loves all sorts of music. As well as performing on double bass and bass guitar he can occasionally be heard playing trumpet, piano and keyboards, guitar, harmonica, recorder and banjo.
Prize-winning cellist Natalie Rozario is known for her versatility and musicality. She studied at the Royal Academy of Music with David Strange and William Pleeth (who famously taught Jacqueline du Pré).
Another club regular and supporter, Drummer George Double is very active on the British jazz scene and appears regularly at Ronnie Scott’s club in London and elsewhere.
In frenetic times Pavane escorts the listener to a softly lit secluded space, with music to soothe and salve the mind and body.
More Paul Higgs: Pavane
Paul Higgs Trumpet, Andy Watson Guitar, Chris Ingham Piano, Jerome Davies Bass. Natalie Rozario Cello, George Double Drums
Paul Higgs is one of the UK’s leading trumpet players and composers. Blending the traditions of classical and jazz, he has the rare ability to capture the most elusive of dreams in his music, expressing subtle emotions and bold exciting energy with equal ease. Guitarist Andy Watson is both player and educator. His experience as a session player includes live and TV work. As a solo artist he has performed nationally and internationally
A regular visitor to the Fleece Chris Ingham has lead over 150 performances of his Hoagy Carmichael, Dudley Moore and Stan Getz repertoire projects all over the UK. He is also a TV composer and a record producer. Jerome Davies loves all sorts of music. As well as performing on double bass and bass guitar he can occasionally be heard playing trumpet, piano and keyboards, guitar, harmonica, recorder and banjo.
Prize-winning cellist Natalie Rozario is known for her versatility and musicality. She studied at the Royal Academy of Music with David Strange and William Pleeth (who famously taught Jacqueline du Pré).
Another club regular and supporter, Drummer George Double is very active on the British jazz scene and appears regularly at Ronnie Scott’s club in London and elsewhere.
In frenetic times Pavane escorts the listener to a softly lit secluded space, with music to soothe and salve the mind and body.
29 November, £18
Tom Green Septet
"Some of the most exciting original music I've heard for a long time" Dame Cleo Laine
"A kaleidoscope of harmony that is not only phenomenally skilful, but absorbing and endlessly entertaining, too" - Dave Gelly, ****
Tom Green Trombone, James Davidson Trumpet/flugel, Tommy Andrews Alto/soprano sax, Sam Miles Tenor sax, Sam James Piano. Misha Mullov-Abbado Bass, Scott Chapman Drums
Winner of the 2013 Dankworth Prize for Jazz Composition and many other awards, Tom Green is a trombonist, composer and arranger described as "a new rising star in the British jazz scene" by Nigel Williams (Jazz FM). His current main project is the Tom Green Septet, who released their debut album "Skyline" in February 2015 to unanimous critical acclaim.
James Davidson won the Jazz Young Musician award last year. He studied Classical Trumpet at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and is currently studying for a Masters in Jazz Performance at The Royal Academy of Music. Alongside his studies, James regularly performs with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Concert Orchestra, the Syd Lawrence Orchestra and Pete Long’s ‘Jazz at the Philharmonic’ band. He runs his own dixieland jazz band – The Dixie Strollers.
Tommy Andrews is an award-winning multi-instrumentalist, composer and educator. Graduating from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama with a First Class degree in Jazz saxophone, he is now sculpting a varied and busy career. As a bandleader and composer, his first major mark on the U.K. contemporary jazz scene came about with his ‘smart, sophisticated’ (John Fordham, The Guardian) ‘mature’ (All About Jazz) ‘cinematic’ (AP Reviews) and ‘cool and collected’ (Ivan Hewitt, The Telegraph) album release ‘The Crux’ (2014, Jellymould Jazz).
Royal Academy nominated Sam Miles for a Yamaha Scholarship an event hosted by the All Party Parliamentary Jazz Appreciation Group. Apart from the scholarship certificate, the scholars are given a financial award to help start their careers and the opportunity to record for a CD given away with Jazzwise magazine.
Sam James has been establishing himself on the British Jazz Scene over the last few years having performed at many renowned venues such as Ronnie Scotts, Pizza Express, The Forge, Kings Place, and Queen Elizabeth Hall. He has been seen playing with many great musicians of other generations such as Clark Tracey, Paul Clarvis, Bobby Wellins, Gene Calderazzo, Geoff Simkins, Steve Watts and many more.
Winner of the 2014 Kenny Wheeler Jazz Prize, Misha Mullov-Abbado is an in-demand bass player, composer and arranger based in London. He is a 2017 BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artist, a 2014 City of Music Foundation Artist and has released two albums on Edition Records as a band-leader and composer; Cross-Platform Interchange (2017) and New Ansonia (2015), both of which have been extremely well-received. The latter was “Best Jazz Albums of 2015” by The Telegraph and BBC Radio 3.
Ever since taking to a marching drum-styled biscuit tin at the age of 18 months and beating time along to the radio, Scott Chapman has had a passion for music and playing drums. He grew up in North West London initially playing in church and with local big bands, picking up professional gigging experience when he joined the National Youth Jazz Orchestra. At sixteen he was NYJO’s principal drummer including a broadcast BBC Proms concert at the Royal Albert Hall. Scott was the recipient of the Humphrey Lyttelton Award in 2013 and a Yamaha Jazz Scholarship the following year.
"A band with big sound, and big prospects" - John Fordham, the Guardian
"Mighty impressive... this band is one to look out for" - Ivan Hewett, the Telegraph
More Tom Green Septet
"A kaleidoscope of harmony that is not only phenomenally skilful, but absorbing and endlessly entertaining, too" - Dave Gelly, ****
Tom Green Trombone, James Davidson Trumpet/flugel, Tommy Andrews Alto/soprano sax, Sam Miles Tenor sax, Sam James Piano. Misha Mullov-Abbado Bass, Scott Chapman Drums
Winner of the 2013 Dankworth Prize for Jazz Composition and many other awards, Tom Green is a trombonist, composer and arranger described as "a new rising star in the British jazz scene" by Nigel Williams (Jazz FM). His current main project is the Tom Green Septet, who released their debut album "Skyline" in February 2015 to unanimous critical acclaim.
James Davidson won the Jazz Young Musician award last year. He studied Classical Trumpet at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and is currently studying for a Masters in Jazz Performance at The Royal Academy of Music. Alongside his studies, James regularly performs with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Concert Orchestra, the Syd Lawrence Orchestra and Pete Long’s ‘Jazz at the Philharmonic’ band. He runs his own dixieland jazz band – The Dixie Strollers.
Tommy Andrews is an award-winning multi-instrumentalist, composer and educator. Graduating from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama with a First Class degree in Jazz saxophone, he is now sculpting a varied and busy career. As a bandleader and composer, his first major mark on the U.K. contemporary jazz scene came about with his ‘smart, sophisticated’ (John Fordham, The Guardian) ‘mature’ (All About Jazz) ‘cinematic’ (AP Reviews) and ‘cool and collected’ (Ivan Hewitt, The Telegraph) album release ‘The Crux’ (2014, Jellymould Jazz).
Royal Academy nominated Sam Miles for a Yamaha Scholarship an event hosted by the All Party Parliamentary Jazz Appreciation Group. Apart from the scholarship certificate, the scholars are given a financial award to help start their careers and the opportunity to record for a CD given away with Jazzwise magazine.
Sam James has been establishing himself on the British Jazz Scene over the last few years having performed at many renowned venues such as Ronnie Scotts, Pizza Express, The Forge, Kings Place, and Queen Elizabeth Hall. He has been seen playing with many great musicians of other generations such as Clark Tracey, Paul Clarvis, Bobby Wellins, Gene Calderazzo, Geoff Simkins, Steve Watts and many more.
Winner of the 2014 Kenny Wheeler Jazz Prize, Misha Mullov-Abbado is an in-demand bass player, composer and arranger based in London. He is a 2017 BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artist, a 2014 City of Music Foundation Artist and has released two albums on Edition Records as a band-leader and composer; Cross-Platform Interchange (2017) and New Ansonia (2015), both of which have been extremely well-received. The latter was “Best Jazz Albums of 2015” by The Telegraph and BBC Radio 3.
Ever since taking to a marching drum-styled biscuit tin at the age of 18 months and beating time along to the radio, Scott Chapman has had a passion for music and playing drums. He grew up in North West London initially playing in church and with local big bands, picking up professional gigging experience when he joined the National Youth Jazz Orchestra. At sixteen he was NYJO’s principal drummer including a broadcast BBC Proms concert at the Royal Albert Hall. Scott was the recipient of the Humphrey Lyttelton Award in 2013 and a Yamaha Jazz Scholarship the following year.
"A band with big sound, and big prospects" - John Fordham, the Guardian
"Mighty impressive... this band is one to look out for" - Ivan Hewett, the Telegraph
6 December, £22
Sarah Jane Morris and Tony Remy: Sweet Little Mystery
Sarah Jane sings the songs of John Martyn.
This amazing singer is a Diva for our time. Her voice is a force of nature.
"One of the finest of improvisational jazz voices and most fluid of intricate guitarists has joined their supple skills together to create a supreme homage to one of folk/jazz’s more colourful personalities." ★★★★★ - Paul Davies, The Express
Sarah Jane Morris Vocals/Arrangements, Tony Remy Guitars/Vocals/Arrangements, Tim Cansfield Guitars/Vocals
Sarah Jane Morris has said that John Martyn formed the backdrop to her teenage years. So it is little surprise that she started a project, with Tony Remy, (her talented collaborator on Bloody Rain), to explore the music of of a man she describes as a "purveyor of truth." A decade after Martyn's untimely death, they produced a five track sampler and started to tour the evolving re-imagined pieces, This now extends to a full show and an 11 track CD.
The critical response is phenomenal – galaxies of stars, some from media that usually stay light years from anything with the wiff of jazz about it. The Daily Mirror yelled "a triumph... an album that goes far beyond a tribute to one of the great songbooks of its era." Clive Davis, in The Times wrote “while others treat songs as mere technical vehicles, she speaks to the soul” and Jane Cornwell, Evening Standard, contributed "an incandescent homage." ★★★★★★★★★★★★★ from these 3 alone.
The public, I suspect, were way ahead of them and the tour has been adding gigs at a deservedly rapid rate. 12 sold-out shows in Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Lustrum Award for "great Festival moments" confirmed what Fleece audiences already know; Sarah Jane, Tony and Tim are superb performers who touch your very heart and soul.
This will be Sarah Jane's 21st visit to the Fleece in 21 years. Whilst she is “at home” with us and it would be good to claim we have grown up together, in truth we have long been struggling to keep up with her stellar trajectory.
Suprisingly, perhaps, Tony Remy, secured his first Fleece gig as a leader in July 1998, six months before Sarah Jane found Boxford. He was recognised, even then, as a fine exponent of funk and brought with him one Roger Beajolais. Tony was born to be a musician, although none of his family were musical. He was at school with Winston Clifford where he played recorder, flute, saxophone and piano before nearly moving to violin, but fortunately switched to guitar instead, because it was bigger! Such a fine guitarist, noted for "quicksilver guitar licks and gloriously uplifting gospel/funk" grooves (The Fountain), a man "too cool to sweat" (SJM) surely deserves another Fleece gig with his own band.
Trinidad born Tim Cansfield is no passenger in this enterprise. Watch out for some fine solos, sharp guitar exchanges with Tony, some lovely vocals, probably a bit of humour and realise that he is integral, if often unremarked, like the fuel pump in a car!
One John Martyn song in particular has been part of their repertoire for some time, and should provide a chance to exercise our own voices with passion. Gig notes usually end with a quote. In these difficult times, there surely can be none better than: "I don't want to know about evil Only want to know about love." - John Martyn.
Come, celebrate 21 Sarah Jane years at the Fleece and join the chorus.
More Sarah Jane Morris and Tony Remy: Sweet Little Mystery
This amazing singer is a Diva for our time. Her voice is a force of nature.
"One of the finest of improvisational jazz voices and most fluid of intricate guitarists has joined their supple skills together to create a supreme homage to one of folk/jazz’s more colourful personalities." ★★★★★ - Paul Davies, The Express
Sarah Jane Morris Vocals/Arrangements, Tony Remy Guitars/Vocals/Arrangements, Tim Cansfield Guitars/Vocals
Sarah Jane Morris has said that John Martyn formed the backdrop to her teenage years. So it is little surprise that she started a project, with Tony Remy, (her talented collaborator on Bloody Rain), to explore the music of of a man she describes as a "purveyor of truth." A decade after Martyn's untimely death, they produced a five track sampler and started to tour the evolving re-imagined pieces, This now extends to a full show and an 11 track CD.
The critical response is phenomenal – galaxies of stars, some from media that usually stay light years from anything with the wiff of jazz about it. The Daily Mirror yelled "a triumph... an album that goes far beyond a tribute to one of the great songbooks of its era." Clive Davis, in The Times wrote “while others treat songs as mere technical vehicles, she speaks to the soul” and Jane Cornwell, Evening Standard, contributed "an incandescent homage." ★★★★★★★★★★★★★ from these 3 alone.
The public, I suspect, were way ahead of them and the tour has been adding gigs at a deservedly rapid rate. 12 sold-out shows in Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Lustrum Award for "great Festival moments" confirmed what Fleece audiences already know; Sarah Jane, Tony and Tim are superb performers who touch your very heart and soul.
This will be Sarah Jane's 21st visit to the Fleece in 21 years. Whilst she is “at home” with us and it would be good to claim we have grown up together, in truth we have long been struggling to keep up with her stellar trajectory.
Suprisingly, perhaps, Tony Remy, secured his first Fleece gig as a leader in July 1998, six months before Sarah Jane found Boxford. He was recognised, even then, as a fine exponent of funk and brought with him one Roger Beajolais. Tony was born to be a musician, although none of his family were musical. He was at school with Winston Clifford where he played recorder, flute, saxophone and piano before nearly moving to violin, but fortunately switched to guitar instead, because it was bigger! Such a fine guitarist, noted for "quicksilver guitar licks and gloriously uplifting gospel/funk" grooves (The Fountain), a man "too cool to sweat" (SJM) surely deserves another Fleece gig with his own band.
Trinidad born Tim Cansfield is no passenger in this enterprise. Watch out for some fine solos, sharp guitar exchanges with Tony, some lovely vocals, probably a bit of humour and realise that he is integral, if often unremarked, like the fuel pump in a car!
One John Martyn song in particular has been part of their repertoire for some time, and should provide a chance to exercise our own voices with passion. Gig notes usually end with a quote. In these difficult times, there surely can be none better than: "I don't want to know about evil Only want to know about love." - John Martyn.
Come, celebrate 21 Sarah Jane years at the Fleece and join the chorus.
13 December, £18
David Newton Trio
"The One and Only" is back with this stunning Trio.
David Newton Piano, Simon Thorpe Bass, Winston Clifford Drums
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David Newton Piano, Simon Thorpe Bass, Winston Clifford Drums
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20 December, £18
Kevin Flanagan Quartet
Acoustic jazz of the highest order! From burning groovey jams and blues to atmospheric jazz.
Kevin Flanagan Tenor sax, David Gordon Piano, Tom Hooper Drums, Joel Humann Bass
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More Kevin Flanagan Quartet
Kevin Flanagan Tenor sax, David Gordon Piano, Tom Hooper Drums, Joel Humann Bass
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27 December, £25
Alan Barnes Octet
"Mr Music" himself returns with his Octet to amaze and delight us.
Alan Barnes Saxes, Robert Fowler Sax, Karen Sharpe Sax, Bruce Adams Trumpet, Mark nightingale Trombone, Dave Newton Piano, Simon Thorpe Bass, Clark Tracey Drums
More information soon...
More Alan Barnes Octet
Alan Barnes Saxes, Robert Fowler Sax, Karen Sharpe Sax, Bruce Adams Trumpet, Mark nightingale Trombone, Dave Newton Piano, Simon Thorpe Bass, Clark Tracey Drums
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