Gigs since 1996 (and a few before)

The fleece has hosted almost 1000 Gigs in 27 years. We have had a web
presence for a few years now, long enough to require that older information
about past gigs be kept separately. They are kept in reverse chronological
order.

From late September 2002, archived information contains the original
programme information, followed by any changes made to personnel
or other matters. Previous to this, things were a bit mixed, with
most gigs shown as in the brochure, and a few with modifications.

With Patrick Iredale’s help, we are beginning to fill in the pre-1996 information. It will
be under construction for some time to come.

1993
1996 1997
1998 1999
2000 2001
2002 2003
2004 2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019

Old friends and a few new ones: we loved their music in Spring 2019

2019 4 January, £18 – Chris Ingham and Mark Crooks – Getz: A Musical Portrait
2019 11 January, £20 – Toni Kofi and the Organisation: Point Blank
2019 18 January, £18 – Nigel Price Quartet
2019 25 January, £18 – Alan Barnes Quartet
2019 1 February, £16 – Basil Hodge Quartet
2019 8 February, £18 – Chris Bowden Quintet featuring Bryan Corbett: “Unlikely Being”
2019 15 February, £20 – Deelee Dubé and Renato D’Aliello
2019 22 February, £20 – Clark Tracey Quintet: “No Doubt”
2019 1 March, £18 – John Turville Quintet featuring Julian Arguelles
2019 15 March, £18 – Steve Fishwick Quartet
2019 22 March, £20 – John East Project
2019 29 March, £18 – Sean Khan Quartet
2019 5 April, £20 – Fletch’s Brew
2019 12 April, £18 – Sara Oschlag Quartet
2019 19 April, £20 – Ant Law Quintet
2019 26 April, £18 – Christian Brewer Quartet

Autumn 2018 was great with music from around the world

2018 14 September, £25 – Sarah-Jane Morris and Antonio Forcione
2018 21 September, £18 – Kate Williams Quartet
2018 28 September, £15 – Jon Shenoy
2018 5 October, £18 – Paul Booth Quartet
2018 12 October, £18 – Joanna Eden Quartet: Embraceable Ella
2018 19 October, £15 – Frank Harrison + Brigitte Beraha: The Way Home
2018 2 November, £18 – Andrew McCormack’s Graviton
2018 9 November, £15 – Elina Duni & Rob Luft Duo featuring Fred Thomas
2018 16 November, £20 – Tina May
2018 23 November, £16 – African Jazz Quintet
2018 30 November, £16 – Talinka
2018 7 December, £16 – Sarah Gillespie
2018 14 December, £20 – Liane Carroll
2018 28 December, £25 – Sax Appeal

Summer 2018 blessed with great music from around the world

2018 4 May, £18 – Chris Allard Band
2018 11 May, £18 – Fishwick Brothers play Cedar Walton and Duke Pearson
2018 18 May, £16 – Luca Santaniello Quartet: tribute to Philly Joe Jones
2018 25 May, £15 – David Gordon Trio
2018 1 June, £20 – QCBA: Quentin and Brandon
2018 8 June, £18 – Sirkis/Bialas International Quartet
2018 15 June, £16 – Roger Beaujolais Quartet
2018 Sunday, 24 June, £20 – Jacqui Dankworth at the Ipswich Jazz Festival
buy tickets (from the New Wolsey Theatre)
2018 29 June, £16 – Freddie Gavita Quartet
2018 13 July, £18 – Chris Ingham’s Dudley Moore Show
2018 27 July, £16 – Rob Barron Quartet
2018 10 August, £18 – Fletch’s Brew
2018 24 August, £18 – Georgia Mancio Quartet

Spring 2018 was special

2018 5 January, £20 – Derek Nash/Rod Pooley Drawtones
2018 12 January, £15 – Michael Spearman Trio
2018 19 January, £16 – Georgina Jackson
2018 26 January, £16 – Bryan Corbett
2018 2 February, £18 – Charlie Wood Band
2018 9 February, £16 – Mick Foster Sextet Celebrating Gerry Mulligan
2018 16 February, £16 – Percy Pursglove/John O’Gallagher Quartet
2018 23 February, £18 – Martin Speake Quartet
2018 2 March, £0 – no gig
2018 Sunday, 4 March, £25 – Sunday pm Alec Dankworth All Star Quintet and Georgia Mancio/Chris Allard Duo
2018 9 March, £0 – no gig
2018 16 March, £20 – Julian Siegel
2018 23 March, £18 – Pete Oxley & Nicolas Meier
2018 30 March, £16 – Matt Wates Sextet
2018 6 April, £18 – Ed Jones
2018 13 April, £15 – John Law’s Recreations
2018 20 April, £18 – Gill Manly
2018 27 April, £20 – Barb Jungr

Lots of wonderful music ending in a stunner with Ian Shaw

2017 1 September, £18 – Clark Tracey: tribute to Stan Tracey’s Hexad
2017 8 September, £18 – Brandon Allen’s Gene Ammons Project
2017 15 September, £15 – Jam Experiment
2017 22 September, £0 – No Gig Tonight
2017 29 September, £15 – The Paper Jam Duo
2017 6 October, £20 – Derek Nash: Protect the Beat
2017 13 October, £18 – The Meier/Budjana Group
2017 20 October, £18 – Sara Dowling and Tommaso Starace: Nancy goes Cannonball
2017 27 October, £15 – Steve Waterman
2017 3 November, £15 – Dave O’Higgins Quartet
2017 10 November, £0 – No gig tonight…
2017 17 November, £15 – Eyal Lovett
2017 24 November, £16 – Quentin Collins Quartet
2017 1 December, £15 – Josephine Davies: Satori
2017 8 December, £18 – The Spirit of Trane: Gilad Atzmon & the OHE
2017 15 December, £0 – No gig tonight…
2017 Wednesday, 20 December, £20 – Ian Shaw and Barry Green

Superb gigs at Stoke by Nayland and a beauty at New Wolsey Theatre

2017 12 May, £15 – Alex Merritt
2017 19 May, £16 – Partisans
2017 26 May, £15 – Jonathan Gee Trio
2017 9 June, £15 – Mark Lewandowski Trio: Tribute to Fats Waller
2017 16 June, £18 – Sam Eagles Sextet
2017 Sunday, 25 June, £20 – Paul Lacey’s Back to Basie Big Band at the New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich
2017 7 July, £18 – Fletch’s Brew
2017 21 July, £18 – Sue Richardson: The Music of Clifford Brown
2017 28 July, £18 – Tony Kofi and the Organization
2017 4 August, £18 – Odette
2017 18 August, £15 – Kevin Fitzsimmons

2017 started with the bang of Fletch’s Brew to lead off a strong season.

2017 6 January, £18 – Fletch’s Brew
2017 13 January, £16 – Pavillon
2017 20 January, £18 – Ben Crosland Quintet plays The Ray Davies Songbook
2017 27 January, £15 – Phil Hopkins’ Toots Thielmans Tribute
2017 3 February, £16 – Damon Brown’s International Quintet
2017 10 February, £18 – Brandon Allen Sextet
2017 17 February, £15 – Will Butterworth Quartet
2017 24 February, £0 – NO GIG TONIGHT
2017 3 March, £15 – Josh Kemp Hammond Organ Band
2017 10 March, £15 – Sam Crockatt Quartet
2017 17 March, £0 – NO GIG TONIGHT
2017 24 March, £18 – Tim Kliphuis
2017 31 March, £18 – John East Project
2017 7 April, £15 – Solstice, featuring John Turville
2017 14 April, £0 – NO GIG TONIGHT
2017 21 April, £18 – Theo Travis: Double Talk
2017 28 April, £15 – Nicholas Meier and Pete Oxley

Autumn culminating in the Christmas show to end all others

2016 9 September, £20 – Ryan Quigley Quintet
2016 16 September, £15 – Alison Rayner Quintet
2016 23 September, £15 – Kate Shortt
2016 30 September, £20 – Barb Jungr
2016 7 October, £18 – Tony Kofi & The sation
2016 14 October, £15 – Chris Allard
2016 21 October, £0 – A NIGHT OFF!
2016 28 October, £15 – Tassos Spiliotopoulos
2016 4 November, £18 – Jay Phelps
2016 11 November, £15 – Alice Zawadzki Trio
2016 18 November, £18 – Paul Baxter: Seven pieces of silver
2016 25 November, £18 – Jeff Williams Quartet
2016 2 December, £18 – Jazz At The Movies
2016 9 December, £15 – Sarah Gillespie Quartet
2016 16 December, £20 – Sarah Jane Morris
2016 23 December, £20 – The Alan Barnes Octet – Sorry, sold out!

A summer with a special fundraising gig for refugees

2016 6 May, £15 – Georgina Jackson
2016 13 May, £18 – Gilad Atzmon and Alan Barnes: Lowest Common Denominator
2016 20 May, £20 – Antonio Forcione
2016 27 May, £15 – John Law New Congregation
2016 3 June, £15 – Philip Clouts Quartet
2016 10 June, £16 – James Pearson
2016 17 June, £18 – John Etheridge and Vimala Rowe
2016 24 June, £20 – Liane Carroll
2016 1 July, £15 – Don Weller
2016 Sunday, 10 July, £20 – Side by Side with Refugees Fundraiser
2016 15 July, £15 – Nigel Price Trio + 1
2016 29 July, £15 – Asaf Sirkis International Quartet
2016 12 August, £15 – Robert Habermann Sings Berlin
2016 26 August, £18 – Derek Nash Sax Appeal

A beautiful start to the January/April 2016 season

2016 1 January, £15 – Horn Factory
2016 8 January, £18 – Fletch’s Brew
2016 15 January, £15 – Theo Travis Double Talk Quartet
2016 22 January, £15 – Alex Merritt Quartet featuring John Turville
2016 29 January, £18 – Derek Nash Acoustic Quartet
2016 5 February, £15 – David Gordon’s Alex Scriabin Ragtime Band
2016 12 February, £15 – Zoe Francis & Jim li>
2016 19 February, £18 – Mike Paxton Quintet
2016 26 February, £18 – Renato D’et & Deela>
2016 4 March, £15 – Marc Cecil Quintet
2016 11 March, £18 – Marlene VerPlanck
2016 18 March, £15 – Oh La La
2016 25 March, £18 – Zoe Rahman
2016 1 April, £15 – Pete Churchill and Mishka Adams
2016 8 April, £15 – Matt Ridley Quartet
2016 15 April, £15 – Bryan Corbett Quartet
2016 22 April, £15 – Matt Anderson Wild Flower Sextet
2016 29 April, £0 – Cancellation: Dennis Rollins Velocity Trio

Wonderful music all through September/December 2015

2015 4 September, £16 – John Critchinson: “Ronnie Remembered”
2015 11 September, £16 – Big Screen Trio
2015 18 September, £15 – Georgia Mancio
2015 25 September, £15 – Peter King Quartet
2015 2 October, £18 – Jazz At The Movies
2015 9 October, £16 – Gareth Lockrane’s Grooveyard Unplugged
2015 16 October, £15 – Theo Jackson Quartet
2015 23 October, £15 – Phil Meadows Group: Lifecycle Tour
2015 30 October, £16 – Sarah Gillespie, featuring Tom Cawley
2015 6 November, £15 – Maciek Pysz Trio
2015 13 November, £16 – Geoff Mason Sextet: Tribute to Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers
2015 20 November, £18 – Tina May Quartet featuring Nikki Iles
2015 27 November, £18 – Simon Spillett Quartet
2015 4 December, £20 – Ian Shaw and Sarah Jane Morris
2015 11 December, £18 – Alex Garnett Jazz Ambassadors
2015 18 December, £15 – African Jazz Quintet
2015 Wednesday, 30 December, £16 – Alan Barnes Quintet

May to August 2015 had huge high spots

2015 1 May, £16 – Ant Law Quintet
2015 8 May, £16 – Jim Hart’s Cloudmaker Trio
2015 22 May, £20 – Barb Jungr: This Wheel’s On Fire
2015 5 June, £15 – Will Butterworth
2015 12 June, £15 – The John East Project
2015 Friday, 19 June, £24 – Clare Teal at The New Wolsey Theatre – Sorry, sold out!
2015 3 July, £16 – Jacqui Hicks Quintet
2015 10 July, £16 – Mark Crooks Quartet
2015 24 July, £16 – Kevin Flanagan: Rip-Rap
2015 7 August, £15 – Robert Habermann Sings Gershwin
2015 21 August, £16 – Basil Hodge Quintet: Ten Pieces of Silver

January to April 2015 gave us some of the best gigs in years.

2015 2 January, £16 – Fletch’li>
2015 9 January, £15 – Alex Garnett
2015 16 January, £15 – OH LA LA
2015 23 January, £15 – Don Weller Quartet
2015 30 January, £18 – Simon Spillett: Tubby’s Anniversary
2015 6 February, £16 – Tammy Weis
2015 13 February, £15 – Pete Oxley and Nicolas Meier
2015 20 February, £15 – Robin Phillips Trio
2015 27 February, £15 – Josh Kemp Quartet
2015 6 March, £16 – Christine Tobin: It Might as Well be Spring
2015 13 March, £16 – Tim Whitehead
2015 20 March, £18 – The Derek Nash Picante Latin Band
2015 27 March, £15 – Tom Green Septet
2015 3 April, £18 – Liane Carroll, Solo
2015 10 April, £15 – Chris Ingham Quartet – Celebrating Hoagy
2015 17 April, £16 – Bryan Corbett Quartet
2015 Friday, 24 April, £22 – Kyle Eastwood – Sorry, sold out!

September to December 2014 gave us pleasure and power

2014 5 September, £20 – Dylan Howe’s Subterranean, with special guest Andy Sheppard
2014 12 September, £15 – Alec Dankworth World Jazz Trio
2014 19 September, £18 – Sarah Gillespie
2014 26 September, £18 – Dennis Rollins Velocity Trio
2014 3 October, £15 – Ben Crosland’s Threeway
2014 10 October, £15 – Sarah Moule
2014 17 October, £18 – Damon Brown Quintet featuring Fredrik Carlquist tenor sax
2014 24 October, £15 – Jazz at the Movies
2014 31 October, £18 – Partisans
2014 7 November, £18 – Tim Richards HEXTET featuring Dick Pearce and Ed Jones
2014 14 November, £15 – Paul Baxter’s EYESHUTIGHT Trio
2014 21 November, £16 – Katya Gorrie: The Moscow Drug Club
2014 28 November, £15 – Jim Mullen Organ Trio
2014 5 December, £16 – Gilad Atzmon Power Cats
2014 12 December, £20 – Sarah Jane Morris
2014 19 December, £18 – Ian Shaw

May to August 2014 was a delight, with a wee break

2014 2 May, £16 – Karen Sharp Quartet
2014 9 May, £15 – Frank Harrison Trio
2014 16 May, £18 – Spike Heatley Trio with Art Themen
2014 23 May, £16 – Gilad Atzmon: The Spirit of Coltrane
2014 30 May, £15 – Jon Lloyd Quintet
2014 6 June, £15 – Gabrielle Ducomble Quintet
2014 13 June, £16 – Phil Robson New Organ Trio with Ross Stanley
2014 20 June, £16 – Derek Nash’s Acoustic Quartet with David Newton
2014 27 June, £15 – Basil Hodge
2014 4 July, £18 – Clark Tracey Quintet
2014 11 July, £15 – Frank Williams African Jazz Quintet
2014 18 July, £15 – Gabriel Garrick
2014 25 July, £15 – Kevin Flanagan’et
2014 1 August, £15 – Will Butterworth Quartet
2014 8 August, £0 – Summer Break
2014 15 August, £0 – Summer Break
2014 22 August, £15 – The Horn Factory
2014 29 August, £16 – Loz Speyer – Time Zone

January to April 2014 was a great season.

2014 3 January, £22 – Jacqui Dankworth & Trio
2014 10 January, £20 – Cubana Bop Octet Jazz On The Latin Side
2014 17 January, £16 – Simon Spillett Quintet – Standard Miles
2014 24 January, £15 – Katie Brown Quintet featuring Leon Greening
2014 31 January, £16 – Sue Richardson Quintet featuring Richard Shepherd
2014 7 February, £15 – Bryan Corbett and Chris Dodd – Green Quartet
2014 14 February, £15 – Ed Jones Quartet
2014 21 February, £15 – Laura Zakian & Trio
2014 28 February, £15 – John Law’s Boink!
2014 7 March, £15 – RIP RAP QUARTET
2014 14 March, £16 – Tammy Weis & Tom li>
2014 21 March, £18 – Ian Shaw
2014 28 March, £16 – Renato D’national Quintet
2014 4 April, £18 – Tony Kofi Quartet
2014 11 April, £20 – Barb Jungr with Simon Wallace
2014 18 April, £15 – Fletch’s Brew
2014 25 April, £16 – Emilia MÂrtensson & Trio

September through December 2013 had stunning music.

2013 6 September, £18 – Liane Carroll
2013 13 September, £15 – Chris Biscoe Quartet
2013 20 September, £15 – Esther Bennett
2013 27 September, £15 – Liam Noble Quintet
2013 4 October, £16 – Julian Arg¸elles Quartet
2013 11 October, £16 – John Law Trio
2013 18 October, £15 – Roger Beaujolais Quartet
2013 25 October, £15 – Ollie Howell Quintet
2013 1 November, £15 – Alex Hutton Trio
2013 8 November, £15 – Josh Kemp Quartet
2013 Sunday, 10 November, £20 – DIVAS’ DAY: The most sensational female vocalists in Britain
2013 15 November, £15 – Matt Ridley Trio with Jason Yarde
2013 Sunday, 17 November, £20 – LONDON KLEZMER QUARTET
2013 22 November, £16 – Saxophone Giants A Tribute to Jazz’s Greatest Saxophonists
2013 29 November, £15 – Nick Page Quartet
2013 6 December, £15 – Heads South
2013 13 December, £0 – Gig Cancelled.
2013 20 December, £20 – Sarah Jane Morris and Antonio Forcione
2013 27 December, £20 – Sax Appeal

May through August 2013 was filled with memorable gigs.

2013 3 May, £16 – Terry Seabrook Quintet
2013 10 May, £12 – Dorian Ford Trio
2013 17 May, £18 – Barb Jungr and Simon Wallace – Stockport to Memphis
2013 24 May, £15 – MJQ
2013 31 May, £15 – Mark Crooks Quartet
2013 7 June, £18 – Nicolas Meier Group featuring Lizzie Ball
2013 14 June, £18 – Mari Wilson
2013 21 June, £20 – Ray Gelato Giants
2013 28 June, £18 – Alan Barnes and David Newton
2013 5 July, £15 – Zoe Francis
2013 12 July, £20 – Tribute to Elvin Jones
2013 19 July, £16 – Sarah Gillespie
2013 26 July, £18 – Ola Onabule
2013 2 August, £17 – Zoe Rahman
2013 9 August, £16 – Peter King Quartet featuring Steve Melling
2013 16 August, £15 – ZoÎ Schwarz and Rob Koral Quintet
2013 23 August, £15 – The Organ Trio
2013 30 August, £15 – David Gordon Speaks Latin

A cracking start to our January-April 2013 season

2013 4 January, £20 – Liane Carroll
2013 11 January, £15 – Martin Speake
2013 18 January, £15 – John Law – Cancelled due to John being snowed in in Somerset
2013 25 January, £18 – Renato D’Aiello Quartet
2013 1 February, £16 – OUR 20TH ANNIVERSARY with the Orient House Ensemble
2013 8 February, £18 – Walter Smith III Quartet
2013 15 February, £17 – Emilia Må
2013 22 February, £15 – Marc Cecil Quintet
2013 1 March, £15 – Will Butterworth Trio
2013 8 March, £15 – Chico Chica
2013 15 March, £15 – Marlene VerPlanck
2013 22 March, £18 – Tommy Smith
2013 Sunday, 24 March, £25 – ALL STAR BENEFIT DAY
2013 29 March, £18 – Frank Giasullo & Art rtet
2013 5 April, £20 – Stan Tracey Trio
2013 12 April, £16 – The Lyric Ensemble
2013 19 April, £15 – Ed Jones
2013 26 April, £16 – Basil Hodge Quartet

Fine music and a rousing end to our September-December 2012 season

2012 7 September, £17 – Matt Wates Sextet
2012 14 September, £23 – Sarah Jane Morris
2012 21 September, £17 – Trudy Kerr and Geoff Gascoyne
2012 28 September, £17 – Spike Robinson Tribute
2012 5 October, £15 – John Turville Trio
2012 12 October, £20 – Ben Crosland Brass Group
2012 19 October, £17 – Trevor Warren’s Disassembler
2012 26 October, £15 – Catherine Sykes and the Alex Steele Trio
2012 2 November, £15 – Tim Lapthorn with Bobby Wellins
2012 9 November, £15 – Asaf Sirkis Trio
2012 16 November, £15 – Tim Whitehead
2012 23 November, £17 – Kate Williams
2012 30 November, £15 – Christine Tobin, Sailing to Byzantium
2012 7 December, £15 – The Horn Factory
2012 14 December, £17 – Robin Jones Latin Underground
2012 21 December, £15 – John Etheridge & Art tive Quartet
2012 28 December, £22 – Sax Appeal

There was some summer May-August 2012, but the music always shone through.

2012 4 May, £20 – David Rees-Williams
2012 11 May, £17 – Leon Greening Quartet
2012 18 May, £15 – Julian Marc Stringle Quartet
2012 25 May, £15 – Phronesis
2012 1 June, £17 – Barb Jungr and Simon Wallace
2012 8 June, £15 – Brandon Allen / Quentin Collins Quartet
2012 15 June, £15 – Jim Mullen Organ Trio
2012 22 June, £15 – Steve Melling Trio with Alan Skidmore
2012 29 June, £15 – Gabrielle Ducomble Quintet
2012 6 July, £15 – Simon Woolf Quintet
2012 13 July, £15 – Pete Churchill Trio
2012 20 July, £0 – Gig Cancelled
2012 27 July, £17 – Clark Tracey Band
2012 3 August, £15 – Sarah Moule Quartet
2012 10 August, £15 – MJQ
2012 17 August, £17 – Chris Allard Band
2012 24 August, £15 – Roger Beaujolais Quartet
2012 31 August, £18 – Simon Spillett Quartet

A stunning January-April 2012 season, culminating in our 1000th gig

2012 6 January, £20 – Liane Carroll
2012 13 January, £15 – Deirdre Cartwright
2012 20 January, £17 – Sarah Gillespie and Gilad Atzmon
2012 27 January, £15 – Dave Chamberlain Quartet
2012 3 February, £17 – Joe Stilgoe Trio
2012 10 February, £15 – Frank Harrison Trio
2012 17 February, £15 – Latin Underground, featuring Robin Jones
2012 24 February, £15 – Mark Crooks Quartet
2012 2 March, £15 – Sarah Moule Quartet
2012 9 March, £15 – Adam Glasser Quartet
2012 16 March, £17 – Damon Brown International Quintet
2012 23 March, £15 – Art Themen Quartet
2012 30 March, £15 – Marlene Ver Planck
2012 6 April, £22 – Martin Taylor and Alan Barnes
2012 13 April, £15 – Ed Jones Quartet
2012 20 April, £15 – Janet Seidel
2012 Saturday, 28 April, £25 – Claire Martin – Sorry, sold out!

A great season of music, culminating in spectacular gigs, September through December 2011.

2011 2 September, £15 – John Etheridge/John Horler
2011 9 September, £15 – Dave Lewis Quartet
2011 16 September, £17 – Nina Ferro
2011 23 September, £16 – Barb Jungr
2011 30 September, £14 – Kevin Flanagan
2011 7 October, £20 – Norma Winstone
2011 14 October, £15 – Phillip Clouts Quartet
2011 21 October, £17 – Renato D’achld
2011 28 October, £15 – Jon Lloyd Quintet
2011 4 November, £14 – Partikel
2011 11 November, £16 – Tamco
2011 18 November, £15 – Nigel Price Organ Trio
2011 25 November, £15 – Just East
2011 2 December, £15 – John Law Trio
2011 9 December, £16 – Zoe Schwarz’motion
2011 16 December, £16 – Peter King Quartet
2011 23 December, £18 – Nette Robinson’s Little Jazz Orchestra
2011 30 December, £22 – Sax Appeal

A cool summer of great music, May through August 2011.

2011 6 May, £16 – Tony Kofi
2011 13 May, £18 – Spike Heatley
2011 20 May, £14 – Kelly Dickson
2011 27 May, £15 – Nicolas Meier Trio
2011 3 June, £16 – Gabriel Garrick’ Quintet
2011 10 June, £15 – Richard Fairhurst’s Triptych Amusia
2011 17 June, £16 – Neon Quartet
2011 24 June, £15 – Trish Clowes
2011 1 July, £16 – Kate Williams
2011 8 July, £16 – Sam Crockatt Quartet
2011 15 July, £16 – Zoë Gilby Quintet
2011 22 July, £14 – Will Butterworth Trio
2011 29 July, £14 – Paul Booth
2011 5 August, £16 – Allison Neale Quartet
2011 12 August, £18 – Simon Spillett and Alan Skidmore
2011 19 August, £15 – Georgia Mancio
2011 26 August, £16 – Shanti

A brilliant season, January through April 2011.

2011 7 January, £22 – Michael Garrick Big Band
2011 14 January, £16 – Victoria Newton.
2011 21 January, £20 – The Instant Message Quintet
2011 28 January, £19 – Milestones
2011 4 February, £14 – Asaf Sirkis Trio
2011 11 February, £14 – Buddy Bolden Blew It Project
2011 18 February, £16 – Moscow Drug Club Quintet
2011 25 February, £16 – Steve Fishwick + Osian Roberts Quintet
2011 27 February, £25 – Fleece Jazz Benefit Day
2011 4 March, £14 – Dylan Howe Quartet
2011 11 March, £17 – Trevor Warren’bler
2011 19 March, £16 – Tomasso Starace Quartet
2011 25 March, £17 – Mari Wilson and Ian Shaw
2011 1 April, £14 – Phronesis
2011 8 April, £12 – Tim Richards Trio
2011 15 April, £14 – The Minimum Trio
2011 22 April, £18 – Outhouse + Hilmer Jensson
2011 29 April, £20 – Tina May

A barbeque summer with fine dining music in 2010.

2010 Friday, 2 July 8.00, Ticket £20 – Stan Tracey Quartet
2010 Friday, 9 July 8.00, Ticket £15 – Barb Jungr
2010 Friday, 16 July 8.00, Ticket £15 – Snake Davis
2010 Friday, 23 July 8.00, Ticket £15 – Esther Miller
2010 Friday, 30 July 8.00, Ticket £15 – Jon Lloyd Quintet
2010 Friday, 6 August 8.00, Ticket £17 – Liane Carroll
2010 Friday, 13 August 8.00, Ticket £15 – Dylan Howe Band
2010 Friday, 20 August 8.00, Ticket £16 – Matt Wates Sextet
2010 Friday, 27 August 8.00, Ticket £15 – Drugstore Cowboy Quartet – featuring Brandon Allen & Quen/a>
2010 Friday, 3 September 8.00, Ticket £14 – Lush Life –oger Beaujolais & B J >
2010 Friday, 10 September 8.00, Ticket £15 – John Law Trio
2010 Friday, 17 September 8.00, Ticket £14 – Michael Hanson and David Newton
2010 Friday, 24 September 8.00, Ticket £16 – Renato D’Aellio / Paola Arnesano

A spring season of musical delights in 2010.

2012 6 January, £20 – Liane Carroll
2012 13 January, £15 – Deirdre Cartwright
2012 20 January, £17 – Sarah Gillespie and Gilad Atzmon
2012 27 January, £15 – Dave Chamberlain Quartet
2012 3 February, £17 – Joe Stilgoe Trio
2012 10 February, £15 – Frank Harrison Trio
2012 17 February, £15 – Latin Underground, featuring Robin Jones
2012 24 February, £15 – Mark Crooks Quartet
2012 2 March, £15 – Sarah Moule Quartet
2012 9 March, £15 – Adam Glasser Quartet
2012 16 March, £17 – Damon Brown International Quintet
2012 23 March, £15 – Art Themen Quartet
2012 30 March, £15 – Marlene Ver Planck
2012 6 April, £22 – Martin Taylor and Alan Barnes
2012 13 April, £15 – Ed Jones Quartet
2012 20 April, £15 – Janet Seidel
2012 Saturday, 28 April, £25 – Claire Martin – Sorry, sold out!

A bright new year at lovely Stoke by Nayland Club.

2010 Friday, 8 January 8.00, Ticket £15 – Protect The Beat
2010 Friday, 15 January 8.00, Ticket £15 – Denny Ilett
2010 Friday, 22 January 8.00, Ticket £16 – Janette Mason Trio
2010 Friday, 29 January 8.00, Ticket £17 – Nina Ferro
2010 Friday, 5 February 8.00, Ticket £12 – Dylan Howe & Willth – The Stravinsky Duo
2010 Friday, 12 February 8.00, Ticket £17 – Geoff Gascoyne’/a>
2010 Friday, 19 February 8.00, Ticket £17 – Alan Skidmore Quartet
2010 Friday, 26 February 8.00, Ticket £15 – Bryan Corbett Quartet
2010 Friday, 5 March 8.00, Ticket £14 – Judy Lewis
2010 Friday, 12 March 8.00, Ticket £17 – Nicolas Meier
2010 Friday, 19 March 8.00, Ticket £16 – Tommaso Starace
2010 Friday, 26 March 8.00, Ticket £15 – Daryl Sherman

Our second season at Stoke by Nayland Club warmed a fascinating Autumn.

2009 Friday, 2 October 8.00, Ticket £15 – Benn Clatworthy
2009 Friday, 9 October 8.00, Ticket £16 – Karen Lane
2009 Friday, 16 October 8.00, Ticket £16 – David Newton Trio
2009 Friday, 23 October 8.00, Ticket £20 – Outhouse Ruhabi
2009 Friday, 30 October 8.00, Ticket £17 – Roger Beaujolais
2009 Friday, 6 November 8.00, Ticket £18 – David Rees-Williams Trio
2009 Friday, 13 November 8.00, Ticket £0 – No Gig Tonight
2009 Friday, 20 November 8.00, Ticket £16 – Basil Hodge Quintet
2009 Friday, 27 November 8.00 and Saturday, 28 November 8.00, Ticket £20 – Sarah Jane Morris
2009 Friday, 4 December 8.00, Ticket £16 – Zoe Rahman Trio
2009 Friday, 11 December 8.00, Ticket £17 – Paul Booth Quintet featuring Ingrid Jensen
2009 Saturday, 19 December 8.00, Ticket £21 – Dennis Rollins Velocity Trio
2009 Wednesday, 30 December 8.00, Ticket £17 – Alan Barnes Latin Quintet

This summer was our first at Stoke by Nayland Club – a lovely venue and great music.

2009 Friday, 3 July 8.00, Ticket £20 – Now at Stoke by Nayland Club Martin Taylor and Alison Burns
2009 Friday, 10 July 8.00, Ticket £16 – Now at Stoke by Nayland Club Disassembler
2009 Friday, 17 July 8.00, Ticket £15 – Now at Stoke by Nayland Club Chris Biscoe Quartet
2009 Friday, 24 July 8.00, Ticket £15 – Sara Colman
2009 Friday, 31 July 8.00, Ticket £17 – Christian Brewer – Renato D’Aiello Quintet featuring Andrea Pozza
2009 Friday, 7 August 8.00, Ticket £16 – Barb Jungr
2009 Friday, 14 August 8.00, Ticket £16 – The New Couriers
2009 Friday, 21 August 8.00, Ticket £16 – Peter King
2009 Friday, 28 August 8.00, Ticket £15 – Jay Phelps Quintet
2009 Friday, 4 September 8.00, Ticket £17 – Michael Janisch US/UK Quintet
2009 Friday, 11 September 8.00, Ticket £17 – Mari Wilson’s Threesome
2009 Friday, 18 September 8.00, Ticket £17 – Homage to Grappelli
2009 Friday, 25 September 8.00, Ticket £15 – Organic Matters

2009 – This spring marked our last gigs at Kersey Mill, but with stunning music.

2009 Friday, 3 April 8.00, Ticket £17 – Bobby Wellins
2009 Friday, 10 April 8.00, Ticket £20 – Michael Garrick Big Band
2009 Friday, 17 April 8.00, Ticket £17 – Lea Delaria
2009 Friday, 24 April 8.00, Ticket £15 – The Alex Garnett and Leon Greening Quartet
2009 Friday, 1 May 8.00, Ticket £15 – Zoe Gilby
2009 Friday, 8 May 8.00, Ticket £15 – David Newton and Tim Kliphuis
2009 Friday, 15 May 8.00, Ticket £16 – Snake Davis
2009 Friday, 22 May 8.00, Ticket £15 – John Law
2009 Friday, 29 May 8.00, Ticket £17 – Janet Siedel
2009 Friday, 5 June 8.00, Ticket £15 – Robert Mitchell 3io
2009 Friday, 12 June 8.00, Ticket £17 – At Kersey Mill Sweet Chorus
2009 Friday, 19 June 8.00, Ticket £17 – At Kersey Mill Steve Waterman
2009 Friday, 26 June 8.00, Ticket £17 – At Kersey Mill Tina May

2009 – We had a Winter Season of Delights, really capital jazz.

2009 Friday, 2 January 8.00, Ticket £15 – Liane Carroll – Sorry, sold out!
2009 Friday, 9 January 8.00, Ticket £16 – Empirical
2009 Friday, 16 January 8.00, Ticket £13 – Bryan Corbett
2009 Friday, 23 January 8.00, Ticket £13 – Liam Noble
2009 Friday, 30 January 8.00, Ticket £13 – Sarah Moule
2009 Friday, 6 February 8.00, Ticket £14 – Mark Crooks
2009 Friday, 13 February 8.00, Ticket £20 – Guy Barker and Ian Shaw
2009 Friday, 20 February 8.00, Ticket £14 – Mark Lockheart
2009 Friday, 27 February 8.00, Ticket £17 – Damon Brown Quintet featuring Steve Grossman
2009 Friday, 6 March 8.00, Ticket £16 – Lillian Boutte – Sorry, sold out!
2009 Friday, 13 March 8.00, Ticket £13 – Joe Stilgoe
2009 Friday, 20 March 8.00, Ticket £15 – Marlene VerPlanck (GIG CANCELLED)
2009 Friday, 27 March 8.00, Ticket £14 – Gareth Williams Trio

2008 – The Autumn season had some Saturday gigs, but it mattered not – The Music was as great as always.

2008 Friday, 3 October 8.30, Ticket £20 – Gilad With Strings
2008 Friday, 10 October 8.30, Ticket £20 – Stan Tracey Trio featuring Guy Barker and Benjamin Herman
2008 Friday, 17 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – The Minimum Trio
2008 Friday, 24 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – Renato D’Aiello Quartet
2008 Friday, 31 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – Roger Beaujolais Quintet
2008 Friday, 7 November 8.30, Ticket £15 – David Rees-Williams Trio
2008 Friday, 14 November 8.30, Ticket £13 – Sam Crockatt
2008 Friday, 21 November 8.30, Ticket £13 – Kirk Lightsey
2008 Friday, 28 November 8.30 and Saturday, 29 November 8.30, Ticket £15 – Sarah Jane Morris
2008 Friday, 5 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Paul Towndrow Quartet
2008 Saturday, 13 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Nikki Iles
2008 Saturday, 27 December 8.00, Ticket £16 – Derek Nash and Friends

2008 – We loved our summer season – fabulous musicianship throughout.

2008 Friday, 4 July 8.30, Ticket £16 – Scenes in the City – of Charles Mingus
2008 Friday, 11 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – Alex Hutton
2008 Friday, 18 July 8.30, Ticket £14 – Toscha Comeaux
2008 Friday, 25 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Chris Laurence Quartet
2008 Friday, 1 August 8.30, Ticket £13 – Barb Jungr
2008 Friday, 8 August 8.30, Ticket £16 – Spanish Accents
2008 Friday, 15 August 8.30, Ticket £13 – Michael Hanson and Friends
2008 Friday, 22 August 8.30, Ticket £16 – Byron Wallen Indigo
2008 Friday, 29 August 8.30, Ticket £13 – Pete Churchill
2008 Friday, 5 September 8.30, Ticket £20 – The Dan Stern Group featuring Andy Sheppard
2008 Friday, 12 September 8.30, Ticket £15 – Dave Lewis Band
2008 Friday, 19 September 8.30, Ticket £13 – The Organ Trio with Stan Sulzmann
2008 Friday, 26 September 8.30, Ticket £13 – Benn Clatworthy

2008 – Our spring season lived up to the promise of the anniversary season, and
included a move to Kersey Mill.

2008 Friday, 4 April 8.30, Ticket £13 – The Ronnie Scott Legacy
2008 Friday, 11 April 8.30, Ticket £23 – Claire Martin – Sorry, sold out!
2008 Friday, 18 April 8.30, Ticket £13 – Quentin Collins Quartet
2008 Friday, 25 April 8.30, Ticket £13 – Alan Barnes Stuart Hall and Paul Clarvis
2008 Friday, 2 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – John Law Trio
2008 Friday, 9 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – Killer Shrimp
2008 Friday, 16 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – Karen Lane
2008 Friday, 23 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – John Etheridge and Christian Garrick
2008 Friday, 30 May 8.30, Ticket £14 – Dylan Howe’ur
2008 Friday, 6 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Leon Greening Quartet
2008 Friday, 13 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Georgia Mancio
2008 Friday, 20 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Nicolas Meier
2008 Friday, 27 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Brandon Allen Quintet

2008 – The winter season was our 15th anniversary celebration, and what wonderful
gigs did we have!

2008 Friday, 4 January 8.30, Ticket £16 – The Passion – Sorry, sold out!
2008 Friday, 11 January 8.30, Ticket £14 – Partisans – Sorry, sold out!
2008 Friday, 18 January 8.30, Ticket £14 – The New Jazz Couriers – Sorry, sold out!
2008 Friday, 25 January 8.30, Ticket £15 – David Rees-Williams Trio – Sorry, sold out!
2008 Friday, 1 February 8.30, Ticket £20 – Stan Tracey – Sorry, sold out!
2008 Friday, 8 February 8.30, Ticket £16 – Peter King – Sorry, sold out!
2008 Friday, 15 February 8.30, Ticket £16 – Tina May – Sorry, sold out!
2008 Friday, 22 February 8.30, Ticket £32 – Freternity – Sorry, sold out!
2008 Friday, 29 February 8.30, Ticket £20 – Michael Garrick’xtet – Sorry, sold out!
2008 Friday, 7 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Judy Lewis
2008 Friday, 14 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Daryl Sherman
2008 Friday, 21 March 8.30, Ticket £14 – Simon Spillett Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2008 Friday, 28 March 8.30, Ticket £15 – The Snake Davis Band – Sorry, sold out!

2007 – The Autumn season was sheer delight. I feel sorry for those who missed the early gigs.

2007 Friday, 5 October 8.30, Ticket £14 – The Annie Whitehead Experience
2007 Friday, 12 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Cubana Bop
2007 Friday, 19 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Threeway
2007 Friday, 26 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – Kirk Lightsey
2007 Friday, 2 November 8.30, Ticket £13 – Jutta’
2007 Friday, 9 November 8.30, Ticket £13 – Trudy Kerr
2007 Friday, 16 November 8.30, Ticket £14 – Tony Kofi Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 23 November 8.30, Ticket £14 – Empirical – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 30 November 8.30 and Saturday, 1 December 8.30, Ticket £16 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 7 December 8.30, Ticket £14 – Theo Travis’ Double Talk – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 14 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Gwilym Simcock Trio – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 21 December 8.30, Ticket £14 – Ian Shaw – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 28 December 8.30, Ticket £14 – Protect the Beat – Sorry, sold out!

2007 – The weather needed to be better this summer: the music could not have been bettered.

2007 Friday, 6 July 8.30, Ticket £14 – Disassembler
2007 Friday, 13 July 8.30, Ticket £15 – Steve Fishwick Quartet with Scott Hamilton
2007 Friday, 20 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Barb Jungr – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 27 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Charlotte Glasson Quintet
2007 Friday, 3 August 8.30, Ticket £20 – Stan Tracey Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 10 August 8.30, Ticket £15 – Alan Skidmore – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 17 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Victoria Newton – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 24 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Lewis Wright
2007 Friday, 31 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Blake Wilner Quartet
2007 Friday, 7 September 8.30, Ticket £16 – Clark Tracey Quintet
2007 Friday, 14 September 8.30, Ticket £13 – Basil Hodge Quintet
2007 Friday, 21 September 8.30, Ticket £13 – Roger Beaujolais Quintet
2007 Friday, 28 September 8.30, Ticket £14 – Matt Wates Sextet

2007 – a wet spring, hot and consumate Jazz.

2007 Friday, 6 April 8.30, Ticket £15 – Byron Wallen’rtet “nd”
2007 Friday, 13 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – David Gordon Trio
2007 Friday, 20 April 8.30, Ticket £14 – Joan Viskant
2007 Friday, 27 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – Killer Shrimp – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 4 May 8.30, Ticket £20 – Dennis Rollins’ – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 11 May 8.30, Ticket £12 – Michael Garrick Quartet
2007 Friday, 18 May 8.30, Ticket £12 – Nicholas Meier Quartet (Yuz)
2007 Friday, 25 May 8.30, Ticket £12 – Tom Cawley’
2007 Friday, 1 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Tommaso Starace Quintet
2007 Friday, 8 June 8.30, Ticket £16 – Jacqui Dankworth – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 15 June 8.30, Ticket £14 – Paul Towndrow Sextet
2007 Friday, 22 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – David Newton and Michael Hanson
2007 Friday, 29 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – Dylan Howe Quintet

What a start to 2007 – great singing, great playing, great enjoyment.

2007 Friday, 5 January 8.30, Ticket £16 – Claire Martin and Jim Mullen – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 12 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Sebastiaan Cornelissen Trio
2007 Friday, 19 January 8.30, Ticket £16 – Norma Winstone’sic
2007 Friday, 26 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Marc Parnell and Friends
2007 Friday, 2 February 8.30, Ticket £13 – Simon Spillett Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 9 February 8.30, Ticket £13 – Geoff Gascoyne Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 16 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Gemini – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 23 February 8.30, Ticket £13 – Gilad Atzmon Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 2 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – Alex Hutton Trio
2007 Friday, 9 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Marlene VerPlanck
2007 Friday, 16 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Chris Laurence Quartet
2007 Friday, 23 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Alan Barnes Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2007 Friday, 30 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Frank Harrison Trio with Julian Argüelles

The wonderful musicianship of great musicians – our prize for the 2006 autumn

2006 Friday, 6 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – Katya Gorrie
2006 Friday, 13 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – The New Couriers – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 20 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Patrick Villanueva’gan Trio
2006 Friday, 27 October 8.30, Ticket £15 – Todd Gordon
2006 Friday, 3 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Quentin Collins Quartet
2006 Friday, 10 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – John Law Trio
2006 Friday, 17 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Zoe Rahman Trio – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 24 November 8.30, Ticket £15 – Roseanna Vitro
2006 Friday, 1 December 8.30 and Saturday, 2 December 8.30, Ticket £15 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 8 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Peter King Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 15 December 8.30, Ticket £15 – Anorak – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 22 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Liane Carroll – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 29 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Protect the Beat – Sorry, sold out!

We had a 2006 summer filled with hot weather and cool music from musicians whose temperature was just right.

2006 Friday, 7 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Ian Shaw
2006 Friday, 14 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – Basil Hodge Quintet
2006 Friday, 21 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – Liam Noble Trio –Dave Brubeck
2006 Friday, 28 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – The Organ Trio
2006 Friday, 4 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Lewis Wright Quartet
2006 Friday, 11 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Eriko Ishihara
2006 Friday, 18 August 8.30, Ticket £15 – Peter King / Alan Skidmore –Elvin Jones – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 25 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Brian Abrahams Quartet (District 6 Revisited)
2006 Friday, 1 September 8.31, Ticket £14 – Tony Kofi +1
2006 Friday, 8 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – James Pearson Trio
2006 Friday, 15 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Renato D’et
2006 Friday, 22 September 8.30, Ticket £16 – Tina May – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 29 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Pat Crumly Quartet

Glorious music this 2006 spring from three continents.

2006 Friday, 7 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – Georgia Mancio Quintet
2006 Friday, 14 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – Killer Shrimp
2006 Friday, 21 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – Kirk Lightsey Trio
2006 Friday, 28 April 8.30, Ticket £16 – Monica Vasconcelos, Ingrid Laubrock and Guinga – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 5 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – Christian Brewer Quintet
2006 Friday, 12 May 8.30, Ticket £12 – Gee Gallo Minetto
2006 Friday, 19 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – Nikki Iles Quartet
2006 Friday, 26 May 8.30, Ticket £16 – Jacqui Dankworth – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 2 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – Curious Paradise
2006 Friday, 9 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Colin Steele Quintet
2006 Friday, 16 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – Ambulance
2006 Friday, 23 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – David Newton and Michael Hanson – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 30 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Hanna Richardson and her Trio

The 2006 Winter started hot at the Fleece, and just got better and better.

2006 Friday, 6 January 8.30, Ticket £20 – Claude Deppa – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 13 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Liane Carroll – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 20 January 8.30, Ticket £14 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 27 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Dylan Howe Quintet
2006 Friday, 3 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Mark Crooks Quintet
2006 Friday, 10 February 8.30 and Saturday, 11 February 8.30, Ticket £16 – Martin Taylor and Jack Emblow – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 17 February 8.30, Ticket £14 – Alan Barnes Quintet (Horace Silver Tribute) – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 24 February 8.30, Ticket £15 – Art Themen Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 3 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – Guillermo Rozenthuler – Sorry, sold out!
2006 Friday, 10 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – PD3 with special guest Dick Pearce
2006 Friday, 17 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – Simon Spillett Quartet
2006 Friday, 24 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – Paul Towndrow Quartet
2006 Friday, 31 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Marlene Verplanck

Our Autumn 2005 season had music to dream and dance about.

2005 Friday, 7 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – Mark Lockheart’a>
2005 Friday, 14 October 8.30, Ticket £14 – Matt Wates Sextet
2005 Friday, 21 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Trudy Kerr
2005 Friday, 28 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Roger Beaujolais Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 4 November 8.30, Ticket £13 – Osian Roberts / Steve Fishwick Quintet
2005 Friday, 11 November 8.30, Ticket £15 – Tommy Smith Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 18 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Renato D’li>
2005 Friday, 25 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Theo Travis – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 2 December 8.30, Ticket £12 – Pete Churchill – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 9 December 8.30, Ticket £11 – Bryan Corbett Quartet
2005 Friday, 16 December 8.30, Ticket £14 – Alan Skidmore Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 23 December 8.30, Ticket £15 – Joan Viskant – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 30 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Robin Jones Latin Sextet

The 2005 Summer season went from brilliant Bass to bright Beat

2005 Friday, 1 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Chris Laurence Quartet
2005 Friday, 8 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Tim Lapthorn Trio
2005 Friday, 15 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Grooveyard
2005 Friday, 22 July 8.30, Ticket £15 – Lee Gibson
2005 Friday, 29 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Tommaso Starace Quartet
2005 Friday, 5 August 8.30, Ticket £13 – Ben Castle Quartet. – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 12 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Dave Lewis 1 UP
2005 Friday, 19 August 8.30, Ticket £14 – Roseanna Vitro – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 26 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – John Etheridge – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 2 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Basil Hodge Quintet
2005 Friday, 9 September 8.30, Ticket £15 – Gilad Atzmon and the Orient House Ensemble – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 16 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Peter King Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 23 September 8.30, Ticket £10 – Polly Gibbons – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 30 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Protect the Beat – Sorry, sold out!

Spring sprang with spritely and sophisicated jazz

2005 Friday, 1 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – Marlene Verplanck
2005 Friday, 8 April 8.30, Ticket £11 – Tony Coe Trio
2005 Friday, 15 April 8.30, Ticket £10 – Steve Melling Trio
2005 Friday, 22 April 8.30, Ticket £16 – Laurie Holloway Trio with special guests Alan Barnes and Tina May. – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 29 April 8.30, Ticket £11 – RSK Trio – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 6 May 8.30, Ticket £10 – Allison Neale Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 13 May 8.30, Ticket £10 – Partisans – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 20 May 8.30, Ticket £22 – JD5 – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 27 May 8.30, Ticket £12 – Ed Jones Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 3 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – Patrick Villanueva Trio
2005 Friday, 10 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Todd Gordon – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 17 June 8.30, Ticket £10 – David Newton and Michael Hanson
2005 Friday, 24 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Janet Seidel – Sorry, sold out!

A Winter season to remember, filled with starry performances.

2005 Friday, 7 January 8.30, Ticket £11 – Alan Barnes Latin Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 14 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Tony Kofi Quartet
2005 Friday, 21 January 8.30, Ticket £13 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 28 January 8.30, Ticket £10 – Dylan Howe Quintet
2005 Friday, 4 February 8.30, Ticket £11 – Kirk Lightsey Trio – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 11 February 8.30, Ticket £14 – Norma Winstone – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 18 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Sexy Saxes in Suits – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 25 February 8.30, Ticket £11 – Bobby Wellins Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 4 March 8.30, Ticket £14 – Jacqui Dankworth – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 11 March 8.30, Ticket £10 – Brian Dee Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 18 March 8.30, Ticket £11 – Nikki Iles Trio – Sorry, sold out!
2005 Friday, 25 March 8.30, Ticket £10 – Julian Siegel Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

The autumn was filled with exciting events, many of which sold out.

2004 Friday, 1 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – Ben Crosland Quartet
2004 Friday, 8 October 8.30, Ticket £11 – Mark Crooks Quintet
2004 Friday, 15 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – Kelly Dickson Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 22 October 8.30, Ticket £14 – Avishai Cohen Trio – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 29 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – Michael Garrick Quartet
2004 Friday, 5 November 8.30, Ticket £11 – Katya Gorrie and the Denny Ilett Quartet
2004 Friday, 12 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Damon Brown Quartet
2004 Friday, 19 November 8.30, Ticket £10 – Renato D’Aiello Quartet
2004 Friday, 26 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Nois 4 – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 3 December 8.30, Ticket £10 – Theo Travis Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 10 December 8.30, Ticket £12 – Stan Tracey Trio – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 17 December 8.30, Ticket £12 – Billy Jenkins Blues Collective – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Wednesday, 29 December 8.30, Ticket £14 – Claire Martin – Sorry, sold out!

Summer programmes are not usually as popular as this one, with such stunning music

2004 Friday, 2 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – Alan Barnes Quartet with special guest Michael Hashim – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 9 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Protect the Beat – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Saturday, 10 July 8.30, Ticket £11 – Brian Kellock Trio
2004 Friday, 16 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Pat Crumly Quartet
2004 Friday, 23 July 8.30, Ticket £11 – Ingrid Laubrock Quintet
2004 Friday, 30 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – Elaine Delmar – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 6 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Jonathan Gee
2004 Friday, 13 August 8.30, Ticket £11 – Basil Hodge Quintet
2004 Friday, 20 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Joan Viskant – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 27 August 8.30 and Saturday, 28 August 8.30, Ticket £13 – Martin Taylor – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 3 September 8.30, Ticket £11 – Celebrating The Couriers
2004 Friday, 10 September 8.30, Ticket £0 – Chaz Jankel Quartet
2004 Friday, 17 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Ian Shaw and James Pearson – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 24 September 8.30, Ticket £10 – The Strayhorn Project

The 2004 spring programme was even stronger, with many memorable gigs

2004 Friday, 2 April 8.30, Ticket £10 – David Tughan
2004 Friday, 9 April 8.30, Ticket £10 – Lewis Wright Quartet
2004 Friday, 16 April 8.30, Ticket £14 – Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 23 April 8.30, Ticket £10 – John Etheridge – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 30 April 8.30, Ticket £16 – Andy Sheppard – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 7 May 8.30, Ticket £12 – Tina May – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 14 May 8.30, Ticket £14 – Tommy Smith Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 21 May 8.30, Ticket £10 – Georgia Mancio
2004 Friday, 28 May 8.30, Ticket £10 – Bryan Corbett Quartet
2004 Friday, 4 June 8.30, Ticket £10 – Tony Smith Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 11 June 8.30, Ticket £11 – Victoria Newton
2004 Friday, 18 June 8.30, Ticket £10 – David Newton and Mick Hanson
2004 Friday, 25 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – Gilad Atzmon and the Orient House Ensemble – Sorry, sold out!

The winter of our eleventh year had a very strong programme in 2004

2004 Friday, 2 January 8.30, Ticket £11 – Jamie Cullum – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 9 January 8.30, Ticket £10 – David Newton – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 16 January 8.30, Ticket £11 – John Law Quartet
2004 Friday, 23 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Alan Skidmore / Peter King Quintet “In Honour of Bird ‘n Trane” – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 30 January 8.30, Ticket £10 – Mark Lockheart Quartet
2004 Friday, 6 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Jacqui Dankworth Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 13 February 8.30, Ticket £10 – Dylan Howe Quintet
2004 Friday, 20 February 8.30, Ticket £10 – Julie Edwards Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 27 February 8.30, Ticket £13 – Clare Teal – Sorry, sold out!
2004 Friday, 5 March 8.30, Ticket £10 – Tommaso Starace Quartet
2004 Friday, 12 March 8.30, Ticket £10 – Ricky Woodard
2004 Friday, 19 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – Marlene Verplanck
2004 Friday, 26 March 8.30, Ticket £10 – Peter King Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

An autumn of mellow fruitfulness and stunning jazz in 2003.

2003 Friday, 3 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – Julian Marc Stringle and the Dream Band
2003 Friday, 10 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – Ed Jones Quintet
2003 Friday, 17 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Viktoria Tolstoy
2003 Friday, 24 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Kirk Lightsey and Joe Lee Wilson
2003 Friday, 31 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – Karen Sharp Quartet
2003 Friday, 7 November 8.30, Ticket £10 – The Hanson-Mullen Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 14 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Damon Brown’s International Quintet
2003 Friday, 21 November 8.30, Ticket £11 – Christian Garrick Quartet
2003 Friday, 28 November 8.30, Ticket £10 – Denny Ilett / Katya Gorrie Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 5 December 8.30, Ticket £10 – Alec Dankworth Trio – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 12 December 8.30, Ticket £10 – Renato D’Aiello Quartet – ‘Canzone’ (Italian Songs in Jazz)
2003 Friday, 19 December 8.30, Ticket £12 – Sax Appeal – Sorry, sold out!

A scorching summer for jazz and sunbathing in 2003.

2003 Friday, 4 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Christian Brewer Quartet
2003 Friday, 11 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – Lodder/Etheridge Quartet (note change from published programme)
2003 Friday, 18 July 8.30, Ticket £11 – Joan Viskant – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 25 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Laurence Cottle Quartet
2003 Friday, 1 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Brian Dee Quartet
2003 Friday, 8 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Chaz Jankel Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 15 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Carole Burgess Quartet
2003 Friday, 22 August 8.30, Ticket £11 – Frank Williams African Jazz Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 29 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Polly Gibbons
2003 Friday, 5 September 8.30, Ticket £11 – Lennie Bush Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 12 September 8.30, Ticket £11 – Protect the Beat – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 19 September 8.30, Ticket £10 – Kevin Flanaghan Quartet
Saturday, 20 September 8.00, Ticket £13 – Ray Gelato Giants Dance at Boxford Village Hall
2003 Friday, 26 September 8.30, Ticket £13 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, sold out!

The weather was mixed but the jazz was grand for our 2003 Spring season

2003 Friday, 4 April 8.30, Ticket £11 – Marlene Verplanck
2003 Friday, 11 April 8.30, Ticket £10 – Roger Beaujolais Quintet
2003 Friday, 18 April 8.30, Ticket £10 – John Etheridge – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 25 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – Clare Teal – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 2 May 8.30, Ticket £10 – Mark Crooks Quintet
2003 Friday, 9 May 8.30, Ticket £10 – Celebrating The Jazz Couriers – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 16 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – Lee Gibson – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 23 May 8.30, Ticket £9 – Jim Mullen and the Graham Harvey Trio
2003 Friday, 30 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – Alan Barnes Octet “The Sherlock Holmes Suite”
2003 Friday, 6 June 8.30, Ticket £10 – Laura Zakian
2003 Friday, 13 June 8.30, Ticket £10 – Mick Hanson and David Newton – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 20 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – Gilad Atzmon and the Extended Orient House Ensemble – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 27 June 8.30, Ticket £11 – Trudy Kerr

We are ever so proud of our 10^th Anniversary Winter 2003 season

2003 Friday, 3 January 8.30, Ticket £10 – Jean Toussaint
2003 Friday, 10 January 8.30, Ticket £9 – Big Chief
2003 Friday, 17 January 8.30, Ticket £10 – Renato D’Aiello’s International Quartet
2003 Friday, 24 January 8.30, Ticket £10 – Ola – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 31 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Ian Shaw
Saturday, 1 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Stan Tracey Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 7 February 8.30, Ticket £14 – Stacey Kent – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 14 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Tina May Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 21 February 8.30 and Saturday, 22 February 8.30, Ticket £13 – Martin Taylor – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 28 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Clark Tracey’s “Tribute to Art Blakey” – Sorry, sold out!
Saturday, 1 March 8.30, Ticket £14 – Claire Martin Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 7 March 8.30, Ticket £9 – Pat Crumley Quartet
2003 Friday, 14 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – Tommy Smith and Brian Kellock – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 21 March 8.30, Ticket £9 – Jamie Cullum Trio – Sorry, sold out!
2003 Friday, 28 March 8.30, Ticket £11 – Snake Davis – Sorry, sold out!

Delights on a 2002 Autumn

2002 Friday, 4 October 8.30, Ticket £8 – Chaz Jankel Quartet
2002 Friday, 11 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Viktoria Tolstoy
2002 Friday, 18 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – The Garricks String Quartet
2002 Friday, 25 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Billy Jenkins’ Blues Collective
2002 Friday, 1 November 8.30, Ticket £10 – Ingrid Laubrock Quartet
2002 Friday, 8 November 8.30, Ticket £10 – Gilad Atzmon and the Orient House Ensemble – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 15 November 8.30, Ticket £11 – Peter King Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 22 November 8.30, Ticket £11 – Annie Whitehead Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 29 November 8.30, Ticket £10 – David Gordon Trio
2002 Friday, 6 December 8.30, Ticket £10 – Julian Siegel Quartet
2002 Friday, 13 December 8.30, Ticket £11 – Protect the Beat
2002 Friday, 20 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Dennis Rollins’ Bad Bone and Co. – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 27 December 8.30, Ticket £11 – Victoria Newton

A 2002 summer with many double pleasures

2002 Friday, 5 July 8.30, Ticket £9 – Lennie Bush and Friends
2002 Friday, 12 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Tina May and her French Band
2002 Friday, 19 July 8.30 and Saturday, 20 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Celebrating the Jazz Couriers
2002 Friday, 26 July 8.30, Ticket £9 – Tim Richards Trio
2002 Friday, 2 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Polar Bear / Acoustic Ladyland
2002 Friday, 9 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – John Etheridge / Theo Travis Quartet
2002 Friday, 16 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Rachael Calladine
2002 Friday, 23 August 8.30 and Saturday, 24 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Lillian Boutt&eacut
2002 Friday, 30 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Paz
2002 Friday, 6 September 8.30, Ticket £11 – As Meninas – Sorry, Sold Out
2002 Friday, 13 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, Sold Out!
Sunday, 15 September 8.00, Ticket £12 – Mark Murphy and The Pete Churchill Trio
2002 Friday, 20 September 8.30, Ticket £11 – John Law Quartet
2002 Friday, 27 September 8.30 and Saturday, 28 September 8.30, Ticket £13 – Martin Taylor – Sorry, sold out!

Spring of 2002 shone with great music.

2002 Friday, 5 April, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Lush Life
2002 Friday, 12 April, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Alyson Cawley Quintet
2002 Friday, 19 April, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Ola – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 26 April, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Geoff Gascoyne Quartet
2002 Friday, 3 May, 8.30 Ticket £9 – The Organ Trio
2002 Friday, 10 May, 8.30 Ticket £11 – The New Noakes Internationals
2002 Friday, 17 May, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Ed Jones Quintet
2002 Friday, 24 May, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Dave Newton and Mick Hanson – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 31 May, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Elaine Delmar – Sorry, sold out!
Saturday, 1 June, 8.00 Ticket £12 -The Ray Gelato Giants Jubilee Dance at Boxford Village Hall – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 7 June, 8.30 Ticket £14 – Andy Sheppard – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 14 June, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Alec Dankworth Trio
2002 Friday, 21 June, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Carole Burgess Sextet – Sorry, sold out!
Friday, 28 June, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Julian Marc Stringle and the Dream Band

Here is the glorious Winter of 2002.

2002 Friday, 29 March, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Marlene Verplanck – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 22 March, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Renato D’Aiello Quintet
2002 Friday, 15 March, 8.30 Ticket £13 – Alan Barnes, David Newton Trio, with Steve Fishwick – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 8 March, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Bob Bromhead Quintet
2002 Friday, 1 March, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Damon Brown’s International Quintet
2002 Friday, 22 February, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Laura Zakian Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 15 February, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Kimbara Brothers
2002 Friday, 8 February, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Snake Davis – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 1 February, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Dennis Rollins’ Bad Bone & Co.
2002 Friday, 25 January, 8.30 Ticket £8 – Eriko Ishihara Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 18 January, 8.30 Ticket £11 – The Tough Tenors
2002 Friday, 11 January, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Stan Tracey Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2002 Friday, 4 January, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Frank Williams’ African Jazz Quintet – Sorry, sold out!

The Autumn of 2001 gave us quite a string of sellouts

2001 Friday, 28 December, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Ingrid Laubrock Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2001 Friday, 21 December, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Dana Gillespie – Sorry, sold out!
2001 Friday, 14 December, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Scott Hamilton – Sorry, sold out!
2001 Friday, 7 December, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Ian Shaw – Sorry, sold out!
2001 Friday, 30 November, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Sweet Chorus – Sorry, sold out!
2001 Friday, 23 November, 8.30 Ticket £10 – David Newton Trio – Sorry, sold out!
2001 Friday, 16 November, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Dunstan Coulber Quartet
2001 Friday 9 and Saturday 10 November, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Lillian Boutt&eacutrry, sold out!
2001 Friday, 2 November, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Benn Clatworthy
2001 Friday, 26 October, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Nicki Leighton-Thomas
2001 Friday, 19 October, 8.30 Ticket £9 – John Parricelli Group
2001 Friday, 12 October, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Guy Barker’s International Quintet

2001 Friday, 5 October, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Bobby Worth Quartet

Summer 2001 was another credit to Liz’s booking

2001 Friday, 28th September, 8.30 Ticket £8 – Denny Ilett Quartet
2001 Friday, 21st September, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Theo Travis Quintet featuring Roger Beaujolais
2001 Friday, 14th September, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Clark Tracey New Quintet
2001 Friday, 7th September, 8.30 Ticket £11 – John Etheridge and Victoria Newton Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2001 Friday, 31st August, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Dave O’Higgins with the Tom Cawley Trio
2001 Friday, 24th August, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Rachel Calladine Quartet
2001 Friday, 17th August, 8.30 Ticket £10 – A Celebration of the Jazz Couriers – Sorry, sold out!
2001 Friday, 10th August, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Zoe Rahman Quartet
2001 Friday, 3rd August, 8.30 Ticket £13 – Stacey Kent Quintet – Sorry, sold out!
2001 Friday, 27th July, 8.30 Ticket £13 – Girl Talk
2001 Friday, 20th July, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Gilad Atzmon and the Orient House Ensemble
2001 Friday, 13th July, 8.30 Ticket £13 – Tina May and her French Band Featuring Tony Coe – Sorry, sold out!
2001 Friday, 6th July, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Steve Lodder Sextet

Spring 2001 brought us musical delights

2001 Friday, June 29th, 8.30 Ticket £10 – As Meninas – Sorry, Sold Out!
2001 Friday, June 22nd, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Gordon Beck / Peter King Quartet
2001 Friday, June 15th, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Jonathan Gee / Damon Brown International Quartet
2001 Friday, June 8th, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Mark Crooks Quintet
2001 Friday, June 1st, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Alan Barnes Sextet:
Tribute to Cannonball Adderley – Sorry, Sold Out!
2001 Friday, May 25th, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Michael Garrick Quartet
2001 Friday, May 18th, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, Sold Out!
2001 Friday, May 11th, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Perfect Houseplants
2001 Friday, May 4th, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Zubop
2001 Friday, April 27th, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Allison Neale Quartet
2001 Friday, April 20th, 8.30 Ticket £11 – John Law Quartet featuring Tim Garland
2001 Friday, April 13th, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Ed Jones Quintet
2001 Friday, April 6th, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Barb Jungr and Mari Wilson

Winter 2001 was hot at the Fleece

2001 Friday, March 30, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Anthony Kerr Quartet
2001 Friday, March 23, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Sheena Davis with Jim Mullen Sorry, sold out!
2001 Friday, March 16, 8.30 Ticket £10 – The David Newton Trio
Sorry, sold out! with an interval and preshow appearance by the Yakima Valley Combo
2001 Friday, March 9, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Marlene Verplanck
2001 Friday, March 2, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Daniel Smith “Bassoon and Beyond”
2001 Friday, February 23, 8.30 Ticket £13 – Ladies of Jazz and the Tommy Whittle Quartet – Sorry, sold out!
2001 Friday, February 16, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Lillian Boutt&eacut
2001 Friday, February 9, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Afroblue – Sorry, sold out!
2001 Friday, February 2, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Herb Geller
2001 Friday, January 26, 8.30 Ticket £9 – The Hungry Ants
2001 Friday, January 19, 8.30 Ticket £12 – The Matt Wates Sextet
2001 Friday, January 12, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Clark Tracey’s New Quintet
2001 Friday, January 12, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Clark Tracey’s New Quintet
2001 Friday, January 5, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Art Themen and the Bryan Spring Trio

The approach to the millenium year holidays was replete with fabulous sax and singing.

2000 Friday, December 29, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Claire Martin and Ian Shaw
Sorry, sold out!
2000 Friday, December 22, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Frank Williams African Jazz Quintet
Sorry, sold out!
2000 Friday, December 15, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Bobby Wellins Quartet
2000 Friday, December 8, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Peter King Quartet
2000 Friday, December 1, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Ricky Woodard
2002 Friday, November 24, 8.30 Ticket £8 – The Alyson Cawley Quintet
Friday, November 17, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Christian Garrick, John Etheridge and the David Gordon Trio
Friday, November 10, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Ed Jones Quintet
Friday, November 3, 8.30 Ticket £8 – Trudy Kerr
Friday, October 27, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Tina May and “the Frogs”
Friday, October 20, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Change of programme
The Frank Griffith Quartet with Liam Noble
Friday, October 13, 8.30 Ticket £8 – Neil Yates and Joe Robinson (Praxis)
Friday, October 6, 8.30 Ticket £8 – Flanagan / Ingham Quartet

Something of a 2000 damp summer and wet autumn, but warm and wonderful music.

Friday, September 29, 8.30 Ticket £8 – Partisans
Friday, September 22, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Christian Garrick
Quartet
Friday, September 15, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Young Lions
/ Old Tigers ñ Celebrating 60 years in the business

Sadly, we have had to cancel this gig due to the fuel shortage. They’ll be back, folks.

Friday, September 8, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Lennie Bush and
friends
Friday, September 1, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Liane Carroll
and John Etheridge – Sorry, sold out!
Friday, August 25, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Pete Long Sextet
featuring Patti Revell.
Friday, August 18 and Saturday, August 19 8.30
Ticket £12 – Martin Taylor
Sorry,sold out
Friday, August 11, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Clark Tracey Sextet
“Tribute to Art Blakey”
Sorry,sold out
Friday, August 4, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Tony Coe, John
Horler and Alec Dankworth
Friday, July 28, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Sarah Jane Morris
Quintet
Friday, July 21, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Geoff Eales Trio
featuring Jim Mullen
Friday, July 14, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Frank William’s
African Jazz Quintet
Friday, July 7, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Ingrid Laubrock Quartet

A warm 2000 spring and warmer and wonderful jazz.

Friday June 30th 8.30 £10. You are advised to
purchase tickets well in advance. – Elaine Delmar
Friday June 23rd 8.30 £9 – Damon Brown Quintet
Friday June 16th 8.30 £9. You are advised to
purchase tickets well in advance. – Ian Shaw and James Pearson
Friday June 9th 8.30 £9. You are advised to purchase
tickets well in advance. – Alan Barnes Quartet
Friday June 2 8.30 £7 – Pete Wareham Quartet
Friday May 26 8.30 £10 – Stacey Kent – Sorry,
sold out
Friday May 19 8.30 £8 – Tim Whitehead Quartet “Personal
Standards”
Friday May 12 8.30 £9 – Cubana Bop
Friday May 5 8.30 Ticket £11. Sorry, sold out.
– Dana Gillespie
Friday April 28 8.30 Ticket £18. You were advised
to purchase tickets well in advance. – Under Milk Wood
Friday April 21 8.30 £8 – Tim Richards and Sigi Finkel’s
Soundscape
Friday April 14 8.30 £9 – Gilad Atzmon and the Orient
House Ensemble
Friday April 7 8.30 £10 – Zubop

There have been some extra special events in the first part of the
centenial year.

Friday 31 March 8.30 £9 – Neil Stacey’s Kimbara
Brothers

Friday 24 March 8.30 £9 – Martin Drew Quartet

Friday 17 March 8.30 £10 – Marlene Verplanck and
the Roy Babbington Trio

Friday 10 March 8.30 £8 – Laura Zakian Quintet

Friday 3 March 8.30 £12 – John Surman – Sorry,
sold out.

Friday 25 February 8.30 £8 – Mick Hanson and Dave
Newton

Friday 18 February 8.30 £8 – Loz Speyer Quartet

Friday 11 February 8.30 £12 – Girl Talk —
Sorry,
sold out!

Friday 4 February 8.30 £15 – Andy Sheppard, Steve
Lodder and Chris Laurence — Sorry, sold out!

Friday 28 January 8.30 £9 – Gary Baldwin Quartet

Friday 21 January 8.30 £10 – Lee Gibson and Alan
Barnes

Friday 14 January 14 8.30 £7 – Kate Williams Quartet

Friday 7 January 8.30 £10 – Reduced N&oacutb>

1999’s cold months brought us some wonderful music.

Special Tuesday Holiday Gig

TUESDAY 28 December 8.30 £10 ALL TICKETS SOLD
– Claire Martin and Ian Shaw

Friday 17 December 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable – Sarah Jane Morris Quintet

Friday 10 December 8.30 £12 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable – Clark Tracey Sextet – Tribute to Art Blakey

Friday 3rd December 8.30 £10 – Roger Beaujolais Quintet

Friday 26 November 8.30 £8 – G.S.Wellard Septet

Friday 19 November 8.30 £8 – Martin Speake Quartet

Friday 12 November 8.30 £9 – Nicki Leighton-Thomas
Quartet

WORLD PREMIERE “New Folk-Songs”

Friday 5 November 8.30 £9 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable – The Perfect Houseplants

Friday 29 October 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable – Gordon Beck

Friday 22 October 8.30 £10 – Dave O’Higgins Quartet

Friday 15 October 8.30 £9 – Afroblue

Friday 8 October 8.30 £8 – The David Gordon Trio

JOHN ETHERIDGE WEEKEND Weekend Ticket £18

Friday 1 October 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable – The Liane Carroll – John Etheridge Quartet

Saturday 2 October 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable – The John Etheridge Quartet “Sweet Chorus”

1999’s summer and early autumn of musical delights.

Friday 24 September 8.30 £10 – Kate Dimbleby

Friday 17 September 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable – The Peter King Quintet

Friday 10 September £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable – The John Critchinson Quartet featuring Pat
Crumly “The Ronnie Scott Legacy”

Friday 3 September 8.30 £10 – Acoustic Mania

Friday 27 August 8.30 £9 – Sarah Moule Quartet

Friday 20 August 8.30 £9 – The Ingrid Laubrock Group

Friday 13 August 8.30 £8 – Jonathan Gee Trio

Friday 6 August 8.30 £9 – Estelle Kokot and her musicians.
Isabel Roberts did not come.

Friday 30 July 8.30 £9 – UK Roots

Friday 23 July 8.30 £8 – Boston Tea Party

Friday 16 July 8.30 £9 – The Campbell Burnap Quintet

Friday 9 July 8.30 £9 – Ana-Mar&iacutGroup

Friday 2 July 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase Advisable
– Tina May, Nikki Iles and Alan Barnes

Lovely spring and early summer 1999 musical weather at the Fleece.

Friday 25 June 8.30 £12 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable – Barbara Thompson and Paraphernalia featuring Jon Hiseman

Friday 18 June 8.30 £8 – The Carlos Lopez-Real Group

Friday 11 June 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable – Ian Shaw

Friday 4 June 8:30 £9 ALL TICKET – Stacey Kent,
Jim Tomlinson and band

Friday 28 May 8:30 £9 ALL TICKET – The Harry
Allen Quartet

Friday 21 May 8:30 £9 – The Tim Garland Quartet

Friday 14 May 8:30 £9 – Trudy Kerr and her Band (change
to the program)

Friday 7 May 8:30 £8 – The Jean Toussaint Quartet

Friday 30 April 8:30 £8 – Big Chief

Friday 23 April 8:30 £9 ALL TICKET – The Stan
Tracey Trio

Friday 16 April 8:30 £11 ALL TICKET – The Scott
Hamilton Quartet

Friday 9 April 8:30 £8 – The Tom Cawley Quartet

Friday 2 April 8:30 £11 ALL TICKET – Claire
Martin and her Musicians

An amazing array of talent displayed at the Fleece in the winter
and early spring of 1999, in reverse chronological order.

Friday 26 March 8:30 £8 – Denys Baptiste

Friday 19 March 8:30 £8 – The New Gary Husband Trio

Friday 12 March 8:30 £10 ALL TICKET – Marlene Verplanck
and the Roy Babbington Trio

Friday 5 March 8.30pm £10 – The Gary Potter Quartet

Friday 26 February 8.30pm £8 – Lennie Bush and Friends

Friday 19 February 8.30pm £8 – Zubop

Friday 12 February 8.30pm £9 – Alan Barnes and the
David Newton Trio

Friday 5 February 8.30pm £8 – The Dave Cliff – Alex
Garnett Quintet

Friday 29 January 8.30pm £10 – ALL TICKETS SOLD
– Claire Martin and Ian Shaw

Friday 22 January 8.30pm £10 – Sarah Jane Morris
and her Musicians

Friday 15 January 8.30pm £9 – The Roy Forbes Quintet

Friday 8 January 8.30pm £9 – The Ben Castle Quartet

Friday 1 January 8.30pm £8 – Gary Baldwin – Mike
Hanson

The Autumn of 1988 was warm, particularly at the Fleece. Here is
what we heard, in reverse chronological order.

Friday 18 December 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKETS SOLD –
Tina May’s Music and Mischief

Friday 11 December 8.30pm £8 – Grooveyard featuring
Kathy Wilson

Friday 4 December 8.30pm £8 – Annie Whitehead’s
Rude

Friday 27 November 8.30pm £7 – The Russell Van Den
Berg Quintet

Friday 20 November 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKETS SOLD –
Monica Vasconcelos/Nois

Friday and Saturday, 13 and 14 November 8.30pm £11
ALL TICKET – The Guy Barker Quintet

Friday 6 November 8.30pm £8 – Caroline Taylor Quintet

Friday 30 October 8.30pm £8 – The Dick Pearce Band

Friday 23 October 8.30pm £8 – The Gilad Atzmon Quartet

Friday 16 October 8.30pm £8 – The Nicki Leighton-Thomas
Quartet

Friday 9 October 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKET – The Louis
Stewart Quartet

Friday 2 October 8.30pm £7 – The Alex Maguire Trio

A fine time for jazzers at the Fleece was the summer of 1988.
In reverse chronological order, we heard

Friday 25 September 8.30pm £9 – Norma Winstone and
the John Donaldson Trio

Friday 18 September 8.30pm £8 – The Ingrid Laubrock
Band

Friday 11 September 8.30pm £8 ALL TICKET – The Theo
Travis Band featuring Bill Bruford

Friday 4 September 8.30pm £8 – The Lucky Ranku Quartet

Friday 28 August 8.30pm £7 – The Rebecca Hollweg
Band

Friday 21 August 8.30pm £11 ALL TICKET – The Stan
Tracey Quintet

Friday 14 August 8.30pm £8 – DHSQ

Friday 7 August 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKET – Selina Jones
and Her Musicians

Friday 31 July 8.30pm £8 – The Martin Drew Quartet

Friday 24 July 8.30pm £7 – Lol Coxhill: Solo and
Standards Conversion Trio

Friday 17 July 8.30pm £7 – The John Law – Tim Wells
– Tony Marsh Trio

Friday 10 July 8.30pm £9 – The Tony Remy Band

Friday 3 July 8.30pm £8 – Lindsay Holiday

Spring 1998 was vintage stuff. Here are the gigs, in reverse
chronological order

Friday 26 June 8.30pm £8 ALL TICKET – The Stacey
Kent Sextet

Friday 19 June 8.30pm £7 – Gary Baldwin – Mike Hanson

Friday 12 June 8.30pm £8 – Young Lions and Old Tigers

Friday 5 June 8.30pm £6 – John Etheridge opposite
John Donaldson

Friday 29 May 8.30pm £7 – J-LIFE

Friday 22 May 8.30pm £8 – The Anthony Kerr Quartet

Friday 15 May 8.30pm £8 – Roy Williams, John Barnes
and The Bobby Worth Trio

Friday 8 May 8.30pm £7 – Jerry Underwood and the
Dave Gordon Trio

Friday 1 May 8.30pm £7 – Larraine Odell and the
Trio

Friday 24 April 8.30pm £8 – The Roy Forbes Quintet

Friday 17 April 8.30pm £11 ALL TICKET – Martin Taylor
and Jack Emblow

Saturday 18 April 8.30pm £11 ALL TICKET – Martin
Taylor and Jack Emblow

Friday 10 April 8.30pm £8 – The Liane Carroll Quartet

Friday 3 April 8.30pm £8 – The Ed Jones Quintet

The first programme from 1998 was a delight and a wonderment.
The gigs are listed below in reverse chronological order.

Friday 27 March 8.30pm £7 – The Liam Noble Quintet

Friday 20 March 8.30pm £8 – The Alan Skidmore Quartet

Friday 13 March 8.30pm £9 – Claire Martin and Ian
Shaw

Friday 6 March 8.30pm £8 – Frank Williams African
Jazz Quintet

Friday 27 February 8.30pm £9 – The Tina May Quartet

Friday 20 February 8.30pm £9 – The Kate Westbrook
– Mike Westbrook Duo

Friday 13 February 8.30pm £8 – The Frank Harrison
Quartet

Friday 6 February 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKET – The Peter
King Quintet

JAZZ AT THE FLEECE 5th ANNIVERSARY

Friday 30 January 8.30pm £8 – Ronnie Remembered
– The John Chrichinson Quartet

Friday 23 January 8.30pm £10 – The Tim Garland Quintet

Friday 16 January 8.30pm £13 ALL TICKETS SOLD –
Small Commotion: Andy Sheppard, Steve Lodder and Chris Laurence

Friday 9 January 8.30pm £9 – Clarke Tracy’s New
Quintet

Friday 2 January 8.30pm £7 – Annie Whitehead’s Rude

Here are the gigs from a delightful 1997. They are still in reverse
chronological order.

Friday 19 December 8.30pm £9 – The Lee Gibson Quartet

Friday 12 December 8.30pm £9 – The Bruce Adams – Allen
Barnes Quintet

Friday 5 December 8.30pm £9 – Tony Kopfi Tribute to
Charlie Parker

Friday 28 November 8.30pm £8 – The Sarah Moule Quintet

Friday 21 November 8.30pm £7 – The Andy Hague Quintet

Friday 14 November 8.30pm £8 – Milan Lad

Friday 31 October 8.30pm £8 – The Max Waites Sextet

Friday 7 November 8.30pm £9 – Gerard Presencer’s Platypus

Friday 24 October 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKET – The Harry
Allen Quartet

Friday 17 October 8.30pm £8 – PAZ

Friday 10 October 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKET – Claire Martin
and her Trio

Friday 3 October 8.30pm £7 – The Estelle Kokot Quartet

Friday 26 September 8.30pm £9 – The Baritone Band

Friday 19 September 8:30 £8 – The Kimbara Brothers

Saturday 20 September 7:30 for 8.00pm £30 Double Ticket
– SUPPER DANCE to The Bobby Worth Quartet

Friday 12 September 8.30pm £9 – Danny Moss, Jeanie
Lambe and The Bobby Worth Trio

Friday 5 September 8.30pm £7 – Dave Jones Trio with
Nick Hill

Friday 29 August 8.30pm £8 – The Holly Slater Quartet

Friday 22 August 8.30pm £8 – The Spike Robinson Quartet

Friday 15 August 8.30pm £7 – The Nikki Leighton-Thomas
Quartet

Friday 8 August 8.30pm £8 – The Byron Wallen Quintet

Friday 1 August 8.30pm £12 – All Tickets Sold
The Scott Hamilton Quartet

Saturday 2 August 8.30pm £9 – All Ticket Elaine
Delmar

Sunday 3 August Midday Barbeque Free Entry – Sax Appeal

Friday 25 July 8.30pm £9 – All Ticket The Dave
O’Higgins Quartet

Friday 18 July 8.30pm £13 – All Tickets Sold
Marion Montgomery and her Trio

Friday 11 July 8.30pm £8 – The Penelope Tobin Sextet

Friday 4 July 8.30pm £8 – The Ray Alexander Sextet

Friday 27 June 8.30pm £8 – The Tim Whitehead Quartet

Friday 20 June 8.30pm £8 – The Michael Garrick Quartet

Friday 13 June 8.30pm £8 – The Jim Mullen Band

Friday 6 June 8.30pm £7 – The Kelvin Christiane Band

Friday 30 May 8.30pm £7 – The Sigi Finkel – Tim Richards
Band

Friday 23 May 8.30pm £8 – Cubana Bop

Friday 16 May 8.30pm £8 – The David Newton Quartet

Friday 9 May 8.30pm £8 – The Julie Dexter Quintet

Friday 2 May 8.30pm £8 – The Buckley-Batchelor Quartet

Friday 25 April 8.30pm £8 – Ian Shaw

Friday 18 April 8.30pm £7 – The Gary Scott Quartet

Friday 11 April 8.30pm £8 – The Stacey Kent Quintet

Friday 4 April 8.30pm £7 – Dominic Alldis Quartet

Friday 21 March 8.30pm £7 – The Clare Hirst Quartet

Friday 28 March 8.30pm £7 – The Steve Waterman Quartet

Friday 14 March 8.30pm £7 – The Rachel Buchanan Quartet

Friday 7 March 8.30pm £6 – The John Law – Tim Wells
– Paul Clarvis Trio

Friday 28 February 8.30pm £9 – The Iain Dixon Quartet

Friday 21 February 8.30pm £9 – The Ed Jones Quintet

Friday 14 February 8.30pm All Tickets Sold £9
– The Tina May Quartet

Friday 7 February 8.30pm £7 – Mind and Time

Friday 31 January 8.30pm £7 – The Steve Melling Trio

Friday 24 January 8.30pm £7 – The Jean Toussaint Quartet

Friday 17 January 8.30pm £7 – The Lee Gibson Quartet

Friday 10 January 8.30pm £6 – The Almost Acoustic Trio

Friday 3 January 8.30pm All Ticket £9 – The Peter
King Quintet – our 200th gig!

Here are some past gigs from 1996. A good year, even if in reverse
chronological order.

Friday 27 December 8.30pm £7 – Eddie Johnson’s Jazz
Unlimited with Don Rendell

Friday 20 December 8.30pm All Tickets Sold £9
– Clair Martin and Her Trio

Friday 13 December 8.30pm £7 – The Gary Potter Quartet

Friday 6 December 8.30pm £7 – The Alan Skidmore Quartet

Friday 29 November 8.30pm and Saturday 30 November
8:30 pm All Tickets Sold £9 – Martin Taylor

Friday 22 November 8.30pm £6 – Orquestra Mahatma

Friday 15 November 8.30pm £9 – Bobby Shew and the Bobby
Worth Trio

Friday 8 November 8.30pm £8 – Benny Green and Co.

Friday 1 November 8.30pm £6 – The Esmond Selwyn Trio

Friday 25 October 8.30pm £8 – Elaine Delmar and the
Brian Dee Trio

Friday 18 October 8.30pm £8 – Sax Appeal

Friday 11 October 8.30pm £6 – Tim Richard’s Spirit Level

Friday 4 October 8.30pm £8 – Michael Hashim with Jay
Denson, Mike Hanson and Mike Bradley

Friday 27 September 8.30pm £7 – Matt Wates Sextet

Saturday 21 September 8.30pm £25 per couple – A Supper
Dance

Friday 20 September 8.30pm £7 – The Gary Scott Quartet

Friday 13 September 8.30pm £7 – Gary Crosby’s Nu Troop

Friday 6 September 8.30pm £8 – Jacqui Dankworth and
Field of Blue

The superb Patrick has begun the task of building the earliest of the
gigs database. As a taster, here are the gigs from February 1993 through to
September of that year.

MICK HANSON/DAVID NEWTON QUARTET
BOBBY WELLINS QUARTET
LIANE CARROLL TRIO
KEVIN FLANGAN QUARTET
JIM MULLEN QUARTET
KELVIN CHRISTIANE BAND
SUE HAWKER and BOB KORAL’S SKETCH
JIMMY HASTINGS/JOHN HORLER QUINTET
SPIKE ROBINSON QUARTET
SHORT STORIES
ROGER BEAUJOLAIS QUARTET
GEOFF ELLISTON SWING BAND
BRUCE ADAMS QUARTET
BILL BERRY QUARTET
MIKE HANSON QUARTET
PHIL CAPONE QUINTET
HILARY CAMERON QUARTET
NEW NOAKES QUARTET
CHRISTINE TOBIN BAND
TIM RICHARDS’ TRIO
DAVE QUINCY QUARTET with MICK HANSON
GEOFF WILLIAMS QUARTET
THEO TRAVIS BAND
PETER OXLEY TRIO
STEVE MELLING TRIO
ALAN BARNES, ANTHONY KERR BAND
ED BENTLEY TRIO
PETER JACOBSEN TRIO
LIANE CARROLL
DEIRDRE CARTRIGHT QUARTET
AFRICAN JAZZ QUARTET

Friday 6 September 8.30pm £8

JACQUI DANKWORTH and FIELD OF BLUE

Those of you who saw Jacqui’s two sets at the club with brother
Alec’s quartet will know she is set to become one of the great jazz vocalists.
This new group (with its first album set for imminent release) features
the singer with guitarist/pianist/arranger Harvey Brough, John Miller (piano/vocals)
Martin Brunsden (bass) and Marc Parnell (drums). Expect the emphasis to
be on original tunes, deft lyrics and a “yearning to create the perfect
3 1/2 minute pop song”

Friday 13 September 8.30pm £7

GARY CROSBY’S NU TROOP

The declared object of this acoustic sextet is “to swing hard”.
If the music of Coltrane, Parker and Davis is for you, then catch former
Jazz Warrior Gary on double bass, Neil Yates (trumpet), Denys Baptiste
(tenor) Tony Kofi (alto) Robert Fordjour (drums) and Ahmed Ben-Imhotep
(piano) with their clear, true sound reminiscent of a golden era but with
a definitive 1990’s edge.

Friday 20 September 8.30pm £7

THE GARY SCOTT QUARTET

American Gary is making a short British visit, gigging at a few
select clubs (happily including us!). He hails from San Diego, has accompanied
Sinatra and Mel Torme amongst others and plays tenor, alto and clarinet.
Essential!

Saturday 21 September 8.30pm £25 per Couple

A SUPPER DANCE

Supper Dance

to the music of

The Flanagan – Ingham Quartet

Friday 27 September 8.30pm £7

THE MATT WATES SEXTET

Matt’s band played a memorable first gig at the Fleece last year
and we’ve had many requests for a return visit by the altoist/composer
– so here he is with John Pearce (piano), Andy Panayi (saxes and flute),
Mark Fletcher (drums) Martin Shaw (trumpet) and bassist Malcolm Creese,
whose ABCD label has recently recorded Matt’s second album.

Friday 4 October 8.30pm £8

MICHAEL HASHIM with JAY DENSON, MIKE HANSON & MIKE>

The superb New York based alto and soprano player begins his UK
tour in fine company with Mike Bradley on drums and local favourite, guitarist
Mike Hanson, who considers Jay to be the best Hammond organist in Britain
today. Book early for an unmissable evening!

Friday 11 October 8.30pm £6

TIM RICHARD’S SPIRIT LEVEL

One of our most enduring and original bands, the quartet was re-constituted
by pianist Tim in 1989 and now makes a third appearance at Boxford. The
close-meshed ensemble sound in no way compromises the individuality of
the players: just listen to their recent fifth album “On The Level” on
33.

Friday 18 October 8.30pm £8

SAX APPEAL

The popular octet features a front line of no less than five saxophonists,
led by alto star Derek Nash. Expect to see some of our finest young reed

Friday 25 October 8.30pm £8

Elaine Delmar and the Brian Dee Trio

Among all contemporary singers there are a few who understand the
jazz repertoire better, or who express it with such dynamic simplicity.
Elaine casts a subtle new light on the material – her supurb accompanying
trio includes pianist Brian and drummer Bobby Worth.

Friday 1 November 8.30pm £6

The Esmond Selwin Trio

Debuts this evening for Welshman Esmond on guitar and base player
Clive Morton, together with a long overdue return for drummer Robin Jones,
renowned for his percussion work with Matt Bianco and his own group King
Salsa. Esmond (who releases an eagerly anticipated new CD during 1997)
and Robin are well known in jazz circles for their association with tenor
man Don Rendell: check out this splendid trio tonight in the intimate surroundings
of our club.

Friday 8 November 8.30pm £8

Benny Green and Sons

Boxford welcomes the distinguished broadcaster, author, musician
and raconteur (and leading authority on cricket and P.G.Wodhose, favourite
subjects of your committee). Benny on tenor plays a relaxed club date in
company with Leo Green (tenor), Dominic Green (guitar), John Piper (drums),
James Pearson (piano) and base player Andy Brown.

Friday 15 November 8.30pm £9

Bobby Shew and the Bobby Worth Trio

The powerful American trumpeter, whose soft, warm sound is so suitable
to ballads, has played in the bands of such legends as Tommy Dorsey, Woody
Herman and Buddy Rich. Bobby makes a much awaited return to Suffolk to
team with the matchless rhythm section of Bobby Worth (drums), Leon Clayton
(bass) and John Pearce (piano).

Friday 22 November 8.30pm £6

Orquestra Mahatma

Following a series of gigs with Elvis Costello and Andy Sheppard,
Fleece favourite and star percussionist Paul Clarvis returns to Boxford
as a leader in this dynamic trio. Base player Thad Kelly and multi instrumentalist
Stuart Hall complete the line up, so be early for an evening of unusual
and rewarding music.

Friday 29 November 8.30pm and Saturday 30 November
Ticket
£9

Martin Taylor

We can’t do better than quote Chet Atkins: “Martin Taylor is one
of the greatest and most impressive players in the world”. Two chanes to
catch a true giant of jazz guitar whose awesome technique and unerring
musical sense held a sellout Fleece audience spellbound last Autumn.

Friday 29 November 8.30pm £7

The Alan Skidmore Quartet

One of Britian’s finest tenor players presents an evening of highly
charged muscular music steeped in the spirit of his mentor, John Coltrane.
Skid’s quartet include pianist Steve Melling, gigging recently with the
Elvin Jones Jazz Machine.

Friday 13 December 8.30pm £7

The Gary Potter Quartet

The mercurial Liverpudlian guitarist appears live at the Hot Club
of Boxford – if you haven’t yet seen this master musician, give yourself
an early Christmas treat! His band tonight comprises Herbie Flowers on
double bass, Dave Trigwell on drums and pianist Mark Jackson. Watch out
for Gary’s new CD “Friends”.

Friday 20 December 8.30pm All Ticket £9

Claire Martin and Her Trio

Our cover star returns to Boxford for a secnd Christmas spectacular
with Clark Tracy (drums), Arnie Somogyi (bass) and – making a Fleece debut
– pianist Gareth Williams. Her fourth album “Offbeat” (recorded at Ronnie
Scott’s) showcases this band in performance, demonstrates Claire’s unrivalled
ability to select great material and confirms her stature as one of our
finest jazz singers – ever.

Friday 27 December 8.30pm £7

Eddie Johnson’s Jazz Unlimited with Don Rendell

We say goodbye to 1996 in grand style with a second visit by this
august organization. Eddie on bass, Richard Butcher (drums), Vic Wood (trumpet),
new addition Mark Allaway (saxophone) and pianist/arranger John China join
their very special guest, Don on tenor and reeds. We promise you that the
roof will be raised!

Friday 3 January 8.30pm All Ticket £9

The Peter King Quintet

It’s extraordinary to think that it’s three years since we presented
this wonderful musician at the club. We celebrate our 200th gig and the
New Year with a second visit by Peter on alto saxophone leading a stellar
quintet to include Gerard Presencer (trumpet), Steve Melling on piano,
bassist Jeremy Brown and drummer Seve Keogh. An unmissable evening – and
here’s to the next 200!

Friday 10 January 8.30pm £6

The Almost Acoustic Trio

The most versatile of players, guitarist John Etheridge has been
associated with such violinists as Grappelli, Menuhin, Ric Sanders and
Nigel Kennedy – here he links with another in the fast rising Chris Garrick.
The trio is completed by Malcolm Creese, the busiest double bass player
on the circuit – and one of the very best!

Friday 17 January 8.30pm £7

The Lee Gibson Quartet

We’re delighted to present a second appearance by this stylish
singer who caught our attention with her expressive interpretation of the
standard repertoire and her CD’s “You Can See Forever” and “The Nearness
Of You”. With Lee this evening are drummer/arranger Gerry Boyce, pianist
John Pearce and Paul Morgan on double bass.

Friday 24 January 8.30pm £7

The Jean Toussaint Quartet

The American tenor and soprano star and former Jazz Messenger makes
a long overdue return to Suffolk with a band that includes Dave Green on
double bass and pianist Steve Hamilton. Since leaving Art Blakey in 1986,
Jean has been resident in London, recording two acclaimed CDs “What Goes
Around” and “Life I Want” and playing with such great names as Julian Joseph,
Andy Hamilton and Jason Rebello.

Friday 31 January 8.30pm £6

The Steve Melling Trio

Tonight we turn the Boxford spotlight on Steve, an integral part
of the Alan Skidmore and Peter King groups, whose memorable first album
as a leader “Trio Duo Solo” is released on Ronnie Scott’s Jazz House label.
Dave Ohm on drums and Arnie Somogyi on double bass join the pianist to
complete this intriguing trio.

Friday 7 February 8.30pm £7

Mind and Time

Four of Britain’s leading musicians in Martin Speake (alto saxophone),
Clark Tracey (drums), Chris Batchelor (trumpet) and Mick Hutton (double
bass) comprise this brand new band. The music of the Texan tenor player
Ornette Coleman changed the direction of jazz – this evening the quartet
re-evaluates Ornette’s compositions and pays tribute to an American legend.

Friday 14 February 8.30pm All Ticket £9

The Tina May Quartet

Chris Parker of The Times commented that her fourth album ‘Time
Will Tell’ “triumphantly confirms Tina’s reputation as one of the brightest
vocal stars in the UK jazz firmament”. If you haven’t yet caught this marvellous
singer with her pure soprano voice with a three-octave range and flawless
pitch, book early for our St Valentine’s Day special!

Friday 21 February 8.30pm £7

The Ed Jones Quintet

A third visit from this superb band whose previous gigs have assumed
legendary status with Fleece regulars. The quintet is led by Ed on tenor,
whose credits include recording or live work with such as Incognito, Chaka
Khan, the Brand New Heavies and George Benson expect two soaring sets from
one of Britain’s finest saxophonists and a wildly appreciative audience!

Friday 28 February 8.30pm £7

The Iain Dixon Quartet

The tenor and soprano player who so impressed us at the Appleby
Jazz festival makes a first appearance at the Fleece, leading Nicci Iles
(piano), Matt Miles (bass) and Steve Brown (drums). Iain and Nicci are
the principal composers, but listen out for some standards too.

Friday 7 March 8.30pm £6

The John Law – Tim Wells – Paul Carvis Trio

John on piano, Tim on double bass and Paul on drums and percussion,
have just released two albums “Giant Leaves (Autumn Steps)” and “The Onliest”
on FMR records. Their aim is to explore the classic jazz standard language
from an open, improvised perspective – tonight, the trio reinterprets the
music of Thelonius Monk. Watch out for this “brilliant pianist who plays
like a hybrid of Cecil Taylor and Keith Jarrett”.

Friday 14 March 8.30pm £7

The Rachel Buchanan Quartet

This stylist vocalist was highly recomended to us by Tina May’s
manager, David Jacobs, who clearly knows a fine singer when he hears one!
We flipped over Rachel’s reading of “Spring Can Really Hang You Up The
Most” and so here she is with her new approach to the great standards,
some dramatic ballads, originals and a little Latin influence!

Friday 21 March 8.30pm £7

The Clare Hirst Quartet

Clare on tenor and soprano saxophones, Hilary Cameron (keyboards),
Phil Scragg (bass guitar) and drummer Davide Giovanini comprise this splendid
quartet, whose CD “Tough And Tender” on the 33 label was arguably the finest
debut recording issued in 1996. If you like exhilarating jazz with a “world
music” influence, then don’t miss their second Boxford gig!

Friday 4 April 8.30pm £7

Dominic Alldis Quartet

A first chance to catch the pianist/vocalist with the impeccable
diction and defiantly English style, whose 1996 CD “Turn Out The Stars”
paid elegant tribute to the great Bill Evans. Dominic contributes precise
and poised keyboards to his quartet completed by Adam Glasser (harmonica/piano),
Andrew Cleyndert (double bass) and drummer Tristan Maillot.

Friday 11 April 8.30pm £8

The Stacey Kent Quintet

Stacey releases her eagerly awaited debut CD “Close Your Eyes”
on Candid Records in May. Tonight the stylish chanteuse joins Jim Tomlinson
(tenor), Dave Newton (piano), Andy Cleyndert (bass) and Steve Brown (drums)
to preview songs from what will be one of the years essential albums.

Friday 18 April 8.30pm £7

The Gary Scott Quartet

A very special night is promised at the club with the return of
this most accomplished of musicians on a short European tour. American
Gary is based in San Diego, has accompanied Sinatra, Presley and Tony Bennett
amongst a galaxy of stars and plays tenor, alto and clarinet. Actually,
he plays no less than 13 different woodwind instruments!

Friday 25 April 8.30pm £8

Ian Shaw

The sensational singer/pianist tells us that he particularly likes
to play solo gigs at the Boxford Fleece and the Algonquin Hotel, New York!
Tonight the Big Apple must wait its turn as Ian showcases songs from his
fourth (and best) album “The Echo Of A Song” newly released on Ronnie Scott’s
Jazz House label.

Friday 2 May 8.30pm £8

The Buckley-Batchelor Quartet

“Steve Buckley is the tall one with fair hair who plays saxophones,
bass clarinet and pennywhistle; Chris Batchelor is the small yet perfectly
formed dark haired one who plays trumpet” – a succinct description of the
former Loose Tubes men lifted from their publicity handout! If you like
adventurous and unusual music, then catch the duo with drummer Mark Sanders
and Improv star/ composer Simon Pell (bass).

Friday 9 May 8.30pm £8

The Julie Dexter Quintet

Julie’s management team wrote to say “…you’ll love her to bits…Julie
Dexter is a beautiful young vocalist who can blend classic jazz with modern
jazz and is a brilliant arranger…she is the tops when it comes to arranging
standards.” We’re very struck – judge for yourself when the fast rising
singer makes her Boxford debut.

Friday 16 May 8.30pm £8

The David Newton Quartet

David co-led the band on our first ever gig in February 1993. On
our 219th gig tonight, his new quartet make their Boxford debut – the stellar
pianist links with Iain Dixon (tenor and soprano), Matt Miles (bass) and
Steve Brown (drums) with emphasis on music from their forthcoming Candid
CD “DNA”. Another crucial summer purchase!

Friday 23 May 8.30pm £8

Cubana Bop

We’re delighted to present a first appearance by this exuberant
Latin-jazz sextet led by pianist Terry Seabrook. Cubana Bop provide an
exciting blend of traditional Latin numbers and jazz standards and are
described by the Times as “… one of the UK scene’s freshest live acts.”
Be early for an essential gig!

Friday 30 May 8.30pm £8

The Sigi Finkel – Tim Richards Band

This new partnership pairs pianist Tim, leader of the enduring
Spirit Level project, with a star Vienna based tenor/soprano player. Sigi
hails from Germany and has worked with such internationally known musicians
as Enrico Rava and John Abercrombie. On a UK tour in support of their CD
“Dervish Dances”, the duo are joined by drummer Marc Parnell and bassist
Phil Scragg.

Friday 6 June 8.30pm £7

The Kelvin Christiane Band

Phil Scragg (bass), Mark Fletcher (drums) and Neil Angilley on
piano comprise Kelvin’s group on his third Boxford date. This fine musician
and engaging personality will be playing tenor, alto, flute and clarinet
on tonight’s gig – meanwhile he’s busy working on a quartet CD and the
debut recording by Latin Jazz ensemble Balangandan for future release.

Friday 13 June 8.30pm £8

The Jim Mullen Band

His third CD for the EFZ label “We Go Back” marked a change of
direction for the ace Scottish guitarist. Jim departed from the sharp,
electric sound that characterised his 90’s albums to team with Gary Husband,
Gareth Williams and Mick Hutton to make a superb record of standard tunes
with an acoustic emphasis. This reflective gentler approach confirms his
stature as one of the country’s great musicians – don’t miss Jim’s much
awaited return to Suffolk!

Friday 20 June 8.30pm £8

The Michael Garrick Quartet

This programme concludes in fine style with a first appearance
by this elegant pianist in company with Mike Hall on saxophone, Paul Moylan
on bass and drummer Alan (AJ) Jackson. Closely associated with such names
as Joe Harriott, Don Rendell, Ian Carr and Norma Winstone, Michael is renowned
as an inspirational bandleader, a prolific composer and a tireless educator
and administrator.

Friday 27 June 8.30pm £8

The Tim Whitehead Quartet

At last! The return of the former Loose Tubes tenor man, whose
superb compositions and impassioned improvising form the focal points of
the “the best band I’ve ever put together”. The group’s third album was
recorded live at Ronnie Scott’s this month. Tonight pianist Peter Jacobsen
and drummer Dave Barry join Tim for an evening of contemplative ballads
and Latin fusion inspired tunes.

Friday 28 March 8.30pm £7

The Steve Waterman Quartet

Good Friday – Great Band – Paul Clarvis (drums and percussion),
Jeff Clyne (double bass) and Liam Noble (piano) join the powerful trumpeter
whose album “Destination Unknown” was one of the essential recordings of
1996. Steve takes time out from a busy schedule of session work, West End
shows and TV jingles to showcase his own lyrical compositions in a club
setting.

Friday 4 July 8.30pm £8

The Ray Alexander Quartet

From Bayside, New York to Boxford Suffolk – an annual visitor to
these shores, Ray is a favourite at summer festivals throughout Britain.
Tonight we celebrate American Independence Day with a much overdue return
for the superb vibes player and entertainer, whose band includes multi-instrumentalist
Neale Ridding on piano.

Friday 11 July 8.30pm £8

The Penelope Tobin Sextet

Now based in Brooklyn, Penelope returns to her native UK to make
a keenly anticipated debut at the club on the eve of her season at Ronnie
Scott’s. Described as “a jazz musician for the 21st century”, the fast
rising singer/pianist joins the finest of musicians in Dave Green (bass),
Tristan Maillot (drums), Steve Waterman (trumpet), Mark Lockheart (saxophones)
and Mark Nightingale (trombone) with the emphasis on material from her
new Spotlite CD “Beside Myself”.

Friday 18 July 8.30pm £13 ALL TICKET

Marion Montgomery and her Trio

From Natchez, Mississippi to Boxford Suffolk – Marion Montgomery,
singer. Tonight expect to find a sellout crowd and a trio including ace
drummer Martin Drew and composer/pianist Laurie Holloway. Expect to hear
a repertoire consisting of tunes from Gershwin to Mercer to Rupert Holmes
to Bill Withers. Expect most of all to see one of the greatest vocalists
in jazz.

Friday 25 July 8.30pm £9 ALL TICKET

The Dave O’Higgins Quartet

The notes on his second CD opined that Dave O’Higgins had “earned
his place in the global “A” team”. His four sharp EFZ albums now represent
a substantial body of work and fully bear out that claim – check out Dave’s
“Secret Ingredient” for proof and catch the superb tenor and soprano star
on his eagerly awaited return to Suffolk with Alec Dankworth (bass), Robin
Aspland (piano) and New Yorker Gene Calderazzo on drums. One crucial gig!

Friday 1 August 8.30pm £12 ALL TICKET

The Scott Hamilton Quartet

We’re delighted to present a first appearance by the doyen of contemporary
American mainstream players – Scott on tenor is joined by his regular British
rhythm section, the Rolls Royce team of Dave Green (double bass), Allan
Ganley (drums) and Fleece debutante Brian Lemon on piano. One of the great
working quartets in Nineties jazz provides a magical start to our fourth
annual Jazz Weekend!

Saturday 2 August 8.30pm £9 ALL TICKET

Elaine Delmar

Another marvellous rhythm section in pianist Brian Dee, drummer
Bobby Worth and bass player Harvey Weston accompany Elaine on her second
Boxford gig. Among all contemporary singers there are few who understand
the jazz repertoire better, or who express it with such dynamic simplicity.
She casts a subtle light on the material – so anticipate a little Saturday
night fever!

Sunday 3 August Midday FREE ENTRY

Sax Appeal

A lazy Sunday afternoon, dreamy summer weather, a superb barbecue
and free admission to the Fleece courtyard! Our mini festival concludes
with a return visit by alto player Derek Nash with the cream of young British
saxophonists and a stellar rhythm section – this popular octet has recently
released a third CD “Outside In” in the wake of a highly successful tour
of South America. An essential band on an essential day in the Boxford
calendar!

Friday 8 August 8.30pm £8

The Byron Wallen Quintet

Who could forget Byron’s stunning duo gig with Mervyn Africa at
Boxford last year? Described by The Guardian as “the most interesting new
explorer of Miles Davis’ legacy”, the powerful trumpeter and composer returns
to the club to lead Trevor Watkis (piano), Frank Tontoh (drums), Tony Kofi
(alto saxophone) and Larry Bartley (bass). This summer sees Byron on an
extensive European tour and the release of his new album “Earth Roots”.

Friday 15 August 8.30pm £7

The Nikki Leighton-Thomas Quartet

Every jazz fan will recall Fran Landesman’s superlative lyric to
“Spring Will Really Hang You Up The Most”. These days she is writing with
pianist Simon Wallace and their songs find a sparkling and seductive interpreter
in vocalist Nikki Leighton-Thomas. This evening we turn the spotlight on
Simon and Nikki to showcase some great lyrics and one of the most engaging
of our young singers.

Friday 22 August 8.30pm £8

The Spike Robinson Quartet

Blimey – yet another big name American! An enduring Fleece favourite,
Spike draws material from the common stock of classic American song that
has supplied great popular vocalists, such as Sinatra and Peggy Lee, over
the years, treating tunes with warmth and affection. Legendary drummer
Jack Parnell, Leon Clayton (bass) and John Pearce (piano) accompany the
tenor star on his return to Boxford.

Friday 29 August 8.30pm £8

The Holly Slater Quartet

Congratulations to Holly Slater, winner of the Louis Award for
the Young Jazz Musician Of The Year! Our programme concludes with your
chance to hear the tenor saxophonist who so impressed the panel of James
Moody, Benny Green, Ronnie Scott, Julian Joseph and Barbara Thompson! A
“creative and audacious performer with a precocious determination to avoid
the obvious”, Holly plays Boxford with Jonathan De’ath (drums), Romain
Collard (bass) and Mike Gorman (piano) – Fleece debutants all!

Friday 5 September 8.30pm £7

Dave Jones Trio with Nick Hill

The first gig of our Autumn season finds drummer Dave Trigwell
and double bass player Mike Harris back at Boxford to join Fleece debutants
Dave on piano and special guest Nick on trumpet and flugelhorn. We were
very struck by the pianist’s first CD “Have You Met Mr Jones?”, released
by Parrot records in late ’96 to enthusiastic reviews. Their pleasing consistency
of mood and feel and reverent exploration of the standard repertoire mark
out this group as one to watch!

Friday 12 September 8.30pm £9

Danny Moss, Jeanie Lambe and the Bobby Worth Trio

Drummer Bobby, pianist Brian Dee and double bass player Len Skeat
comprise a ace rhythm section to accompany Danny on tenor saxophone and
his wife Jeanie on their first Boxford date. Danny occupied the tenor chair
in a succession of world renowned big bands – today his huge tone and hard
swinging style make him instantly recognised. Look out for Jeanie’s vivacious
personality, Her beautiful voice and her sense of dynamic and dramatic
performance when tonight we present two formidable entertainers!

Friday 19 September 8.30pm £8

The Kimbara Brothers

With a second album in the can for autumn release and their contribution
to the international “Best Of Gypsy Jazz” CD, it’s all happening for the
Kimbaras! Led by guitarist Neil Stacey, the quartet evokes the stylish
romantic world of Django with its music full of subtlety, invention and
humour – the Hot Club of Boxford will be packed for a return visit by this
unique band!

Saturday 20 September 7:30 pm for 8.30pm £30
Double Ticket

SUPPER DANCE

THE BOBBY WORTH QUARTET

Friday 26 September 8.30pm £9

The Baritone Band

Just marvellous! With a front line of Alan Wakeman, Andy Panayi,
Alan Barnes and John Williams on baritone saxophones, this seven piece
group arrives at Boxford as part of a UK tour. Founded in 1986, the Baritone
Band have a CD scheduled for Autumn release on Spotlite Records: tonight’s
celebration of a largely unsung member of the sax family features some
invigorating originals and affectionate tributes to many of the great jazz
baritone players.

Friday 3 October 8.30pm £7

Estelle Kokot Quartet

Andy Brown (Flanagan-Ingham Quartet) on double bass, Winston Clifford
on Drums and guitarist Peter Oxley, leader of the New Noakes Quartet, complete
the South African singer/pianist’s trio on her first Boxford gig. Estelle’s
extraordinary vocal range and singular composition skills are allied to
a sharp sense of humour and an electric stage presence. Don’t miss this
chance to catch a rising star in an intimate club setting!

Friday 10 October 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKET

Clair Martin and her Trio

Arguably the best British vocalist of her generation, Claire recorded
her fifth Linn album “Make This City Ours” in New York last year. Released
this Spring, it reveals again her unrivalled ability to select great material:
expect to find it as the critics’ choice as the Jazz CD of 1997. At Boxford
the singer makes a fifth appearance, joined by her superlative trio of
Clark Tracey (drums), Arnie Somogyi (double bass) and pianist Dave Newton:
one fine gig in prospect!

Friday 17 October 8.30pm £8

PAZ

We welcome back the enduring Latin fusion band that provided an
Easter treat last year! Founded in 1970 by vibes player/leader Dick Crouch,
this superb ensemble returns to Suffolk in an eight piece version showcasing
some of Britain’s best musicians and some lively original charts. Paz attract
a large and loyal following, so be early for the group that Dick describes
as “playing today’s form of bebop”.

Friday 24 October 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKET

The Harry Allen Quartet

Stan Getz was once asked his idea of the perfect tenor saxophone
soloist – his answer was “my technique, Al Cohen’s ideas and Zoot Sims’
time. The fulfilment of this idea may well be embodied in our special guest
this evening, making his debut at the club. Harry Allen, of Providence,
Rhode Island is possessed of a gorgeous tone and his warm, ingratiating
sound in the Coleman Hawkins tradition is the hallmark of a true tenor
star.

Friday 31 October 8.30pm £8

The Max Waites Sextet

Congratulations to Matt Wates, winner of the 1997 BT British Jazz
Award in the Rising Star category! We consider his two CD’s “Relaxin’ At
The Cat” and “Two” to be essential recordings, a view borne out by Jazz
Journal International who included Matt’s second Album in its top 12 releases
of 1996 – the only British representative. Tonight it’s your chance to
check out the alto player/composer as his sextet returns for a third Boxford
gig!

Friday 7 November 8.30pm £9

Gerard Presencer’s Platypus

Tonight the spotlight falls upon one of the worlds finest jazz
trumpeters as Gerard’s band make their eagerly awaited East Anglian debut.
So be extra early as Jim Watson (piano), Jeremy Stacey (drums) and Andy
Cleyndert (double bass) join the dynamic trumpet and flugelhorn player
to showcase his own compositions.

Friday 14 November 8.30pm £8

Milan Lad

Milan brings his stylish fusion of Indian jazz and Western music
to Suffolk as part of an Arts Council funded tour with a prestigious new
commission from Leeds Jazz in celebration of Mahatma Ghandi and 50 years
of Indian independence: on this intriguing evening his septet includes
Sylvan Richardson Jr. (electric bass), Myke Wilson (drums), Inder “Goldfinger”
(tablas/percussion), Vanette Mason (keyboards) and violinist Davide Rossi.

Friday 21 November 8.30pm £7

The Andy Hague Quintet

In his first appearance at Boxford the Bristol based trumpeter
shares the front line with ex-NYJO and Tommy Chase tenor player Ben Waghorn.
Andy’s album on his own Ooh Err label “Portrait Of The Artist As An Old
Git” is seldom far from our CD players these days – an assured and polished
recording notwithstanding the offbeat title! Dave Gordon (piano), Dave
Goodier (bass) and Paul Cavaciuti complete this fine group.

Friday 28 November 8.30pm £8

The Sarah Moule Quintet

Our programme commences with a first appearance for this wonderfully
expressive singer, hailed by the Guardian as a “cabaret Diva”. Sarah is
joined by Mark Johns (guitar), Jeremy Brown (double bass), Mark Fletcher
(drums) and Simon Wallace (piano) for a programme of thoughtfully chosen
material of familiar standards and all too rarely heard jazz songs. Don’t
miss your chance to check out this marvellous young vocalist and Claire
Martin prot&eacutr/>

Friday 5 December 8.30pm £8

Tony Kopfi Tribute to Charlie Parker

The fast rising British alto player joins ever-popular Byron Wallen
(trumpet) on a special evening to commemorate the great American saxophonist
who revolutionised post war jazz. The group is completed by Larry Bartley
(bass) and – making their Boxford debuts – drummer Richard Lucock and pianist
Trevor Watkis. Five fine musicians pay tribute to the sound of Bebop, Bird,
Miles and Dizzy: one crucial gig!

Friday 12 December 8.30pm £9

The Bruce Adams – Alan Barnes Quintet

Fleece favourites Bruce on trumpet and flugelhorn and Alan on alto
and baritone lead a crack rhythm section of Steve Brown (drums), Matt Miles
(bass) and Richard Busiakiewicz (piano) on this our 250th gig. The band
celebrate with two blistering sets of “music that is melodic and exciting
and vastly accomplished”. If you think their CDs are sensational, wait
till you hear them in person at the club!

Friday 19 December 8.30pm £9

The Lee Gibson Quartet

The celebrations continue with our Christmas gig and the return
of this consummate jazz vocalist. Two peerless albums for the Zephyr label
“You Can See Forever” and “The Nearness Of You” showcase a swinging singer
who has reached the highest standards of musicianship. At Boxford Lee is
joined by drummer Gerry Boyce, John Pearce on piano and Paul Morgan on
double bass: book early for this Xmas treat!

Friday 2 January 8.30pm £7

Annie Whitehead’s Rude

On their last Boxford date, Rude’s drummer Liam Genockey scolded
this writer for introducing Annie as one of Britain’s best trombonists:
“THE best trombonist in Britain!” he stated emphatically. His claim is
borne out by Annie’s recordings “This Is Rude” and “Naked” and her powerful
contribution to the new Robert Wyatt CD “Shleep”. Legendary trumpet player
Harry Beckett and bassist Ian Maidman join Liam and Annie tonight for the
rudest start to 1998. It promises to be a great New Year!

Friday 9 January 8.30pm £9

Clark Tracy’s New Quintet

The ace drummer’s brand new band comprises Steve Melling on piano,
Mark Hodgson on double bass, tenor player Mornington Lockett and Mark Nightingale
(equal best trombonist in Britain?). Clark, an ever popular visitor to
the club with such stars as Harry Allen, Claire Martin and of course Stan
Tracey OBE, steps into the spotlight to lead a group of stunning virtuosity
playing exciting and original material with an impeccable jazz pedigree.
Unmissable!

Friday 16 January 8.30pm £13 ALL TICKET

Small Commotion: Andy Shepard, Steve Lodder and Chris Laurence

Don’t miss the enduring partnership of Messrs. Sheppard and Lodder
– together with the bassist with an exquisitely full sound and telepathic
sense of time and structure. Chris, Andy on saxophones and Steve on piano
unveil their new acoustic trio in this intimate club setting: one of their
very first gigs. Andy maintains his position as one of the UK’s leading
soloists as he and Steve now emerge as distinctive composers, writing scores
for TV and dance and for their own groups.

Friday 23 January 8.30pm £10

The Tim Garland Quintet

Jason Rebello (piano), Gerard Presencer (trumpet & flugremy Stacey (drums) and bass player Mick Hutton comprise Tim’s stellar
quintet tonight, when the emphasis falls on material from his dynamic new
Linn CD “Enter The Fire”. Catch the tenor star on his return to Suffolk
to pay tribute to the spirit of American improvised music and such of his
heroes as Ornette, Bill Evans and Gershwin. “Barnstorming solos, exemplary
ensemble work, utterly distinctive”. (The Times)

Friday 30 January 8.30pm £8

Ronnie Remembered – The John Chrichinson Quartet

An evening of music and reminiscences to commemorate the great
tenor player and jazz club proprietor Ronnie Scott who died at Christmas
1996. Band alumni John on piano, drummer Mark Fletcher and bassist Leon
Clayton are joined by tenor and soprano star Pat Crumly, described by Ronnie
as “one of the saxophone players in this country that I most admire.” Don’t
miss this fond evocation of the man, his music and his humour. Is this
erÖ microphone on?

Friday 6 February 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKET

The Peter King Quintet

We celebrate five years of jazz at The Fleece with a third Boxford
gig by Peter, a musician of genuine world class and an inspirational alto
saxophonist. Never afraid to explore new directions, he followed his brilliant
“Tamburello” and “Speed Trap” CDs by pairing his regular j azz quartet
with the Lyric String Quartet. The ability to innovate is the hallmark
of a great player – what better way to mark our fifth anniversary than
to present Peter’s group?

Friday 13 February 8.30pm £8

The Frank Harrison Quartet

Frank is a pianist who is clearly one of the stars of the future.
He brings with him tonight a man who has been a star since his early days
with the John Dankworth Quintet. Equally at home on vibes, piano, percussion
and accordion, we eagerly await the first visit to Boxford of Bill LeSage.
With the ever-popular bassist Mike Harris and Dave Barry on drums, this
promises to be a superb evening.

Young Jazz Musician of the Year runner up Frank, who also won the 1994
solo section of the Daily Telegraph Young Jazz Musician, has now won a
tuition scholarship to Berklee College (Boston USA). To help sponsor his
stay there we are delighted to showcase the talent of this young man who
is clearly going places (in much more than just the literal sense!) Mike
Harris, on bass tonight, was the man who inspired us to present Frank,
and we are sure that this will be a night we will be very proud to remember
in years to come.

Friday 20 February 8.30pm £9

The Kate Westbrook – Frank Westbrook Duo

“Love and Infatuation”, the duo’s new Jazz/Cabaret, is based around
a selection of the songs of Frederick Hollander, composer of “Falling In
Love Again”. Rediscover a treasure trove of tuneful, ironic and touching
hits from the hey-day of the Hollywood musical brought vividly to life
by Kate’s theatrically charged vocal interpretations and Mike’s contemporary
piano settings on their eagerly awaited debut at the club.

Friday 27 February 8.30pm £9

The Tina May Quartet

No year at Boxford would be complete without a visit from this
extraordinary vocalist whose astonishing range is documented by four fine
albums for the 33 label. Expect Tina to demonstrate her fiercely innovative
approach to jazz and her infectious sense of humour on her very welcome
return. Expect a sell-out crowd on an essential night with “that great
rarityÖ a singer that enhances a song.”

Friday 6 March 8.30pm £8

Frank Williams African Jazz Quintet

What a way to begin our spring programme! Who could forget those
balmy August Sundays in 1995 and 1996, when this fabulous tenor man and
his band played two irresistible, uplifting gigs in the summer sunshine
in the Fleece courtyard? It’s best to give the courtyard a miss during
March, so relocate to our intimate upstairs club to catch the group “with
a feel good factor that politicians can only dream of” and we dare you
to keep your feet still!

Friday 13 March 8.30pm £9

Claire Martin and Ian Shaw

The Look of Love: A celebration of Bacharach and David

Composer Burt Bacharach and lyricist Hal David wrote perfect pop songs
for such great interpretative singers as Dusty Springfield and Dionne Warwick.
Now their influence extends to a new generation of star vocalists as two
Fleece favourites take an affectionate look back at this peerless Sixties
partnership. Claire “explores a romantic lyric with a mind as well as a
heart” – watch what happens when she returns with the most compelling British
male singer of his generation.

Friday 20 March 8.30pm £8

The Alan Skidmore Quartet

One of Britain’s finest tenor players returns for an evening of
highly charged, muscular music steeped in the spirit of his mentor John
Coltrane. The 30th anniversary of Trane’s death fell in 1997, when Alan
toured extensively to commemorate this most innovative of jazz masters.
Unhappily we had no available dates but we put matters right tonight with
a third Boxford gig for Skid’s band, which includes that brilliant pianist
Steve Melling.

Friday 27 March 8.30pm £7

The Liam Noble Quintet

Liam’s highly acclaimed solo CD release “Close Your Eyes” heralded
the arrival of a very special player. The pianist has now formed a virtuoso
group to showcase his original compositions, written and arranged with
the particular skills of each musician in mind ñ and what musicians they
are! Stan Sulzmann (tenor and soprano saxophones and flute), Chris Biscoe
(alto sax, alto clarinet), Mick Hutton (double bass) and Paul Clarvis on
drums and percussion complete this all star quintet.

Liam Noble: “an exuberant talent as a composer and improviser.”

Friday 3 April 8.30pm £8

The Ed Jones Quintet

Some quotes: vibes player/actor Max Beasley (TV’s Tom Jones) describes
Ed as “a real monster” and The Observer hails him as “the next big name
in British jazz”. Jazz UK says “the dynamism of Jones’ group would make
anyone nostalgic for the hard bop burn-up of the Jazz Messengers misty
eyed”. The superlatives keep coming for the tenor star and for his long
overdue second album on ASC “Out Here”; so be early for two soaring sets
by the band whose previous gigs hold legendary status with Fleece regulars.

Friday 10 April 8.30pm £8

The Liane Carrol Quartet

The dynamic vocalist/pianist who stole the show at last year’s
Bures Jazz Day is joined by Peter Kirtley (guitar), Steve Lamb (Bass) and
Greg Leppard (drums) for this Good Friday treat. Now signed to Ronnie Scott’s
Jazz House label, Liane’s new album “Dolly Bird” reflects her versatility
and her imaginative repertoire: tonight expect to hear tunes by everyone
from Laura Nyro to Lou Reed to Hoagy Carmichael when once more we welcome
this engaging personality and singer. An unforgettable evening in prospect!

Friday 17 April and Saturday 18 April 8.30pm £11
ALL TICKET

Martin Taylor and Jack Emblow

It’s been an eventful last eighteen months for Martin since we
last saw him recording with Prefab Sprout, TV with Val Doonican and the
release of a new Linn CD “Two’s Company”, an album of duets with the cream
of Australian jazz musicians and singers. Once more in duo mode, Britain’s
finest guitarist now links with star accordion player/arranger Jack Emblow
on these two special evenings at the club. Watch out for Martin and Jack
on tour with Spirit of Django and the group’s forthcoming CD “Gypsy”.

Friday 24 April 8.30pm £8

The Roy Forbes Quintet

This bloke’s the cat’s whiskers as far as we’re concerned! The
unmistakable voice of Andy Hamilton and the Blue Notes – “cool, swinging
and very hip indeed”, if we may nick a phrase from the Birmingham Post,
returns to Suffolk having recorded one of the great albums of 1997. Check
out Roy’s “Going Home” CD and catch this marvellous singer live with Chris
Taylor (piano), Winston Clifford (drums), Tom Hill (bass) and tenor player
Luke Shingler.

Friday 1 May 8.30pm £7

Larraine Odell and the Trio

Shakatak’s Roger Odell and his wife, singer Larraine, can be seen
most Fridays in our audience listening to the great jazz vocalists and
musicians we present at Boxford. We felt the time was right to ask them
to step forward for their own gig, when the drummer with Britain’s premier
and most enduring jazz/funk band joins the singer who made such an impression
with her contribution to Joan Morrell’s “Jazz Essex Take Two” CD compilation.
The local connection continues with the inclusion of Hadleigh’s Bernie
Hodgkins on bass for what will be a very special evening!

Friday 8 May 8.30pm £7

Jerry Underwood and the Dave Gordon Trio

In our lowly opinion, David Gordon is Britain’s most under-rated
jazz pianist. Now with a trio CD in the can for the Swiss “Guild” label,
he joins Paul Cavaciuti (drums) and Fleece debutant Ole Rasmussen on double
bass for some Spring dates with Jerry, back in the UK from his base in
Lyon, France. This richly gifted saxophonist plays with the Carla Bley
Big Band, Andy Sheppard’s Big Co-Motion, John Martyn and Spirit Level,
and we are delighted to welcome him to Boxford on his much overdue return.

Friday 15 May 8.30pm £9

Roy Williams, John Barnes and The Bobby Worth Trio

No George Chisholm we’re afraid…

but instead book early for Roy on Trombone, John on Saxophones and Bobby
on Drums……..

Friday 22 May 8.30pm £8

The Anthony Kerr Quartet

Touring and recording with Georgie Fame while being percussion
tutor at Harrow School – these are eventful days for the sparkling vibraphonist
Anthony Kerr. Ronnie Scott’s Jazz House label have recently released a
CD by his own quartet “Now Hear This”, recorded live last July in order,
says Anthony, to give it that “edge” that only an on stage performance
can have. Anyone who has heard this masterful Irish musician at Boxford
with the Jazz Percussion Ensemble, Tim Garland or in solo mode will know
just how electric those live performances can be!

Friday 29 May 8.30pm £7

J-LIFE

Is there a better young singer than Julie Dexter? Tomorrow’s Warriors
wowed a discerning Fleece audience last summer they quickly metamorphosed
into J-Life and in October wowed the judges at Leverkusen to become the
European Young Jazz Artists of the Year, the first British winners for
15 years! This Spring they release their eagerly anticipated debut CD “Tomorrow’s
Warriors PresentÖJ-Life”: tonight Julie is joined by Jason Yarde (saxophones),
Robert Mitchell (piano), Daniel Crosby (drums) and bass player Darren Taylor.
One essential gig!

Friday 5 June 8.30pm £6

John Etheridge and John Donaldson

Pat Metheny describes John Etheridge as “one of the best guitarists
in the world”. We rang John with an idea – a three set gig. Invite the
musician of your choice to play a solo set, perform another set yourself
and then combine with that player for a brief finale as a duo. Happily
Mr Etheridge thought it was a good idea: he immediately chose to appear
opposite the superb pianist, composer and arranger (and first call accompanist)
John Donaldson, and so tonight we showcase two master musicians in solo
and duo mode.

Friday 12 June 8.30pm £7

Young Lions and Old Tigers

Please welcome a brand new band as two of our finest saxophonists
present “a perfect blend of timeless music for jazz lovers of all ages”.
Young Lions and Old Tigers are co-led by Derek Nash (composer, arranger
and leader of Sax Appeal) on alto and the legendary American musician and
Fleece favourite Spike Robinson on tenor. Tonight they are joined by a
stellar rhythm section of Nick Weldon on piano, Rob Rickenberg on bass
and drummer Peter Cater. A bunch of very hip cats indeed!

Friday 19 June 8.30pm £7

Gary Baldwin – Mike Hanson

Mike co-led the band – with Dave Newton – on our very first gig
in February 1993, when his advice and experience enabled us to get the
club away to a flying start. Tonight (gig no. 276, we believe) the guitarist
is joined by former Tommy Chase band member (and Portishead associate)
Gary on Hammond and ace drummer Mike Bradley. The emphasis is on tunes
from Messrs. Hanson and Baldwin’s CD “Spycatcher” released on their own
splendidly named Lizard records. It’s a tour de force from the classic
jazz trio of drums, guitar and organ, but with hints of gospel, Latin and
soul, it’s an essential album for 1998 too!

Friday 26 June 8.30pm £8 – ALL TICKET

The Stacey Kent Sextet

David Newton (piano), Dave Green (bass), Jim Tomlinson (tenor),
Colin Oxley (guitar) and Steve Brown (drums) accompany our cover star on
her fifth Boxford gig. Stacey now tours Britain upon the release of her
second CD for Candid, “The Tender Trap”. “It’s a swinging affair” she says
“with some jazz standards and some happy love songs”: confirmation that
this elegant New Yorker is one of the great vocalists of the nineties –
and what a fabulous band!

Friday 3 July 8.30pm £8

Lindsay Holiday

From Birmingham, Alabama to Boxford, Suffolk – an extraordinary
vocalist who draws upon the musical influences of his roots from blues
to jazz standards and a sprinkling of gospel. He’s acted in a Spielberg
movie and presented Channel 4’s Food File, but singing has always been
Lindsay’s first love. Catch his quintet on their Boxford debut and on our
recommendation seek out a copy of his CD “Happy Talk” for his gorgeous
interpretations of classic tunes by Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, Hoagy
Carmichael and Rodgers and Hammerstein.

Friday 10 July 8.30pm £9

The Tony Remy Band

A Londoner, Tony draws from the capital’s plurality of musical
cultures in his work. He’s played with Jason Rebello and US3, led his own
bands (Lateral Thinking and Desperately Seeking Fusion) and recorded as
leader for each of the prestigious jazz labels Blue Note and GRP. So during
five and a half years at the club, it’s been very remiss of us not to have
included this very fine guitarist, whose sextet includes vocalist Lennox
Cameron and old associates Nick Cohen on bass and Roger Beaujolais on vibes.
Tonight, we put things right with Tony’s first visit to Boxford: one essential
gig!

Friday 17 July 8.30pm £7

The John Law – Tim Wells – Tony Marsh Trio

Be early for two sets of creative and challenging jazz by this
intriguing group, which features arguably the most innovative British pianist
of his generation. John returns to the club in the august company of Tony
on drums and Tim on double bass, promising an evening of standards explored
from an open, improvised perspective. In turn, we promise a night of endlessly
imaginative music from three great players.

Friday 24 July 8.30pm £7

Lol Coxhill: Solo and Standard Conversions Trio

It’s Lol’s Boxford debut and we are in for a treat. The emphasis
is on free improvisation from this strikingly original soprano saxophonist
(and one of our heroes), playing in solo mode and adding bass and drums
as the standard repertoire is re-evaluated “in and out of tempo”. This
fiercely independent approach is always tempered by a droll sense of humour
and a broad minded eclecticism – the sum is an unmissable evening of music.

Friday 31 July 8.30pm £8

The Martin Drew Quartet

“Batten down the hatches!” says Martin as he brings his all-star
band of Mornington Lockett (tenor), Gareth Williams (piano) and Laurence
Cottle (electric bass) to Boxford on his very welcome return. His powerful
yet subtle playing is the reason why this outstanding drummer is the first
choice for everyone from Oscar Peterson to Gene Harris on their UK dates
– and who could forget last year’s gig here with Marion Montgomery? As
a leader, Martin is justly proud of this dynamic group: there’s a debut
CD to be recorded this summer. Meanwhile our advice is to catch them live
at the Fleece: and get those hatches battened!

Friday 7 August 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKET

Selina Jones and Her Musicians

America’s loss is Britain’s gain as we present Salena on her Boxford
debut with a trio including that wonderful pianist John Pearce. Her singing
can be as smokey and sensual as her favourite Sarah Vaughan, but it’s impossible
to pigeonhole this internationally acclaimed vocalist and her seamless
blend of jazz, blues, swing and Latin. We’ll just say: a distinctive voice,
perfect pitch and inflection, an individual style and charismatic stage
presence.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Miss Salena Jones.

Friday 14 August 8.30pm £8

DHSQ

The DHS in question is Dick Heckstall-Smith on tenor and soprano
saxophones – a formidable and fascinating musician. On the eve of a British
tour with the reformed Colosseum, he plays a relaxed club date with his
band that includes Chris Lampety on guitar and drummer Dave Ohm. Listen
to his recent CD for 33 Records and enjoy a first visit to Boxford by this
close associate of such legendary names as Jack Bruce, Alexis Korner and
Ginger Baker.

Friday 21 August 8.30pm £11 ALL TICKET

The Stan Tracey Quintet

We’re delighted to welcome Stan to Suffolk for a third appearance
at the Fleece, together with Andy Cleyndert (bass), Clark Tracey (drums),
Mornington Lockett (tenor saxophone) and Gerard Presencer (flugelhorn/trumpet)
– five virtuoso musicians live in the intimate surroundings of our club.
“I’m always trying to build on what I’ve done as a player” the pianist
told writer John Fordham. “I’m always looking for new ideas and I’m determined
not to coast.” Three simple yardsticks that illustrate why Stan Tracey
remains the most important figure in contemporary British jazz.

Friday 31 August 8.30pm £7

The Rebecca Hollweg Band

Our programme concludes with Rebecca’s Boxford debut with her group:
Mark Johns (guitar), Andy Hamill (bass), Phil Peskett (piano) and Tom Gordon
(drums). We loved the tape she sent. A hint of Carole King in her singing?
Certainly. Echoes of Carly Simon and Joni Mitchell in her song writing?
Yes ñ and much of the magic and sensitivity of those three great vocalists
is apparent in the work of this fast rising London based singer. An evening
to savour as we present a new star.

Friday 4 September 8.30pm £8

The Lucky Ranku Quartet

It was an unexpected pleasure to see Lucky in the band on a recent
visit by Frank Williams’ African Jazz Quintet – and to hear again his warm,
vibrant sound. So here’s two sets of spirited and stirring music from this
fine South African guitarist and Fleece debutants Dave Chambers (tenor
and flute), Ollie Crooke (bass) and Shawn Stephenson (drums). Enjoy!

Friday 11 September 8.30pm £8 ALL TICKET

The Theo Travis Band featuring Bill Bruford

Fleece favourite Steve Lodder on keyboards, top London freelance
bass player Dave Jones and King Crimson/Earthworks drummer Bill Bruford
comprise Theo’s all star band on his third visit to Boxford. We promise
you a magical evening with one of the best young tenor players of his generation
as this enthralling group make their very first live appearance. He
has a nice website, too.

Friday 18 September 8.30pm £8

The Ingrid Laubrock Band

Tonight we showcase the young German saxophonist whose assured
first album “Who Is It?” on Candid is one of the CDs of the year. Collar
a copy now and be early to check this intriguing quintet with its strong
Brazilian influences – Ingrid on alto, tenor and Soprano is joined by musicians
from Italy, Britain, Brazil and Mozambique in this truly international
group.

Friday 25 September 8.30pm £9

Norma Winstone and the John Donaldson Trio

A spell bound Fleece audience sat entranced as Norma sang “Manhattan
In The Rain”, the showstopping number on her Boxford debut in 1996. Now
it’s the title track of her new CD as we welcome back this very special
vocalist with John (piano), Andy Cleyndert (bass) and Tristan Maillot (drums).
Simply, It’s unlikely that there is a better jazz singer than Miss
Winstone.

Friday 2 October 8.30pm £7

The Alex Maguire Trio

A recording of the group’s May gig at Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge
is a deeply impressive document of music that draws upon a wide range of
styles and influences – and yet provides a new and original spin on the
piano trio format. Roberto Bellatella on bass and drummer Mark Sanders
join one of our most inventive improvising pianists for this exciting and
innovative collaboration.

Friday 9 October 8.30pm £10 – ALL TICKET

The Louis Stewart Quartet

We’re delighted to welcome the brilliant Irish guitarist on his
UK tour in the fine company of Myles Drennan (piano), Stephen Keogh (drums)
and Arnie Somogyi (bass). Closely associated with such legendary names
as Tubby Hayes, Benny Goodman, Ronnie Scott and George Shearing, Louis
is renowned for his crystal clear tone, a virtuoso technique and his endless
inventiveness. An unmissable gig!

Friday 16 October 8.30pm £8

The Nicki Leighton-Thomas Quartet

Nicki’s engaging album of songs by Fran Landesman and Simon Wallace
” Damned If I Do” has been repackaged and reissued by the enterprising
Babel label. It’s a great record by the sparkling and seductive chanteuse,
whose 1997 Boxford debut gig was one of the most talked about debuts in
years. “When is Nicki Leighton-Thomas coming back?” We’re always being
asked – here she is!

Friday 23 October 8.30pm £8

The Gilad Atzmon Quartet

“His bursting at the seams bebop treatment of standards and blues,
drenched in passion and energy, was hair raising stuff” enthused Jazz UK
magazine. Tonight we showcase the Israeli tenor, alto and clarinet virtuoso
together with Val Mannix (bass), Mike Gorman (piano) and drummer Sam Brown
– catch this formidable new presence on the London jazz scene and a musician
of international stature.

Friday 30 October 8.30pm £8

The Dick Pearce Band

If there’s a cooler cover shot on any 90s CD than that on Dick’s
album “Big Hit”…well, we’ve yet to see it! After a decade of touring
and recording with the Ronnie Scott Quintet, this favourite trumpet player
assembled his own quartet – tonight we’ve a treat as his group makes a
long overdue return for two sets of sharp and exhilarating music.

Friday 6 November 8.30pm £8

Caroline Taylor Quintet

I don’t know if Caroline drives a fast car but this London based
American drummer can sure drive her band. Bryan Spring and Clark Tracey
are among the drummers who have inspired Caroline who is no longer the
unknown female (her words) that she once was. Dave Frankel (keyboards),
Denys Baptiste (saxes), Neil Yates (trumpet) and Simon Thorpe (bass) are
the other members of this grooving quintet.

Friday 13 November 8.30pm £11 – ALL TICKET

Friday 14 November 8.30pm £11 – ALL TICKET

The Guy Barker Quintet

We love jazz records with strings! Guy’s new CD for Verve “What
Love Is” with its gorgeous arrangements by Colin Towns is a classic album
– evocative, exhilarating and romantic. Now we present two essential live
dates by the master trumpeter on his Boxford debut with his stellar band
that includes Perico Sambeat (alto), Geoff Gascoyne (bass) and pianist
Bernardo Sassetti.

Friday 20 November 8.30pm £10 – ALL TICKET

Monica Vasconcelos/Nois

We’d heard the buzz about the airy and buoyant music performed
by Nois (the word rhymes with “voice” and means “us”) and their extraordinary
leader/vocalist, Brazilian Monica Vasconcelos. A trip to the Boat Race
in Cambridge confirmed that here was a sparkling nine-piece playing an
uplifting combination of jazz and MPB (Musica Popular Brasiliera) – and
a
new star singer!

Friday 27 November 8.30pm £7

The Russell Van Den Berg Quintet

1997 BBC Best Soloist award winner Russell (tennor & soprads this high quality quintet. Kenny Wheeler and Ian Carr have both
enthused at length about this band and we were knocked out by their freshness,
originality and accessibility. John Parricelli (guitar), Sean Hunter (bass),
Tim Giles (drums) and Phil Pesket (piano) complete the line-up.

Friday 4 December 8.30pm £8

Annie Whitehead’s Rude

Our 300th gig – and what better way to celebrate than to invite
Annie’s exhilarating group to our club? Her fruity, uplifting trombone
playing enthralled a sellout Fleece audience on their January date: here
she is with Harry Beckett (trumpet), Liam Genockey (drums) and Ian Maidman
(bass). Rude – “street – beats from Hackney to the Caribbean” to borrow
the Evening Standard’s evocative phrase!

Friday 11 December 8.30pm £8

Grooveyard featuring Kathy Wilson

It’s blues night at Boxford! This grooving quintet combine Freddie
King and Muddy Waters covers with funky instrumental blues from the likes
of Jimmy Smith, the Meters and the Crusaders. Vocalist Kathy is joined
by Spirit Level pianist Tim Richards, Jason Rogers (bass), Louis Borenius
(drums) and the splendidly named guitarist T-Bone Taylor on an evening
for both dedicated raver and discerning listener.

Friday 18 December 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKETS SOLD

Tina May’s Music and Mischief

We celebrate Christmas with a sixth visit from the enchanting Miss May,
the deserving winner of the 1998 BT British Vocalist Award. Music and Mischief
finds Tina with legendary bass player Herbie Flowers and pianist Mike Hatchard
in a new show that wowed this year’s Edinburgh Festival, so join us for
an evening of subtle humour, timeless jazz standards – and great entertainment.

Friday 1 January 8.30pm £8

Gary Baldwin – Mike Hanson

“The Hammond trio is alive and well” affirmed Jazzwise magazine in an enthusiastic
review of Gary and Mike’s great CD “Spycatcher”. Fleece favourites Mike
on guitar and Gary on organ are joined by singer Shireen Francis for our
New Year’s Day special – a tour de force from the classic jazz trio of
drums, guitar and Hammond together with a soulful and spirited vocalist.

Friday 8 January 8.30pm £9

The Ben Castle Quartet

A first appearance by the fast rising tenor player/composer, whose band
includes the superb Mark Edwards on piano. Much in demand by various pop
and rock groups, nonetheless Ben’s main love is jazz – yeah, we know what
he means! Watch out for his CD “Four From The Madding Crowd”. Our raffle
proceeds tonight go to the charity established in memory of Ben’s father,
The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation.

Friday 15 January 8.30pm £9

The Roy Forbes Quintet

Still the cat’s whiskers as far as we’re concerned! He’s back – the unmistakable
voice of Andy Hamilton and the Blue Notes and his band of Chris Taylor
(piano), Winston Clifford (drums), Tom Hill (bass) and Luke Shingler on
tenor. We loved Roy’s “Going Home” CD: “cool, swinging and very hip indeed”,
opined The Birmingham Post. Check out this very special singer!

Friday 22 January 8.30pm £10

Sarah Jane Morris and her Musicians

A debut appearance for this emotive and powerful singer, a regular at such
London venues as the Vortex and Ronnie Scott’s. Sarah Jane came to prominence
with her association with the Communards and their dramatic collaboration
“Don’t Leave Me This Way”, the biggest selling single of 1986. Celebrity
status in Europe and Japan, three acclaimed solo CDs – next up, leafy Boxford.

Friday 29 January 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKETS SOLD

Claire Martin and Ian Shaw

“The Look Of Love” – a celebration of Bacharach and David.

Just picture Dusty Springfield singing “The Look Of Love”. Remember
Dionne Warwick’s incomparable interpretation of “Walk On By” – and was
there ever a 45rpm single the equal of Aretha Franklin’s “I Say A Little
Prayer”? Tonight two star vocalists and enduring favourites return to Boxford
to pay tribute to a peerless Sixties partnership and the perfect pop song.

Friday 5 February 8.30pm £8

The Dave Cliff – Alex Garnett Quintet

We celebrate six years of Jazz at the Fleece with this exciting collaboration
between master guitarist Dave Cliff and young lion tenor player Alex Garnett.
Their repertoire reflects their enthusiasm for Wes Montgomery, Johnny Griffin,
Kenny Burrell and Coltrane – Simon Thorpe (bass), Matt Skelton (drums)
and pianist Christian Vaughan complete the group that’s making such an
impact on the London scene.

Friday 12 February 8.30pm £9

Alan Barnes and the David Newton Trio

“Below Zero” by Alan Barnes and Dave’s trio is the leader’s first CD release
under his contract with the prestigious American label Concord. Renowned
as an alto and clarinet player, Alan now establishes his own stamp on the
baritone saxophone – and what a band he brings to Boxford in Dave Newton
(piano), Matt Miles on bass and drummer Steve Brown. One essential gig!

Friday 19 February 8.30pm £8

Zubop

“Sparky, infectiously rhythmic…. joyous and immediately accessible” said
Chris Parker of The Times, describing this energetic septet who tonight
make their much overdue debut. Zubop play a vital mix of Latin jazz and
jaunty township grooves – seek out a copy of their third CD “Hiptodisiac”
for proof and be early to hear their spirited amalgam of global dance rhythms
live at our club!

Friday 26 February 8.30pm £8

Lennie Bush and Friends

Jack Parnell (drums), Brian Dee (piano) and Dean Masser (tenor saxophone)
comprise Lennie’s band as we showcase the legendary bass player now resident
in nearby Long Melford. His fabulous career includes founder membership
of Club Eleven, lengthy associations with Ronnie Scott, Tony Crombie and
Stephane Grappelli and gigs with such greats as Sinatra, Goodman and Armstrong.
Simply, an unmissable evening.

Friday 5 March 8.30pm £8

The Gary Potter Quartet

Here’s a fifth appearance from this irresistible musician as Gary makes
an eagerly awaited return to the Hot Club of Boxford. If Django and Stephane
are the principal influences on this Liverpudlian guitarist, he’ll happily
return to his roots and throw some country tunes into two sets of eclectic,
humorous jazz. Expect some star accomplices in his band – welcome back,
Gary!

Friday 12 March 8.30pm £8

The New Gary Husband Trio

We’re delighted to showcase this fabulous musician, who’s played drums
with Level 42 and Allan Holdsworth and latterly keyboards with Billy Cobham’s
band. Tonight the emphasis is on Gary as a pianist, composer and arranger
as he previews tunes from his spring release “From The Heart” in the august
company of Mick Hutton (bass) and New York’s Gene Calderazzo on drums.

Friday 19 March 8.30pm £10 ALL TICKET

Marlene Verplanck and the Roy Babbington Trio

The Guinness Who’s Who Of Jazz describes Marlene as “one of the finest
living interpreters of the Great American Songbook” – here’s a first chance
to hear this sparkling vocalist live at our club with master bass player
Roy Babbington’s trio. Born in Newark, New Jersey, Marlene’s worked with
such greats as Tommy Dorsey and Frank Sinatra. Believe us, this lady has
a way with a ballad!

Friday 26 March 8.30pm £8

Denys Baptiste

A member of the award winning Nu Troop, Denys joined drummer Caroline Taylor
for a memorable gig here last autumn. If you like tenor players, here’s
one of the best – his quartet “play with the heart and from the soul”.
Our friends at Dune records release his debut CD as a leader in March:
check out both “Be Where You Are” and Denys live!

Friday 2 April 8.30pm £11 ALL TICKET

Claire Martin and her musicians

At the Fleece, all Fridays are good but this “Good Friday” will be something
special. Following her recent sell out gig with Ian Shaw, Britain’s leading
jazz vocalist returns with her new band: Gareth Williams (piano), Arnie
Somogyi (bass), Paul Stacey (guitar), Bosco de Oliviera (percussion) and
Ian Thomas (drums). Two storming sets will kick off the Easter Break with
a night you will not want to miss.

Friday 9 April 8.30pm £9

The Tom Cawley Quartet

Here’s a first appearance by Tom, the Sun Alliance Young Jazz Musician
Of The Year 1998, whose trio collared joint first prize as the Perrier
Young Jazz Ensemble last year. These prestigious awards herald the arrival
of a major new player on the British scene – judge for yourselves as the
pianist leads Orlando LeFleming (bass), Osian Roberts (tenor) and drummer
Matt Skelton.

Friday 16 April 8.30pm £11 ALL TICKET

The Scott Hamilton Quartet

At last – the keeper of the mainstream flame returns to Boxford! The critic
Martin Gayford described the American tenor star as “distinctive, dynamic,
bubbling with fresh ideas” and whose tone “engulfs you like a huge, warm
bank of sound”. Welcome back, Scott – his latest Concord CD “The Red Door”
is a gorgeous collaboration with guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli in a tribute
to the great Zoot Sims.

Friday 23 April 8.30pm £9 ALL TICKET

The Stan Tracey Trio

We had an idea and wrote to Stan “As 1999 marks the centenary of Duke Ellington’s
birth, we were wondering if you would like to return to Boxford for an
evening of Ellington tunes.” We were thrilled when Stan rang to say
yes – and tonight we welcome back the doyen of British jazz pianists as
we celebrate the Duke’s birthday!

Friday 30 April 8.30pm £8

Big Chief

A Boxford debut for this enduring octet, whose heady amalgam of jazz, blues
and soul make them firm favourites at clubs and festivals everywhere. Formed
in 1976, Big Chief (motto: “Let The Good Times Roll!” CD: “It Don’t
Make Sense“) draws on the repertoires of such musicians as Duke Ellington,
Fats Domino and Horace Silver to provide an evening of unmissable entertainment!

Friday 7 May 8.30pm £8

The Jean Toussaint Quartet

A four year tenure with the Jazz Messengers ended when Jean left Art Blakey
to settle in London from 1986. Since which time he’s recorded two acclaimed
CDs “What Goes On” and “Life I Want” and played with such favourites as
Julian Joseph, Andy Hamilton and Jason Rebello – now the American tenor
and soprano star makes a third and much overdue visit to the club!

Friday 14 May 8.30pm £9

Trudy Kerr and her band

We are delighted that this elegant singer and her group can appear at the
club. Liane Carrol has had to postpone her visit with John Etheridge (yes,
postpone – she will be with us soon). Trudy will delight you with her
voice, her meticulous phrasing and her sense of fun.

Friday 21 May 8.30pm £9

The Tim Garland Quartet

Here’s a return date by composer/arranger Tim on tenor and soprano saxophones
with three stellar accompanists in Jason Rebello (piano), Winston Clifford
(drums) and Alec Dankworth (double bass). His recent Linn album “Enter
The Fire” is seldom far from our CD players these days – look out for a
new Lammas recording shortly. Meanwhile, enjoy two barnstorming sets with
this exemplary ensemble!

Friday 28 May 8.30pm £9 ALL TICKET

The Harry Allen Quartet

Allan Ganley (drums), Dave Green (bass) and Fleece debutant Colin Purbrook
(piano) comprise Harry’s all star group for his second Boxford date. From
Providence, Rhode Island, this outstanding musician is possessed of a gorgeous
tone and “a warm, ingratiating sound in the Coleman Hawkins tradition”.
If you love jazz standards played by one of today’s great tenor saxophonists
– well, you should be here!

Friday 4 June 8.30pm £9 ALL TICKET

Stacey Kent, Jim Tomlinson and band

Despite the rival attraction of an England World Cup match, all tickets
for Stacey’s 1998 Boxford gig sold effortlessly – the moral of which tale
is book early for this sixth visit by this elegant New Yorker. Catch the
star vocalist who “sings the words like Nat Cole – straightforward, clean
and clear”, with Jim Tomlinson’s tenor lines providing an irresistible
second voice.

Friday 11 June 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable

Ian Shaw

Last seen at Boxford earlier this year with Claire Martin, we welcome
Ian back to perform his one-man show. Ian’s unique vocal talent, his brilliance
at the piano and his humour have made him an international favourite.

Friday 18 June 8.30 £8

The Carlos Lopez-Real Group

Playing fresh, invigorating original compositions as well as re-interpreting
standards it’s a first appearance for this brilliant group led by Carlos
on saxophones. Phil Peskett (piano), Tom Herbert (bass) and Gary Wilcox
(drums) complete the line-up. Come and see why this group is making such
a name for themselves on the jazz circuit.

Friday 25 June 8.30 £12 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable

Barbara Thompson and Paraphernalia featuring Jon Hiseman

This remarkable saxophonist/composer makes her long overdue Fleece debut
with husband Jon Hiseman (drums), Peter Lemer (piano), Dave Ball (bass)
and violinist Billy Thompson. If we didn’t already know, we will discover
why Barbara has been called “The mistress of the saxophone”.

Friday 2 July 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable

Tina May, Nikki Iles and Alan Barnes

Don’t miss out on tickets for what promises to be one of the highlights
of this programme with three top performers. Tina, the award winning vocalist,
the incredibly gifted and hugely popular Alan Barnes on saxes, and the
outstanding Nikki Iles on piano.

Friday 9 July 8.30 £9

Ana-Mar&iacutroup

It’s a Fleece debut for Ana-Mar&iacutoup – Mark Wood (guitar),
Nic France (drums), Chucho Merchan (bass) and Adam Glasser (piano). Ana-Mar&iacuting vocals and guitar draw upon a unique repertoire of some of the
most beautiful and adventurous Brazilian tunes together with some original
compositions.

Friday 16 July 8.30 £9

The Campbell Burnap Quintet

We’re sure that you’ve heard Campbell’s work as a knowledgeable, enthusiastic
broadcaster and reviewer on Jazz FM, and Radios 2 and 3. He’s taken time
off from all this to make a first appearance in his other guise as a trombonist
and leader. John Pearce (piano), Ron Drake (clarinet/sax), Paul Morgan
(bass) and Terry Jenkins (drums), make up the quintet.

Friday 23 July 8.30 £8

Boston Tea Party

You’ll be sure to come away with a smile on your face after you’ve heard
these guys. They play Fifties jazz with a bit of West Coast. Formed in
1993 while at Leeds College of Music the band is co-led by Jonny Boston
and James Evans on tenor sax and vocals. Completing the line-up are Tom
Kincaid (piano), Courtney Thomas (bass) and Matt Home (drums).

Friday 30 July 8.30 £9

UK Roots

Here on the eve of an appearance at the Edinburgh Festival we are delighted
to welcome the band formed in 1996 by pianist/composer Simon Wallace. He
is joined tonight by Tim Garland (sax), Mick Hutton (bass) and Roy Dodds
on piano. To quote Avant magazine “UK Roots brings together hard driving
1990’s jazz with the distinctive haunting melodies of traditional British
music.”

Friday 6 August 8.30 £9

Estelle Kokot and her Musicians

This from her October 1997 gig at the Fleece – “Estelle’s extraordinary
vocal range and singular composition skills are allied to a sharp sense
of humour and an electric stage presence.” It was a magical evening!

Well, she came at extremely short notice with A.J. Brown on bass and
the debut of drummer Paul Robinson. All there agreed we fell into the jampot
… another magical evening!

Friday 13 August 8.30 £8

Jonathan Gee Trio

This is a trio, which has established itself as one of the leading small
jazz groups, having appeared at major festivals throughout Europe. It’s
an eagerly awaited return for this energetic pianist. To quote from the
Observer “The interplay with bassist Steve Rose and drummer Winston Clifford
is always impressively alert and often quite brilliant.”

Friday 20 August 8.30 £9

The Ingrid Laubrock Group

If you missed this great band last year make sure you don’t this time
around! With Ingrid on saxophones are, Ife Tolentino (acoustic guitar),
Kim Burton (Piano, accordion), Davide Mantovani (bass) and Helder Pack
(drums). A truly international group with much Brazilian influence from
their association with Monica Vasconcelos’ Nois.

Friday 27 August 8.30 £9

Sarah Moule Quartet

Sarah’s second visit to Boxford should have you fighting to get in!
The Guardian refers to her as a “Cabaret Diva” and her wide-ranging repertoire
includes material by lyricist Fran Landesman and pianist/composer Simon
Wallace.

Friday 3 September 8.30 £10

Acoustic Mania

Antonio Forcione and Neil Stacey- “Two players intent on redefining
all known laws concerning what is possible to do with two acoustic guitars.
A force to be reckoned with.” (The Guitarist) The musical references include
Jazz, Brazilian, Spanish, Hungarian and Italian. A phenomenal guitar attraction
not to be missed on any account.

Friday 10 September £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable

The John Critchinson Quartet featuring Pat Crumly “The
Ronnie Scott Legacy”

The Fleece is proud to be associated with the 40th anniversary of the
opening of this world famous Jazz venue. Since Ronnie’s untimely death
2 years ago John Critchinson, his pianist since 1979, and Pat Crumly on
Saxes have kept his quartet together. Tonight expect the highest quality
jazz, both standards and original compositions mixed with “Ronnie’s” anecdotes
and jokes.

Friday 17 September 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable

The Peter King Quintet

One of the finest alto-saxophonists on the planet makes his fourth appearance
at the Fleece. This jazz giant who commands enormous universal respect
and admiration appears with Gerard Presencer, Jeremy Brown and Stephen
Keogh on what is surely an unmissable night.

Friday 24 September 8.30 £10

Kate Dimbleby

Having played jazz clubs around Europe since she was 19, Kate
finally makes her Boxford debut. We look forward to her deep, sensuous
voice that has won an impressive list of admirers including Marion Montgomery.
Joining her tonight will be Steve Hamilton (piano), Mark Hodgson (bass),
Ian Thomas (drums) and John Parricelli (guitar).

JOHN ETHERIDGE WEEKEND Weekend Ticket £18

Friday 1 October 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase Advisable

The Liane Carroll – John Etheridge Quartet

One of the World’s greatest guitarists joins the sensational vocalist
and pianist Liane Carroll whose wide ranging repertoire and engaging personality
have made her a great favourite up and down the country. The quartet is
completed by Nic France (drums) and Roger Carey (bass).

Saturday 2 October 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable

The John Etheridge Quartet “Sweet Chorus”

For many years John Etheridge toured and recorded with Stephane
Grappelli, the greatest of all jazz violinists. Tonight sees his heartfelt
tribute to the great man – recounting stories and playing tunes from his
time with Grapelli. Dave Kelbie (rhythm guitar), Malcolm Creese (bass)
and the wonderful jazz violinist Christian Garrick complete the quartet.

Friday 8 October 8.30 £8

The David Gordon Trio

David Gordon (piano), Ole Rasmussen (bass) and Paul Cavacuti (drums)
are from musically diverse backgrounds and the sound that they produce,
combined with the humour and lyricism which permeates the trio’s writing
and playing, has delighted audiences wherever they play.

Friday 15 October 8.30 £9

Afroblue

Five wonderful musicians are all making a welcome return to the
Fleece tonight. Dave Chambers (Saxes and flute), Steve Lodder (keyboards),
Paul Robinson (drums), Andy Herbert (bass) and Lucky Ranku (guitar) will
be playing a repertoire based around a blend of South African township
music and jazz. The emphasis is bound to be on good tunes and strong rhythms.

Friday 22 October 8.30 £10

Dave O’Higgins Quartet

An exceptionally fluent player with an impressive technique, whose
fund of ideas never runs out. His tenor saxophone sustains its full rich
tone with subtle and forthright playing across the range, but he’s equally
at home with the soprano sax. Jim Watson (piano), Mark Hodgson (bass) and
Steve Brown (drums) complete the line-up. A great new CD will also be available.

Friday 29 October 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable

Gordon Beck

A major coup for the Fleece as we present a rare solo performance
by one of the legends of British jazz. In the sixties Gordon was a member
of the Tubby Hayes Quintet and later his own trio was a regular house rhythm-section
for the Ronnie Scott club. He has worked with the world’s best and is one
of a handful of British musicians with a really solid international reputation.
As well known for his compositions as he is for his use of synthesisers
and computer technology we look forward to a very special occasion.

WORLD PREMIERE “New Folk-Songs”

Friday 5 November 8.30 £9 Advance Ticket Purchase Advisable

The Perfect Houseplants

Another coup! – The World Premiere of a new melodic and dynamic
composition from the group acknowledged as being innovative, elegant and
at the cutting edge of contemporary music. Featuring Mark Lockheart (Saxes),
Huw Warren (piano), Martin France (drums) and Dudley Phillips (basses).
To quote from Vox – “If you don’t like this, you don’t deserve ears.”

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Friday 12 November 8.30 £9

Nicki Leighton-Thomas Quartet

By popular demand, welcome back to the lady with unmistakable
star quality. Her excellent debut album, “Damned If I Do”, was the result
of her collaboration since 1996 with lyricist Fran Landesman and composer
and tonight’s pianist Simon Wallace. Mick Hutton (bass) and Roy Dodds (drums)
complete the quartet.

Friday 19 November 8.30 £8

Martin Speake Quartet

An alto-saxophone player whose attractive toned gift for phrasing
in lucid high definition shapes is his trademark. The emphasis on the interplay
between guitarist John Parricelli, bassist Mick Hutton and drummer Tom
Skinner further enhance the strong melodies. A compelling evening is anticipated.

Friday 26 November 8.30 £8

G.S.Wellard Septet

This driving septet concentrates on a particular type of exhilarating
urban jazz that came out of New York in the late 80’s and early 90’s. Drummer
Gordon Wellard leads the line-up – Bob Martin (alto sax), Mike Williams
(tenor sax), Steve Fishwick (trumpet), Mike Feltham (trombone), Mike Edwards
(bass) and Tom Cawley (piano).

Friday 3rd December 8.30 £10

Roger Beaujolais Quintet

Last seen at the Fleece with Tony Remy, vibes player Roger Beaujolais
fronts his own stunning group. They are Mark Lockheart on tenor and soprano
Saxes, Robin Aspland on piano, bassist Orlando Le Fleming and drummer Winston
Clifford. They are guaranteed to leave us transfixed and wanting to hear
more.

Friday 10 December 8.30 £12 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable

Clark Tracey Sextet – Tribute to Art Blakey

Six of the most talented jazz musicians in the UK form this sextet
led by the young maestro Clark Tracey. We will go on a chronological journey
from the 50’s to the 80’s through the music of the famous “Jazz Messengers”.
The superb line-up is completed by Peter King (alto sax), Alan Barnes (tenor
sax), Guy Barker (trumpet), Robin Aspland (piano) and Dave Green (bass).

Friday 17 December 8.30 £10 Advance Ticket Purchase
Advisable

Sarah Jane Morris Quintet

Our pre-Christmas party will be a treat worth waiting for as we
host a second appearance at the Fleece for Sarah Jane and her musicians,
which include Mornington Locket on tenor. This fabulous singer, who has
superstar status in Italy and a massive European following, made an unforgettable
impression on us at the beginning of the year. Come and see why.

TUESDAY 28 December 8.30 £10 ALL TICKETS SOLD

Claire Martin and Ian Shaw

The last gig of the millennium, on a different evening to our
usual, slips in nicely between the Christmas and New Year celebrations
and ensures we don’t suffer withdrawal symptoms. It will be a sell-out.
We welcome back two of the Fleece’s favourite performers. This time Britain’s
top two vocal talents combine to create an evening of pure pleasure with
their tribute to Stevie Wonder. Expect to hear stylish re-workings of popular
songs mixed with brilliance, wit and humour.

Friday 7 January 8.30 £10

Reduced N&oacut>

What a fantastic gig to start a new era at the Fleece! Môcelos makes a long awaited return with fewer musicians but with the
same scintillating Brazilian rhythms. Her ravishing vocals float seductively
over the beat as airy, bright originals and well loved standards are played
with a subtle vigour and rhythmic agility by her superb band of Ingrid
Laubrock (sax), Steve Lodder (keyboards), Ife Tolentino (guitar) and Chris
Wells (drums and percussion).

Friday 14 January 8.30 £7

Kate Williams Quartet

A first Fleece appearance for classically trained Kate, who
is joined by Julian Siegel (sax), Malcolm Creese (bass) and Matt Skelton
(drums). Her original material reflects the traditions of classical music
as well as those of contemporary jazz. She has been described as “A pianist
who attacks the piano as if she is going to stand no nonsense from it.”
Having heard her CD we can’t wait to see her.

Lee Gibson and Alan Barnes

A third visit by a consummate professional who swings in so
many different ways; sometimes subtle, sometimes serious, sometimes joyful
but always musical. Alan Barnes joins her on sax, no stranger to the Fleece
and a master of his craft. The line-up is completed by Geoff Eales (piano),
Paul Morgan (bass) and Gerry Boyce (drums). An evening of jazz to delight
us is bound to be in store.

Friday 28 January 8.30 £9

Gary Baldwin Quartet

We welcome back Britain’s master of the Hammond Organ, Gary
Baldwin. He is joined by Mick Hanson (guitar), Roger Beaujolais (vibes)
and backed by one of the best drummers around, Clark Tracey, for what is
sure to be a stunning evening.

Andy Sheppard, Steve Lodder and Chris Laurence

A special evening is in store as we welcome back these three
wonderfully versatile British musicians who were last here together as
Small Commotion. Be prepared to be amazed by the almost telepathic flow
of ideas between them. We think that Andy’s last CD “Learning to Wave”
numbers amongst his best so do get your tickets early for what is sure
to be a sell-out.

Friday 11 February 8.30 £12

Girl Talk

Mari Wilson, Barb Jungr and Claire Martin accompanied by Adrian
York on piano bring their cabaret act to the Fleece for a not to be missed
evening. This is the female equivalent of the 3 tenors with all the diva
glamour that these three queens of soul, cabaret and jazz can muster. They
will be singing all the non-PC songs you know and love but never thought
you’d hear in one fabulous dynamic show.

Loz Speyer Quartet

This hard-edged quartet that have the punch and accessibility
customarily associated with rock music make their Fleece debut. Led by
Loz Speyer, a trumpet player who has an atmospheric, strongly melodic,
fluid and inventive style which produces a subtle Milesian sound. Andy
Jones (guitar), Richard Jefferies (bass) and Tony Bianco (drums) all contribute
in constantly varied but consistently effective ways. An excellent, gutsy
evening is in store.

Friday 25 February 8.30 £8

Mick Hanson and Dave Newton

It’s a warm welcome back to two of our most versatile and popular
musicians, both of whom are no strangers to Fleece audiences. Tonight Mick,
a professional guitarist for more than 25 years, combines his distinctive
style with Dave, who is Britain’s most in demand pianist for what is sure
to be an unforgettable evening.

Friday 3 March 8.30 £12

John Surman

Jazz at the Fleece is proud to present a rare solo performance
by one of the giants of the British Jazz scene. A not to be missed opportunity
to see and hear this prominent Coltrane disciple who utilises a full array
of tonal colours including electronics in an intimate club setting. He
is an artist who’s blended European folk music, classical and religious
sounds with superb intensity and soft lyricism.

Friday 10 March 8.30 £8

Laura Zakian Quintet

Having launched her career in Italy it’s now Boxford’s turn
to hear and see Laura, who Stacey Kent describes as the best young singer
in the country. Her stylish, inventive and breathtaking voice mixes new
interpretations of time honoured songs with unusual and little known jazz
gems. Accompanying her will be Russell Morgan (drums), Richard Busiakiewicz
(piano), Richard Jefferies (bass) and Mark Bassi (trombone). Another evening
that you shouldn’t miss.

Friday 17 March 8.30 £10

Marlene Verplanck and the Roy Babbington Trio

One of the finest living interpreters of the Great American
Songbook makes her second visit to the Fleece whilst on tour in GB from
the States. Having worked with such legends as Tommy Dorsey and Frank Sinatra,
Marlene is a talent of the highest order, with a string of recordings to
her name.

Friday 24 March 8.30 £9

Martin Drew Quartet

Martin worked with Ronnie Scott for twenty years and has been
playing with Oscar Peterson all over the world for 25! This is a rare chance
to catch one of the great British drummers, who is both powerful and subtle,
fronting his own band. He brings Mornington Lockett (sax), Gareth Williams
(piano) and Laurence Cottle (bass). Their latest CD “Got a Match” is highly
recommended by us.

Friday 31 March 8.30 £9

Neil Stacey’s Kimbara Brothers

The Hot Club of Boxford is in capable hands tonight. Neil brings
his fantastic musicians, Rob Terry (piano), Bernard O’Neill (double bass)
and Clark Tracey (drums) for a night of Gypsy Jazz. Not just content to
re-create the Django sound but adding a further dimension to it, the Kimbara
Brothers keep their feet well and truly in the modern era.

Friday April 7 8.30 £10

Zubop

Spirited playing, exhilarating original compositions and catchy
hooks with melodic riffs, which combine global dance rhythms and jazz improvisation,
are all trademarks of this talented band. Led by Philip Clouts (piano,
keyboards), with Ricky Edwards (alto sax, flute, bass clarinet), Jon Petter
(tenor sax, clarinet), Will Wisbling (trumpet, valve trombone), Duncan
Noble (electric basses) and Sean Randle (drums). Be sure to put on your
dancing shoes- space permitting of course.

Friday April 14 8.30 £9

Gilad Atzmon and the Orient House Ensemble

One of the most exciting tenor sax players around. The man
with a huge stage presence is back with Frank Harrison (piano), Ollie Hayhurst
(bass) and Asaf Sirkis (drums). Gilad has recently appeared with Jools
Holland and toured with Ian Dury. Expect a high-energy evening interspersed
with heartbreaking interpretations of beautiful ballads.

Friday April 21 8.30 £8

Tim Richards and Sigi Finkel’s Soundscape

The internationally acclaimed keyboard player and leader of
Spirit Level joins forces with Austria’s top saxophonist for an evening
of highly spirited emotional music that has strong links with the blues.
This fusion-orientated quartet is completed by Phil Scragg (bass) and Marc
Parnell (drums).

Friday April 28 8.30 £18.

Under Milk Wood

This very special evening is a rare opportunity to hear live
the biggest ever selling British jazz album. A collection of Tracey compositions
inspired by Dylan Thomas’ play, it’s a delightful combination of writing,
originality and improvisation. The brilliant tenorist Bobby Wellins will
be playing dark, sighing solos over Stan’s tolling chords and completing
the line-up will be Andy Clyndert on bass and Clark Tracey on drums. Dylan
Thomas’ words will be spoken by the actor Michael Griffiths.

Friday May 5 8.30 £11.

Dana Gillespie

Blues night at the Fleece brings the undisputed Queen of European
Blues to Boxford. This lady has done it all – theatre, films, broadcasting
and 50 album releases worldwide. Associated with artists like Bob Dylan
and David Bowie, she has played to an audience of over one million at one
gig alone in Bangalore, India – ours will be just a bit smaller. Joining
her are her stellar band of Dino Baptiste (keyboards), Javier Garcia (bass),
Mike Paice (tenor sax), Evan Jenkins (drums), Martin Winning, (tenor and
baritone sax) and Mike Schofield (guitar).

Friday May 12 8.30 £9

Cubana Bop

Bop If you like hot, pulsating Latin Jazz with kicking dance rhythms
and exciting trumpet duels then this highly original band with its marvellous
variety of harmonic and textural effects is definitely for you. Leading
the band on piano is Terry Seabrook with Dave Barnard (bass), Tristan Banks
(drums), Satin Singh (congas), Ian Price (tenor sax), Gary Kavanagh and
Raul D’Olivera (trumpets). Their CD, “The Story So Far” is a must have.

Friday May 19 8.30 Ticket £8

Tim Whitehead Quartet “Personal Standards”

Tim is considered to be one of our most eminent tenor saxophonists
– a committed passionate player who’s concerned with melody and lyricism.
His new CD “Personal Standards” is quite simply stunning. It’s a collection
of popular songs re-arranged by him to create fresh and absorbing pieces.
All greatly enhanced by thoughtful contributions from pianist Liam Noble,
Sam Burgess (bass) and drummer Milo Fell.

Friday May 26 8.30 £10. – Sorry, sold out

Stacey Kent

Stacey’s uniquely charming laid back delivery has an appeal
that is irresistible and her use of stylish but often underused material
by some of the twentieth century’s greatest songwriters will, as ever,
have us mesmerised. She is accompanied by the poised and melodic tenorist
Jim Tomlinson, guitarist Colin Oxley, bassist Simon Thorpe and pianist
Mike Gorman.

Friday June 2 8.30 £7

Pete Wareham Quartet

Pete appeared at the Fleece with the vocalist Kate Dimbleby
and made such an impression on us that we had to have him back. Tonight
he leads his own quartet – Liam Noble (piano), Sam Burgess (bass) and Sebastian
Rochford (drums). Claire Martin has described him as having an uncanny
musical ability to do it all – a relaxed, confident sense of swing mixed
with the versatility to caress the tenderness of a ballad.

Friday June 9th 8.30 £9.

Alan Barnes Quartet

One of the giants of British mainstream jazz, the affable and
popular reeds maestro (and raconteur!) teams up with the classiest of rhythm
sections, Mark Edwards (piano), Matt Miles (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

Friday June 16th 8.30 £9.

Ian Shaw and James Pearson

Ian presents his tribute to his late, great, mentor and friend,
Mel Torme. Todd Barkan, the producer of Ian’s latest CD “In a New York
Minute” says “Ian has the ability to bring out the best and most revealing
qualities in any song that he chooses with his unique blend of musical
alchemy”. The very gifted James Pearson is on piano.

Friday June 23rd 8.30 £9

Damon Brown Quintet

It’s a Fleece debut for Damon on trumpet and flugelhorn who
blends both British and American influences in a highly personalised approach
to jazz. He has recorded with both Paul Weller and Jools Holland and last
year he shared the stage with Chick Corea and Kenny Garrett at the Red
Sea International Jazz Festival. The press and audience alike declared
the band to be the new stars of the festival. Tonight’s line-up also has
Jonathan Gee (piano), Renato D’Aiello (sax), Arnie Somogyi (bass) and Winston
Cifford (drums).

Friday June 30th 8.30 £10.

Elaine Delmar

One of the all time great jazz singers who understands fully
the repertoire and is able to express it with dynamic simplicity. She cast
a subtle yet spellbinding light on the material she chooses and tonight
is supported by Brian Dee (piano), Dave Green (bass) and Clark Tracey (drums).

Friday, July 7, 8.30 Ticket £9

Ingrid Laubrock Quartet

This stunning young German saxophonist and composer comes with her
new band – Liam Noble (piano), Larry Bartley (bass) and Dave Wickens (drums).
Whatever style of music Ingrid is playing – Jazz, Latin or Fusion, she
will always produce the distinctive melodic sound which is her trademark.

Friday, July 14, 8.30 Ticket £10.

Frank Williams African Jazz Quintet.

A very warm welcome back to tenor saxophonist Frank Williams and
his African Jazz Quintet. This exciting band, with its roots in South African
Township music combines the very best of African music with high voltage
rhythm. This is definitely music for the heart and the feet! Both
Frank and drummer Brian Abrahams can trace their early musical influences
back to the township band they were both members of in Cape Town, “District
Six”. Winston Delandro (guitar), Alistair Gavin (piano) and Jo Cang (bass)
complete the band.

Friday, July 21, 8.30 Ticket £9.

Geoff Eales Trio featuring Jim Mullen.

Throughout his career Geoff has worked with many of the worlds finest
recording artists. Nelson Riddle, Henry Mancini, Shirley Bassey, Dusty
Springfield, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Lesley Garrett and Jose Carreras are
just a few. Tonight he is with Jim Mullen, one of the giants of Jazz-rock.
Having played with Paz, Average White Band, Kokomo and the Herbie Mann
Group he went on to form Morrissey Mullen, which became one of the best-known
Jazz-rock bands in the UK. Master bass player Roy Babbington and much in
demand drummer Mark Fletcher complete Geoff’s trio. Geoff’s first Jazz
CD -Mountains of Fire-is highly recommended by us.

Sarah Jane Morris Quintet

We’ll just quote John Fordham “The Guardian” – “A singer
with a voice so deep its almost subterranean and so bluesy your mind pictures
her suffering the night away with a litre bottle of whisky in hand. Flame
haired, extravagantly dressed, outrageously voiced with an in-born sense
of drama and a gleeful disregard for the boundaries between musical styles.”
’nuff said! Accompanying her will be Scott Firth, Henry Thomas and Martin
Barker.

Friday, August 4, 8.30 Ticket £10.

Tony Coe, John Horler and Alec Dankworth.

“Three of the world’s finest virtuosi – This is some of the
most accomplished, musically satisfying Jazz you will hear.” Dame Cleo
Laine.

On no account should you miss Tony Coe, who is generally considered
to be the world’s finest living clarinettist. He is an outstanding performer
in all forms of Jazz and classical music. Pianist John Horler, whose playing
demonstrates his remarkable technical gifts, is a thoughtful and outstanding
improvisatory and deeply creative musician. Bass player Alec Dankworth is a most
sought after
musician of tremendous skills. I wonder what Dame Cleo has to say about him?

Friday, August 11, 8.30 Ticket £12.

Clark Tracey Sextet “Tribute to Art Blakey”

This is a welcome repeat of the sell-out gig by the same musicians
last December. If you missed it then don’t make the same mistake again!
The sextet boasts a line-up of incomparably talented and exciting British
musicians: Peter King is one of the world’s outstanding alto saxophonists
whose remarkable agility and technical virtuosity is unsurpassable. Alan
Barnes is one of the most inventive and original talents to appear in the
UK in recent years. Trumpeter Guy Barker’s playing is particularly attractive
and exhilarating. Steve Melling is an outstanding pianist whose playing
is a real joy to listen to. Arnie Somogyi is a high energy, technically
brilliant bass player. Clark Tracey is now firmly established as one of
the best and most inventive Jazz drummers around. The wide ranging repertoire
will include classic Jazz Messenger numbers from the mid 50s through to
the late 80s ñ one unforgettable show.

Friday, August 18

Saturday, August 19 8.30 Ticket £12.

Martin Taylor

One of the world’s greatest guitarists makes an overdue return to
Boxford. Now signed to the prestigious Sony music label Columbia his latest
CD “Kiss and Tell” is nothing short of sensational. Repeatedly referred
to as a guitarist’s guitarist his swinging improvisation with chords and
walking bass lines have left audiences and other guitarists stunned and
amazed. You absolutely must book early for what will be two sell
out evenings here at the Fleece.

Friday, August 25, 8.30 Ticket £11

Pete Long Sextet featuring Patti Revell

Friday, August 25, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Pete Long Sextet
featuring Patti Revell.

From the Jools Holland Big Band and the Echoes of Ellington Orchestra
saxophonist Pete Long makes his Fleece debut, together with the charismatic
singer Patti Revell or Mrs Revell as she is affectionately known. An exciting
player, Pete has a larger than life personality and a gift for storytelling,
which he does with some panache! With Gary Baldwin on the Hammond B3, ace
guitarist Mick Hanson, Tom Gordon (drums) and Jim Richardson (bass) this
promises to be one of those evenings you won’t forget.

Friday, September 1, 8.30 Ticket £9

Liane Carroll and John Etheridge

The uniquely talented Liane not only has a sensational voice but
is also a stunning pianist. Add to this her engaging personality, which
conveys her sheer enjoyment in her work to her audience and you’ll know
why she is such a great favourite up and down the country. She has toured
all over the world with the likes of Gerry Rafferty, Long John Baldry and
guitarist Gerry Donohue. Tonight she teams up with one of the world’s greatest
guitarists, John Etheridge, who needs absolutely no introduction! Expect
to hear a wide-ranging selection of material – all delightfully and exquisitely
performed.

Friday, September 8, 8.30 Ticket £9

Lennie Bush and friends

We welcome one of the leading double bassists in the country for
an evening with friends, Vic Ash (clarinet) Jack Parnell (drums) and Brian
Lemon (piano). A long career has seen Lennie work and record with Henry
Mancini, Robert Farnon, Frank Sinatra, Quincy Jones, Bing Crosby, Sarah
Vaughan, Benny Goodman, Errol Garner and Chet Baker, amongst others. An
evening for reminiscing as autumn starts to draw in.

Friday, September 15, 8.30 Ticket £9

Young Lions / Old Tigers ñ Celebrating 60 years in
the business

Spike Robinson is a consummate ballad player who eagerly explores
the endless archives of the Great America Songbook. His rhapsodic,
breathy style is instantly identifiable and the effortless looping swing
of everything he plays has helped to make him into one of the outstanding
tenor saxophonists of his generation. He has toured extensively from his
UK base, recording many superb albums and headlining at clubs and festivals
in Europe and the USA. He has attracted high critical and public praise.
With him this evening will be Derek Nash (saxophone), Nick Weldon (piano),
Rob Rickenberg (bass) and Pete Cater (drums).

Friday, September 22, 8.30 Ticket £10

Christian Garrick Quartet

Last seen at the Fleece with John Etheridge’s popular Grappelli style
quartet “Sweet Chorus “, Christian fronts his own quartet of David Gordon
on piano, Jeremy Brown (bass) and Tom Hooper (drums). Ranked amongst the
world’s finest exponents of the violin, Christian is a player who moves
effortlessly between classical, hot club, swing, bebop, contemporary jazz,
blues, fusion and rock – all this with more than ample poise and
virtuosity.

Partisans

One of Britain’s most sought after saxophonists, Julian Siegel co-
leads Partisans with guitarist Phil Robson. Julian is a powerful saxophonist
who maintains a strong sense of melody throughout his playing. Phil is
generally considered to be one of the most impressive, fluent, melodic
performers around who is perhaps best known for his work with the singer
Christine Tobin. Completing the line up is the amazing American drummer
Gene Calderazzo and the wonderful Thad Kelly on bass.

Friday, October 6, 8.30 Ticket £8 – Flanagan / Ingham Quartet

Kevin Flanagan’s “Rollins” tenor playing is a focal point of the quartet.
Never lacking in controlled passion, he is also a very talented composer.
Co-leader Chris Ingham’s keyboard work merges sensitivity with restraint.
He is a cool school vocalist and jazz pianist of considerable ability.
Andy Brown’s full toned bass playing has much in common with the veteran
American of the same surname. Little higher praise can be offered than that.
Russell Morgan is a delight on drums, never fussy or intrusive, he really
does listen to what is going on around him.

Friday, October 13, 8.30 Ticket £8 – Neil Yates and Joe Robinson (Praxis)

A brilliant and beautiful classic trumpet and tenor saxophone partnership
joined by a dynamic rhythm section of Mark Edwards (piano), Larry Bartley (bass)
and Ron Parry (drums). Breath-taking versions of re-arranged standards, hard bop
favourites and evocative originals. To quote Dave Gelly, “Solos often quite
stunning, superb trumpeter Neil Yates will certainly become better known in the
coming years”. “A striking and beautiful flugelhorn player”- Humphrey Lyttelton.

Friday, October 20, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Frank Griffith Quartet with Liam Noble

Its a real pleasure to welcome Frank Griffiths, one of the truly class saxophonists about.
Liam Noble has agreed on very short notice to do the gig: we were all blown away with his playing
the last time he was with us, with Ingrid Laubrock in July.
With Frank and Liam will be Andy Clyndert (bass) and Sebastian de Krom (drums).

Friday, October 27, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Tina May and “the Frogs”

Tonight the exquisite Tina May introduces, her French Band to the Fleece.
“I don’t like music that’s too po-faced and I think that it is very important to
communicate the sheer pleasure of playing and sharing it with other people,
one needs to make it fun,” says Tina. With her is Patrick Villanueva, a
classically trained pianist, who teaches jazz harmony at the Sorbonne
University in Paris. Bassist Pierre Maingourd is a self-taught musician
who is much in demand on the Paris scene. Tristan Mailliot from Calais is a d
rummer who injects finesse, flair and melody. Look out for Tina’s new CD,
Tina May Live in Paris, recorded at the Lionel Hampton earlier this year.

Friday, November 3, 8.30 Ticket £8 – Trudy Kerr

Trudy has continued to delight audiences everywhere, with her repertoire that
blends the great song standards with the best of contemporary compositions.
She brings to them all originality of thought and interpretation. Trudy sings
with a mature sound, swings with subtlety, and develops her melodic and lyrical
concepts with impeccable taste and great sensitivity. Tonight she will be
concentrating on giving the songs on her eagerly awaited new CD Day Dream,
an airing for us. Accompanying her will be Mike Gorman (piano),
Geoff Gascoyne (bass) and Sebastian de Krom (drums).

Friday, November 10, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Ed Jones Quintet

Making a long overdue return to the Fleece is one of Britain’s most exciting
and inspired saxophonists, who is also a talented composer whose wide range of
collaborations has cut across musical boundaries. Having worked with George Benson,
Dianne Reeves, Jimmy Witherspoon, Chaka Khan, Boy George, Incognito and Us3 as well
as a whole host of British jazz artists. With Ed tonight are Jonathan Gee (piano),
Damon Brown (trumpet), Geoff Gascoyne (bass) and Frank Tontoh (drums).

Friday, November 17, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Christian Garrick, John Etheridge and the David Gordon Trio

The line-up tonight will break with tradition and give us an evening of 3
sets. Christian (violin) and John (guitar) will recreate the “Hot Club” style
for so long associated with Stephane Grapelli, which proved to be so popular on a
memorable Saturday evening at the Fleece last October. David Gordon (piano),
Ole Rasmussen (bass) and Paul Cavacuiti (drums) have been playing together for
four years. This has all been reflected in their second album Undiminished,
which has been universally well received. The third set will see all five
musicians playing together as a quintet.

Friday, November 24, 8.30 Ticket £8 – The Alyson Cawley Quintet

Tenor saxophonist Alyson has taken the standard jazz songbook and personalised
it by adding her own interpretations to music by Cole Porter, Cannonball Adderley,
Rodgers and Hart and Horace Silver. The band has a rapport and cohesion that leads
to a relaxed air of a group really enjoying themselves. They are inventive,
entertaining and always well received wherever they appear. Allison Neale is
an alto saxophonist who is influenced by the West Coast sound of Art Pepper,
with whom she is often compared. With Tom Cawley (piano), Orlando le Fleming
(bass) and Matt Skelton (drums).

Friday, December 1, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Ricky Woodard

It’s a warm welcome to the Fleece, for this ever-popular visitor to Europe
and the UK. With an engaging personality, Ricky plays an amazing range of
instruments, including soprano, alto and tenor Saxes as well as clarinet,
flute and guitar. He is a vibrant and forceful soloist, his tenor saxophone
style hinting at affection for the work of Wardell Grey, Dexter Gordon and
especially Hank Mobley. Ricky has worked with a wide range of performers in the
jazz world as well as backing many singers. With him tonight are John Critchinson
(piano), Val Mannix (bass) and Pete Cater (drums).

Friday, December 8, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Peter King Quartet

The early speed and focus of Peter’s solos, has been refined by exquisite
tone control, an ever-expanding vocabulary of phrases, bold stretching of song,
form, harmony and an intuitive composers sense of shape. Peter King is possessed
of a talent that relates him closely to Charlie “Yardbird” Parker. Pianist Steve
Melling is simply superb. In Jeremy Brown and Stephen Keogh, Peter King has a bass
and drum partnership that adds rich texture and tender or dramatic atmosphere yet
is flexible enough to play freely without losing the point.

Friday, December 15, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Bobby Wellins Quartet

The late Peter Clayton described Bobby Wellins’ tenor saxophone sound as,
“Like no other sound on earth”. Bobby is a giant of the British jazz scene, who
moved British Jazz forward into areas previously considered to be the preserve of
American players. He is a distinctive player with an intensely emotional sound,
which relates to his passionate approach to music. With Bobby tonight are
Liam Noble (piano), Simon Thorpe (bass) and Dave Wickens (drums).
This is going to be one memorable evening, here at the Fleece.

Friday, December 22, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Frank Williams African Jazz Quintet

Those of us that had the good fortune to catch Frank’s African Jazz Quintet
back in July of this year will not forget their performance, or the reaction of the
audience. We just had to have them back. This exciting band, with its roots in South
African township music, combines the very best of African music together with
high voltage rhythms. Drummer Brian Abrahams and tenor saxophonist Frank William
were in a township band in Cape Town, “District Six”. Winston Delandro (guitar),
Alistair Gavin (piano) and Jo Cang (bass) complete the band.

Friday, December 29, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Claire Martin and Ian Shaw Sorry, sold out!

We bring the first year of the new millennium to a close at the Fleece with
the return of two of our most popular and favourite performers. Tonight Claire and
Ian will be performing an entirely new set of songs that they recently premiered at
the prestigious Purcell Room on London’s South Bank.

2001 Friday, January 5, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Art Themen and the Bryan Spring Trio

While studying medicine at Cambridge Art played tenor saxophone with a
University jazz band. After qualifying as a doctor he moved to London in the
early sixties and was involved in numerous pop sessions. In 1974 he began a
long and particularly fruitful association with Stan Tracey that still
continues to this day. He has achieved considerable high standing in the jazz
world while at the same time pursuing his medical career as a consultant
surgeon; this is indeed testimony to his remarkable gifts. With Art tonight
are Bryan Spring (drums), Mark Edwards (piano) and Andy Clyndert (bass).

2001 Friday, January 12, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Clark Tracey’s New Quintet

Formed last year, this gifted young line-up currently gracing the British jazz
scene comprises Mark Armstrong (trumpet), Simon Allen (reeds), Zoe Rahman
(piano) and Peter Billington (acoustic bass). Clark formed his first group
21 years ago and as well as being one of Britain’s premier jazz men has also
travelled abroad extensively accompanying a vast array of international
artists. He is an outstanding composer and arranger and undoubtedly one of
the world’s great drummers.

2001 Friday, January 19, 8.30 Ticket £12 – The Matt Wates Sextet

Described by Duncan Lamont as, “The most swinging alto player on both sides
of the Atlantic”. Berklee College of music graduate Matt Wates is a truly
remarkable young British alto saxophonist and performer of boundless ability.
“A seriously good band containing six of Britain’s finest jazz musicians,
regardless of age or style” – Dave Gelly. These are Andy Panayi (tenor
saxophone and flute), Martin Shaw (trumpet), John Pearce (piano), Malcolm
Creese (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

2001 Friday, January 26, 8.30 Ticket £9 – The Hungry Ants

We welcome Richard Fairhurst’s “Hungry Ants” who have had enviable success
with their latest CD release “Formic”, which received excellent reviews from
many publications including The Guardian and Time Out. Their debut album “The
Hungry Ants” won the Perrier young jazz album of the year award. Original
compositions from Richard and exuberant live performances have marked out
this band for considerable media interest including a broadcast on Radio 3’s
“Impressions”. The Ants comprise Richard Fairhurst (piano and keyboards), Rob
Townsend (saxophones), Tim Harries (bass) and Tim Giles (drums).

2001 Friday, February 2, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Herb Geller

This man has been an active player since the 40’s. He is a survivor of the
Los Angeles jazz scene of the 1950’s where he became a fixture, playing with
the likes of Billy May, Maynard Ferguson, Shorty Rodgers, Bill Holman, Chet
Baker, Clifford Brown and later Benny Goodman. He is a striking alto
saxophonist. A bebop player in the Charlie Parker mold, Herb’s chosen work
pattern has limited his exposure to international audiences, however the
early 90’s saw his return to touring with visits to the UK and elsewhere, and
he is now playing better than ever. With John Pearce (piano), Val Mannix
(bass) and Bobby Worth (drums).

2001 Friday, February 9, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Afroblue

Kick off those winter-time blues with this hot band. Fine melodies, strong
rhythms based on joyful South Africa township music that has more than a
touch of Latin. Dave Chambers (saxophones / flute), Steve Lodder (piano /
keyboard), Joe Legwabe (percussion), Eustace Williams (bass), Kerri Bannerman
(guitar) and Paul Robinson (drums).

2001 Friday, February 23, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Lillian Boutt&eacut

From New Orleans, Louisiana, USA we are proud to present this vibrant and
exceptionally talented singer whose striking personality and wide ranging
musical knowledge has led to her having a substantial following, particularly
in France. She has a powerful, imaginative blues based style, that makes her
one of the few singers of her generation, who can evoke with ease, the
important place held by the blues in the art of jazz song. She is the only
other person, apart from Louis Armstrong, to have been granted the freedom of
the city of New Orleans. With her tonight are Thomas L’Etienne (sax), Danny
Aylett (piano), Andy Crowder (bass) and Bobby Worth on drums.

2001 Friday, February 23, 8.30 Ticket £13 – Ladies of Jazz and the Tommy Whittle Quartet
– Sorry, Sold out!

We welcome three of the country’s top singers performing on the same stage.
Barbara Jay has a warm, clear voice, elegant phrasing and superb diction. Lee
Gibson delivers the popular repertoire with warmth and enormous confidence
and a subtle sense of swing. Tina May is a skilled improviser who builds her
repertoire with a careful eye for melody, lyrics and mood. Leading the
quartet is Tommy Whittle, whose tenor saxophone has a warm caressing sound
particularly well suited to ballads. The Quartet is completed by John Pearce
(piano), Jim Richardson (bass) and Bobby Worth (drums).

2001 Friday, March 2, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Daniel Smith “Bassoon and Beyond”

The worlds most recorded and acclaimed bassoon virtuoso, American jazz /
obviously listened to much Coltrane, Rollins and Getz. His formidable
technique means that he can take up-tempo numbers comfortably and has some
pretty furious runs on display. Go and hear him! This is a unique voice in
jazz.” Daniel’s red-hot jazz playing makes the bassoon dance like Gerry
Mulligan’s baritone sax. With Bruce Boardman (piano), Terry Davies (bass) and
Pete Cater (drums).

2001 Friday, March 9, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Marlene Verplanck

Marlene Verplanck possesses one of the world’s great voices; every note she
hits is perfectly in tune. Despite this great talent she is a subtle
improviser who goes out of her way to bring out the beauty of the lyrics she
interprets. She sings with great wit, imagination, flawless diction,
understanding and sparkling technique. She is one of the finest interpreters
of the great American songbook. Her husband is the excellent arranger Billy
Verplanck. Supporting Marlene tonight are Geoff Eales (piano), Roy Babbington
(bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums).

2001 Friday, March 16, 8.30 Ticket £10 – The David Newton Trio

It’s always a pleasure to welcome the immaculate David Newton and his
formidable rhythm team of Matt Miles (bass) and Steve Brown (drums). Now
established as one of Europe’s leading piano players David has proved his
pedigree in every situation performing and recording in solo, duo and trio
contexts as well as working regularly with Martin Taylor (with whom he toured
India) Don Weller, Carol Kidd, Stacy Kent and Alan Barnes. David has also
played in backing groups for many visiting jazzmen including Art Farmer, Bud
Shank, Shorty Rogers and Nat Adderley.

2001 Friday, March 23, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Sheena Davis with Jim Mullen

“The finest all round singer to have performed with the band in thirty
years”, is how Bill Ashton, musical director of NYJO described Sheena Davis
who was lead vocalist with the orchestra for three years. “Fiery jazz and
blues vocalist”– The Times. “Hard edged jazz and blues”– The Guardian. “… the
range of this singer knows no bounds”– Whats on. Joining Sheena tonight is
the great Scottish guitarist Jim Mullen, Matt O’Regan (piano), Rob Rickenberg
(bass) and Pete Cater (drums).

2001 Friday, March 30, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Anthony Kerr Quartet

Vibraphonist Anthony Kerr was the percussionist with RTE Symphony Orchestra.
He has played extensively in Europe with Mike Westbrook, John Taylor, Louis
Stewart, Peter King, Norma Winstone, Charlie Watts and Georgie Fame. He has
composed, arranged and performed music for the Lyric Theatre, Big Life Music
Library as well as radio and TV appearances. Anthony has recorded with Tim
Garland, Jim Mullen, James McMillan, Georgie Fame and Jacqui Dankworth on her
debut album, where he was responsible for many of the lyrics. Tonight sees
him with pianist Tom Crawley, bass player Orlando le Fleming and drummer
Steve Brown.

Friday, April 6th, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Barb Jungr and Mari Wilson

Barb Jungr, Britain’s answer to Ute Lemper, is a cabaret diva and Perrier Award
winner whose voice echoes Piaf and Simone. Mari Wilson is still affectionately
known for her beehive hairstyle and string of hit singles but her recent work
covers a much wider range including the starring role in the musical “Dusty”.
Pianist Adrian York provides the backing.

Friday, April 13th, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Ed Jones Quintet

Britain’s most exciting and inspired saxophonist makes a swift and deserved return.
Ed, whose talents have led to many exciting and inspired collaborations, has
recorded a new CD, Reflections in Blue. Ed has toured the Far East since his
last Fleece gig in November. Joining him tonight are Damon Brown (trumpet),
Jonathan Gee (piano), Geoff Gascoyne (bass) and Winston Clifford (drums).

Friday, April 20th, 8.30 Ticket £11 – John Law Quartet featuring Tim Garland

Described as a hybrid of Cecil Taylor and Keith Jarrett, John Law studied classical
music and has been active in playing improvised music since 1988. This is a startling
new collaboration with the saxophonist from Chick Corea’s band, Tim Garland, and
reflects their different experiences in jazz, classical, ethnic and freely
improvised music. With Alec Dankworth (bass) and Dave Wickins (drums).

Friday, April 27th, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Allison Neale Quartet

Allison is a skilful multi-instrumentalist, equally at home on either alto
saxophone or flute, and as such has found herself in great demand as a member of
numerous big bands and as a backing musician. She is heavily influenced by the West
Coast sound of Art Pepper, with whom she is often compared. Mike Gorman (piano),
Simon Thorpe (bass) and Matt Skelton (drums) complete the line up.

2001 Friday, May 4th, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Zubop

Playing original compositions that combine global dance rhythms, catchy hooks,
melodic riffs and jazz improvisation, we welcome back this highly popular band,
who have the ability to delight audiences wherever they play. Led by Philip Clouts
on piano and keyboards with Will Wisbling (trumpet and trombone), Ricky Edwards
(alto saxophone and flute), John Blackwell (guitar), Duncan Noble (bass) and Sean
Randle (drums).

2001 Friday, May 11th, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Perfect Houseplants

We premiered New Folk Songs prior to it touring and then being recorded. The concept
was for a set of original jazz compositions based on the folk music of East Anglia.
Mark Lockheart (tenor saxophone), Huw Warren (piano), Dudley Phillips (bass) and
Martin France (drums) have based their work on traditional melodic fragments, keeping
the rhythmic spontaneity of the local singers albeit in a radically different manner.

2001 Friday, May 18th, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, Sold Out!

A powerful and multi-talented British singer with a repertoire that includes a
healthy dose of soul music appears with Mornington Lockett on saxophones, Paul
Hirsh (piano, keyboards and vocals), Scott Firth (guitar, bass and vocals), and
Greg Leppard (drums and acoustic guitar). Sarah Jane’s astonishing voice has the
ability to excite audiences and fellow musicians alike, with its three and a half
octave range soaring heavenwards or diving to emotional depths.

2001 Friday, May 25th, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Michael Garrick Quartet

Pianist and prolific composer Michael Garrick has led bands since the 50s and was
active in the jazz and poetry movement in the mid 60s when he worked with bands
co-led by Don Rendell and Ian Carr. He has recorded over eighteen albums. With
Martin Hathaway (alto saxophone, clarinet and flute), Paul Moylen (bass) and
Alan Jackson (drums).

2001 Friday, June 1st, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Alan Barnes Sextet:
Tribute to Cannonball Adderley – Sorry, Sold Out!

Cannonball Adderley was arguably the greatest saxophonist of his generation.
His fiery, blues soaked interpretations of Charlie Parker’s alto legacy has inspired
some of this country’s leading jazz musicians combining to perform their tribute to
him. They are led by Alan Barnes, an outstanding musician with a distinctive and
highly melodic style. With him are Don Weller on tenor saxophone, a powerful player
with a robust sound, Dick Pearce (trumpet), John Donaldson (piano), Alec Dankworth
(bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

2001 Friday, June 8th, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Mark Crooks Quintet

With a superb clarinet tone and phrasing that never fails to impress, Mark has gained
considerable status, playing both clarinet and tenor saxophone, since his first
appearance with the quintet at Ronnie Scott’s club in December 1996. His debut CD
‘I won’t dance,’ is highly recommended by us. With Colin Oxley (guitar),
John Pearce (piano), Simon Thorpe (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

2001 Friday, June 15th, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Jonathan Gee / Damon Brown International Quartet

Now regarded as one of Europe’s leading pianists, Jonathan has played on a dozen
albums for other people as well as having recorded three under his own name. He is
a regular performer at prestigious venues and festivals throughout Europe.
Trumpeter Damon Brown has recorded and toured internationally with such artists as
Paul Weller, Jools Holland, Desmond Decker and the Specials as well as being a
bandleader. Two of Israel’s finest musicians Yaari Levy (drums) and Yorai Oron (bass)
complete the quartet.

2001 Friday, June 22nd, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Gordon Beck / Peter King Quartet

Pianist Gordon Beck is one of the few English jazz musicians whose work bears
comparison with his named influences, particularly Bud Powell, Bill Evans and
Herbie Hancock. Peter King is the world’s outstanding hard bop alto saxophonist,
and his remarkable agility, technical virtuosity and hard-edged brilliant tone are
at the command of an exceptionally fast mind. Multi- talented Gary Husband is on
drums and Mike Harris on bass.

2001 Friday, June 29th, 8.30 Ticket £10 – As Meninas – Sorry, Sold Out!

As Meninas or ‘The Girls’, are Monica Vasconcelos, lead vocals, Ingrid Laubrock
(saxophones), Ife Tolentino (guitar), and Chris Wells (drums and percussion).
As Meninas is a more subtle and sublime creature than Nois, with Bossa Novas so
fragile and plaintive, lilting and swinging, mostly sung in Portuguese. Surely the
great Getz would have approved. Is there a better way to spend a summer’s evening?

2001 Friday, 6th July, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Steve Lodder Sextet

The title of Steve’s debut CD, is ’bout time 2′ and its about time we had him back. Steve’s sextet plays a collection of tunes drawing on Brazilian, funk, bebop and other contemporary sources, providing a rhythmic backdrop for harmonically rich and, of course, electrifying playing. With Ben Castle (saxophones), Paul Jayasinha (trumpet), Dudley Phillips (bass), Chris Wells (percussion) and Mike Bradley (drums).

2001 Friday, 13th July, 8.30 Ticket £13 – Tina May and her French Band Featuring Tony Coe
– Sorry, sold out!

Those of you fortunate enough to have seen Tina and her French Band here at the Fleece last autumn know what an absolutely stunning evening it was. World-class musicianship by all concerned you’d think things couldn’t possibly get better. However with the addition of the world’s greatest clarinet player, Tony Coe, they probably will! The band are Patrick Villanueva (piano), Pierre Maingourd (bass) and Tristan Maillot (drums).

2001 Friday, 20th July, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Gilad Atzmon and the Orient House Ensemble

Having taken the Fleece by storm on all of his previous visits, expect more of the same from this fiery, passionate and powerful player with the towering presence. Mixing European and American music Gilad’s first rule seems to be to excite the audience out of their skins with breathless double time flurries, soaring cries and swooping runs. Frank Harrison (piano), Ollie Hayhurst (bass) and Asif Sirkis (drums).

2001 Friday, 27th July, 8.30 Ticket £13 – Girl Talk

Accompanied by pianist Adrian York, Claire Martin, Marie Wilson and Barb Jungr return bringing you another instalment of all those non – politically correct songs that you thought had vanished for good. Imagine this as the 3 tenors with all the Diva Glamour that these three queens of jazz, soul and cabaret can muster.

2001 Friday, 3rd August, 8.30 Ticket £13 – Stacey Kent Quintet
– Sorry, sold out!

A lady who has sung for both Presidents and film stars, Stacey is now firmly established in the States and Europe. She hosts her own show on Radio Three and is becoming well known as a broadcaster. Her choice of material and musicians is always exemplary and tonight will be no exception. Featuring husband Jim Tomlinson (saxophone), David Newton (piano), Colin Oxley (guitar) and Simon Thorpe (bass).

2001 Friday, 10th August, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Zoe Rahman Quartet

Zoe is a tremendously gifted pianist and composer, who has attracted enormous attention and has the seal of approval from pianist/composer ulian Joseph. She has sparkling and distinctive ideas, a confident use of rhythm and placement of effective pauses. Joining her are Rowland Sutherland (flute), Jeremy Brown (bass) and Darren Abraham (drums).

2001 Friday, 17th August, 8.30 Ticket £10 – A Celebration of the Jazz Couriers
– Sorry, sold out!

A chance to see Martin Drew, one of the all time great British drummers. Martin accompanies and tours with Oscar Peterson and has played with some of the greatest names in jazz. This new band is both a tribute to, and an attempt to recreate from the original recordings, the classic, iconic, British modern jazz group co-led by saxophonists Tubby Hayes and Ronnie Scott between 1957 and 1960. The rest of the “2001 Couriers” are Mornington Lockett (tenor sax), Nigel Hitchcock (tenor sax), Steve Melling (piano) and Paul Morgan (bass).

2001 Friday, 24th August, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Rachel Calladine Quartet

Both Claire Martin and Ian Shaw are really big fans of this powerful and charismatic singer. To quote Ian Shaw, “Calladine – What a voice! She could sing a prescription for athletes foot and make it sound like soul”. (Outside jazz Rachel has appeared as backing singer for the Spice Girls!). Accompanying her tonight are James Pearson (piano), Geoff Gascoyne (bass) and Dave Ohm (drums).

2001 Friday, 31st August, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Dave O’Higgins with the Tom Cawley Trio

Dave has toured the world both as a solo artist and also an accompanist. His playing has graced the work of Ray Charles, Jimmy Smith, Frank Sinatra and Annie Lennox to name but a few. Since winning Young jazz musician of the year pianist Tom Cawley has gone on to establish himself as one of the leading lights on the British jazz scene. Tom’s trio is completed by Nick Preston (bass) and Matt Skelton (drums).

2001 Friday, 7th September, 8.30 Ticket £11 – John Etheridge and Victoria Newton Quintet
– Sorry, sold out!

We were so lucky to be able to get the brilliant young singer/clarinetist Victoria Newton on such short notice. John Etheridge, a leading light on the British jazz scene for over two decades has gone on to become Britain’s best known contemporary guitarists. He is featured on John Williams new CD, “The Magic Box”. Roger Carey (bass), Mark Fletcher (drums) and Neil Angilley (piano) will complete the line up.

2001 Friday, 14th September, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Clark Tracey New Quintet

These exciting young musicians currently gracing the British jazz scene, as every one who has seen them will tell you, are way ahead of their years. Leader Clark, one of Britain’s premier jazzmen, is not only one of the best drummers around, but is also as an outstanding composer and arranger. Check out his new CD, “Stability”. With Zoe Rahman (piano), Simon Allen (saxophone), Mark Armstrong (trumpet) and Peter Billington (bass).

2001 Friday, 21st September, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Theo Travis Quintet featuring Roger Beaujolais

London based saxophonist and composer Theo has made a big name for himself through his virtuosity and soulful playing, plus a series of very fine CD’s. Vibraphonist Roger Beaujolais is an impressive and talented musician whose’ CV reads like a who’s who of British music. Classically trained David Gordon (piano), Andy Hamill (bass) and Marc Parnell (drums) complete the Quintet.

2001 Friday, 28th September, 8.30 Ticket £8 – Denny Ilett Quartet

Guitarist and singer Denny made a big impression on use when he appeared with Lillian Bout&eacutce in February. Denny also runs a big band in London featuring sixteen musicians. However space is limited here at the Fleece; but we do have John Baggot (piano), Andy Crowdy (bass) – also seen with Lillian Boutt&eacutHowe (drums).

2001 Friday, 5 October, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Bobby Worth Quartet

Renowned British drummer Bobby Worth kicks off our new programme when he returns to the Fleece, this time as leader of his own Quartet and what a quartet it is! The distinctive and elegant piano of John Donaldson and Leon Clayton’s very classy bass complete a brilliant rhythm section. With the supreme Ben Castle on tenor saxophone, this will be a night to remember.

2001 Friday, 12 October, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Guy Barker’s International Quintet

It was Lee Konitz who after seeing Guy Barker remarked, “One day that guy’s gonna be a genius!” That day arrived some years ago, as Guy is regarded as one of the world’s great trumpeters. Portuguese pianist Bernard Sassetti, Spanish alto saxophonist Perico Sambeat, Englishman Geoff Gascoyne on bass and Dutch drummer Sebastian de Krom, make this a truly international Quintet.

2001 Friday, 19 October, 8.30 Ticket £9 – John Parricelli Group

John, a founder member of Loose Tubes, is a guitarist for all genres — and is in permanent demand. His playing is constantly melodic and enduring. In the last decade he has recorded and worked with Andy Sheppard, Iain Bellamy, Kenny Wheeler, M People, Judy Tzuke, Mike Oldfield and has also worked on numerous TV and feature films. His band is Mark Lockheart (tenor and soprano saxophones), Dudley Phillips (bass) and Martin France(drums).
More…

2001 Friday, 26 October, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Nicki Leighton-Thomas

It’s a warm welcome back to Nicki after two years and the birth of her daughter. It was Simon Wallace who recognised in her voice the qualities needed to interpret American poet and lyricist Fran Landesman’s darkly wise and witty lyrics. Nicki’s voice is fluid, sensuous and perfectly geared for the needs of her stylish repertoire, which extends beyond Landesman. Simon Wallace (piano), Mick Hutton (bass) and Roy Dodds (drums).

2001 Friday, 2 November, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Benn Clatworthy

Referred to as the “Gladiator of the sax”, tenorist Benn Clatworthy, a Coltrane disciple and former Ronnie Scott pupil, has been a mainstay of the Californian jazz scene for over twenty years. This is a rare chance to catch him here being supported by Robin Aspland (piano), Jeremy Brown (bass)and Martin Drew (drums).
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2001 Friday 9 and Saturday 10 November, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Lillian Boutt&eacut>Sorry, sold out!

From New Orleans via Germany it’s a very welcome return for the New Orleans Musical Ambassador to the World Lillian Boutt&eacut that honour with a certain Louis Armstrong. Lillian is one of the most energetic singers we have had at the Fleece, so much so that this time we just had to have her back for a second night. If you like the authentic sound of New Orleans this is the gig for you. With Thomas L’Etienne (clarinet and saxophone), Denny Ilett (guitar), Andy Crowdy (bass) and Dylan Howe(drums).
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2001 Friday, 16 November, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Dunstan Coulber Quartet

Clarinettist Dunstan Coulber makes his Fleece debut. Dunstan has been getting rave reviews wherever he has appeared. John Pearce (piano), NickPreston (bass) and Matt Skelton (drums) complete the line-up.
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2001 Friday, 23 November, 8.30 Ticket £10 – David Newton Trio
– Sorry, sold out!

David Newton is a pianist of exceptional technical ability, allied to melodic, harmonic and rhythmic sophistication, precision of touch and warmth of tone. His fans are legion! David is joined by the superb rhythm team of Matt Miles (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

2001 Friday, 30 November, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Sweet Chorus
– Sorry, sold out!

In 1998 John Etheridge recorded a handsome tribute album to his old bandleader Stephane Grappelli, and Sweet Chorus was born. Autumn 2001 sees another CD from this fine band who play in the Hot Club of Paris style made famous by Stephane Grappelli and Django Reinhardt in the 40’s and 50’s. John Etheridge (guitar), Andy Aitcheson (violin), Dave Kelbie (rhythm guitar) and Malcolm Creese (bass).
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2001 Friday, 7 December, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Ian Shaw
– Sorry, sold out!

The Hollywood Reporter publication stated, “If Ian Shaw had been around forty years ago, this fine singer would have been maybe bigger than Mel Torme or Betty Carter”. Who knows? One thing we do know is that Ian is the UK’s premier male jazz singer who just gets better and better. Check out his new CD recorded in the States ‘Soho Stories’ for proof. Accompanying Ianon piano is the highly talented James Pearson.
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2001 Friday, 14 December, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Scott Hamilton
– Sorry, sold out!

Tenor saxophonist Scott Hamilton makes a very welcome return to the Fleece. Scott is now regarded as an important figure on the international jazz scene with many fellow Americans recognising him as a primary influence. With John Bunch (piano), Dave Green (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).
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2001 Friday, 21 December, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Dana Gillespie
– Sorry, sold out!

Earlier on this year Dana, the undisputed Queen of European Blues, played to an audience of 1.4 million people in India. Our audience, though somewhat smaller but none the less enthusiastic, welcome her back to the Fleece for our Christmas gig. Accompanying her is the maestro of the boogie woogie piano Dino Baptiste, Mike Paice (saxophone & harm PG(guitar), Javier Garcia (bass) and Evan Jenkins (drums).
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2001 Friday, 28 December, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Ingrid Laubrock Quartet
– Sorry, sold out!

The brilliant German saxophonist returns to the Fleece with her own Quartet. Pianist Karim Merchant is a star in the making and he is joined by Larry Bartley (bass) and Tom Skinner (drums). A founder member of both Nois and As Meninas, Ingrid will be playing compositions from her highly recommended new jazz album “Some times” on the Candid label.

2002 Friday, 4 January, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Frank Williams’ African Jazz Quintet
– Sorry, sold out!

Get rid of the post Christmas blues with our 1st gig of 2002. Summer or winter Frank always sells out at The Fleece and any 1st timers will find out why, so get your tickets early! With Winston Delandro (guitar), Alistair Gavin (piano), Michael Bailey (bass) and Brian Abrahams (drums).
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2002 Friday, 11 January, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Stan Tracey Quartet
– Sorry, sold out!

Pianist, composer, arranger, accordion and vibes player Stan Tracey is one of the most outstanding figures Britain has given to the jazz world. Inspired by Ellington and Monk he has consistently displayed a distinctive, sometimes quirkily personal touch in his playing. With the unmistakable Saxophone of Bobby Wellins who phrases with such elegance that no note is wasted, the driving bass of Andy Cleyndert and the masterly touch of drummer Clark Tracey completes the quartet.

2002 Friday, 18 January, 8.30 Ticket £11 – The Tough Tenors

A “Hard Bop” band that features two generations of sax players, playing material from the fifties and sixties. Ray Gelato (tenor sax) is a strong fluent and highly melodic fifties influenced player well known for his band “Giants of Jive”. Alex Garnett (tenor sax) is one of the new, young, highly talented players who breathes fire into everything he plays. Richard Busiakiewicz (piano), Simon Thorpe (bass) and Matt Skelton (drums) complete a great line-up.
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2002 Friday, 25 January, 8.30 Ticket £8 – Eriko Ishihara Quartet
– Sorry, sold out!

From Tokyo via London’s Guildhall School of Music and Drama this wonderful pianist and singer performs classic jazz standards and has been likened to a Japanese version of Diana Krall. Eriko’s quartet is made up of Julian Segal (saxophone), Matt Miles (bass) and Matt Skelton (drums).
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2002 Friday, 1 February, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Dennis Rollins’ Bad Bone & Co.< – Sorry, sold out!

The UK’s top soul saxophonist (You’ve heard Snake with M People, Eurythmics, Paul McCartney, George Michael, Cher, Ray Charles) brings his band of Paul Birchall (keyboards), Winston Blisset (bass) and Peter Lewinson (drums) for an evening of extreme groove and melody. A brilliant passionate and simply bluesy sax player whose musical skills have no limit.
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2002 Friday, 15 February, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Kimbara Brothers

Led by virtuoso guitarist and composer Neil Stacey who is one of the foremost Hot Club guitar players anywhere in the world. This band’s positive and precise approach throws new light on some familiar Django material. An amazing variety of sounds, high-speed humour and awesome technique, makes this gig an absolute delight. With Rob Terry (piano), Bernard O’Neill (bass) and Clark Tracey (drums).
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2002 Friday, 22 February, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Laura Zakian Quartet – Sorry, Sold Out!

Laura, an outstanding singer, has the ability to phrase a lyric with subtle swing and rhythmic elasticity. Her charismatic performance on her debut at the Fleece the year before last, was a sell out. With the release of her album “Nobody Else But Me” she has gained a firm following in the UK. Laura’s quartet is Steve Melling (piano), Simon Thorpe (bass) and Russ Morgan (drums).
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2002 Friday, 8 February, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Snake Davis – Sorry, sold out!

2002 Friday, 1 March, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Damon Brown’s International Quintet

Trumpeter Damon’s success lies in the quality of his live performances and the accessibility of his compositions. Rooted in the classic blue note sound of the 1950’s the music transcends musical boundaries and reflects his unique background. The International Quintet of Perico Sambeat (saxophone), Bruce Barth (piano), Mark Hodgson (bass) and Stephen Keogh (drums) have a wealth of experience and talent between them.
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2002 Friday, 8 March, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Bob Bromhead Quintet

Bob has been playing piano for more years than he cares to remember. Never one to follow trends or other peoples work he is a lover of style and this individuality is reflected in his live work and his excellent new CD, “Flirting with Eagles”. Bob’s quintet features clarinettist Mark Crooks, with Neale Ridding (saxophone), Simon Thorpe (bass) and Bobby Worth (drums).
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2002 Friday, 15 March, 8.30 Ticket £13 – Alan Barnes, David Newton Trio, with Steve Fishwick
– Sorry, sold out!

This gig will be a fine memorial to a great trumpeter, Conte Candoli, whose jazz credentials go back to the phenomenal Woody Herman orchestra of 1945. The team of Alan Barnes and David Newton is one of the brilliant partnerships in jazz anywhere in the world today. The brilliant Steve Fishwick is a fine interpreter of Conti’s work, particularly his “Manhattan” CD. They will be propelled by the formidable rhythm team of Matt Miles (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).
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2002 Friday, 22 March, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Renato D’Aiello Quintet

When two trumpeters of the stature of Henry Lowther and Ian Carr ask if you have heard ‘This guy from Italy’ who they’d recently jammed with it’s worth taking notice. Renato, whose listeners increasingly marvel at his warm expressive tenor saxophone sound and melodic flow of ideas, leads his quintet of Mark Bassey (trombone), Phil Lee (guitar), Nicola Muresu (bass) and Asaf Sirkis (drums). His new CD,”Introducing Renato D’Aiello Euro All Stars”, on Spotlite is highly recommended by us.
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2002 Friday, 29 March, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Marlene Verplanck
– Sorry, sold out!

Marlene has been called a national treasure who owns the American popular
songbook and her popularity is by no means confined to America – The
Sinatra Society of Japan considers her to be ‘The finest female singer of
quality songs in the world today?’ The notes come easy, the lyrics have
meaning, together with a sure and steady feel for the rhythm. Marlene’s
song arrangements are all by the great Billy Verplanck. Her band of
Geoff Eales (piano), Roy Babbington (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums),
make this simply another un-missable gig.
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2002 Friday, 5 April, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Lush Life

Jane Parker’s sultry, sensual and steamy vocals combine with the seemingly world weary voice of all drinking piano bar room wise cracking leading man Bernie Clark. Together they weave beautifully constructed melodies through musical adventures of heartbreak and redemption. Featuring the legendary saxophonist Frank Mead, Steve Manolias (double bass) and Les Morgan (drums).

2002 Friday, 12 April, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Alyson Cawley Quintet

The quintet comprises some of London’s most dynamic and sought after young jazz musicians. Alyson Cawley (tenor sax) is a resourceful and eloquent player who has taken the standard jazz songbook and personalised it. Allison Neale is a beautifully fluent and inventive player on both alto saxophone and flute, who plays in a strongly melodic ‘West Coast’ style. With Tom Cawley (piano), Jeremy Brown (bass) and Matt Skelton (drums).

2002 Friday, 19 April, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Ola – Sorry, sold out!

Ola is one of the most highly exciting and charismatic jazz / soul vocalist to have emerged for some years onto the scene. He combines the sophistication of modern soul with the power of his African roots. He has put together a set of classic soul and R&B sonhighly impressive, truly explosive and very entertaining. Featuring a powerhouse band of Matt Johnson (keyboards), Tony Smith (guitar), Winston Blissett (bass) and Ash Soan (drums).

2002 Friday, 26 April, 8.30 Ticket £9 – Geoff Gascoyne Quartet

British bassist / composer Geoff Gascoyne finally steps into of the spotlight after many years as a world-class sideman. The quartet play a mixture of Geoff’s ‘catchy’ originals and ‘new’ standards from bop to fusion, and smokes with power and elegance. With exciting award winning saxophonist and personality Ben Castle and one of the country’s leading jazz pianists in Tom Cawley and the popular Dutch bebop drummer Sebastiaan De Krom.

2002 Friday, 3 May, 8.30 Ticket £9 – The Organ Trio

Mike Gorman (Hammond organ) is in many people’s opinion one of the most talented of the new breed of modern jazz keyboard players to have emerged in recent years. Legendary Scottish guitarist Jim Mullen, whose playing over thirty years has assimilated into a style at once readily recognisable as distinctively ‘Mullenesque’, is one of jazz’s true originals. Matt Skelton possesses a powerful pulse and infectious time feel, which has led to his position as one of the country’s most in demand drummers. The trio promise a polished and swinging evening.

2002 Friday, 10 May, 8.30 Ticket £11 – The New Noakes Internationals

A very impressive jazz-fusion group led by guitarist Peter Oxley. The group sometimes kicks like early Weather Report but often evokes a pastoral feeling. John Etheridge had this to say about the group’s new CD, “Blue in Black and White” featuring America’s Butch Thomas (saxophones), “All in all, this is as strong an album of contemporary compositions and soloing as you’ll hear anywhere”. Robin Aspland (piano), Raph Mizraki (bass) and Etienne Brachet (drums) complete the group.

2002 Friday, 17 May, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Ed Jones Quintet

Ed is one of the great live delights of British jazz. His terrier with rat approach is fiery and downright volcanic. He is a formidable tenor saxophone player, clearly influenced by the great masters from the jazz tradition. Tonight Ed brings with him Finland’s number one trumpet player Mikka Myllari, pianist Jonathan Gee and drummer Winston Clifford.

2002 Friday, 24 May, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Dave Newton and Mick Hanson – Sorry, sold out!

Two of our favourite musicians David Newton (piano) and Mick Hanson (guitar) combine to present an evening of breathtaking technical ability, melody, harmony, rhythmic sophistication and supreme entertainment.

2002 Friday, 31 May, 8.30 Ticket £12 – Elaine Delmar – Sorry, sold out!

Naturally talented and an accomplished jazz singer Elaine manages to swing so effortlessly. She has appeared on Broadway, toured the world, starred in musical shows, been acclaimed as an actress and concert artist having appeared with jazz giants such as Benny Carter, Herb Ellis and Stephane Grappelli. Accompanying her are the impeccable Brian Dee (piano), Arnie Somogyi (bass) and Clark Tracey (drums).

Saturday, 1 June, 8.00 Ticket £12 -The Ray Gelato Giants Jubilee Dance at Boxford Village Hall – Sorry, sold out!

Swing to the amazing “Ray Gelato Giants” Ray has been wowing audiences everywhere with this show, a powerful swinging blend of energetic vocals and roaring tenor sax. Listen, dance, eat and drink as Las Vegas comes to Boxford.

2002 Friday, 7 June, 8.30 Ticket £14 – Andy Sheppard – Sorry, sold out!

With a string of fine albums and concert appearances behind him, Andy is one of the most assured and versatile saxophonists on the scene today. His writing grows ever stronger and his playing has the authority of a master. Classical organ scholar Steve Lodder is a virtuoso on his acoustic and electronic instruments and his great versatility keeps him in constant demand. The trio is completed by Chris Laurence, one of the country’s leading bassists.

2002 Friday, 14 June, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Alec Dankworth Trio

A stalwart of the British Jazz scene, Alec has played bass and recorded with many of the world’s greatest artists such as Nigel Kennedy, Cleo Laine, John Dankworth, Martin Taylor and Dave Brubeck to name but a few. Julian Arguelles (saxophones) is one of the most versatile and proficient players in areas ranging from freely improvised jazz through straight ahead to world music influenced styles. Award winning instrumentalist Phil Robson is one of the most impressive and original guitarists around and has been featured in many bands.

2002 Friday, 21 June, 8.30 Ticket £11 – Carole Burgess Sextet – Sorry, sold out!

Our very own Carole Burgess makes her Fleece debut with her warm, lyrical and sympathetic interpretation of a wide range of standards and some wonderful contemporary songs. Arranger, composer and Carole’s musical director, Michael Spearman (guitar), Mike Gorman (piano), Karen Sharpe (tenor sax), Julian Berry (bass) and Roger “Shakatak” Odell (drums) complete a great lineup.

2002 Friday, 28 June, 8.30 Ticket £10 – Julian Marc Stringle and the Dream Band

“Julian is an immense talent! Probably the best clarinettist to emerge in British Jazz for several decades. His performance has world class written all over it. Julian has given the much neglected instrument a truly new lease of life” so said John Dankworth CBE. The Dream Band consist of Neil Angilley, Vanessa Mae’s pianist and one of the finest anywhere, Dominic Ashworth (guitar), Rufus Philpot (bass) and Mike Bradley (drums).

2002 Friday, 5 July 8.30, Ticket £9 – Lennie Bush and Friends

Lennie Bush is arguably the top bassist of his generation, having recorded and toured with a seemingly endless list of luminaries that include Henry Mancini, Frank Sinatra, Quincy Jones, Sarah Vaughan and Chet Baker amongst others. His friends, Vic Ash (saxophone), Brian Dee (piano) and Allan Ganley (drums) also have a wealth of experience behind them from their long and illustrious careers.

2002 Friday, 12 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Tina May and her French Band

We welcome back Tina with her World Class French Band. According to Scott Yanow, one of the world’edgeable jazz critics, writing in the L.A. Jazz Scene “Tina May, may well be Great Britain’z singer today”. No argument from us! Patrick Villaneuva, a classically trained pianist, who teaches jazz harmony at the Sorbonne University in Paris. Bassist Pierre Maingourd from Paris and drummer Tristan Maillot from Calais are three of Frances finest jazz musicians.

2002 Friday, 19 July 8.30 and Saturday, 20 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Celebrating the Jazz Couriers

The live recording being made at these two nights will be released as a CD. So this will be something very special for those lucky enough to attend. This is both a tribute to and an attempt to recreate the original recordings of the classic, iconic, British modern jazz group co-led by saxophonists Tubby Hayes and Ronnie Scott between 1957 and 1960. The modern day Jazz Couriers are Martin Drew (drums), Mornington Lockett (tenor saxophone), Nigel Hitchcock (tenor saxophone), Steve Melling (piano) and Andy Cleyndert (bass and recording engineer).

2002 Friday, 26 July 8.30, Ticket £9 – Tim Richards Trio

Pianist Tim is best known as leader of the long running modern, award winning jazz group Spirit Level. His trio swing hard, drawing from Tim’s extensive blues experience touring with Otis Grand, Larry Garner and Dana Gillespie. Dominic Howles (bass) and Matt Home (drums) display a constantly entertaining interplay. If you enjoy the music of Horace Silver, Oscar Peterson, Thelonious Monk or Gene Harris, this is definitely for you.

2002 Friday, 2 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Polar Bear / Acoustic Ladyland

Drummer and composer Sebastian Rochford leads Polar Bear, featuring Mark Lockheart (tenor Saxophone), Pete Wareham (tenor saxophone) and Tom Herbert (bass). The Acoustic Ladyland band of Pete Wareham (tenor saxophone), Tom Cawley (piano), Tom Herbert (bass) and Sebastian Rochford (drums) take over for the second set with compositions by Jimi Hendrix, arranged by Pete Wareham. “If you didn’n jazz could sound this hip then rush out and hear them” (Dazed & Conf/p>

2002 Friday, 9 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – John Etheridge / Theo Travis Quartet

Internationally acclaimed guitarist John Etheridge has been at the top of the Jazz contemporary guitar world for over 25 years. His career has covered a vast range of musical territory. Theo Travis (saxophone) is a distinctive player who shows a remarkable sureness of touch in both his composition and playing. With Dave Jones (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums).

2002 Friday, 16 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Rachael Calladine

Rachael is one of our finest young singers, who has been described by singer Ian Shaw as being ‘ a shopping list sound great’ighted to welcome the tenorist Dave Lewis of The Blockheads. Dave O’had a better offer in South America (is this possible?). Gareth Williams (piano), Sam Burgess (bass) and Dave Ohm (drums) comprise a very classy rhythm section indeed.

2002 Friday, 23 August 8.30 and Saturday, 24 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Lillian Boutt&eacut
The authentic sound of New Orleans is brought to us by that city’bassador (she shares that honour with just one other, Louis Armstrong). Lillian will be here for two nights and is accompanied by Derrick Nash (saxophone), Denny Ilett (guitar and vocals), Dave Green (bass) and Dylan Howe (drums).

2002 Friday, 30 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Paz

This UK Latin group’s lively arrangements have ensured that they have been very popular on the club circuit since 1972. They have also recorded a series of exciting albums. Their first sold more than 2000 copies in the first week. Many fine musicians have past through their ranks and the present line up comprises Matt Wates (saxophone), Martin Shaw (trumpet), Frank Holder (vocals and percussion), Geoff Castle (keyboards and vocals), Rob Statham (bass) and Chris Dagley (drums).

[Steve Fishwick depped for Martin Shaw]

2002 Friday, 6 September 8.30, Ticket £11 – As Meninas – Sorry, Sold Out!

As Meninas are Monica Vasconcelos, lead vocals, Ingrid Laubrock (saxophones), Ife Tolentino (guitar) and Chris Wells (drums and percussion). As Meninas is a more subtle and sublime creature than Nois, the great Stan Getz would surely have given the seal of approval of their fragile plaintive, lilting and swinging Bossa Novas.

2002 Friday, 13 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, Sold Out!

Sarah Jane is a powerful and multi-talented British singer whose astonishing voice has the ability to excite audiences and fellow musicians alike with its three and a half octave range soaring heavenwards or diving to emotional depths. Mornington Lockett (saxophones), Alistair Gavin (piano and keyboards), Henry Thomas (bass), and Greg Leppard (drums and guitar) complete the band.

[We missed the great saxophone of Morninton Lockett, but delighted in the wonderful guitar of American Matt Becker]

Sunday, 15 September 8.00, Ticket £12 – Mark Murphy and The Pete Churchill Trio

This legendary New Yorker’s extensive repertoire, vocal dexterity, humour, charm and style have captivated audiences everywhere. His many fans are truly grateful that his dedication to jazz has deprived the pop world of another star. He is certainly our idol! The brilliant trio of Pete Churchill (piano), Andy Hamill (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums) accompany him.

2002 Friday, 20 September 8.30, Ticket £11 – John Law Quartet

One of the finest pianists, described as a hybrid of Cecil Taylor and Keith Jarrett, John Law studied classical music and has been active in playing improvised music since 1988. This gig is part of a tour entitled “Monk _n_Junk”. The first set will be the tunes of Thelonious Monk, the second set standards. With saxophonist Martin Speake, Alec Dankworth (bass) and Dave Wickens (drums).

[Steve Watts depped for Alec Dankworth]

2002 Friday, 27 September 8.30 and Saturday, 28 September 8.30, Ticket £13 – Martin Taylor – Sorry, sold out!

One of the world’s greatest guitarists makes an eagerly awaited return to Boxford. Repeatedly referred to as a guitarist’s guitarist, his swinging improvisation with chords, walking bass lines and melody have consistently left audiences stunned and amazed. His autobiography “Kiss and Tell” makes for highly entertaining reading

2002 Friday, 4 October 8.30, Ticket £8 – Chaz Jankel Quartet

Composer and musician, Chaz is probably best known for his work with the late Ian Dury in the Blockheads of which he is still a member. He is presently involved in various co-writes and developing ideas with the Blockheads, where he plays guitar and keyboards. His quartet is made up from Andy Crowdy (bass), Tim Whitehead (tenor sax) and fellow Blockhead Dylan Howe (drums). The jazz album he has just released, ‘Out of the Blue’ is highly recommended by us and also features Gilad Atzmon.

2002 Friday, 11 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Viktoria Tolstoy

Viktoria is one of Sweden’s best-loved young jazz singers. She made her break-through at the age of nineteen with her debut CD entitled ‘Smile, Love and Spice’. In 1997 she became the first Swedish artist to record for the renowned Blue Note label with ‘White Russian’ which was met with worldwide acclaim. Viktoria has appeared across Europe and yes she is related to the writer Leo Tolstoy. She brings with her an all Swedish band that features Jacob Karlzon (piano), Peter Danemo (bass) and Rasmus Kihlberg (drums).

[A combination of misprint and dep: Jacob Karlzon’s trio had Peter Danemo on drums, and Mateus Svenson on bass. Delicious gig.]

2002 Friday, 18 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – The Garricks String Quartet

Pianist Michael Garrick is a prolific composer who is deeply versed in jazz, Indian and church music. He has led bands since the 50 ‘s and is very active in the jazz and education. In 1967 he composed ‘Jazz Praises’, a cycle of religious pieces performed and recorded in St. Pauls Cathedral. His son Christian is a fluent and inventive violinist of considerable power, who has worked on many film and TV soundtracks as well as working with the likes of Brian Ferry and The Brand New Heavies. With Dominic Ashworth (guitar) and Paul Moylan (bass).

2002 Friday, 25 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Billy Jenkins’ Blues Collective

A born again blueser, described as a maverick, often satirizing the excess genre wine bar friendly jazz, Jenkins’ anarchic demeanour conceals both a skilful musician and a shrewd thinker on all things musical. His band of Dylan Bates (violin), Richard Bolton (guitar), Thad Kelly (bass) and Michael Pickering (drums) has produced a great deal of fine albums and blues playing, particularly from Jenkins himself. This is not for the faint-hearted.

2002 Friday, 1 November 8.30, Ticket £10 – Ingrid Laubrock Quartet

One of the best young saxophonists on the scene who originally hailed from West Germany, but now resides in this country. She was nominated as rising star in 1999 Ingrid also finds time to co-lead two Brazilian bands with Monica Vasconcelos, ‘Nois’ and As ‘Meninas’. She has also recorded two CDs under her own name. Another rising star, Karim Merchant is featured on piano, together with Larry Bartley (bass) and Tom Skinner (drums).

2002 Friday, 8 November 8.30, Ticket £10 – Gilad Atzmon and the Orient House Ensemble – Sorry, sold out!

A towering presence drenched in passion and energy, his music is a rich and passionate blend of many world influences, Middle Eastern, North African and Eastern European all in a jazz idiom. The sax and clarinet virtuoso finds time to play in the Blockheads, be a record producer and now an author. Gilad and his band of Frank Harrison (piano), Arnie Somogyi (bass) and Asaf Sirkis (drums) are guaranteed to whack you between the ears.

[Yaren Sdavi was the bassist. Wonderful.]

2002 Friday, 15 November 8.30, Ticket £11 – Peter King Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

A quite brilliant soloist in the be-bop tradition and possessed of a talent that relates him closely to Charlie ‘Bird’ Parker, his great technical virtuosity and swing, advanced harmonic elements have made him into one of the world’s greatest players. Steve Melling is a phenomenal exciting and dedicated pianist. Jeremy Brown (bass) and Stephen Keogh (drums) add dramatic atmosphere to the compositions.

2002 Friday, 22 November 8.30, Ticket £11 – Annie Whitehead Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Annie, the Oldham born, irrepressible trombone player with one of the most characteristic deep bass sounds in jazz, has established herself as one of the leading players of her generation. She has played for leaders as diverse as Joan Armatrading, Paul Weller, Deep Purple, The Spice Girls, Elvis Costello and Carla Bley. Expect to hear a mix of African music, jazz and funk. Her latest CD, ‘The Gathering’ was recorded live with her road band of Steve Lodder (piano / keyboards), Jennifer Maidman (bass) and Liam Genockey (drums).

2002 Friday, 29 November 8.30, Ticket £10 – David Gordon Trio

A truly international trio led by classically trained David Gordon who combines his jazz activities with harpsichord playing in the Baroque world. The trio’s third CD will be recorded at the end of the present tour. The trios other two CD’s are, highly recommended by us. Bass player Ole Rasmussen is a resident of Copenhagen and is in constant demand through out Scandinavia, while American drummer Paul Cavaciuti is a keen educator and interestingly is involved in the therapeutic aspects of music.

2002 Friday, 6 December 8.30, Ticket £10 – Julian Siegel Quartet

Composer, teacher, arranger, conductor, Julian is now launching his debut album as bandleader, Julian Siegel ‘Mice in the Maze’. “Makes difficult hard bop lines sound like throwaway blues phrases and approaches the depth and sensitivity of a Wayne Shorter or Stan Getz in his playing”. With Liam Noble (piano), Dave Whitford (bass) and Gary Husband (drums).

[The drummer for this tour is the admirable Asaf Sirkis.]

2002 Friday, 13 December 8.30, Ticket £11 – Protect the Beat

If you want excitement then look no further than Derek Nash (saxes), Tony Smith (guitar), Darby Todd (drums), Winston Blissett (bass) and Peter Adams (keyboards), who are all high profile freelance musicians, who come together in a blistering Jazz / Groove act that measures up favourably to any thing that America can offer – “it ain’t dinner jazz” – that’s for sure!!

2002 Friday, 20 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Dennis Rollins’ Bad Bone and Co. – Sorry, sold out!

With a collection of wicked tunes, the man with the sexiest trombone in town is back for our Christmas gig. The most joyful funk you are likely to hear this side of the Atlantic with Johnny ‘guitar’ Heyes, Benet McLean (keyboards), Peter Martin (bass), Joshua McKenzie (drums) and Lenny Lawrence (percussion).

2002 Friday, 27 December 8.30, Ticket £11 – Victoria Newton

A past that has seen her on Top of The Pops many times with dance band ‘Strike’, who had a string of hits, Victoria stood in for Liane Carroll back in September 2001 and brought the house down with her performance. Victoria is a charismatic performer, with a powerful voice and boundless energy. She sings in English, Spanish, Italian, French and Brazilian Portuguese! With Barry Green (piano), Ian Ellis (saxophone), Geoff Gascoyne (bass) and Mike Bradley (drums).

2003 Friday, 3 January 8.30, Ticket £10 – Jean Toussaint

A great start to the New Year at the Fleece as we welcome back Jean Toussaint and his quartet. He comes from Berklee College of music via a four and a half year stint with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers when he toured Europe, Japan, Africa, USA and Canada. Jean has worked with artists of the calibre of Wynton Marsalis, Gil Evans and McCoy Tyner, he has a warm pleasant tone and is a consummate technician with a fine lyrical flair that has established a wide audience for his expressive straight jazz work. With Andrew McCormack (piano), Orlando Le Fleming (bass) and Troy Miller (drums).

[Our wonderful bassist was Larry Bartley.]

2003 Friday, 10 January 8.30, Ticket £9 – Big Chief

With their music always unmistakably rooted in jazz BC play Duke Ellington, Fats Domino, Alain Toussaint and Horace Silver. Whether the numbers originate in boogie woogie, rhythm and blues, rock n’ roll, township kwela, big band swing, bebop or post modernist freeform, puts its liberated stamp on them and lets the good times roll. But it won’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing. BC are Edward Benstead (trumpet), John Fry (sax and vocals), Tony Edwards (percussion and vocals), Chris Fry (trombone), Adrian Paton (keyboards and vocals), Mike Jacques (guitar), Tony Reeves (bass) and Louis Borenius (drums).

2003 Friday, 17 January 8.30, Ticket £10 – Renato D’Aiello’s International Quartet

Saxophonist Renato has a tone reminiscent of Hank Mobley and articulation that has a touch of Dexter Gordon about it. This is not to say that he is not his own man. His style is mature, adventurous and powered by a first class technique. Joining him are the outstanding Patrice Galas (piano), Nicola Muresu (bass) and Tristan Maillot (drums).

[Darren Altman drummed up a storm.]

2003 Friday, 24 January 8.30, Ticket £10 – Ola – Sorry, sold out!

Make sure that you book early for the eagerly awaited return of Ola, whose gig last year was a sell-out. Combining sophisticated, modern soul with the power of his African roots, Ola is a charismatic vocalist, whose four albums have served to seal his reputation as an outstanding singer, songwriter, musician and producer fully deserving of the high regard in which press and public alike hold him. His live performances have to be seen to be believed. With Tony Smith (guitar), Matt Johnson (keyboards), Derek MacIntyre (bass) and Ash Soan (drums).

[A wonderful evening with Julan McLaren on drums, Phil Mulford on bass and Pete Adams on keyboards.]

2003 Friday, 31 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Ian Shaw

Britain’s premier male jazz singer defies stereotyping with a voice containing an orchestral spectrum of tones and timbres. Ian’s range extends from a velvety baritone to a startling falsetto and he can vary his vocal texture from smooth to rough edged in accordance with the emotion he wants to communicate. With James Pearson (piano), Thad Kelly (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums).

[On a dark and snowy night, we loved the bass of Dave Olney]

Saturday, 1 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Stan Tracey Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Pianist, composer, arranger, accordion and vibes player Stan Tracey OBE is one of the most outstanding figures that Britain has given to the jazz world. Inspired by Ellington and Monk he has consistently displayed a distinctive, sometimes quirkily personal touch in his playing. With the unmistakable saxophone sound of Bobby Wellins, the bass of Andy Cleyndert and the drums of Clark Tracey this is an evening you should not miss.

2003 Friday, 7 February 8.30, Ticket £14 – Stacey Kent – Sorry, sold out!

“One of the finest singers to have appeared in the last four decades. The depth, subtlety, emotional shading and irrepressible swing that she brings to every song marks her out as something special” – The Guardian. A relaxed swing singer whose assured interpretation always respects the composer’s intentions. With David Newton (piano), Colin Oxley (guitar), Jim Tomlinson (saxophone) and Dave Chamberlain (bass).

2003 Friday, 14 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Tina May Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Valentines Day sees the official launch of Tina’s new CD, which features USA saxophonist Scott Hamilton. Tina builds her repertoire with a careful eye for melody, lyric and mood and her rare talent raises the quality of her material to new heights. Tonight she is joined by Nikki Iles (piano), Alec Dankworth (bass) and Tristan Maillot (drums).

2003 Friday, 21 February 8.30 and Saturday, 22 February 8.30, Ticket £13 – Martin Taylor – Sorry, sold out!

Without doubt one of the world’s greatest guitarists, Martin makes a swift and very welcome return to the Fleece. Repeatedly referred to as a guitarist’s guitarist, his swinging improvisation with chords, walking bass lines and melody have consistently left audiences stunned and amazed.

2003 Friday, 28 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Clark Tracey’s “Tribute to Art Blakey” – Sorry, sold out!

The very best British Jazz musicians return with a gig which we just simply had to repeat! Having played opposite Art Blakey on many engagements up until his death in 1990 , Clark discovered that Blakey had asked for him and his group to play support during that period. Clark felt compelled to pay musical respect to the man. The ‘Tribute to Art Blakey’ group now comprises giants from the UK scene – Peter King (sax), Alan Barnes (sax), Mark Armstrong (trumpet), Steve Melling (piano) and Dave Green (bass).

[Nick Preston played bass on a night to dream about.]

Saturday, 1 March 8.30, Ticket £14 – Claire Martin Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

At long last it’s a great pleasure to welcome Claire back to the Fleece doing what she does best – singing jazz! She achieved instant recognition in 1992 with her debut CD “The Waiting Game”. Since then she has become one of the most important jazz singers on the jazz scene. A remarkably versatile singer Claire’s repertoire ranges from R&B to incorporating along the way the great standards of which she is such an accomplished interpreter. Her new CD – ‘Too Darn Hot!’ is her best yet. With Gareth Williams (piano), Laurence Cottle (bass) and Clark Tracy (drums).

2003 Friday, 7 March 8.30, Ticket £9 – Pat Crumley Quartet

Oxford born Pat started in the rhythm and blues field when he first turned professional working with, among others, The Animals, Zoot Money and Chris Farlowe. He is now recognised as one of the country’s leading hard bop saxophonists and was one of Ronnie Scott’s favourite players. With Nick Weldon (piano), Tim Wells (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums).

2003 Friday, 14 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – Tommy Smith and Brian Kellock – Sorry, sold out!

Tommy’s early influence was John Coltrane, but his style soon transcended this direct influence and in 1988 he became the first UK musician to be signed to the prestigious Blue Note label for which he produced four albums. With a style recalling players as different as Jan Garbarek and Bobby Wellins. He is accompanied by pianist Brian Kellock, whose trio CD ‘Live at Henry’s’, won the best album at the 2002 BBC Jazz Awards.

2003 Friday, 21 March 8.30, Ticket £9 – Jamie Cullum Trio – Sorry, sold out!

With a debut album of standards, Jamie is a singer pianist who likes to work in the jazz trio setting. He also plays keyboards in the highly rated four-piece rock group Taxi. This he says keeps him fresh on the jazz side of things and brings more energy to his performances. Asked if there was a need for another standards album he replied, ‘No, but the songs are so good you can invest them with your own personality’. Geoff Gascoyne (bass) and Sebastiaan de Krom (drums) make up the trio.

[Michael Strange was tonight’s drummer, and lovely with it.]

2003 Friday, 28 March 8.30, Ticket £11 – Snake Davis – Sorry, sold out!

The UK’s top soul saxophonist (You’ve heard Snake with M People, Eurythmics, Paul McCartney, George Michael, Cher and Ray Charles) brings his band of Paul Birchall (keyboards), JJ Belle (guitar), Winston Blisset (bass) and Pete Lewinson (drums) for an evening of extreme groove and melody. Snake is a brilliant, passionate and bluesy sax player whose musical skill seems to have no limit.

[A brilliant evening. Brian Hargreaves played drums, and Frankie Felix played bass. JJ Belle was no-where to be seen.]

2003 Friday, 4 April 8.30, Ticket £11 – Marlene Verplanck

Marlene is one contemporary singer who can stand comparison with the greats of yesterday. Her superb voice is matched with a flawless technique, her choice of material is highly individual but always displays impeccable taste and her musical accompaniment is always of the highest order. Even by her own high standards Marlene’s new CD ‘Speaking of Love’ is exceptional 0 Billy Verplanck is responsible for the top class arrangements and has contributed original songs and produced and conducted the recording sessions. Her band is Clive Dunstall (piano), Roy Babbington (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums).

2003 Friday, 11 April 8.30, Ticket £10 – Roger Beaujolais Quintet

Vibraphonist Roger is a naturally gifted musician, he plays by ear and is now regarded as one of our leading players. He first came to prominence with the Chevalier Brothers in the1980s, a band he co-led for 6 years. His more recent band Vibraphonic was one of the original and most successful Acid Jazz bands. Outside his own projects he has worked with artists as diverse as Roni Size, Fairground Attraction, Paul Weller, Kirsty McColl, Tony Remy, the Jazz Percussion Quintet and Tim Richards’ Great Spirit. His busy schedule includes sessions for CD’s and films. Mark Lockheart (saxophones), Robin Aspland (piano), Tom Herbert (bass) and Winston Clifford (drums) make up the quintet.

[Simon Thorpe played bass on an evening when this wonderful band just caught fire.]

2003 Friday, 18 April 8.30, Ticket £10 – John Etheridge – Sorry, sold out!

One of the finest guitar players around plays solo at the Fleece tonight. Pat Metheny, Barney Kessel, Herb Ellis, Stephane Grappelli, John Williams, Nigel Kennedy, Jim Mullen, Dizzy Gillespie, Nils Pederson, and Yehudi Menuhin are among the “A” list of celebrated musicians who have all had the benefit of his brilliant playing, either on record or onstage.

2003 Friday, 25 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – Clare Teal – Sorry, sold out!

Since being signed to Candid Records 2 years ago Clare has proved to be one of the most talented newcomers to hit the jazz scene in years. Not only is she a wonderfully gifted singer, but is also a melodic and witty songwriter. Her second CD ‘Orsino’s Song’ has received rave reviews. Clare’s influences of Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holliday are clearly reflected in her material. Accompanying her are Simon Wallace (piano), James Evans (reeds), Nils Solberg (guitar), John Day (bass) and Rod Brown (drums).

2003 Friday, 2 May 8.30, Ticket £10 – Mark Crooks Quintet

If you like uncompromising, straight-ahead jazz played with vigour, honesty and commitment this is the gig for you. Mark’s saxophone playing has a flair for melodic phrasing, which has echoes of Stan Getz. His clarinet playing is thoughtful and sensitive with a warm mellow tone akin to that of Sweden’s Putte Wickman. He has recorded one excellent CD, ‘I Won’t Dance’. Mark is joined by John Pearce (piano), Colin Oxley (guitar), Matt Miles (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

[Steve was at Ronnies, so Matt Skelton gave us much pleasure.]

2003 Friday, 9 May 8.30, Ticket £10 – Celebrating The Jazz Couriers – Sorry, sold out!

Celebrating the Jazz Couriers ‘Through the night…’ volume 2 (recorded live at the Fleece) underlines the excitement, virtuosity, and cohesiveness of the group’s first recording proving that this band has become one of the great jazz groups and a worthy tribute to the classic iconic British modern jazz group co-led by saxophonist Tubby Hayes and Ronnie Scott between 1957 and 1960 The modern day Couriers are Martin Drew (drums), Mornington Lockett (tenor saxophone), Nigel Hitchcock (tenor saxophone), Steve Melling (piano) and Andy Cleyndert (bass).

2003 Friday, 16 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – Lee Gibson – Sorry, sold out!

Lee is a nationally and internationally acclaimed jazz singer who has delighted critics and fans alike with her delivery of the popular repertoire which she sings with enormous confidence and an intense yet subtle sense of swing. 2002 was a fantastic year for Lee and 2003 promises to be even more exciting with her first tour of the USA after an appearance in Canada in January this year with the Midlands Youth Jazz Orchestra. John Horler (piano), Steve Waterman (trumpet), Dave Green (bass) and Bobby Worth (drums) make up her band.

2003 Friday, 23 May 8.30, Ticket £9 – Jim Mullen and the Graham Harvey Trio

Hammond organ players seem to be in short supply at the moment, but we have brought you four for the price of three! The group boasts four of the best players on their respective instruments in the country. Jim Mullen (guitar) joins Graham Harvey (piano), Matt Miles (bass) and Matt Skelton (drums), to guarantee you a swinging evening where the pace never flags.

2003 Friday, 30 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – Alan Barnes Octet “The Sherlock Holmes Suite”

Saxophonist Alan Barnes has been fascinated since boyhood with the stories featurung Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s great creation, Sherlock Holmes. So much so that now he has written and recorded a jazz suite based around the characters. Taking his cue from Ellington/Strayhorn suites such as “Such Sweet Thunder” and “The Far East Suite”. The work is for octet and a narrator (Alan), Brian Dee (piano), Bruce Adams (trumpet), Robert Fowler (reeds), Mark Nightingale (trombone), Stan Sultzman (saxes), Simon Thorpe (bass) and Clark Tracey (drums).

2003 Friday, 6 June 8.30, Ticket £10 – Laura Zakian

Laura is a stylish and inventive jazz vocalist, who has a clear concept of how to phrase a lyric and imbue it with subtle swing and rhythmic elasticity. Her new CD promises inspired new arrangements from re-workings of neglected standards to jazz interpretations of contemporary tunes all in her sophisticated urban style. Laura is accompanied by Nick Weldon (piano), Jeremy Brown (bass) and Matt Home (drums).

2003 Friday, 13 June 8.30, Ticket £10 – Mick Hanson and David Newton – Sorry, sold out!

Two of our favourite musicians David Newton (piano) and Mick Hanson (guitar) return to the Fleece for an evening of breathtaking technical ability, melody, harmony, rhythmic sophistication and supreme entertainment – enough said.

2003 Friday, 20 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – Gilad Atzmon and the Extended Orient House Ensemble – Sorry, sold out!

Gilad’s charismatic show will yet again contrast wonderful musicianship with his unique brand of humour to guarantee a hugely entertaining night. From new takes on jazz standards to highly melodic Middle Eastern inflected jazz originals, Atzmon has carved out a powerful reputation as one of the UK’s most important musicians and composers. Based around his hugely talented rhythm section, the new Orient House Ensemble provides Gilad with a brilliant new palette of sounds to draw on in order to create his most exciting music yet. Reem Kelani (vocals), Frank Harrison (piano), Marcel Mamaliga (violin), Romano Viazzanii (accordion), Yaron Stavi (bass) and Asaf Sirkis (drums).

2003 Friday, 27 June 8.30, Ticket £11 – Trudy Kerr

Singer Trudy Kerr has hit gold with her warm, very inventive and loving tribute CD to Chet Baker, ‘My Old Flame’, on the Jazzizit label. The album contains tracks that Baker performed with the Gerry Mulligan Quartet, that have been adapted for vocals as well as Trudy’s favourite Chet standards. Trudy sings with a mature sound, swings with subtly and develops her melodic and lyrical concepts with impeccable taste and great sensitivity. She is accompanied by Alan Barnes (saxophones), Dick Pearce (trumpet), Steve Melling (piano), Alec Dankworth (bass) and David Smith (drums).

2003 Friday, 4 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Christian Brewer Quartet

A passionate alto saxophonist, Christian is a fiery hard-bop player with a soulful and beautiful tone to his playing. Outside of jazz Christian has worked with an impressive range of star musicians including Spanish pianist Chano Dominguez, The Ragga Twins, Jamaican reggae star Rico Rodriguez, rap band Push, and top blues guitarist Otis Grand. Completing tonight’s distinguished quartet are Leon Greening (piano), Tom Herbert (bass) and Seb Rochford (drums).

2003 Friday, 11 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – Lodder/Etheridge Quartet (note change from published programme)

To get Steve Lodder as a late replacement for this gig was wonderful. John Etheridge (guitar) is simply one of the very best players around. Dudley Phillips will be on base, and the Frenchman with the flying drumsticks, Tristan Maillot, completes the quartet.

2003 Friday, 18 July 8.30, Ticket £11 – Joan Viskant – Sorry, sold out!

Born and brought up in Chicago, Joan began singing professionally in the clubs of her hometown before relocating to France and then to London. Her vocal career took her through Europe, where she received encouragement from Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra, as well as the respect of many influential jazz musicians. Woolfe Phillips who was musical director for Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and Judy Garland said of Joan, “The finest jazz singer I’ve heard in the last thirty years”. With Robin Aspland (piano), Frank Griffith (saxophone), Malcolm Creese (bass) and Ralph Salmins (drums).

[Reports of superb playing from Christian Vaughan on piano and Bill Coleman on bass.]

2003 Friday, 25 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Laurence Cottle Quartet

Generally considered to be one of the finest electric bass players this country has ever produced, Laurence has played with many of the world’s great monosyllabic musicians such as Sting, Cher, Seal, Eno and Jaco. Working with Michael Kamen he has performed for films like Lethal Weapon and Mr Holland’s Opus. Musical versatility – playing bass on Headless Cross with Black Sabbath, the Hanson Christmas album and the soundtrack for Britney Spear’s movie Crossroads. Other big names that have played and recorded with Laurence include Eric Clapton, The Bee Gees, Procul Harum and Mike Oldfield. Gareth Williams (piano), Ben Castle (saxophone) and Ian Thomas (drums) make up the Quartet.

2003 Friday, 1 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Brian Dee Quartet

Pianist Brian Dee has accompanied many of the biggest names in the history of popular and jazz music since making his mark on the London music scene during the late 1950 ‘s. His new CD ‘Centurion’ is his third album of original compositions. With this album and band, Brian deserves to be viewed in a different light by his peers, critics and fans alike. Alex Garnett (saxophone, who is certainly a player to watch), Alec Dankworth (bass) and Steve Brown (drums) complete the Quartet.

2003 Friday, 8 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Chaz Jankel Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Chaz formed the Blockheads with Ian Dury and was co-writer and performer with him and the band for over 20 years, playing guitar and keyboards. After Ian’s untimely death he continues to be a member of the Blockheads, co-writing and developing various ideas. A prolific composer, Chaz has composed numerous film scores and released his first jazz album, ‘Out Of The Blue’ in 2001 His second CD is due to be released in 2003 The other members of The Quartet are Andy Crowdy (bass), Blockhead’s Dave Lewis (saxophone) and Dylan Howe (drums).

2003 Friday, 15 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Carole Burgess Quartet

Our very own Carole Burgess returns after her sell out gig of last year. Her lyrical and sympathetic interpretation of a wide range of standards is performed not only with great warmth and sincerity but also with the clarity of Ella the passion of Billie and the humour of Blossom. Arranger, composer and Carole’s musical director Michael Spearman (guitar), Mike Gorman (piano) and Karen Sharpe (tenor sax) complete the quartet.

2003 Friday, 22 August 8.30, Ticket £11 – Frank Williams African Jazz Quintet – Sorry, sold out!

It’s a very warm welcome back to this scintillating Quintet with its roots in South African township music. Drummer Brian Abrahams and tenor saxophonist Frank Williams did indeed begin their careers in the band “District Six” in Cape Town. Guitar hero Winston Delandro, Alistair Gavin (piano) and Michael Bailey (bass) complete this wonderful band.

2003 Friday, 29 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Polly Gibbons

A Fleece debut for a young Suffolk singer with a strong soulful voice. Polly has been working under the guidance of Britain’s premiere male jazz singer, Ian Shaw, who having produced her debut album says of Polly: “This talent is one in a million – miss her gigs at your peril!” She is accompanied by Barry Green (piano), Ole Hayhurst (bass), Winston Clifford (drums)and Daniel Friend (trumpet).

[The group is a change from that originally published.]

2003 Friday, 5 September 8.30, Ticket £11 – Lennie Bush Quintet – Sorry, sold out!

Lennie Bush is arguably the top bassist of his generation, having recorded and toured with a seemingly endless list of luminaries that include Henry Mancini, Frank Sinatra, Quincy Jones, Sarah Vaughan and Chet Baker. BBC Big Band lead tenor Vic Ash (sax & claro Tomasso (clarinet), Brian Dee (piano), Alan Bush (trumpet) and Ralph Salmins (drums) complete the quintet.

[Alan Ganley is ill, and Ralph is depping for him. We wish Alan a very speedy recovery. We got the billing a bit wrong, though. Alan Bush was not present, but a sellout crowd loved the trumpet (not clarinet) of Enrico Tommasso.]

2003 Friday, 12 September 8.30, Ticket £11 – Protect the Beat – Sorry, sold out!

If you want extreme excitement then look no further than Derek Nash (saxes), Tony Smith (guitar) Peter Adams (keyboards), Winston Blissett (bass) and Darby Todd (drums). They are all high profile freelance musicians, who come together in a blistering Jazz / Groove act that measures up to anything that America can offer – “it ain’t dinner jazz” that’s for sure!!

[On guitar we had the fabulous Tim Cransfield – a superb evening that shook the county.]

2003 Friday, 19 September 8.30, Ticket £10 – Kevin Flanaghan Quartet

Followers in the past of the brash and ballsy hard-bop Tommy Chase combo will no doubt remember Kevin’s “Rollins” style tenor playing. Never overdramatic or a reckless dispenser of arpeggios, he prefers to play in a more almost deceptively casual fashion. Pianist David Gordon is equally at home in the jazz and classical world. Andy Brown’s full toned bass playing has much in common with the late veteran American of the same surname. Drummer Russ Morgan is a delight, never fussy or intrusive in his playing really listening to what is going on around him.

[Three things about this gig: 1. Flanagan doesn’t have an ‘h’. 2. Kevin played an alto and read the poetry of Gary Schneider. 3. It was won of the best gigs ever.]

Saturday, 20 September 8.00, Ticket £13 – Ray Gelato Giants Dance at Boxford Village Hall

The Jubilee dance held last year was so successful and we enjoyed ourselves so much that we just had to do it again! Ray Gelato’s powerful swinging blend and of energetic vocals and roaring tenor sax guarantee a night of sheer excitment and delight. Las Vegas eat your heart out – Boxford is where it’s at!

[The personnel for this delightful evening were: Tom Gordon (drums), Simon Thorpe (bass), Richard Busiakiewicz (piano), Andy Rogers (trumbone and vocals), Danny Marsden (trumpet and vocals), Alex Garnett (tenor and vocals) and, of course, Ray Gelato (tenor and lead vocals).]

Friday, 26 September 8.30, Ticket £13 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, sold out!

Sarah Jane is a powerful and multi-talented British singer whose astonishing voice has the ability to excite audiences and fellow musicians alike with its three and a half octave range soaring heavenwards or diving to emotional depths. Radio Suffolk’s Stephen Foster voted Sarah Jane’s last gig at the Fleece as his gig of the year in 2002 , “I knew she was good but not this good”. Sarah Jane’s new CD is called ‘Love and Pain’ and is out on the Fallen Angel label. With Neil MacColl (acoustic guitar), Calum MacColl (electric guitar), Henry Thomas (electric bass) and Roy Dodd (drums).

[This lineup is a change from that originally published.]

2003 Friday, 3 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – Julian Marc Stringle and the Dream Band

Julian was a child prodigy reed player making his TV debut with Roy Castle and Acker Bilk at the age of 15 Julian plays the clarinet, alto and tenor saxophone and sings, but the clarinet is his main passion and he is now recognised as the most stylish performer on the instrument in Europe. John Dankworth CBE said, “Julian is an immense talent! Probably the best clarinettist to emerge in British jazz for several decades”. “Elegant and masterful playing, Julian has given a much neglected instrument a truly new lease of life.” says Tony Coe. With Neil Angilley (keyboards), Dominic Ashworth (guitar), Chris Dodd (bass) and Nic France (drums).

2003 Friday, 10 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – Ed Jones Quintet

Ed is a formidable saxophonist who has clearly been influenced by the great masters from the jazz tradition. He cites Charlie Parker, Sonny Rollins, John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter and Johnny Griffin as a constant source of inspiration. As a session musician and sideman he has worked and recorded with some of the very best artists in the world. Ed is a player of forceful imagination, whose vigorous and sometimes downright volcanic tenor sound has long been one of the great delights of British jazz. His ‘terrier with rat’ approach raises the musical temperature whenever he solos. His band includes Jonathan Gee (piano), Giles Natural (bass) Winston Clifford (drums) and Damon Brown (trumpet).

2003 Friday, 17 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Viktoria Tolstoy

Viktoria is one of Sweden’s best-loved young jazz singers. She made her break-through at the age of nineteen with her debut CD entitled “Smile, Love and Spice”. In 1997 she became the first Swedish artist to record for the renowned Blue Note label with “White Russian” which was met with worldwide acclaim. Viktoria has appeared across Europe and has recently toured in South America. She brings her Swedish band made up of some of that country’s leading musicians, Jacob Karlzon (piano), Matthias Svensson (bass) and Peter Danemo (drums).

[The delightful and listening drummer was Peter Nilsson, using Roger Odell’s new kit.]

2003 Friday, 24 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Kirk Lightsey and Joe Lee Wilson

Kirk Lightsey took up the piano at five and became a full time jazz musician in his late teens. In the mid sixties he became sideman for Chet Baker which resulted in five fine album recordings but it was his work with Dexter Gordon that brought him to the attention of a wider jazz public. Kirk is a highly polished, virtuosic but always architecturally minded player who has earned a reputation as a fine solo performer. Accompanying Kirk is guitarist and singer Joe Lee Wilson, Steve Watts (bass) and Dave Wickins (drums).

2003 Friday, 31 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – Karen Sharp Quartet

Karen was attracted to jazz during her last few years at school in Ipswich. When at college studying composition she was drawn to the tenor saxophone and on hearing Dexter Gordon her choice of instrument was confirmed. A superb musician and regular member of the Humphrey Lyttelton Band with a debut CD simply called ‘Karen Sharp’ that received rave reviews, Karen’s career is now really taking off. Making up the quartet are Richard Busiakiewicz (piano), John Day (bass) and Matt Fishwick (drums).

2003 Friday, 7 November 8.30, Ticket £10 – The Hanson-Mullen Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

The combination of two such great guitarists as Mick Hanson and Jim Mullen, together with pianist Jim Watson and drummer Andy Trim makes this a truly unmissable gig. Mick is an entirely self taught player who has over the years developed a highly distinctive style absorbing elements of swing, bop, fusion and Latin. He has the priceless ability of being able to play in whatever style of music he is challenged with. Jim Mullen is a dynamic and forceful player who has spent years in jazz-rock and his deep affinity with the blues gives his music a quality of earthy excitement. With Jim Watson on piano and Andy Trim on drums.

2003 Friday, 14 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Damon Brown’s International Quintet

One of the UK’s most versatile musicians, Damon’s unique trumpet sound and approach to music has earned him the admiration of both musicians and audiences in a surprisingly wide variety of musical settings. This crossover with dance and pop culture has been an important factor in his development as a composer. Damon’s style blends British and American influences in a highly personalized approach to jazz. While rooted firmly in the blue note tradition his continued reference to wider musical settings create complex and emotional music. Christian Brewer (tenor sax), Alec Dankworth (bass), and from Finland Markku Ounaskarri (drums) and Jarmo Savolainen (piano).

[Damon played flugle and Christian played alto. A stunning evening.]

2003 Friday, 21 November 8.30, Ticket £11 – Christian Garrick Quartet

Violinist Christian Garrick was a joint winner of the Daily Telegraph young jazz competition at seventeen. Having come through the Royal Academy of Music where he picked up a hat full of prizes, he went on to be awarded the coveted John Dankworth Special Award at the 1999 BT British Jazz Awards. Christian is a player who can move effortlessly between classical, hot-club, swing, be-bop, contemporary jazz, blues, fusion and rock. With David Gordon (piano), Denmark’s Ole Rasmussen (bass) and Tom Hooper (drums).

2003 Friday, 28 November 8.30, Ticket £10 – Denny Ilett / Katya Gorrie Quintet – Sorry, sold out!

This Quintet believes firmly in the merits of the great standards played simply with the emphasis on swing and melody. Denny’s main influences are Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, Wes Montgomery and trumpeter Harry James. Guitarist, singer, arranger and Big Band leader Denny is a member of Lillian Boutte’s group in Europe and the USA. Canadian vocalist Katya Gorrie is an exciting and fresh new voice on the jazz scene in the UK. She brings her unique style of sultry vocals and a touch of cabaret to each performance. Mike Gorman (piano), Oli Hayhurst (bass) and Dylan Howe (drums) make up the Quintet.

2003 Friday, 5 December 8.30, Ticket £10 – Alec Dankworth Trio – Sorry, sold out!

Composer, bass player and arranger Alec has recorded with a who’s who of the UK jazz scene as well as many leading International artists. He comes to the Fleece with his band of Julian Arguelles (saxophones) and Phil Robson (guitar). The Independent had this to say about his playing, “Long arabesque lines that resonate with emotion”, while Venue said, ‘Brings quite the warmest and intuitively phrased touch to his melodic solos”. Alec tells us” I have always liked playing in groups without percussion. The extra space brings challenges and opportunities”. The trio have a new CD out called “If you’re passing by” on the Candid label.

[Of course, Mike Outram played guitar, and Ed Jones saxes. I knew that. A glorious acoustic evening.]

2003 Friday, 12 December 8.30, Ticket £10 – Renato D’Aiello Quartet – ‘Canzone’ (Italian Songs in Jazz)

‘Canzone’ is a new project sparked off this year by the ever-creative saxophonist Renato D’Aiello. Still rooted in the jazz idiom, his starting point is songs from his native Italy. Working with an acoustic quartet, the heart of ‘Canzone’ is a collection of wonderful melodies. The treatment of them is spare and lyrical, celebrating the songs with a fine sense of space and the dynamics of silence. The repertoire is principally old Neapolitan songs from songwriters Luigi Tenco, Gino Paoli and Martino, plus a few originals by Renato and pianist John Critchinson who with Nicola Muresu (Contrabass) and Seb Rochford (drums) complete the Quartet.

2003 Friday, 19 December 8.30, Ticket £12 – Sax Appeal – Sorry, sold out!

Our Christmas gig is guaranteed to be a real swinger, when Derek Nash (alto sax) together with Mornington Lockett (tenor sax), Scott Garland (alto sax), Bob McKay (barritone sax), Gary Plumley (tenor sax), Leon Greening (keyboards), Laurence Cottle (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums) squeeze into the Fleece for the last gig of 2003 Enthusiastically led by Derek Nash, this award winning band is one of the premier bands in the country mixing driving swing, danceable Latin / funk and haunting ballads.

[What a stunning way to end a season! A few changes in personnel – read Phil Scragg for Laurence Cottle, Andy Panayi for Bob MacKay, Adrian Revell for Gary Plumber and Jamie Anderson for Mornington Locket. The rest of the band was as advertised.]

2004 Friday, 2 January 8.30, Ticket £11 – Jamie Cullum – Sorry, sold out!

What a wonderful start to the New Year at the Fleece! “Watching him on the television show I was reminded of the first time I ever saw the young Dudley Moore”, says Michael Parkinson. Jamie’s new album ‘Twenty Something’ brilliantly captures his personality and talent and the choice of repertoire reflects his own diverse musical inspirations. “Jazz really means something. Only jazz let’s me incorporate the energy of a rock and roll band – which I think is missing from a lot of jazz with the traditional and the modern.” With bassist and arranger Geoff Gascoyne and drummer Sebastiaan de Krom.

2004 Friday, 9 January 8.30, Ticket £10 – David Newton – Sorry, sold out!

The name David Newton has become a cast iron guarantee of pianistic invention, exceptional technical ability, allied to melodic, harmonic and rhythmic sophistication, precision of touch and warmth of tone. Now ranked as one of the great pianists in contemporary jazz he has proved his sheer class in every situation performing and recording solo, duo, trio contexts as well as working with the likes of Martin Taylor, Don Weller, Mick Hanson, Carol Kidd, Stacey Kent and Alan Barnes. David has also played in backing groups for many visiting jazzmen including Art Farmer, Bud Shank, Shorty Rogers and Nat Adderley.

2004 Friday, 16 January 8.30, Ticket £11 – John Law Quartet

John Law is renowned as one of Europe’s finest improvising pianists. John Fordham in the Guardian described him as a “brilliant pianist who plays like a hybrid of Cecil Taylor and Keith Jarrett”, Jazz Podium Germany as “a virtuoso improvisational tour de force”, while Cadence New York said, “Creative music at a level not often heard – a formidable technique.” John studied classical music and has been active in playing improvised music since 1988 With Julian Siegal (saxophone), Steve Watts (bass) and Dave Wickins (drums).

2004 Friday, 23 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Alan Skidmore / Peter King Quintet “In Honour of Bird ‘n Trane” – Sorry, sold out!

This new quintet brings together two legends of British Jazz, Peter King and Alan Skidmore, to honour the genius of the musicians who inspired them, Charlie Parker and John Coltrane. Peter King is the finest alto saxophonist that Britain has ever produced and one of finest in the world today. Alan Skidmore’s performance can go a considerable way to recreating the atmosphere of John Coltrane’s gigs. But this is no slavish tribute – it is vibrant 21st century jazz inspired by the best there’s ever been. Intricate arrangements lead to a magnificent ensemble featuring coruscating solos from all five accomplished musicians. With Steve Melling (piano), Mark Hodgson (bass) and Paddy O’Flagherty (drums).

2004 Friday, 30 January 8.30, Ticket £10 – Mark Lockheart Quartet

Mark is one of the most distinctive and creative musicians on the current British music scene. He first made his name in the eighties working with the seminal band Loose Tubes. As a saxophonist and composer, his work often defies categorisation and crosses the boundaries of jazz, new music and folk worlds. His current projects include John Parricelli’s Quartet, Seb Rochford’s Polar Bear, Perfect Houseplants and the Roger Beaujolais Quintet. His band is Nic Weldon (piano), Steve Watts (bass) and Tim Giles (drums).

2004 Friday, 6 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Jacqui Dankworth Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Jacqui Dankworth is one of the finest voices in the UK today. She started out as an actress with the RSC and she is defiantly no-one’s clone. Signed to the Candid Record Label on a three-record deal, her first CD, ‘As The Sun Shines Down On Me’, features her band of Malcolm Edmonstone (piano), Mike Walker (guitar), Alec Dankworth (bass) and Roy Dodds (drums). The album is much jazzier than her previous work with Field of Blue and puts more emphasis on the singer rather than the group.

2004 Friday, 13 February 8.30, Ticket £10 – Dylan Howe Quintet

Drummer Dylan’s 1999 debut album ‘The Way I Hear It’ has recently been re-released on the new OT label. It is a richly swinging evocation of that early 1960 ‘s Blue Note sound, when Hancock and Shorter were the young tyros in time, and Elvin Jones and Tony Williams were taking the drums to a different space. With him tonight are Steve Holness (piano), Brian Edwards (alto saxophone), Quentin Collins (trumpet) and Andy Crowdy (bass).

[A grand evening of great jazz, with Frank Harrison on piano.]

2004 Friday, 20 February 8.30, Ticket £10 – Julie Edwards Quintet – Sorry, sold out!

One of Yorkshire’s busiest singers together with her band of Kevin Dearden (saxophone and flute), Edward Barnwell (piano), Ken Marley (bass) and John Perry (drums) make their Fleece debut. Julie is a talented and very skilful jazz vocalist who sings fresh intelligent, un-showy versions of fine standards. Her chosen material is simply arranged and beautifully rendered. She has everything in place – sound, intonation, range, control, and swing.

2004 Friday, 27 February 8.30, Ticket £13 – Clare Teal – Sorry, sold out!

With three best selling albums, Clare has proved herself to be one of the most talented newcomers to hit the jazz scene in years. Not only is she a wonderfully gifted singer, but she is also a melodic and witty songwriter. Her influences of Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holliday are clearly reflected in her classic jazz vocal style and choice of material. Clare’s in-between-song patter bears an uncanny resemblance to northern comedian Victoria Wood. Accompanying her are Brian Dee (piano), Mark Crooks (reeds), Nils Solberg (guitar), John Day (bass) and Rod Brown (drums).

2004 Friday, 5 March 8.30, Ticket £10 – Tommaso Starace Quartet

After graduating from the Birmingham Conservatoire, Tommaso moved to London and attended the Guildhall School of Music and Drama where he studied and performed with Jean Toussaint, David Liebman, Kenny Wheeler, Billy Cobham, Stan Sulzman, Pete Churchill and Simon Purcell. Ian Carr says “extremely promising debut album – his quartet is a superb unit, a talented composer.” With Sean Hargreaves (piano), Andy Hamill (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

2004 Friday, 12 March 8.30, Ticket £10 – Ricky Woodard

Ricky plays an amazing range of instruments, including soprano, alto and tenor saxes as well as clarinet, flute and guitar. He is a vibrant and forceful soloist, his tenor saxophone style hinting at affection for the work of Wardell Grey, Dexter Gordon and especially Hank Mobley. With him tonight are John Critchinson (piano), Val Mannix (bass) and Pete Cater (drums).

2004 Friday, 19 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – Marlene Verplanck

Marlene’s superb voice is matched with a flawless technique, her choice of material is highly individual but always displays impeccable taste and her musical accompaniment is always of the highest order. Even by her own high standards Marlene’s latest CD ‘Speaking of Love’ is exceptional. Billy Verplanck is responsible for all the top class arrangements and has contributed original songs and produced and conducted the recording sessions. Her band is Geoff Eales (piano), Roy Babbington (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums). . . . This gig will sponsor the aids charity for children, “Keep a Child Alive” via OneWorldBeat, along with 150 or more other gigs this weekend around the world.

2004 Friday, 26 March 8.30, Ticket £10 – Peter King Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

A quite brilliant soloist in the be-bop tradition and possessed of a talent that relates him closely to Charlie ‘Bird’ Parker, Peter’s great technical virtuosity, swing and advanced harmonic elements have made him into the finest alto saxophone player this country has ever produced and one of the world’s greatest players. Steve Melling is a phenomenal world-class jazz pianist who is joined by the exciting and dramatic rhythm section of Jeremy Brown on bass and Stephen Keogh on drums.

[Gene Calderazo was the excellent drummer on this great gig.]

2004 Friday, 2 April 8.30, Ticket £10 – David Tughan

We kick off our new programme with the most exciting new male jazz singer on the current UK scene. Having just signed to OT Records his CD, “Just In Time”, highlights his captivating style and unique interpretation. It is the perfect vocal jazz album which has rightly been receiving extensive radio interest. With David tonight are Jonathan Gee (piano), Dominic Howells (bass), Steve Kaldestad (sax) and Winston Clifford (drums).

2004 Friday, 9 April 8.30, Ticket £10 – Lewis Wright Quartet

The transition from drums to piano and finally vibraphone have produced a young 15 year old musician who defies belief. Lewis leads his quartet of Simon Brown (piano), Andy Doyle (bass) and Will Clark (drums) on their Fleece debut. A combination of great technical skill and highly complex material promises that this will be an amazing gig. Not to be missed!

2004 Friday, 16 April 8.30, Ticket £14 – Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – Sorry, sold out!

Bill is one of the legendary drummers in British rock whose name will always be associated with the likes of Yes, King Crimson, Gong, Genesis and Pavlov”s Dog. His group Earthworks was formed in the 1986 as a deliberate return to his roots in jazz. The band found its direction through serious live playing. Having effectively jettisoned electronic percussion it is now revisiting the broadly acoustic sax-piano-bass-drums line up. Gwillam Simcock keyboards and piano, ex Chick Corea saxophonist Tim Garland and Mark Hodgson bass make up Bill Bruford”s Earthworks.

2004 Friday, 23 April 8.30, Ticket £10 – John Etheridge – Sorry, sold out!

One of the finest guitar players around plays solo again at the Fleece tonight. Pat Metheny, Barney Kessel, Herb Ellis, Mundell Lowe, Stephane Grappelli, John Williams, Jim Mullen, Andy Summers, Dizzy Gillespie, Nils Pederson and Yehudi Menuhin are among the “A” list of celebrated musicians who have all had the benefit of his brilliant playing, either on record or on stage.

2004 Friday, 30 April 8.30, Ticket £16 – Andy Sheppard – Sorry, sold out!

Andy is one of the most assured, versatile and least flashy saxophonists on the scene today. A multi-instrumentalist he is a formidable and fearless jazz improviser who has travelled worldwide and has met with an extraordinary range of musical partners along the way. Tonight sees him with Steve Lodder (keyboards and piano) and Chris Laurence (bass).

2004 Friday, 7 May 8.30, Ticket £12 – Tina May – Sorry, sold out!

“She”s the greatest”, was how legendary American pianist Ray Bryant described Tina at the launch of her new CD, “Tina May Sings The Ray Bryant Songbook”, at the Jazz Standard on 116 East 27th, New York City earlier this year. There she captivated an American audience with her smooth delivery, flawless pitch, control and dramatic but relaxed style. With Nikki Iles (piano), Alec Dankworth (bass) and Tristan Maillot (drums).

[The ever-smiling big eared Steve Brown was our consumate drummer.]

2004 Friday, 14 May 8.30, Ticket £14 – Tommy Smith Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Saxophonist and composer Tommy Smith is Scotland”s foremost jazz musician and composer. An internationally recognised soloist and bandleader since the late 80s, he is the musical director and driving force of the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra. Tommy has a style recalling players as diverse as Jan Garbarek and Bobby Wellins. His quartet is completed by Steve Hamilton (piano), Aidan O”Donnell (bass) and John Blease (drums).

2004 Friday, 21 May 8.30, Ticket £10 – Georgia Mancio

Georgia is a very stylish young vocalist with a lovely honey toned but passionate delivery. An accomplished linguist she sings and speaks Italian, Portuguese, French and Spanish. Ronnie Scott’s owner Pete King described her as “faultless”. Harrison Ford recently chose her to sing at his exclusive film premiere party. Georgia”s quartet is completed by Tim Lapthorne (piano), Anders Christenson (bass) and Dave Ohm (drums).

[Matt Wates was our wonderful bassist – a great gig with two wonderful Fleece debuts from Georgia and Tim.]

2004 Friday, 28 May 8.30, Ticket £10 – Bryan Corbett Quartet

Bryan Corbett is a highly gifted and naturally talented trumpeter with a sound that touches and communicates. His influences are Dizzie Gillespie, Nat Adderley, Freddie Hubbard and Miles Davis. He brings with him Levi French (piano and keyboards), Ben Markland (bass) and Neil Bullock (drums). If there is any justice in the jazz world he will certainly become a name to reckon with.

2004 Friday, 4 June 8.30, Ticket £10 – Tony Smith Quintet – Sorry, sold out!

Described by the Evening Standard as, “Roy Ayers’ slick guitarist”, Tony is arguably the funkiest guitar man in the UK. Tonight sees him leading his own quintet of Gary Sanctuary (keyboards), Gary Poole (vibes), Basti Allen (bass) and Jerry Brown (drums) and promoting his third solo CD release “Backlands”, described as Soul / Funk meets Blues and Jazz with a strong 70″s influence.

[Just a few changes to this stunning sellout gig. Nick Cohen played bass. Alex Bennet played keyboards. Marc Parnell was the drummer. And Gary Poole is a singer.]

2004 Friday, 11 June 8.30, Ticket £11 – Victoria Newton

Victoria is one of the best Latin / jazz singers in the country. She was the vocalist with dance band “Strike”, who had a string of hits in the 80’s. A charismatic performer, with a powerful voice and boundless energy Victoria has just completed her new CD “The Song is You” released on the MCPS label. Her band includes Tim Lapthorne (piano), Dominic Ashworth (guitar), Steve Rose (bass) and Nic France (drums).

2004 Friday, 18 June 8.30, Ticket £10 – David Newton and Mick Hanson – Sorry, Sold Out!

Two of our favourite musicians, David Newton (piano) and Mick Hanson (guitar), return to the Fleece for an evening of breathtaking technical ability, melody, harmony, rhythmic sophistication and supreme entertainment – enough said.

2004 Friday, 25 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – Gilad Atzmon and the Orient House Ensemble – Sorry, sold out!

2004 Friday, 2 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – Alan Barnes Quartet with special guest Michael Hashim – Sorry, sold out!

These two outstanding saxophonists can play in any style and have recorded and shared bandstands with leading jazz musicians on either side of the Atlantic. Both are irrepressible raconteurs so the entertainment factor will be high as they celebrate the music of Benny Carter. With John Donaldson (piano), Matt Miles (bass) and Matt Home (drums).

2004 Friday, 9 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Protect the Beat – Sorry, sold out!

If you want extreme excitement then look no further than Derek Nash (saxes), Tim Cansfield (guitar), Arden Hart (keyboards), Winston Blissett (bass) and Darby Todd (drums). They are all high profile freelance musicians, who come together in a blistering Jazz Groove act that measures up to anything that America can offer – “it ain’t dinner jazz” that’s for sure!!

[Winston and Arden were attacking massively. On bass we had a stunning player from New York, Otto Williams. On keyboards, Pete Adams made a welcome return.]

2004 Saturday, 10 July 8.30, Ticket £11 – Brian Kellock Trio

Brian is an award-winning pianist of staggering power who bubbles over with fertile imagination and wit. He develops flamboyantly contrapuntal ideas at staggering speed, merging classical brilliance with a sassy sense of swing. The trio’s CD ‘Live at Henry’s’ won best jazz CD for 2002 at the BBC Jazz Awards. Kenny Ellis (bass) and John Rae (drums) make up the trio.

2004 Friday, 16 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Pat Crumly Quartet

Oxford born Pat started in the rhythm and blues field when he first turned professional working with, amongst others, The Animals, Zoot Money and Chris Farlowe. He is now recognised as one of the country’s leading hard bop saxophonists. He was also one of Ronnie Scott’s favourite players. With Nic Weldon (piano), Tim Wells (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums).

2004 Friday, 23 July 8.30, Ticket £11 – Ingrid Laubrock Quintet

Originally hailing from West Germany, saxophonist Ingrid is ranked among the top few on the instrument today. She has a soaring imagination and is a gifted composer and arranger with a multitude of stylistic avenues of expression. The Quintet is completed by Karim Merchant (piano), Ben Davis (cello), Larry Bartley (bass) and Gene Calderazzo (drums).

2004 Friday, 30 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – Elaine Delmar – Sorry, sold out!

Naturally talented and a highly accomplished jazz singer, Elaine manages to swing effortlessly. She has appeared on Broadway, toured the world, starred in musical shows, been acclaimed as an actress and concert artist having appeared with jazz giants such as Benny Carter, Herb Ellis and Stephane Grappelli. Accompanying her are the impeccable Brian Dee (piano), Alec Dankworth (bass) and Clark Tracey (drums).

2004 Friday, 6 August 8.30, Ticket £10 – Jonathan Gee

Jonathan is one of European jazz’s most celebrated musicians. He is a compelling pianist whose resourcefulness and technical command rival any of his generation. He has been recorded on 20 albums and his latest solo album called ‘Wishbone’ features 6 original compositions and 6 by Duke Ellington, 5 of which are sung with a delicate freshness that a ballad singer might envy.

2004 Friday, 13 August 8.30, Ticket £11 – Basil Hodge Quintet

Championed by no less a figure than Julian Joseph, Basil has a solid reputation in British jazz as both a pianist and composer. He leads an excellent quintet comprising Tony Kofi (saxophone), Quentin Collins (trumpet), Tom Herbert (bass) and Sebastian Rochford (drums). Hard bop but with great freshness and originality. We can highly recommend Basil’s debut CD ‘My Guardian Angel’

[Sebastian was deputised by a drummer with big ears, Ray Hart. Ray played beautifully to the room, on a gig to be remembered.]

2004 Friday, 20 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Joan Viskant – Sorry, sold out!

Born and brought up in Chicago, Joan began singing professionally in the clubs of her hometown before relocating to France and then to London. Her vocal career took her through Europe, where she received encouragement from Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra, as well as the respect of many influential jazz musicians. Woolfe Phillips, who was musical director for Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and Judy Garland, described Joan as, “The finest jazz singer I’ve heard in the last thirty years”. With Christian Vaughan (piano), Mike Henry (trumpet), Murray Salmon (bass) and Jeff Lardner (drums).

2004 Friday, 27 August 8.30 and Saturday, 28 August 8.30, Ticket £13 – Martin Taylor – Sorry, sold out!

One of the world’s greatest and busiest players makes an eagerly awaited solo return to the Fleece. Repeatedly referred to as a guitarist’s guitarist, Martin’s swinging improvisation with chords, walking bass lines and melody have consistently left audiences stunned and amazed.

2004 Friday, 3 September 8.30, Ticket £11 – Celebrating The Couriers

This great jazz group is a worthy tribute to the classic iconic British modern jazz group that was co-led by saxophonists Tubby Hayes and Ronnie Scott between 1957 and 1960. The modern day couriers are Martin Drew (drums), Mornington Lockett (tenor saxophone), Steve Melling (piano), Paul Booth (sax) and Paul Morgan (bass).

2004 Friday, 10 September 8.30, Ticket £0 – Chaz Jankel Quartet

Chaz is probably best known for being co-founder and musical director of the Blockheads with Ian Dury. He continues to be a member of that band, playing guitar, keyboards, singing and composing. Chaz released his first jazz album, ‘Out Of The Blue’ in 2001. His second ‘Zoom’ was released in the autumn of 2003 and features his quartet of Andy Crowdy (bass) and Brian Edwards (saxophone) and Dylan Howe (drums).

2004 Friday, 17 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Ian Shaw and James Pearson – Sorry, sold out!

The UK’s premier male jazz singer can convey the emotional resonance of a song every bit as well as he shapes and contours the original melodies with his personal brand of phrasing and more importantly, he makes it all swing. Ian’s latest CD is called ‘A World Still Turning’ on 441 Records, an American label. Ian is supported by the virtuosity and creativity of pianist James Pearson.

2004 Friday, 24 September 8.30, Ticket £10 – The Strayhorn Project

Strayhorn was Ellington’s musical partner for thirty years so please, no raised eyebrows for the dreaded ‘project’ word! This one is an absolute delight. The band, led by drummer Stu Butterfield with Steve Kaldestad (saxophone), Phil Lee (guitar) and Dave Whitford (bass), highlight the delicacy and the harmonies in Strayhorn’s music.

2004 Friday, 1 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – Ben Crosland Quartet

Huddersfield bassist Ben Crosland has a jazz player’s fast, free flowing technique and harmonic awareness together with a rock musician’s edge. A highly experienced jazz composer and arranger since the early 80’s, with the inspiration and ability to produce some memorable melodies. His quartet is enriched by the virtuosity of trumpet player Steve Waterman, the unique tones of guitarist Stuart McCallum and by Dave Walsh who fills the drum stool with lithe aplomb.

2004 Friday, 8 October 8.30, Ticket £11 – Mark Crooks Quintet

Mark’s saxophone playing has a flair for melodic phrasing, which has echoes of Stan Getz. His clarinet playing is thoughtful and sensitive with a warm mellow tone akin to that of Sweden’s Putte Wickman. He made his debut at Ronnie Scott’s club in December 1996. His return to The Fleece is eagerly awaited. With John Pearce (piano), Colin Oxley (guitar), Matt Miles (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

2004 Friday, 15 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – Kelly Dickson Quintet – Sorry, sold out!

Kelly is a singer who achieves a warm, naturally rich tone that brings joy to swinging, upbeat numbers and beauty to heart-felt jazz ballads. “Kelly Dickson is sparkling! She is full of life and swing – the very essence of jazz!” (Tina May). With Leon Greening (piano), Steve Fishwick (trumpet), Andy Hamill (bass) and Matt Fishwick (drums).

2004 Friday, 22 October 8.30, Ticket £14 – Avishai Cohen Trio – Sorry, sold out!

Described as one of the best bass players in the world by Jazz Review and is without doubt one of the biggest names in jazz music today, Avishai emerged in the New York jazz consciousness in the late 1990’l known internationally for playing bass with artists such as Herbie Hancock, Roy Hargrove, Wynton Marsalis and Chick Corea. He was Corea’s bassist of choice for six years, which served as a launching pad for his own career. His bass sound has a strong rhythmic propulsion, a big sound and an appetite for tricky rhythms and time signatures. With Avishai, who comes from Israel, are Sam Bar-sheshet (piano) and Mark Guiliana (drums) who both hail from the USA.

2004 Friday, 29 October 8.30, Ticket £10 – Michael Garrick Quartet

Pianist, prolific composer and national treasure Michael Garrick has been leading bands since the 50’s and was active in the jazz and poetry movement in the mid 60’rked with bands co-led by Don Rendell and Ian Carr. Described by John Dankworth as “world class”, he has recorded over nineteen albums in his illustrious career in a variety of musical genres. With Martin Hathaway (saxophone), Paul Moylan (bass) and Alan Jackson (drums).

2004 Friday, 5 November 8.30, Ticket £11 – Katya Gorrie and the Denny Ilett Quartet

Canadian vocalist Katya Gorrie’s new CD, “Pousse Caf&eacut the many layers of love, loss, joy, memories exotic and erotic. This is a bittersweet journey of musical tales to open our hearts and celebrate humanity. She brings her unique style of sultry vocals and a touch of cabaret to each performance and is aided by Denny Ilett (guitar and vocals), Pete Whittaker (piano), Oli Hayhurst (bass) and Frosty Beedle (drums).

[Mike Gorman was platformed in London. We have the superb services of Pete Whittaker on piano.]

2004 Friday, 12 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Damon Brown Quartet

Damon’s style blends British and American influences in a highly personalized approach to jazz. While firmly rooted in the blue note sound of the 50’s his continued reference to wider musical settings with dance and pop culture creates complex and emotional music. Doug Rainey (guitar), Dave Green (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

2004 Friday, 19 November 8.30, Ticket £10 – Renato D’Aiello Quartet

Renato is a superlative saxophonist with a passionate and poetic soul. He has a beautiful sense of time and pacing and a technique that effortlessly projects his brilliantly flowing ideas, while his control of tone on the slow music is simply delicious. With Craig Milverton (piano), Nicola Muresu (bass) and Dave Barry (drums).

[Due to unbelievable London traffic problems, Renato and Nicola didn’t arrive till past 10. Craig Milverton gave a superb solo debut performance, later joined by the wonderful Dave Barry.]

2004 Friday, 26 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Nois 4 – Sorry, sold out!

Nois 4, originally known as “As Meninas” are Monica Vasconcelos, lead vocals, Ingrid Laubrock (saxophones), Ife Tolentino (guitar) and Chris Wells (drums and percussion). This band is a subtle and sublime creature. The Bossa Novas, sung mostly in Portugese, are so fragile, plaintive, lilting and swinging, that surely even the great Stan Getz would approve.

2004 Friday, 3 December 8.30, Ticket £10 – Theo Travis Quintet – Sorry, sold out!

Theo Travis is a distinctive player who shows a remarkable sureness of touch in both his compositions and playing. His distinctive saxophone sound has been used in films and on albums with other leaders. Theo has been acknowledged by author Nicholas Royle as one of the inspirations for his novel, “Saxophone Dreams”. With Simon Colam (piano), John Parricelli (guitar), Andy Hamill (bass) and Marc Parnell (drums).

[The estimable David BeeBee was our pianist for a marvelous gig.]

2004 Friday, 10 December 8.30, Ticket £12 – Stan Tracey Trio – Sorry, sold out!

Pianist, composer, arranger, accordion and vibes player Stan Tracey OBE is one of the most outstanding figures that Britain has given to the world of jazz. Inspired by Ellington and Monk he has consistently displayed a distinctive, sometimes quirkily personal touch in his playing. His new album “Seventy Something” is a real gem and features tonight’s line up of Andy Cleyndert (bass) and Clark Tracey (drums).

2004 Friday, 17 December 8.30, Ticket £12 – Billy Jenkins Blues Collective – Sorry, sold out!

A born again blueser, described as a maverick, often satirizing the excess genre wine bar friendly jazz. Jenkins anarchic demeanour conceals both a skilful musician and a shrewd thinker on all things musical. His band of Dylan Bates (violin), Thad Kelly (bass) and Michael Pickering (drums) has produced many fine albums with peerless blues playing, particularly from Jenkins himself. Warning – this is not for the faint-hearted or those suffering a humour bypass.

2004 Wednesday, 29 December 8.30, Ticket £14 – Claire Martin – Sorry, sold out!

Claire received instant recognition with her debut album “The Waiting Game” in 1992. Since then she has become one of the most important jazz singers on the scene. A remarkably versatile performer, her repertoire ranges from R&B to incorporating along the way the great standards of which she is such an accomplished interpreter. Now also an established broadcaster Claire’s talents are reaching an even wider audience. Her new album “Secret Love” will be released later this year. With Gareth Williams (piano), Arnie Somogyi (bass) and Clark Tracey (drums).

2005 Friday, 7 January 8.30, Ticket £11 – Alan Barnes Latin Quintet – Sorry, sold out!

Drive away those winter blues with this stunning Latin Quintet lead by saxophonist Alan Barnes. Alan is one of the most versatile reeds men currently working in the UK and has contributed fine sections of work and blistering solos to all manner of bands and projects. Joining him are Art Themen, consultant orthopaedic surgeon and immensely gifted saxophonist, John Horler (piano), Simon Thorpe (bass) and Dave Barry (drums).

2005 Friday, 14 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Tony Kofi Quartet

Originally opting for a career as a carpenter, following a serious accident Tony decided on the saxophone as a living and thank goodness he did! He has gone on to become a mainstay of the current British jazz scene. Featuring music from the acclaimed Tony Kofi Quartet Plays Monk CD ‘All Is Know’ with Jonathan Gee (piano), Ben Hazleton (bass) and Winston Clifford (drums).

2005 Friday, 21 January 8.30, Ticket £13 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, sold out!

The amazing Sarah Jane brings her band of Neill MacColl (guitar), Kevin Armstrong (guitar), Henry Thomas (bass) and Martyn Barker(drums) for an evening of jazz, soul and blues. Her astonishing voice and songwriting abilities together with her three and a half octave range always makes this an extra special gig. Her latest CD “Live in Montreal”, which is only available through her web site, is highly recommended.

[As Neill MacColl is off writing good stuff, the superb Matt Backer deputized.]

2005 Friday, 28 January 8.30, Ticket £10 – Dylan Howe Quintet

A richly swinging evocation of that early Blue Note sound, when Hancock and Shorter were the young tyros in time and Elvin Jones and Tony Williams were taking the drums to a different space comes in the form of drummer Dylan Howe’eaturing Frank Harrison (piano), Quentin Collins (trumpet), Brian Edwards (saxophone) and Larry Bartley (bass).

2005 Friday, 4 February 8.30, Ticket £11 – Kirk Lightsey Trio – Sorry, sold out!

Kirk took up the piano at the age of five and became a full time jazz musician in his late teens. In the mid sixties he became a sideman for Chet Baker, which resulted in five great albums. However it was his work with Dexter Gordon that brought him to the attention of a wider jazz public. Truly a jazz legend, Kirk is accompanied here by Steve Watts on bass and Dave Wickins on the drums.

2005 Friday, 11 February 8.30, Ticket £14 – Norma Winstone – Sorry, sold out!

Norma Winstone, a singer of brilliant virtuosity and flexibility, can handle very complex lines and wide intervals, improvise with the fluency of an instrumentalist and also breathe life into a simple song. “If I’d known Norma Winstone was in the audience, I would have been very nervous” – Diana Krall. With Tony Coe (saxophone), Nikki Iles (piano) and Chris Laurence (bass).

2005 Friday, 18 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Sexy Saxes in Suits – Sorry, sold out!

Definitely one for the ladies – Sexy Saxes in Suits features the UK’s top soul saxophonist Snake Davis – (M people, Eurythmics, Paul McCartney, George Michael, Cher, Ray Charles) and Derek Nash – (Sax Appeal, Protect the Beat, Tom Jones, Jules Holland) for a passionate evening of jazz and blues. Supported by Pete Adams (keyboards), Winston Blissett (bass) and Frank Tontoh (drums).

2005 Friday, 25 February 8.30, Ticket £11 – Bobby Wellins Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

2005 Friday, 4 March 8.30, Ticket £14 – Jacqui Dankworth – Sorry, sold out!

Jacqui started out as an actress with the RSC and has gone on to become one of the finest singers in the UK regardless of category. Her voice has conspicuously English enunciation and an irresistible low register. Her work for the Candid record label has resulted so far in two fine albums, the latest being ‘’been much jazzier than her previous work with Field of Blue and put the emphasis firmly on the singer. She is accompanied by Malcome Edmonstone (piano), Mike Walker (guitar), Alec Dankworth (bass) and Roy Dodds (drums).

2005 Friday, 11 March 8.30, Ticket £10 – Brian Dee Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

“The Centurion”, aka pianist and composer Brian Dee, returns with his Quartet of Alex Garnett (saxophone), Simon Thorpe (bass) and Chris Dagley (drums) for another storming gig. Brian has accompanied many of the biggest names in the history of popular and jazz music since the 50’t has displayed an ever-increasing appeal and he now clearly deserves to be viewed in a new light by his peers, jazz critics and fans alike.

2005 Friday, 18 March 8.30, Ticket £11 – Nikki Iles Trio – Sorry, sold out!

The new album “Everything I Love” pays homage to some of the great composers who have influenced Nikki’ing and compositions and helped her to create her own unique style. Nikki is also a widely respected teacher, acting as a tutor at numerous workshops and summer schools around the world as well as maintaining active links with most of the London colleges. Duncan Hopkins (bass) and Anthony Michelli (drums), who are both from Canada, make up this swinging trio. We are sponsoring the One World Beat charity for this gig.

2005 Friday, 25 March 8.30, Ticket £10 – Julian Siegel Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

The music of the Quartet is groove – based, drawing on many contemporary influences, all framed by the energy and passion of swing. Superb musicianship means that Julian appears regularly with other bands. In addition to being a skilled horn player Julian is also a highly proficient bassist. His latest album 𔃲’ (Sound) is a marvellous album which really demonstrates Julian’s true star quality. All but two of the nine tracks are his original compositions. Liam Noble (piano), Jeremy Brown (bass) and Gene Calderazzo (drums) make up this acoustic Quartet.

2005 Friday, 1 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – Marlene Verplanck

A contemporary singer who can stand comparison with the all time greats. Her superb voice is matched with a flawless technique, her choice of material is highly individual displaying impeccable taste and her musical accompaniment is always of the highest order. Billy Verplanck is responsible for the top class arrangements. Clive Dunstall (piano), Roy Babbington (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums).

2005 Friday, 8 April 8.30, Ticket £11 – Tony Coe Trio

Generally considered to be the finest living and most original clarinettist in jazz, and one of the most individual stylists on tenor saxophone. A sophisticate who behind a smokescreen of vagueness, hides an incisive chess player’s mind. Tony is an immensely gifted composer and a player of astonishing versatility and brilliance. With John Horler (piano) and Alec Dankworth (bass).

2005 Friday, 15 April 8.30, Ticket £10 – Steve Melling Trio

Steve is one of the most comprehensively gifted pianists working on the British jazz scene. He has a superb technique and an abundance of ideas, which have led him to work with many great artists including Peter King, Alan Skidmore, Tim Whithead, Martin Drew and Claire Martin. He was Professor of Jazz Piano at the Royal College of Music London. Check out his latest CD “Solar”, recorded live at the Appleby Jazz Festival. Arnie Somogyi (bass) and Stephen Keogh (drums) complete the trio.

2005 Friday, 22 April 8.30, Ticket £16 – Laurie Holloway Trio with special guests Alan Barnes and Tina May. – Sorry, sold out!

Laurie Holloway was organist and choirmaster at his local church at the age of 13. He has been musical director to, amongst others, Dame Cleo Laine, Judy Garland, Liza Minnelli, Anthony Newly, Rolf Harris, Engelbert Humperdinck and of course the late great Marion Montgomery. He also had a long association with the legendary Stephane Grappelli and John Dankworth. He has composed numerous television themes, regularly conducts the BBC Radio Orchestra and also arranges for Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Gilbert O’Sullivan and Elaine Paige. Tonight Laurie is joined by Dave Olney (bass), Harold Fisher (drums) and special guests Alan Barnes and Tina May.

2005 Friday, 29 April 8.30, Ticket £11 – RSK Trio – Sorry, sold out!

Internationally renowned musicians, Jason Rebello (piano), Arnie Somogyi (bass) and Stephen Keogh (drums) were part of a select group of young musicians central to the Jazz “resurgence” of the late 80’s and early 90’s. They have performed individually with such luminaries as Wayne Shorter, Bud Shank, Branford Marsalis, Sting, Joey Calderazzo, James Moody, Art Farmer, Charlie Watts, Lee Konitz, Peter King and Benny Golson.

2005 Friday, 6 May 8.30, Ticket £10 – Allison Neale Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Born in Seattle USA and raised in Northamptonshire, Allison plays alto saxophone and flute. She has a particular affinity with Paul Desmond and Art Pepper, likes quality tunes, is swinging and melodic and has a full tone. Intelligent top draw jazz from an artist expressing her feelings in whatever mood or tempo she dictates. Dave Cliff (guitar), Simon Thorpe (bass) and Steve Brown (drums) complete her Quartet.

2005 Friday, 13 May 8.30, Ticket £10 – Partisans – Sorry, sold out!

Partisans are the UK- based jazz rock quartet formed in 1993 and led by saxophonist Julian Siegel and guitarist Phil Robson, with Thad Kelly on bass and the ferociously dynamic Gene Calderazzo on drums. The band, have two well-received albums to their name, “Partisans” and “Sourpuss”. Julian and Phil write the bands original repertoire, which is always varied, communicative and infectiously rhythmic.

2005 Friday, 20 May 8.30, Ticket £22 – JD5 – Sorry, sold out!

John Dankworth is a constant presence in British jazz and has always been a quietly witty, warm and lyrical player and a composer with a strong melodic sense. A further Dankworth attribute is his choice of musical companions. He’s featured here with an excellent straight ahead band including his bassist son Alec, the agile and improvisationally bold British trombone virtuoso Mark Nightingale, fluent pianist / composer John Horler and that understatedly creative accompanying drummer Allan Ganley.

2005 Friday, 27 May 8.30, Ticket £12 – Ed Jones Quintet – Sorry, sold out!

Ed is a formidable saxophonist and one of the great live delights of British jazz. A talented composer, his voice is clearly defined by the great masters of the jazz tradition. An improviser to his fingertips he is a player of forceful imagination whose wide range of collaborations has cut across musical boundaries. Jonathan Gee (piano), Damon Brown (trumpet), Jeremy Brown (bass) and Winston Clifford (drums) complete Ed’s Quintet.

[Troy Miller on drums and Ben Hazleton on bass blew us away – a steamy hot evening of very cool jazz.]

2005 Friday, 3 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – Patrick Villanueva Trio

Patrick is probably best known to Fleece audiences as the brilliant pianist who accompanies singer Tina May with her French Band. He is a classically trained pianist, who studied jazz with Bobby Few and Francoise Jeanneau. Patrick is much in demand as a player in the Latin and Caribbean music scene in France and also teaches jazz harmony at the Sorbonne University, Paris. Alec Dankworth (bass) and Matt Skelton (drums), make up this brilliant trio.

2005 Friday, 10 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Todd Gordon – Sorry, sold out!

Todd is one of Scotland’s most renowned performers bringing the voice of 1950’s Frank Sinatra to audiences throughout the UK. He has performed at many of the most prestigious venues in this country and also at The Plaza and Algonquin Hotels in New York. If your looking for the sound of Ol’Blue Eyes this gig is definitely for you. With Robin Aspland (piano), Alan Barnes (saxophone), Alec Dankworth (bass) and Martin Drew (drums).

2005 Friday, 17 June 8.30, Ticket £10 – David Newton and Michael Hanson

Two of our favourite musicians David Newton (piano) and Mick Hanson (guitar) return to the Fleece for another evening of breathtaking technical ability, melody, harmony, rhythmic sophistication and supreme entertainment – enough said.

2005 Friday, 24 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Janet Seidel – Sorry, sold out!

When Diana Krall couldn’t make one of her engagements in Australia who did they call? Australian pianist and singer Janet Seidel. Her 12 CD releases and over 20 years experience give her the kind of status and reputation most performers around the world can only dream about. She is seen regularly at festivals around Australia, Asia and the United States. Janet is a true blue jazz baby having been compared to Doris Day and Peggy Lee and her understanding of the classics equal that of those legendary greats. With David Seidel, (her brother) on bass and Chuck Morgan on guitar.

2005 Friday, 1 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Chris Laurence Quartet

Virtuoso bassist Chris Laurence with a successful 25 year career in both jazz and the classics leads this fine quartet. Chris is one of the busiest studio musicians around and has worked with Kenny Wheeler, Andy Sheppard, the Academy of St. Martin-in-the Fields and the Kronos Quartet. Tonight’s quartet is completed by Frank Ricotti (vibes), John Parricelli (guitar) and Martin France (drums).

2005 Friday, 8 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Tim Lapthorn Trio

Ian Shaw’s chosen album for 2004, as featured on BBC Radio 3’s Jazz Line-up with Claire Martin, was Tim Lapthorn’s latest CD, “Natural Language”. Tim is an exceptional pianist, a fluent and confident improviser with a deft touch. He can really execute some tough and virtuosic shapes and ideas on the piano – in short the guy can play. Accompanied by Larry Bartley (bass) and Shaney Forbes (drums), this is intense, exciting piano trio jazz at its best.

2005 Friday, 15 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Grooveyard

A group of young “veterans” of British Jazz led by flautist Gareth Lockrane and tenor / baritone saxophonist Alex Garnett. As the name suggests, this is a hard – swinging band that know how to get low-down and funky when required. Grooveyard won the “Best European Jazz Group Award” at the Granada Jazz Festival in Spain, 2003. With Mike Outram (guitar), Matt Home (drums) and Pete Whittaker (Hammond Organ).

[Mike Williams was an admirable dep on saxophone.]

2005 Friday, 22 July 8.30, Ticket £15 – Lee Gibson

Lee has been described as ‘A jazz vocal sensation’ by the Independent and ‘A world class jazz singer’ by the Manchester Evening News. A nationally and internationally acclaimed singer with a reputation for excellence, an innate sense of swing and dynamic stage presence who continues to go from strength to strength. Her band contains some of the UK’s finest musicians – Bruce Adams (trumpet), John Horler (piano), Paul Morgan (bass) and Gerry Boyce (drums).

2005 Friday, 29 July 8.30, Ticket £10 – Tommaso Starace Quartet

Since he last appeared at the Fleece Italian saxophonist Tommaso Starace has been working on a new project. Based on eight black and white photographs of Magnum photographer Elliot Erwitt, Tommaso has composed a different jazz score for each one which will be projected while the Quartet play. He is accompanied by Roger Beaujolais (vibes), Nick Kasal (bass) and Jim Hart (drums).

2005 Friday, 5 August 8.30, Ticket £13 – Ben Castle Quartet. – Sorry, sold out!

Always welcome at The Fleece this is rare chance to catch one of Britain’s most respected and brilliant tenor players leading his own band. A very busy man indeed, you may have seen him touring with Jamie Cullum or Carleen Anderson or on television as musical director on Pop Idol. Ben won the 2003 International Song Writing Competition, jazz category for his composition ‘The Heckler’ and his Latest album ‘Blah Street’ is very highly recommended. Ben Castle has with him Mark Edwards on piano, Arnie Somogyi on bass, and Clark Tracey on drums.

2005 Friday, 12 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Dave Lewis 1 UP

Dave is a well-respected tenor saxophonist on the UK jazz scene who also works with artists in the fields of rock, R&B andHis band 1UP combines the best of dance groove and jazz improvisation. He has worked with John Martyn, Bryan Ferry, Joan Armatrading, Lamont Dozier, John Mayall, Chaz Jankel and the Blockheads. Phil Dawson (guitar), Neville Malcolm (Electric bass), Phil Peskett (piano & keyb>Rod Youngs (drums) complete the band.

2005 Friday, 19 August 8.30, Ticket £14 – Roseanna Vitro – Sorry, sold out!

Roseanna is a top-notch New York jazz singer who brings a wealth of swing, melodic improvisation and feeling to the jazz idiom. Vibrant energy and spirit, a deep understanding of the historical and theoretical elements of jazz and her rhythmic soulful southern roots come together to produce her unique sound and style. Her many CDs have featured Elvin Jones, Fat Head Newman, George Coleman, Al Foster, Kenny Barron, Joe Lovano, Kenny Werner, Gary Bartz and Fred Hersch. Her band tonight will be Gareth Williams (piano), Simon Woolfe (bass), Mornington Lockett (sax) and Sebastiaan de Krom (drums).

2005 Friday, 26 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – John Etheridge – Sorry, sold out!

Internationally acclaimed guitarist John Etheridge has been at the top of the Jazz contemporary guitar world for over 30 years. His career has covered a vast range of musical territory. John’s latest CD for solo guitar – ‘I Didn’t Know’ was reviewed by the Observer’s Dave Gelly thus, ‘This is the kind of album to make you glad you’re not a guitarist’.. Nothing seems to be beyond Etheridge’s grasp.

2005 Friday, 2 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Basil Hodge Quintet

Championed by no less a figure than Julian Joseph, Basil has a solid reputation in British Jazz as both a pianist and composer. This is hard bop played with great freshness and originality as those that attended his Fleece debut last year can testify. He leads his excellent Quintet of Tony Kofi (saxophone), Quentin Collins (trumpet), Larry Bartley (bass) and Jim Hart (drums). Basil’s debut CD ‘My Guardian Angel’ was one of our CDs of 2004.

2005 Friday, 9 September 8.30, Ticket £15 – Gilad Atzmon and the Orient House Ensemble – Sorry, sold out!

Having taken the Fleece by storm on all his previous visits, expect more of the same from this fiery, passionate and powerful player with the towering presence. His style combines great bebop artistry and Middle Eastern roots with added sophistication. Frank Harrison (piano), Guillermo Rozenthuler (vocals), Ovidiu Fratila (violin), Romano Viazzani (accordian), Yaron Stavi (bass) and Asaf Sirkis (drums) complete the Ensemble.

2005 Friday, 16 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Peter King Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

British jazz legend Peter King is the finest alto sax player that Britain has ever produced and one of the finest in the world. He is possessed of a talent that relates him closely to Charlie ‘Bird’ Parker. With Steve Melling (piano), Jeremy Brown (bass) and Stephen Keogh (drums).

[Michael Coady excelled on bass – this was one to stand in the memory.]

2005 Friday, 23 September 8.30, Ticket £10 – Polly Gibbons – Sorry, sold out!

Polly has a powerful soulful voice with which she can perform gentle jazz ballads and rocking R & B clversatility that belies her age. She is much in demand as a top session singer and is definitely someone to watch out for. Joining her are Tim Lapthorn (piano), Oli Hayhurst (bass) and Dave Smith (drums).

2005 Friday, 30 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Protect the Beat – Sorry, sold out!

If you want extreme excitement then look no further than this group of high profile musicians. Derek Nash (saxophone), Tim Cansfield (guitar), Arden Hart (keyboards), Winston Blissett (bass) and Darby Todd (drums) come together in a blistering jazz groove act that measures up to anything that America can offer – it still ain’t dinner jazz – that’s for sure!

2005 Friday, 7 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – Mark Lockheart’h3>

Mark is one of the most distinctive and creative musicians on the current British music scene. Having made his name in the eighties with the seminal band, Loose Tubes, his work often defies categorisation and crosses the boundaries of jazz, new music and folk worlds. This current project involved Mark recording improvised fragments of music and then multi tracking and editing on a computer. These small spontaneous ideas became Big Ideas when he started orchestrating them for the seven-piece group of John Parricelli (guitar), Dudley Phillips (bass), Martin France (drums) and the reeds of Steve Buckley, Jamie Allsop and Rob Townsend. A CD called Moving Air is out on the Basho label in late summer.

[Jamie was unable to attend (poor man was mugged!), and Dai Pritchard stepped in at the very last moment – he was superb.]

2005 Friday, 14 October 8.30, Ticket £14 – Matt Wates Sextet

Described by Duncan Lamont as ‘nging alto player on either side of the Atlantic’llege of Music graduate Matt Wates is a truly remarkable British alto saxophonist, a performer of boundless ability who performs in the classic be-bop style. His band boasts a three horn front line with Steve Kaldestad on tenor saxophone and Martin Shaw on trumpet and flugelhorn. Leon Greening (piano), Malcolm Creese (bass) and Steve Brown (drums) complete the line-up.

[Matt Home was superb, as usual, depping for Steve Brown. Unsurprisingly, Malcolm Creese also had a dep, the excellent Julian Bury.]

2005 Friday, 21 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Trudy Kerr

Trudy Kerr sings with a mature swinging subtlety, and develops her melodic and lyrical concepts with impeccable taste and great sensitivity. She has continued to delight audiences everywhere, with a repertoire that blends the great song standards with the very best of contemporary compositions. Check out Trudy�st’izit label. Tom Cawley (piano), Sam Burgess (bass) and Mike Bradley (drums) make up her Quartet.

[Dave Chamberlain was the bassist for this lovely gig. It was great to hear a really good bowed bass solo.]

2005 Friday, 28 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Roger Beaujolais Quintet – Sorry, sold out!

British vibraphone virtuoso Roger Beaujolais’d vibes playing is agile, fresh and inventive. He writes crisp idiomatic themes and chooses his material with great taste. Theo Travis (saxophone), Gunther Kuermayr (piano), Simon Thorpe (bass) and Winston Clifford (drums) provide an extremely sophisticated backdrop for Roger’g technique.

2005 Friday, 4 November 8.30, Ticket £13 – Osian Roberts / Steve Fishwick Quintet

Critically acclaimed, award winning tenor saxophonist Osian Roberts is one of the leading players of his generation as is trumpeter Steve Fishwick, whose beautifully melodic and highly impressive playing has led him to play with the very best, including Scott Hamilton, Spike Robinson and singer Anita O’ntet’#82168217ly recommended. With Olivier Slama (piano), Dave Chamberlain (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

2005 Friday, 11 November 8.30, Ticket £15 – Tommy Smith Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Tommy Smith is Scotland’azz musician and composer and has been internationally recognised as a soloist and bandleader since the late 80’o the musical director and driving force of the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra. Tommy has a style recalling players as diverse as Jan Garbarek and Bobby Wellins and is without doubt a world-class player of the very highest calibre. With Steve Hamilton (piano), Michael Janisch (bass) and Alan Cosker (drums).

2005 Friday, 18 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Renato D’

Renato is a superlative saxophonist, described as a walking music box, with a tone reminiscent of Hank Mobley and articulation that has a touch of Dexter Gordon about it. His playing is mature and adventurous and powered by a first class technique that effortlessly projects his brilliant flowing ideas and can also display considerable tenderness when required. With Phil Lee (guitar), Nicola Muresu (bass) and Keith Copeland (drums).

2005 Friday, 25 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Theo Travis – Sorry, sold out!

Theo is a strong emotional player whose bluesy, soulful tenor saxophone is capable of forceful high energy soloing in the roaring up-tempo pieces, or the calm, almost pastoral sound he reserves for the quieter numbers. He is also a master flautist capable of playing beautiful and hypnotic melodies as demonstrated on his new progressive jazz CD ‘er’Colam (piano), John Parricelli (guitar), Andy Hamill (bass) and Marc Parnell (drums).

[The delightful Alex Keen was our bassist on an exciting evening.]

2005 Friday, 2 December 8.30, Ticket £12 – Pete Churchill – Sorry, sold out!

Pianist, vocalist, composer and educator, Pete Churchill is a sort of grown up Jamie Cullum, who has a warm, rough edged, lived in voice that brings added resonance to the lyrics of the jazz standards and original compositions he plays. Pete is the resident arranging teacher at the Guildhall School of Music in London. As a player he has accompanied just about every singer and is Mark Murphy’ choice whenever the American is working in the UK. Special guest Bobby Wellins (sax), Steve Watts (bass) and Dave Wickins (drums and percussion) complete a formidable band.

[Steve Watts was unfortunately unable to attend – but Arnie Somogyi played a storm on a fine evening of music.]

2005 Friday, 9 December 8.30, Ticket £11 – Bryan Corbett Quartet

The rising young British star of the trumpet, Bryan Corbett is a highly gifted and naturally talented player. His sound just seems to reach out and touch the audience as those who saw his spellbinding performance in May 2004 at the Fleece can testify. His influences are Dizzie Gillespie, Nat Adderley, Freddie Hubbard and Miles Davis. He brings with him Levi French (keyboards), Ben Markland (bass) and Neil Bullock (drums).

2005 Friday, 16 December 8.30, Ticket £14 – Alan Skidmore Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

British jazz legend Alan Skidmore goes a considerable way to recreating the atmosphere of a John Coltrane gig. Here is a man for all seasons, a player with immense physical and imaginative stamina, who is at home in any context, from tight structures to total abstraction, and with any tempo, from breakneck to slow. With Mike Gorman (piano), Aidan O’ (bass) and Ian Palmer (drums).

2005 Friday, 23 December 8.30, Ticket £15 – Joan Viskant – Sorry, sold out!

Born and brought up in Chicago, Joan began singing professionally in the clubs of her hometown before relocating to France and then to London. Her vocal career took her through Europe, where she received encouragement from Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra, as well as the respect of many influential jazz musicians. Woolfe Phillips, who was musical director for Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and Judy Garland, described Joan as, ‘azz singer I’the last thirty years’ishop (piano), Frank Griffith (saxophone), Mike Henry (trumpet), Bill Coleman (bass) and Clark Tracey (drums).

2005 Friday, 30 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Robin Jones Latin Sextet

Drive away those-post Christmas blues with the godfather of the British Latin music scene. Robin Jones (congas / percussion) has performed and recorded with just about everybody in the music business from Stan Getz to Elton John! Nick Walker (reeds), Graeme Flowers (trumpet), Chris Kibble (piano), Gerry Hunt (bass) and Adam Riley (drums) comprise the sextet.

2006 Friday, 6 January 8.30, Ticket £20 – Claude Deppa – Sorry, sold out!

A spectacular start to 2006 with South African Jazz Legend, trumpeter Claude Deppa and his group of Tony Kofi (saxophone), Kari Bannerman (guitar), Paul Weinreb (piano), Sam Djegue (bass), Brian Abraham (drums) and Francis Fuster (percussion) They are accompanied by the African Divas Rachel Magoola, Pauline Oduro and Ayinke Martins. This will be a foot-tappingly, joyful, tuneful, warm and wonderful night. Please note that the number of tickets sold for this gig will be restricted to 70 due to the size of the band.

2006 Friday, 13 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Liane Carroll – Sorry, sold out!

It’me back for the award wining pianist and singer Liane Carroll, who scored a unique double in the BBC Jazz Awards in 2005. ‘Best Vocalist’ voted for by 100 of the industry’hakers, plus ‘Best of Jazz Award’ voted for by the general public. A powerful and soulful singer with a remarkable delivery, Liane has toured and recorded with artists such as Ladysmith Black Mombasa, Gerry Rafferty and Paul McCartney. Her latest band album ‘’at Abbey Road Studios and has quite rightly been receiving rave reviews. With Roger Carey (bass) and Greg Leppard (drums).

2006 Friday, 20 January 8.30, Ticket £14 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, sold out!

The amazing singer and songwriter Sarah Jane Morris is – ‘A Diva for our time, her voice is a force of nature’ -The Observer, ‘Provocative and unorthodox’ The New Musical Express. One thing is certain, she shows a gleeful disregard for the boundaries between genres – jazz, soul, pop, contemporary-classical; they are all to be found in her astonishing three and a half-octave range vocal performances. With her tonight are Alistair Gavin (piano), Matt Backer (guitar), Martyn Barker (cajon and drums) and Henry Thomas (bass).

2006 Friday, 27 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Dylan Howe Quintet

Drummer Dylan HoweDrummer Dylan Howe’s return to the Fleece finds him in the company of Andrew McCormack (piano), Brandon Allen (saxophone), Quentin Collins (trumpet) and Aidan O bass). If you didn’ then you might well assume that this band came from one of the more advanced Blue Note sessions of the mid sixties. If you like serious, inspiring, mature and invigorating mainstream hard bop jazz then this is for you.

[It was a superb evening of bop and fun, with Ross Stanley on the piano. Where do these great musicians keep coming from?]

2006 Friday, 3 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Mark Crooks Quintet

Mark’aying has a flair for melodic phrasing, which has echoes of Stan Getz. His clarinet playing is thoughtful and sensitive with a warm mellow tone akin to that of Sweden’n. With John Pearce (piano), Colin Oxley (guitar), Matt Miles (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

2006 Friday, 10 February 8.30 and Saturday, 11 February 8.30, Ticket £16 – Martin Taylor and Jack Emblow – Sorry, sold out!

Two world famous masters on their respective instruments combine for an evening of superb musicality and humour. Jack Emblow is ‘the guvnor’ when it comes to accordion playing and jazz guitar great Martin Taylor needs little introduction to Fleece audiences – his unbelievable technique having left our audiences amazed and dumbfounded many times.

2006 Friday, 17 February 8.30, Ticket £14 – Alan Barnes Quintet (Horace Silver Tribute) – Sorry, sold out!

Alan Barnes is, without question, one of the brightest talents on the current jazz scene and histribute to the Connecticut born piano legend Horace Silver is exquisite and expertly devoted. With John Donaldson (piano) who transcribed all tunes from the original records, Steve Waterman (trumpet), Dave Green (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

2006 Friday, 24 February 8.30, Ticket £15 – Art Themen Quintet – Sorry, sold out!

Saxophonist Art Themen started playing jazz with the Cambridge University Jazz Group where his studies eventually led to him becoming a medical consultant specialising in orthopaedics. His style originally owed much to the influences of Dexter Gordon and Sonny Rollins, but later influences were Coleman Hawkins, Evan Parker and John Coltrane. Guy Barker (trumpet), Steve Melling (piano), Andy Cleyndert (bass) and Spike Wells (drums) complete this stellar line-up.

2006 Friday, 3 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – Guillermo Rozenthuler – Sorry, sold out!

A versatile vocalist, guitarist and composer from Argentina, Guillermo is now based in London. His music is lively, evocative and insightful and as a voice trainer he radiates a combination of charisma and talent on stage. Tonight he will be performing a mixture of standards and tango influenced songs with the help of Javier Fioranonti (bass,vocals and guitar), John Turville (piano) and Andres Ticino (percussion and vocals).

2006 Friday, 10 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – PD3 with special guest Dick Pearce

Pete Downes (guitars), Andy Coe (double bass), Tim Bruce (drums) and British Jazz trumpet legend Dick Pearce (who has played with Mike Westbrook, Gil Evans and Ronnie Scott, amongst many others) join forces in a truly exciting excursion into mixing the genres of contemporary and mainstream fusion. Pete Downes’e as diverse as Bach and Hendrix.

2006 Friday, 17 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – Simon Spillett Quartet

Simon is a big toned wailing tenor player who, it is suggested, is possibly the best young tenor saxophonist in the country. A formidable musician and composer playing and writing in uncompromising hard bop style is influenced by Tubby Hayes and Johnny Griffin in his sound and harmonic thinking. “Sounds uncannily like Tubby Hayes, which I never thought I’yone”, says tonight’s drummer Martin Drew. John Critchinson (piano) and Alec Dankworth (bass) complete Simon’

2006 Friday, 24 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – Paul Towndrow Quartet

2006 Friday, 31 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Marlene Verplanck – Sorry, sold out!

Marlene is a contemporary singer who can stand comparisons with the all time greats. Her superb voice is matched with a flawless technique, her choice of material is highly individual displaying impeccable taste; and her musical accompaniment is always of the highest order: Geoff Eales (piano), Roy Babbington (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums). Billy Verplanck is responsible for the top class arrangements and her new CD Now may well be her best yet!

[How can you do better than to get John Horler as a dep on the piano? ]

2006 Friday, 7 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – Georgia Mancio Quintet

Winner of the Brussels International Young Jazz Singers Award beating 85 contestants from around the world, including Portugal’iro and Australia’us. Anglo-Italian singer Georgia’ strength lies in her lightness of touch, restraint, absolute taste and clarity. This supremely stylish elegant voice, rich and bittersweet, has helped make her into one of the hottest singers on the circuit. With John Pearce (piano), Gareth Lockrane (flute), Dave Green (bass) and Dave Ohm (drums).

2006 Friday, 14 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – Killer Shrimp

Killer Shrimp are Ed Jones (saxophone), Damon Brown (trumpet) with the formidable rhythm section of Ben Hazleton (bass) and Troy Miller (drums). Damon’yle blends British and American influences with a Blue Note sound of the 50’ references to dance and pop cultures create complex and emotional music. Ed is a formidable saxophonist whose vigorous and sometimes downright volcanic tenor sound has long been one of the great delights of British jazz. His “terrier with rat” approach raises the musical temperature whenever he solos.

2006 Friday, 21 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – Kirk Lightsey Trio

Now based in Paris, American born pianist Kirk Lightsey has worked and recorded with the very best of them. He is a highly polished, virtuosic and always architecturally minded player with a classy post bop sensibility. In the mid-sixties he became a sideman for both Chet Baker and Sonny Stitt, but it was his work with Dexter Gordon that brought him to the attention of a wider public. Accompanying Kirk are Steve Watts (bass) and Dave Wickins (drums and percussion).

2006 Friday, 28 April 8.30, Ticket £16 – Monica Vasconcelos, Ingrid Laubrock and Guinga – Sorry, sold out!

Singer Monica Vasconcelos is an ambassador for Brazilian music, who has featured before at the Fleece together with the exquisite German saxophonist Ingrid Laubrock. They bring with them Brazilian superstar Guinga. Although one of Brazil’uitarists he considers himself above all a composer, his music being very Brazilian, yet it is also universal. “He’o appears only once in a hundred years”. Hermeto Pascoal.

2006 Friday, 5 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – Christian Brewer Quintet

In 2005 Christian Brewer (alto saxophone), Leon Greening (piano), Jim Hart (vibes), Phil Donkin (bass) and Tristan Mailliot (drums) performed at international festivals in Hong Kong, Barcelona, Lisbon, Villa Real, Swanage and Scarborough. They were also at Ronnie Scott’for two weeks. Christian is a fiery hard bop player with a beautiful, soulful tone to his playing. He has worked with many star performers ranging from Rico Rodriguez to top blues guitarist Otis Grand.

2006 Friday, 12 May 8.30, Ticket £12 – Gee Gallo Minetto

This trio, Jonathan Gee (piano), Danilo Gallo (bass) and Alessandro Minetto (drums), was born when the Italian promoter Antonio Ciacca brought them together to play at his jazz festival in the Appenines. These three strong but complementary personalities are all inventive and exciting improvisers, and also, very importantly, composers. The trio have recorded their first highly recommended CD entitled Cream of Mandarins.

2006 Friday, 19 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – Nikki Iles Quartet

Over the last few years pianist Nikki has progressed steadily to the front rank of British Jazz musicians. Much of her music in the early 90’n for the distinctive sound of Iain Dixon’phone and clarinet and this is the first chance that Nikki has had to play with Iain again with her own group. She met Stephen Keogh (drums) while playing with Peter King. Stephen introduced Aidan O’ (bass) and he has been the obvious choice to complete this gathering of some of Nikki’musicians.

2006 Friday, 26 May 8.30, Ticket £16 – Jacqui Dankworth – Sorry, sold out!

Always welcome at The Fleece, Jacqui is a singer who imbues a song with her own time and space, never sounding hurried or mundane. She lives the lyrics and infuses them with her own nuances, bending notes and caressing the words to stunning effect. Her third CD for the Candid label has just been released to much critical acclaim. She is accompanied by James Pearson on piano, Chris Allard on guitar, Alec Dankworth on bass, and John Blease on drums.

2006 Friday, 2 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – Curious Paradise

Led by Pete Oxley, a great guitarist as technically astute as any of his peers, this group has successfully melded traditional type English melodies with the heat and passion that one normally associates with Brazilian music. Julian Nicholas (saxophone) Phil Peskett (piano), Steve Watts (bass) and Russ Morgan (drums).

[It was always the wonderful Ollie Hayhurst on bass.]

2006 Friday, 9 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Colin Steele Quintet

Award winning Scottish trumpeter Colin Steele combines folk inflected melodies inspired by the sound of his Scottish heritage with an assured understanding of the jazz idiom. Colin’instant appeal, his strengths being a beautiful trumpet tone on reflective pieces, a gift for evocative compositions and an ear for group dynamics. Colin’ Michael Buckley (saxophone), Dave Milligan (piano), Aidan O’ (bass) and Stu Ritchie (drums). We highly recommend his Album ‘Waves’label.

[On tenor and soprano, we had the very Scottish Konrad Wiszniewski, who played up a storm in a top 10 gig.]

2006 Friday, 16 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – Ambulance

Outstanding UK bass virtuoso Arnie Somogyi has put together a brand new contemporary jazz quartet called Ambulance. They are engagingly fresh, full bodied, subtle and creative. With Paul Booth (saxophone), Tim Lapthorn (piano) and Dave Smith (drums), all first-rate award winning young musicians who are constantly in demand on the British jazz scene.

2006 Friday, 23 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – David Newton and Michael Hanson – Sorry, sold out!

Another visit from two of our favourite musicians. David‘s breathtaking technical ability, precision of touch and warmth of tone and Michael‘s brilliant and distinctive playing in any style is a cast iron guarantee that we are in for an evening of supreme entertainment.

2006 Friday, 30 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Hanna Richardson and her Trio

The American singer, Hanna Richardson is a considerable songstress. She has an engagingly sunny style, assured phrasing and displays innate good taste with her serene yet heartfelt approach to melody, interpreting the lyrics with no histrionics or mannerisms. Ruby Braff complimented her singing: “That’ sing! simply and with spirit”. Hanna brings with her Chris Flory (guitar) and Phil Flanigan (bass).

2006 Friday, 7 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Ian Shaw

It’welcome back for Ian, Britain’ jazz singer, who tonight is accompanied in our intimate setting by guitarist David Preston making his Fleece debut. Ian has recently recorded “hings”or Linn Records. This superb CD re-interprets the songs of Joni Mitchell with arrangements that follow a gentle rhythmic and harmonic path, occasionally daring to alter and re-structure but never trying to re-invent the originals.

2006 Friday, 14 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – Basil Hodge Quintet

Championed by no less a figure than Julian Joseph, Basil has forged a solid reputation in British jazz as a pianist and composer. He leads a stellar quintet comprising Tony Kofi (saxophone), Fulvio Sigurta (trumpet), Larry Bartley (bass) and Winston Clifford (drums). Hard bop played with great freshness and originality – a gig not to be missed.

2006 Friday, 21 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – Liam Noble Trio –ve Brubeck

Dave Brubeck’re charm and transparent elegance, which has led to its considerable commercial success, yet he is also an uncompromising and idiosyncratic improvisor creating complex and adventurous solos with unfailing compositional logic. This highly interactive trio of Liam Noble (piano), Dave Whitford (bass) and Dave Wickins (drums), re-evaluates his legacy through an expanded contemporary language whilst remaining faithful to the lyricism of Brubeck’/b>

2006 Friday, 28 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – The Organ Trio

A seriously big sound emanates from this supremely integrated super-group. The wonderfully rich sound-scape conjured by Mike Gorman’lied to Jim Mullen’h on guitar, welded together by the swinging drive of Matt Skelton’es for a ferociously swinging evening where the pace never flags.

2006 Friday, 4 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Lewis Wright Quartet

The transition from drums to piano and finally vibraphone produced a young musician whose talent defied belief when he made his Fleece debut aged 15 in April 2004. Lewis leads his quartet of Simon Brown (piano), Andy Doyle (bass) and Will Clark (drums) for what promises to be another storming gig.

2006 Friday, 11 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Eriko Ishihara

A fluent jazz pianist who always sparkles as a soloist Eriko is also an impressive vocalist with a lyrical delivery. Her immaculate choice of material is demonstrated on her three CDs. Her latest 󈥱ived rave reviews. World class musicians Colin Oxley (guitar), Dave Chamberlain (bass) and Winston Clifford (drums) complete her quartet.

2006 Friday, 18 August 8.30, Ticket £15 – Peter King / Alan Skidmore –vin Jones – Sorry, sold out!

This new tribute to the late, great American jazz drummer Elvin Jones brings together four of the greatest jazz musicians that this country has ever produced – Peter King (saxophone), Alan Skidmore (saxophone), Steve Melling (piano) and Martin Drew (drums) and Alec Dankworth (bass). No slavish tribute this but vibrant 21st century jazz inspired by the best there has been. We can look forward to intricate solos from all five musicians and breathtakingly magnificent ensemble playing.

2006 Friday, 25 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Brian Abrahams Quartet (District 6 Revisited)

Having formed the original District 6 (named after a section of Cape Town) in the 1980’e of the most important and influential UK drummers. He has been professor of jazz studies at London’hool of Music since 1985. Julian Siegel (saxophone), Dave O’ piano) and Chris Hill (bass) are the other members of this distinguished quartet.

[Even though the band was trapped in New York, we had an amazing gig. Ed Jones was on Saxophone, Ben Hazelhurst was on bass, and our pianist was Damon Brown on trumpet and vocals.]

2006 Friday, 1 September 8.31, Ticket £14 – Tony Kofi +1

The Tony Kofi +1 is a newly formed original project by the double award winning saxophonist / composer featuring music composed around the B3 Hammond organ and recreating the fresh sounds of yesterday for today’ith these compositions you get to hear Blues, Gospel, Jazz, Funk, Latin, African rhythms and Be-bop. The band features Anders Olinder (organ), Byron Wallen (trumpet) and Winston Clifford (drums).

2006 Friday, 8 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – James Pearson Trio

James is one of Europe’le and in-demand musicians. As a composer, arranger and pianist he is equally at home playing jazz, popular or classical music. His jazz piano style is well rooted in the great jazz pianists of the 20th century, with plenty of his own invention and often eccentric character evident. The trio is completed by Jeremy Brown (bass) and Matt Skelton (drums). “hows signs of true greatness in the making”worth

[In a musically stunning and very funny gig, our drummer was Matt Home and our bassist was Thad Kelly.]

2006 Friday, 15 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Renato D’

Renato is a superlative saxophonist, described as a walking music box, with a tone reminiscent of Hank Mobley and articulation that has a touch of Dexter Gordon about it. His playing is mature and adventurous and powered by a first class technique that effortlessly projects his brilliant flowing ideas, while his control of tone in the ballads is simply delicious. Renato is accompanied by Andrea Pozza (piano), a wonderful pianist from Enrico Rava’s band, Nicola Muresu (bass) and the remarkable Keith Copeland (drums).

2006 Friday, 22 September 8.30, Ticket £16 – Tina May – Sorry, sold out!

One of the brightest jazz singing stars on the scene today who cemented her Jazz Diva reputation by recording, in New York, classics of the American songbook with pianist Ray Bryant, the veteran accompanist of Ella, Billie and Betty Carter and a fan of Tina’irst met in Paris in 1997 and who knows a good voice when he hears one! Accompanying Tina tonight are three stars in their own right, Nikki Iles (piano), Phil Donkin (bass) and Stephen Keogh (drums).

2006 Friday, 29 September 8.30, Ticket £12 – Pat Crumly Quartet

Oxford born Pat Crumly started playing in the rhythm and blues field when he first turned professional working with The Animals, Zoot Money, Chris Farlowe and many other well known names from the sixties. He is now recognised as one of the country’ bop saxophonists. Pat was also one of Ronnie Scott’ayers. The quartet is completed by Nick Weldon (piano), Tim Wells (bass) and Felix Weldon (drums).

2006 Friday, 6 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – Katya Gorrie

Canadian jazz vocalist Katya Gorrie is a name to watch. Stylish, sultry, sexy and passionate, she captivates her audience with an engaging repertoire while fully exploiting her wide technical and emotional range. Katya’ght quartet with prominent playing by Denny Ilett on guitar, Phil Parnell on piano, and Dylan Howe on drums. Her latest CD is called ‘haviour’hly recommend.

2006 Friday, 13 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – The New Couriers – Sorry, sold out!

This great band keeps alive the legacy of a classic iconic British modern jazz group co-led by saxophonists Tubby Hayes and Ronnie Scott between 1957 and 1960. The group continues to play original Couriers material, but is now widening its range with the music of other greats including Jimmy Deuchar, Victor Feldman, Don Grolnick. The band plays with all the flair and dynamism of its previous incarnation and remains in the shape, form and style that demand written arrangements. The modern day New Couriers are Steve Melling (piano), Mornington Lockett (saxophone), Jim Hart (vibes), Paul Morgan (bass) and Martin Drew (drums).

2006 Friday, 20 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Patrick Villanueva’n Trio

Jumbazz is the classic Hammond trio led by Patrick Villanueva (Hammond B3), with Martin Jacobsen (tenor saxophone) and Didier Ottaviani (drums).While being rooted in the traditional African American blues organ classic tunes, Patrick has delved into his Mexican / Franco origins to fuse his Latino influences with his classical music education to come up with compositions that stretch from Brazilian sambas, Trinidadian calypsos to Argentinean tangos and Mexican boleros. Jumbazz’s laced with a subtle sense of humour and reflects Patrick’c as diverse as Horace Silver, Thelonious Monk and Igor Stravinsky!

2006 Friday, 27 October 8.30, Ticket £15 – Todd Gordon

Always the consummate professional Todd is one of Scotland’d performers and has become a hit on both sides of the Atlantic. He just seems to go on getting better! His suave, sophisticated, Sinatra style take on the classic American songbook is presented in a smooth show, full of charm and humour. His fabulous fourth CD called ‘ions’award-winning jazz singer Ian Shaw, contains 16 timeless American songbook classics and lesser performed gems sung with great style, verve and feeling. His band has no less than David Patrick (piano), Steve Fishwick (trumpet), Steve Rose (bass) and Martin Drew (drums).

2006 Friday, 3 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Quentin Collins Quartet

An outstanding hard bop young trumpet virtuoso with sharp ears, quick reactions and tremendous panache brings his stellar quartet featuring Jim Hart (vibes) and James Madren (drums) for his Fleece debut as leader. Quentin’re Freddie Hubbard, Lee Morgan, Woody Shaw and Clifford Brown. Unmissable!

2006 Friday, 10 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – John Law Trio

John Law is renowned as one of Europe’vising pianists. Balance, poise and a sense of beauty define not just the sound of the piano but also the compositions. Drive, energy and virtuosity are the hallmarks of the driven bass lines and singing tone of Sam Burgess and the world class drum phenomenon that is Asaf Sirkis.

2006 Friday, 17 November 8.30, Ticket £12 – Zoe Rahman Trio – Sorry, sold out!

Pianist and composer Zoe is one of our most distinctive contemporary jazz artists. With a fresh personal approach to jazz with a style rooted in the traditional but not tied to it, her bold compositions draw in many diverse musical influences from classical, afro beat and blues. She also manages a difficult balancing act creating music that’plex yet readily accessible and beautiful to listen to. Oli Hayhurst (bass) and Gene Calderazzo (drums) complete her trio. � earlier this year, is outstanding and won CD of the year in the 2006 Parliamentary Jazz Awards and has recently been nominated for the same accolade in the Mercury Music Awards.

2006 Friday, 24 November 8.30, Ticket £15 – Roseanna Vitro

It’me back to the Fleece for Roseanna who is ranked amongst the very best jazz singers in the world. She brings a wealth of swing, melodic improvisation, vibrant energy and spirit along with a deep understanding of the historical and theoretical elements of jazz. All this, and her rhythmic soulful southern roots combine to produce her unique sound and style. This outstanding quartet is completed by Gareth Williams (piano), Simon Woolfe (bass) and Martin Drew (drums).

2006 Friday, 1 December 8.30 and Saturday, 2 December 8.30, Ticket £15 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, sold out!

Sarah Jane is a truly amazing singer and songwriter. One thing is certain, she shows a gleeful disregard for the boundaries between genres: jazz, soul, pop, contemporary classical; they are all to be found in her astonishing three and a half-octave range vocal performance. She is accompanied by Neil MacColl (guitar), Kevin Armstrong (guitar), Henry Thomas (bass) and Martyn Barker (percussion). ‘ time, her voice is a force of nature’r ‘d unorthodox’ical Express.

2006 Friday, 8 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Peter King Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

It is always a pleasure to welcome back British Jazz legend Peter King, the finest alto saxophone player that this country has ever produced. Peter continues to release album after album to much critical acclaim and to the delight of his many fans. Another perfect evening listening to the highest quality jazz is absolutely guaranteed! The other three members of this top drawer quartet are Steve Melling (piano), Mike Coady (bass) and Mike Paxtonh (drums).

2006 Friday, 15 December 8.30, Ticket £15 – Anorak – Sorry, sold out!

Saxophonist, bandleader and composer Iain Ballamy is an original and versatile musician. A supreme improviser, he is also an accomplished composer with numerous commissions to his name. Renowned in Europe as the ‘ishman’lamy established himself playing alongside notables including Hermeto Pascoal, the late Gil Evans, George Coleman, Dewey Redman, Mike Gibbs and the New York Composers Orchestra. He has toured extensively world-wide and can be heard on over 40 CD’embers of Anorak are Gareth Williams (piano), Steve Watts (bass) and Martin France (drums).

2006 Friday, 22 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Liane Carroll – Sorry, sold out!

Our Christmas gig features a double winner from the 2005 BBC Jazz Awards. Singer/Pianist Liane, who has been performing professionally since the age of 15, has a remarkable delivery, both powerful and soulful but she can, when the fancy takes her, have you in tears with a sad ballad! Liane has a growing reputation around the world. Tonight Liane is joined by Roger Carey (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums).

2006 Friday, 29 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Protect the Beat – Sorry, sold out!

Dust off those Christmas cobweb blues with this blistering jazz groove act that measures up to anything America has to offer with this group of high profile musicians. They are Derek Nash (saxophones), Tim Cansfield (guitar), Arden Hart (keyboards & trumton Blissett (bass) and Darby Todd (drums). Ladies and Gentlemen – It still ain’

2007 Friday, 5 January 8.30, Ticket £16 – Claire Martin and Jim Mullen – Sorry, sold out!

It’asure to welcome back Claire and Jim to kick off another year for us at The Fleece. Claire is undoubtedly one of the most popular jazz singers this country has ever produced and is in many people’ng better than ever. Jim continues to stun audiences with his instantly recognizable guitar playing.

2007 Friday, 12 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Sebastiaan Cornelissen Trio

Dutch drummer Sebastiaan Cornelissen has a string of fine albums behind him. Currently located in the UK where he works as a teacher at Goldsmiths University and the Royal Academy of Music in London. This stellar band features Mike Outram (guitar) and Phil Donkin (bass).

[Sam Burgess excelled at the bass this evening.]

2007 Friday, 19 January 8.30, Ticket £16 – Norma Winstone’sic

The doyenne of jazz singers in the UK, Norma is a singer of brilliant virtuosity and flexibility, handling very complex lines and wide intervals, improvising with the fluency of an instrumentalist. Norma also has the ability to breathe life into a simple song. Klaus Gesing (soprano saxophone and bass clarinet) and Glauco Venier (piano) have been brought over especially from New York to accompany her.

2007 Friday, 26 January 8.30, Ticket £12 – Marc Parnell and Friends

Ace drummer, Marc Parnell with friends, Paul Booth (saxophones), Mike Gorman (piano and keyboards) and Michael Janisch (bass) have all worked with the very best in diverse fields of music. Together tonight, they are not to be missed!

[Arnie Somogyi was wonderful on bass tonight. Marc brought new friend, Stuart McCallum who played great guitar.]

2007 Friday, 2 February 8.30, Ticket £13 – Simon Spillett Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Simon Spillett is a formidable musician, composer and graduate of the hard bop school. The influence of Tubby Hayes and Johnny Griffin can be detected in his sound and harmonic thinking. Simon’#8220g..Simon Spillett” is out on Alan Barnes’abel. “nily like Tubby Hayes, which I never thought I’anyone”t’m>Martin Drew. John Critchinson (piano) and Alec Dankworth (bass) complete Simon’rtet.

2007 Friday, 9 February 8.30, Ticket £13 – Geoff Gascoyne Quintet – Sorry, sold out!

Geoff Gascoyne is one of the UK’imed and in-demand bass players. He is the first call bass player for international visiting musicians as well as being an independent-minded musician with many fine albums behind him. Geoff performs regularly with Georgie Fame, Jamie Cullum and Trudy Kerr, all of whom appear on his debut album for the Candid label called “Keep it to Yourself”. His band tonight features Tom Cawley (piano), Martin Shaw (trumpet), Steve Kaldestad (saxophone) and Sebastiaan de Krom (drums).

2007 Friday, 16 February 8.30, Ticket £12 – Gemini – Sorry, sold out!

Wonder percussionist Jim Hart features on vibes this evening. If you saw him with the New Couriers and Quentin Collins, then you know that you’real treat. Jim is about to release his debut album, “Emergence”. The other members of Gemini are Ivo Neame (alto Saxophone), Mick Coady (bass) and Dave Smith (drums).

2007 Friday, 23 February 8.30, Ticket £13 – Gilad Atzmon Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Gilad’et will yet again contrast wonderful musicianship with his unique brand of humour to guarantee a hugely entertaining night. From new takes on jazz standards to highly melodic Middle Eastern inflected jazz originals it will be jazz that shudders and shouts across the small room. Frank Harrison (piano), Yaron Stavi (bass) and Asaf Sirkis (drums) make up this stunning Quartet.

2007 Friday, 2 March 8.30, Ticket £12 – Alex Hutton Trio

Alex is considered to be one of the leading new young pianists to have emerged from the UK scene over the past couple of years. His highly impressive debut album, “Cross that Bridge” on 33 Records has definite references to earlier piano trios of the past, while some of his compositions lean more towards European than American jazz. Virtuoso New York bassist Michael Janisch brings a hard swinging edge to the trio while drummer Simon Lea brings a contemporary angle to the proceedings. “Powerful music, intensely melodic solos; a precisely articulated, authoritative style. Hutton is a real find.” – Chris Parker

2007 Friday, 9 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Marlene VerPlanck

Marlene is a contemporary singer who can stand comparisons with the all time greats. Her superb voice is matched with a flawless technique, her choice of material is highly individual displaying impeccable taste and her musical accompaniment is always of the highest order. Geoff Eales (piano), Roy Babbington (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums) accompany her tonight. Marlene’m>Billy is responsible for all the top class arrangements.

[Clive Dunstall excelled on piano with Billy’s wonderful arrangements.]

2007 Friday, 16 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Chris Laurence Quartet

Virtuoso bassist Chris Laurence has had a twenty five year plus career in jazz and the classics. He leads this fine quartet of Frank Ricotti (vibes), John Paricelli (guitar) and Martin France drums) who have just released their debut album. Chris is one of the busiest studio musicians around and has worked with many of the best including Kenny Wheeler, Andy Sheppard, the Academy of St. Martins-in-the Fields and the Kronos Quartet

2007 Friday, 23 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Alan Barnes Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Only those in outer space can be unaware of the talent of this poll winning world class versatile reeds-man. His Quartet is John Donaldson (piano), Mark Hodgson (bass) and Spike Wells (drums). Need we say more?

2007 Friday, 30 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Frank Harrison Trio with Julian Argüelles

Pianist Frank Harrison leads his trio of Aidan O’ (bass) and Stephen Keogh (drums) with special guest, woodwind legend Julian Argüelles. Julian’s work with Loose Tubes soon led to the formation of his own quartet with John Taylor. His discography is to be envied. “one is left almost speechless with admiration” – The Independent
Frank’ album featuring the trio is called “First Light” and is out on the Basho Records Label comes highly recommended by us. “Frank Harrison is one of the most talented young musicians I have heard” – Ronnie Scott” “His talent shines among his peers” – Julian Joseph

2007 Friday, 6 April 8.30, Ticket £15 – Byron Wallen’et “”>‘’l manifestation of a place where the spirit and soul of a people join together to celebrate life –e title of the group’yron has a fleet technique on both trumpet and flugelhorn, add an impressive range to inspired imagination, and yes, he’s got it all! Tony Kofi (saxophones), Larry Bartley (bass) and Tom Skinner (drums) complete this stellar quartet. One heck of a gig is guaranteed.

[The drummer tonight was the amazing Winston Clifford – a brilliant evening of Griot music.]

2007 Friday, 13 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – David Gordon Trio

A truly international piano led trio formed in 1995 with two highly impressive CDs, Dozen a Day & Undiheir name. Led by classically trained pianist David Gordon with Copenhagen’ussen (bass) and America’aciuti (drums), the music is characterised by free flowing improvisation, lyrical melody, strong, groove and near telepathic interaction.

2007 Friday, 20 April 8.30, Ticket £14 – Joan Viskant

Born and brought up in Chicago, Joan began singing professionally in the clubs of her hometown before relocating via France to England. Her vocal career took her through Europe where she received encouragement from Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra. Woolfe Phillips, who was musical director for Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and Judy Garland, described Joan as, ‘z singer I’e last thirty years’oan are Clark Tracey on drums, Jeremy Brown on bass, Simon Allen on Saxophone, and Mike Bishop on piano.

[Mitch Dalton on guitar made this a sextet; a lovely evening it was too.]

2007 Friday, 27 April 8.30, Ticket £12 – Killer Shrimp – Sorry, sold out!

Led by two of the UK’ musicians trumpeter Damon Brown and saxophonist Ed Jones, Killer Shrimp is completed by the young talented rhythm section of Ben Hazleton and drummer Troy Miller. Staying close to the spirit of jazz, but incorporating some different rhythms and more open textures. Hip/Hop, Drum n Bass, Funky and Latin grooves rub shoulders with straight ahead swing.

[When it comes to deps, how can you do better than the great Sebastiaan de Krom on drums?]

2007 Friday, 4 May 8.30, Ticket £20 – Dennis Rollins’Sorry, sold out!

A very welcome return for the man with the sexiest trombone in the business! Dennis brings with him the finest repertoire of wicked high energy groove based funky dance music with jazz attitude and styling that you are likely to hear this side of the Atlantic. “ rarest of jazz beasts, a genuine star”dependent on Sunday.
With Dennis are Vidal Juba on drums, Mike Janisch on bass, Johnny Hays on guitar, Jay Phelps on trumpet, and Kit Downes on piano.

2007 Friday, 11 May 8.30, Ticket £12 – Michael Garrick Quartet

Pianist, prolific composer and national treasure Michael Garrick has been leading bands since the 50’ve in the jazz and poetry movement of the mid 60’ked with a band co-led by Don Rendell and Ian Carr. Described by Sir John Dankworth as �ecorded well over twenty albums in his illustrious career in a variety of musical genres from Indian to sacred. Completing the quartet will be Martin Hathaway (saxophone), Paul Moylan (bass) and Alan Jackson (drums).

2007 Friday, 18 May 8.30, Ticket £12 – Nicholas Meier Quartet (Yuz)

Award winning, Swiss guitarist Nicholas Meier debuts at the Fleece with his Quartet of Gilad Atzmon (saxophone), Tom Mason (bass) and Asaf Sirkis (drums). Nicholas’the guitar allows him to play jazz, latin, oriental, flamenco, rock and heavy metal, but expect to hear strong Turkish and Middle-eastern influences tonight as the band showcase their new CD Yuz.

2007 Friday, 25 May 8.30, Ticket £12 – Tom Cawley’

Acoustic Ladyland’Tom Cawley’dden, has been released on the Jazzizit label to much critical acclaim and features Sam Burgess (bass) and nineteen year old prodigy Josh Blackmore (drums). Showcasing Tom’compositions and improvisation, it is an inspired set that draws on influences as diverse as Thelonious Monk to Debussy.

2007 Friday, 1 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Tommaso Starace Quintet

Signor Starace is a shrewd operator who swings magnificently, playing alto and soprano saxophone with impressive post Parker felicity and Italian flair. Definitely one of the new young lions of jazz to watch out for, he brings with him Jonathan Gee (piano), Roger Beaujolais (vibes), Simon Thorpe (bass) and Dave Ohm (drums).

2007 Friday, 8 June 8.30, Ticket £16 – Jacqui Dankworth – Sorry, sold out!

It is a great pleasure to welcome back Jacqui who has a devoted and ever-expanding audience. With her conspicuous English enunciation and irrestible low register, she has been described by John Fordham of The Guardian as having “ble and expressive voice of her generation, regardless of genre” is accompanied by Malcolm Edmonstone on piano, Chris Allard on guitar, Alex Dankworth on bass and Andrew Bain on drums.

2007 Friday, 15 June 8.30, Ticket £14 – Paul Towndrow Sextet

Scottish saxophonist Paul Towndrow is a highly impressive young player. Influenced by Tommy Smith, he plays jazz the way it should be played – straight from the soul. With a sound grounded in bebop and swing he explores well beyond those conventions in his playing and writing. Paul brings an exceptional Sextet with him featuring Tom MacNiven (trumpet), Konrad Wiszniewski (tenor saxophone), Steve Hamilton (piano), Michael Janisch (bass) and Alyn Cosker (drums).

[the amasing Mark Hodgson provided the bass register for this hugely exciting gig.]

2007 Friday, 22 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – David Newton and Michael Hanson

Two of our favourite musicians –ton (piano), and Michael Hanson (guitar) return to the Fleece for an evening of breathtaking technical ability, melody, harmony, rhythmic sophistication and supreme entertainment.

2007 Friday, 29 June 8.30, Ticket £12 – Dylan Howe Quintet

Drummer Dylan Howe’ply unmissable. If you didn’you might assume that this stellar band came from one of the more advanced Blue Note sessions of the mid sixties. This is serious, inspiring, mature and invigorating mainstream hard bop jazz at its very best. With Quentin Collins (trumpet), Graham Blevins (saxophone), Ross Stanley (piano) and Chris Hill (double bass).

2007 Friday, 6 July 8.30, Ticket £14 – Disassembler

Formed in 2003 by guitarist Trevor Warren, Disassembler combines the rhythms of modern dance, groove, rock, Indian, Middle Eastern and African music. The impressive line-up of improvising jazz musicians is Annie Whitehead trombone, Mark Lockheart saxophone, Dave Priseman trumpet, Dudley Phillips bass and Winston Clifford drums.

2007 Friday, 13 July 8.30, Ticket £15 – Steve Fishwick Quartet with Scott Hamilton

Hard bop trumpeter Steve Fishwick has played with most leading UK and US jazz musicians including Anita O’Day, Herb Geller, Lanny Morgan and Scott Hamilton who accompanies him tonight at the Fleece together with Colin Oxley guitar, Dave Green bass and Steve Brown drums. Steve’titled ‘ Hard Bop Records. “ one of the finest trumpeters we’ this country.”zzwise.

2007 Friday, 20 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Barb Jungr – Sorry, sold out!

Combining a European heritage with an earthy northern English sensibility, Barb Jungr’inging and song styling owes a debt to northern soul, jazz and opera that informed her early years. She has a string of critically acclaimed albums behind her, the latest of which is entitled ‘ Sun’nn Records. This is powerfully sung gospel and blues in a stunning new arrangement. Barb brings with her MD pianist Jenny Carr and organ and hamonica player Jessica Lauren for what is sure to be a memorable evening

2007 Friday, 27 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Charlotte Glasson Quintet

Saxophonist, writer and arranger Charlotte Glasson started fronting her own jazz band while studying for a classical music degree at Kingston University. Since then she has worked with Claire Martin, Ian Shaw, Lea De Laria, Oasis, and The Divine Comedy to name but a few! Charlotte brings with her Dave Holdsworth piano, Dan Hewson trombone, Jason Henson guitar and Dave Ohm drums. Charlotte� on 33 Records is highly recommended.

2007 Friday, 3 August 8.30, Ticket £20 – Stan Tracey Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Pianist, composer and arranger Stan Tracey makes a very welcome return to the Fleece. Not only a truly iconic figure in British jazz, Stan is also renowned by jazz fans worldwide. Inspired by Ellington and Monk he has consistently displayed a distinctive sometimes quirkily personal touch in his playing. With the unmistakable saxophone sound of Bobby Wellins, the bass of Andy Cleyndert and the drums of Clark Tracey this is an evening to savour.

2007 Friday, 10 August 8.30, Ticket £15 – Alan Skidmore – Sorry, sold out!

British jazz legend Alan Skidmore goes a considerable way to recreating the atmosphere of a John Coltrane gig. Here is a man for all seasons, a player with immense physical and imaginative stamina, who is at home in any context, from tight structures to total abstraction, and with any tempo, from breakneck to slow. Alan’ompleted by Steve Melling piano, Mick Coady bass and Ian Palmer drums. Alan�of John Coltrane”c) was recorded live here at the Fleece by our sound man David Lyons in December 2005.

2007 Friday, 17 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Victoria Newton – Sorry, sold out!

This effervescent Australian vocalist has delighted audiences worldwide with her unique combination of energy, spontaneity and musicianship. Victoria is one of the best exponents of Latin/jazz vocals around with a rich sensual voice and a powerful charismatic stage presence. Her classy band is Tim Lapthorn piano, Steve Rose bass and Mike Bradley drums.

2007 Friday, 24 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Lewis Wright

The transition from drums to piano and finally vibraphone produced a young musician whose talent defied belief when he made his Fleece debut aged 15 in April 2004. Lewis leads his quartet of Simon Brown piano, Andy Doyle bass and Will Clark drums for what promises to be another storming gig.

2007 Friday, 31 August 8.30, Ticket £12 – Blake Wilner Quartet

Blake Wilner is an individual voice on the guitar. Reflective, with a distinctive approach to composition, his pieces are lyrical, melodic and attractive. Solos are clean and spacious, and the result of concentrated thought. This is contemporary jazz at its best with some of the finest dynamic music on current offer. Blake’llaborator, expat Australian saxophonist Brandon Allen joins him together with bassist Oli Hayhurst and drummer Chris Hutchings.

[The very fine and subtle drummer on this tour is John Blease.]

2007 Friday, 7 September 8.30, Ticket £16 – Clark Tracey Quintet

These exciting young musicians currently gracing the British jazz scene have always been way ahead of their years, playing powerful straight ahead contemporary jazz. Leader Clark Tracey is not only one of the best jazz drummers around, but is also an outstanding composer and arranger. Mark Armstrong trumpet, Simon Allen saxophone, Zoe Rahman piano and Peter Billington bass, make up Clark’> “t impressive jazz drummers in Britain today”

2007 Friday, 14 September 8.30, Ticket £13 – Basil Hodge Quintet

Championed by no less a figure than Julian Joseph, Basil has forged a solid reputation in British jazz as a pianist and composer of some considerable note. He leads his stellar Quintet comprising Tony Kofi saxophone, Fulvio Sigurta trumpet, Larry Bartley bass, and Winston Clifford drums. Hard bop played with great freshness and originality –be missed.

2007 Friday, 21 September 8.30, Ticket £13 – Roger Beaujolais Quintet

British vibraphone virtuoso Roger Beaujolais’vibes playing is agile, fresh and inventive. He writes crisp idiomatic themes and chooses his material with great taste. Mark Lockheart saxophone, Robin Aspland piano, Simon Thorpe bass and Winston Clifford drums provide an extremely sophisticated backdrop for Roger’technique.

2007 Friday, 28 September 8.30, Ticket £14 – Matt Wates Sextet

Described by Duncan Lamont as “ing alto player on either side of the Atlantic”ege of Music graduate Matt Wates is a truly remarkable British alto saxophonist, a performer of boundless ability who performs in the classic be-bop style. His band boasts a three horn front line with Steve Kaldestad tenor saxophone plus Martin Shaw trumpet and flugelhorn. Leon Greening piano, Malcolm Creese bass and Steve Brown drums complete the line up. The band�on the audio-b label and is an exceptional disc.

2007 Friday, 5 October 8.30, Ticket £14 – The Annie Whitehead Experience

Annie Whitehead is undoubtedly one of the brightest and most versatile musicians in Britain whether leading one of her own bands or working with diverse British jazz luminaries. Described as the Sly and Robbie of British brass, she is the woman everyone turns to when they want a class trombone player. Playing with Annie tonight are Alistair Gavin piano, Nico Ramsden guitar, Jennifer Maidman bass and Liam Genockey drums.

2007 Friday, 12 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Cubana Bop

The music is all jazz with a strong Latin Afro-Cuban flavour as illustrated on their new CD ‘Now Hear This’. First formed in 1995 by pianist Terry Seabrook, the band now features newcomers Davide Mantovani bass, Adam Riley drums and the brilliant young trumpeter Graeme Flowers, together with stalwarts Ian Price saxophone and Satin Singh congas. Feet will not be still tonight!

2007 Friday, 19 October 8.30, Ticket £12 – Threeway

Threeway is the brainchild of Huddersfield bassist Ben Crosland who formed this exemplary jazz trio in 2004 with long term associates Steve Lodder piano and Steve Waterman trumpet and flugelhorn. The trio explores the subtle and open possibilities of a group without drums. The interplay between the players creates a natural intensity combined with an acute sensitivity to dynamics allowing the musical flair to come shinning through.

2007 Friday, 26 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – Kirk Lightsey

It’asure to welcome back jazz legend Kirk Lightsey from Detroit, Michigan, together with Steve Watts bass and Dave Wickens drums. Kirk is a pianist of immense accomplishment and versatility who has worked and recorded with scores of major jazz stars including Yusef Lateef, Bobby Hutcherson, Freddie Hubbard, Kenny Burrell, Chet Baker, Clifford Jordan, Benny Golson, Don Cherry and many others.

[We wish Steve Watts wife a speedy recovery. The estimable Lee Goodall was enticed from his Newport studio to play saxes and flute for a stunning gig.]

2007 Friday, 2 November 8.30, Ticket £13 – Jutta’

Jutta’ was formed by happy accident for a one off birthday party for Oxford-based German award winning maker of fine violin bows Jutta Walcher. Described by one critic there as ‘quite definitely slightly weird’, they perform a fascinating mix of originals and contemporary standards, coloured and contoured by their widely diverse combined backgrounds. The Band members are Christian Garrick violin, David Gordon piano, Pete Oxley guitar, Oli Hayhurst bass and Russ Morgan drums.

2007 Friday, 9 November 8.30, Ticket £13 – Trudy Kerr

Trudy Kerr sings with a mature swinging subtlety, and develops her melodic and lyrical concepts with impeccable taste and great sensitivity. She has continued to delight audiences everywhere, with a repertoire that blends the great song standards with the very best of contemporary compositions. Featuring Jan Lundgren piano, Geoff Gascoyne bass and Steve Brown drums.

2007 Friday, 16 November 8.30, Ticket £14 – Tony Kofi Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Internationally acclaimed double award winning saxophonist Tony Kofi brings his band of Jonathan Gee piano, Ben Hazleton bass and Winston Clifford drums to the Fleece. The musicians take the familiar and not-so familiar themes of Thelonious Monk giving them a contemporary feel while never losing sight of the tradition they represent.

2007 Friday, 23 November 8.30, Ticket £14 – Empirical – Sorry, sold out!

Catch this great band destined for greater things, in a small venue while you still can. Rave reviews and praise are being heaped onto these five young award winning musicians. Featuring Kit Downes piano, Nathaniel Facey alto saxophone, Jay Phelps trumpet, Tom Farmer bass and Shane Forbes drums.
“Empirical could turn out to be one of the most important bands in UK jazz history.” Jazzwise
“The most exciting band to come out of the UK.” Courtney Pine

2007 Friday, 30 November 8.30 and Saturday, 1 December 8.30, Ticket £16 – Sarah Jane Morris – Sorry, sold out!

Sarah Jane is a truly amazing singer and songwriter. One thing is certain, she shows a gleeful disregard for the boundaries between genres – pop, contemporary classical, they are all to be found in her astonishing three and a half –e vocal performance. Matt Backer guitar (Friday), Kevin Armstrong guitar (Saturday), Alistair Gavin piano, Henry Thomas bass and Martyn Barker percussion complete her band.
“A Diva for our time, her voice is a force of nature” The Observer
“Provocative and unorthodox” The New Musical Express

2007 Friday, 7 December 8.30, Ticket £14 – Theo Travis’ Double Talk – Sorry, sold out!

Double Talk is the new project of London based saxophonist and composer Theo Travis. Melody based, the music is bluesy, atmospheric and incorporates improvised multi-layers of flutes and saxophones and is influenced by the late 60’ychadelia. The band features the soulful Hammond organ of Pete Whitakker, the soaring guitar of Mike Outram and the subtle drums of Roy Dodds, a master of light and shade.

2007 Friday, 14 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Gwilym Simcock Trio – Sorry, sold out!

Congratulations to Gwilym Simcock who won the Jazz Musician of the year Award at the Parliamentary Jazz Awards 2007. One of our most gifted pianists and imaginative composers he is able to move effortlessly between jazz and classical music. At times, he can inhabit both worlds and has been described as being stylistically reminiscent of Keith Jarrett. His trio is completed by the outstanding rhythm section of Phil Donkin bass and Martin France drums.

2007 Friday, 21 December 8.30, Ticket £14 – Ian Shaw – Sorry, sold out!

Our Christmas gig features Ian Shaw, voted Best Vocalist BBC Jazz Awards for 2004 and 2007 accompanying himself on the Fleece piano. Ian has that ability to alter and re-structure a song and make it his own.
“Our finest jazz singer – Marvellous” Time Out
“He has few rivals” Sunday Times

2007 Friday, 28 December 8.30, Ticket £14 – Protect the Beat – Sorry, sold out!

Promoting their new killer album, 󈥱istering jazz groove act are sure to get you into the swing of things after Christmas. The band features high profile musicians, Derek Nash saxophones, Tim Cansfield guitar, Arden Hart keyboards and trumpet, Winston Blissett bass and Darby Todd drums. Ladies and Gentlemen –n’z!

2008 Friday, 4 January 8.30, Ticket £16 – The Passion – Sorry, sold out!

Acclaimed award winners in their own right Jacqui Dankworth, Liane Carroll, and Sara Coleman come together to form The Passion –mbination of three exquisite voices. Moving, funny, exciting, exhilarating, surprising –s at the piano, their performance of jazz classics, contemporary covers and original songs never fail to delight and inspire audiences.

2008 Friday, 11 January 8.30, Ticket £14 – Partisans – Sorry, sold out!

British jazz rock group Partisans, formed in 1996, have led the way for the new generation of jazz artists in the UK with their combination of the energy of a rock band with the subtlety and improvisational brilliance of world class jazz musicians. Julian Siegal saxophone, Phil Robson guitar, Thad Kelly bass and Gene Calderazzo drums.

2008 Friday, 18 January 8.30, Ticket £14 – The New Jazz Couriers – Sorry, sold out!

This great band keeps alive the legacy of a classic iconic British modern jazz group co-led by Tubby Hayes and Ronnie Scott between 1957 and 1960. The New Couriers play with all the flair, dynamism and intensity of its previous incarnation. The modern day New Couriers are Steve Melling piano, Mornington Lockett saxophone, Jim Hart vibes, Paul Morgan bass and Martin Drew drums.

2008 Friday, 25 January 8.30, Ticket £15 – David Rees-Williams Trio – Sorry, sold out!

The David Reese-Williams Trio brings us something very special in the world of jazz and like the Jacques Loussier Trio base much of their music on classical composers, who were themselves improvisers, walking a tightrope between classical and jazz reworking existing tunes to stunning effect. They are David Rees-Williams piano, Neil Francis electric bass and Phil Laslett drums.
“The trio far outstrips anything achieved by Jacques Loussier or the Swingles. They are on another plane and deserve huge recognition” Jon Snow, Evening Standard
“Beautiful, subtle and dramatic” HMV Choice

2008 Friday, 1 February 8.30, Ticket £20 – Stan Tracey – Sorry, sold out!

Pianist, composer and arranger Stan Tracey makes a swift and very welcome return to The Fleece. Not only is Stan an iconic figure in British jazz, he is also renowned by jazz fans worldwide. Inspired by Ellington and Monk he has consistently displayed a distinctive sometimes quirkily personal touch in his playing. With the unmistakable saxophone sound of Bobby Wellins, the bass of Andy Cleyndert and drums of Clark Tracey.

2008 Friday, 8 February 8.30, Ticket £16 – Peter King – Sorry, sold out!

It is always a pleasure to welcome back British jazz legend Peter King, the finest alto saxophonist this country has ever produced. Peter continues to release album after album to much critical acclaim and to delight his many fans. The other three members of this top drawer quartet are Steve Melling piano and the new rhythm team of Geoff Gascoyne bass and Martin Drew drums.

2008 Friday, 15 February 8.30, Ticket £16 – Tina May – Sorry, sold out!

One of the brightest singing stars on the scene today who cemented her Jazz Diva reputation by recording in New York classics of the American songbook with pianist Ray Bryant, the veteran accompanist of Ella, Billy and Betty Carter and a fan of Tina’ first met in Paris in 1997 and who knows a good voice when he hears one! Accompanying Tina tonight are three stars in their own right, Nikki Iles piano, Phil Donkin bass and Winston Clifford drums.

[Our excellent drummer on a wonderful gig was Stephen Keogh.]

2008 Friday, 22 February 8.30, Ticket £32 – Freternity – Sorry, sold out!

Usually seen in much larger venues these five world class British musicians, who need no introduction, help us celebrate fifteen years of Jazz at The Fleece with your support – here’t fifteen! Martin Taylor guitar, Guy Barker trumpet, David Newton piano, Dave Green bass and Steve Brown drums..

[This superb gig was made even better by the contribution of singer Alison Barnes.]

2008 Friday, 29 February 8.30, Ticket £20 – Michael Garrick’xtet – Sorry, sold out!

Pianist, prolific composer and national treasure Michael Garrick has been leading bands since the 50’tive in the jazz and poetry movement of the mid sixties. Take a trip down memory lane with us as we present the Michael Garrick Reunion Sextet featuring Norma Winstone vocals, Henry Lowther trumpet, Art Themen saxophone, Dave Green bass and Trevor Thompkins drums – gig that no one will want to miss.

2008 Friday, 7 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Judy Lewis

At the age of 17 Judy was a nationally recognised classical pianist in the US but today she is known internationally as a unique performer and composer of refreshingly new stylistic contemporary jazz music with five critically acclaimed albums to her credit. She brings with her Dave Marks on bass and Motti Cohen on drums.
“A rare phenomenon”
“No clone of anybody else”. John Fordham, The Guardian

2008 Friday, 14 March 8.30, Ticket £13 – Daryl Sherman

Daryl Sherman is not only a wonderful singer, but also a world class jazz pianist. Her swinging approach is sprinkled with anecdotes instrumental solos and creative vocal interpretations, from the Great American Songbook. She is accompanied by Dave Cliff guitar and Jeremy Brown bass.
“Effervescent and madly talented” Rex Reed, New York Observer
“A first rate singer / musician” Artie Shaw

2008 Friday, 21 March 8.30, Ticket £14 – Simon Spillett Quartet – Sorry, sold out!

Simon Spillett is a formidable saxophonist, composer, writer and graduate of the hard bop school. The influence of Tubby Hayes and Johnny Griffin can be detected in his sound and harmonic thinking. Simon brings with him John Critchinson piano, Andy Cleyndert bass and Spike Wells drums.

[Andy couldn’t be with us tonight. Our dep on bass was the wonderful Alec Dankworth.]

2008 Friday, 28 March 8.30, Ticket £15 – The Snake Davis Band – Sorry, sold out!

A virtuoso saxophonist Snake has a passionate and bluesy approach in his playing. He is constantly in demand from the biggest names in the business. Snake is accompanied by Paul Birchall Hammond Organ and keys, Michael Olatuja bass and Bryan Hargreaves drums.
“He doesn’” The Guardian

2008 Friday, 4 April 8.30, Ticket £13 – The Ronnie Scott Legacy

For our very last gig before our move we have saxophonist Pat Crumly and pianist John Critchinson have achieved great acclaim over the last eleven years as leaders of The Ronnie Scott Legacy Quartet. Formed shortly after Ronnie’ecember 1996 the Quartet celebrate his music, spirit and humour. The line up also includes the fine American bass player Tim Wells and the dynamic drumming of Mark Fletcher. Pat was one of Ronnie’players, (he used to dep for him) and John was his pianist for 18 years.

2008 Friday, 11 April 8.30, Ticket £23 – Claire Martin – Sorry, sold out!

Who better to inaugurate our new venue than Claire Martin? She is a standout jazz artist, instantly recognisable as a unique and impressive, creative vocal performer who’or interpreting a song transforms it in something more than just words and music. Her latest album is a tribute to the late Shirley Horn and is called “tioned love”accompanied by Gareth Williams piano, Laurence Cottle on bass and James Maddren on drums.

2008 Friday, 18 April 8.30, Ticket £13 – Quentin Collins Quartet

Quentin Collins is an outstanding hard bop young trumpet virtuoso with sharp ears, quick reactions and tremendous panache. Among his influences are Freddie Hubbard, Lee Morgan, Woody Shaw and Clifford Brown. His superb Quartet is completed by Jim Hart vibes, Michael Janisch bass and Paul Wiltgen drums.

[The young and very talented Sam Lasserson played bass for a wonderful gig.]

2008 Friday, 25 April 8.30, Ticket £13 – Alan Barnes Stuart Hall and Paul Clarvis

This UK Trio is the kind of eccentric enthusiastic jazz oddity that gives retro-jazz a good name. The Trio play a collection of tunes associated with 1930’ Benny Goodman, creatively reappraised by Alan Barnes clarinet, guitarist Stuart Hall and the former classical percussionist turned jazz and contemporary drummer Paul Clarvis. An evening of swing is assured!

2008 Friday, 2 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – John Law Trio

John Law is renowned as one of Europe’rovising pianists. Balance poise and a sense of beauty define not just the sound of the piano but also the compositions. Drive, energy and virtuosity are the hallmarks of the driven bass lines and singing tones of Sam Burgess and the world class drum phenomenon that is Asaf Sirkis.

[Our bassist tonight was the wonderful Martin Creese. He played beautifully, even when the air conditioning system rained on him: a great evening filled with musical and other forms of excitement.]

2008 Friday, 9 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – Killer Shrimp

Led by two of Europe’zz musician’Damon Brown and saxophonist Ed Jones, Killer Shrimp is completed by the talented rhythm section of bassist Mark Hodgson and drummer Alyn Cosker. Their music stays close to the spirit of jazz, but incorporating some different rhythms and more open textures. Hip/Hop, Drum n Bass, Funky and Latin grooves rub shoulders with straight ahead swing and look out for the bands new CD.

[Luke Flowers was our debut and delightful drummer this evening.]

2008 Friday, 16 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – Karen Lane

Cathie Rae is ill, and will not be able to do the gig. We wish her a speedy recovery
We are delighted that Karen Lane, a very highly thought of Australian singer has agreed to take her place. She has worked across many genres, on projects as varied as music for theatre and TV, through to conceiving and co-producing Australia’s first women singer songwriters’ festival. Karen is accompanied by trumpeter Colin Steele, pianist Paul Harrison and bassist Calum Gourlay.

2008 Friday, 23 May 8.30, Ticket £13 – John Etheridge and Christian Garrick

Internationally acclaimed duo John Etheridge guitar and Christian Garrick violin have been associated with each other for an incredible 28 years! Featuring music from their Dimming of the Day CD the pair, have stunned audiences with their range, dynamism, flexibility and spirit of adventure. Covering ground from Reinhardt –o modern multi-layered texturing these two musicians weave a colourful tapestry of brilliant sound.

2008 Friday, 30 May 8.30, Ticket £14 – Dylan Howe’

Drummer Dylan Howe’uartet, Unity Four have been creating quite a stir recently. Saluting and redesigning the music of organist Larry Young’d Yasin) groundbreaking Blue Note album ‘band feature Tony Kofi saxophone, Mike Outram guitar and Ross Stanly Hammond Organ. “DH excelled himself with this new project” Time Out

2008 Friday, 6 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Leon Greening Quartet

Pianist Leon Greening debuts as leader of his own Quartet and what a Quartet it is featuring the great British alto saxophonist Alex Garnett, Mike Janish bass and drummer Steve Brown. Leon’ary solos inspired by the likes of Wynton Kelly and Bud Powell keep audiences on the edge of their seats and mark him out as one of the finest jazz pianist that this country has ever produced. We can all highly recommend Leon’/b>

[A stunning evening with musicians who absolutely caught fire, including drummer David Little.]

2008 Friday, 13 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Georgia Mancio

Award winning vocalist Georgia Mancio performs material from her recent CD Trapeze, an intriguing blend of standards, Brazilian classics, Chilean folk and popular Cuban and Italian songs. She brings with her Gareth Lockrane flutes, John Pearce piano, Dave Green bass and Dave Ohm drums.
“Sultry, breathy, Latin tinged jazz from Georgia –hottest singers on the circuit” The Evenning Standard
“Georgia has the full package: great voice, highly professional stage presence…l material” Global Jazz Scene

[It has been 10 years since Julie Walkington
has graced our stage with her wonderful bass playing. It won’t be another
10 before we see her again.]

2008 Friday, 20 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Nicolas Meier

Multi award winning Swiss guitarist Nicolas Meier’s knowledge of the guitar allows him to play Jazz, Latin, Oriental, Flamenco, Rock and Heavy Metal, but expect to hear strong Turkish and Middle Eastern influences with Flamenco. All these feature in the band’itled ‘ Silence Talks’t features Greg Heath saxophone, Tom Mason bass and Asaf Sirkis drums.
“Meier is elegant in tone and bubbling with ideas…ity as a writer, a player and a team leader dispatches any doubts” John Fordham the Guardian

2008 Friday, 27 June 8.30, Ticket £13 – Brandon Allen Quintet

Influenced by John Coltrane, Charlie Parker and Lester Young amongst others fiery Australian saxophonist Brandon Allen brings his stellar Quintet of Chris Allard guitar, Ross Stanley piano, Oli Hayhurst and Nick Smalley drums to Kersey Mill in what promises to be one great gig.
“Wombat jazz…”

[Our stellar bass player tonight was Arnie Somoygi.]

2008 Friday, 4 July 8.30, Ticket £16 – Scenes in the City –f Charles Mingus

Arizona born Charles Mingus was the first bassist of his generation to ignore the harmonic fundamentals when soloing and to imitate saxophone and piano lines. As his presence recedes further into the past it becomes clear that his was a unique contribution to jazz and this stellar band led by master bass player Arnie Somoygi with Alan Barnes saxophone, Tony Kofi saxophone, Alistair White trombone, Mark Edwards piano, and Clark Tracey drums re-creates the his music.

2008 Friday, 11 July 8.30, Ticket £12 – Alex Hutton

Pianist Alex Hutton is considered one of the leading new young pianists to have emerged on the UK scene over the past few years. Alex reveals a rich vein of composing skills on his second album, ‘e Seven Hills’ck to his childhood memories of life in and around the city of Sheffield. With a dream like quality the music reflects echoes of children’rch music, folk songs and classical impressions but always with a jazz musician’aring –y, hard swinging jazz with a definite European flavour. Arnie Somoygi bass and Enzo Zirilli drums.

2008 Friday, 18 July 8.30, Ticket £14 – Toscha Comeaux

Charismatic US soul-jazz Diva Toscha Comeaux has shared the stage with the likes of Ray Charles, Diana Ross and Lou Rawls. Backed by a swinging three-piece American band, Toscha’stage presence supports a stunning voice that has earned her a loyal fan base in the States. Expect to hear familiar jazz standards reminiscent of Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Cole Porter and Gershwin along side originals from her new album, `This Could Be Love` –issed! She brings with her Willerm Delisforte on piano, Anthony Chatman on bass and drummer Rod Youngs.
“Toscha’e was nothing short of enchanting” Steinway, Orlando
“Toscha is a major talent and a delight” Appleton Museum of Art

2008 Friday, 25 July 8.30, Ticket £13 – Chris Laurence Quartet

Bassist Chris Laurence has been the driving force behind many projects encompassing all musical styles –jazz rock, and film music. Chris has featured on albums with many stars including Elton John, Sting, David Gilmour, Paul McCartney, Joni Mitchell and guitarist John Williams. His recording debut as leader has come decades into an illustrious career – View’ is highly recommended. Tonight sees him with Frank Ricotti vibraphone, John Parricelli guitar and Martin France drums.

2008 Friday, 1 August 8.30, Ticket £13 – Barb Jungr

With rave reviews internationally and two prestigious New York Awards Barb is renowned for her unique vocal style, approach to arrangements and interpretations of song. Her acclaimed releases for Linn Records and her live performances have brought her to the world stage and revealed her to be one of Europe’ing voices. Featuring Jenny Carr piano, Jessica Lauren organ and harmonica and songs from Barb’ hymn to her heroine Nina Simone ‘Just like a woman –a’.

2008 Friday, 8 August 8.30, Ticket £16 – Spanish Accents

Alec Dankworth’ing love of all things Spanish provides the inspiration for this group. Metheny, Corea and even Rodrigo are reinvented alongside traditional folk songs in flamenco rhythms creating a wonderful and genuinely Spanish world. A heady mix of top British players – Phil Robson guitar, saxophonist Mark Lockheart, Chris Garrick`s gorgeous violin and Alec Dankworth`s bass interweaving with the genuinely Spanish drumwork of Fred Thomas and percussion of Demi Garcia ensure this will be unmissable.

2008 Friday, 15 August 8.30, Ticket £13 – Michael Hanson and Friends

We didn’d any! –g! We all wish guitarist Michael Hanson a very Happy 60th Birthday with this evening’lestone celebration. Friends include David Newton piano, Andy Cleyndert bass and Andy Trim drums.

2008 Friday, 22 August 8.30, Ticket £16 – Byron Wallen Indigo

Trumpeter Byron Wallen is widely recognised as a seminal figure in the world of jazz and as such is one of the most dynamic and versatile jazz voices currently on the British scene. Firmly rooted in the jazz tradition, this powerful composer/player has performed with such luminaries as Ralph Moore, Billy Higgins, Eddie Henderson, Wynton Marsalis and Freddie Hubbard. His new album `Revelations in Small Steps` featuring the Indigo band live is to be released imminently. Tony Kofi saxophone, Larry Bartley bass and Tom Skinner complete the line up.

2008 Friday, 29 August 8.30, Ticket £13 – Pete Churchill

Pianist and singer Pete Churchill has worked with many of the leading jazz names here and abroad and for the last decade has been the UK Musical Director for the legendary American Jazz singer Mark Murphy. Pete has travelled worldwide in his capacity as a choral director and educator. He brings with him the great Scottish saxophonist Bobby Wellins, Steve Watts bass and Errol Roberts drums.

2008 Friday, 5 September 8.30, Ticket £20 – The Dan Stern Group featuring Andy Sheppard

London born South African saxophonist Dan Stern can boast saxophone lessons from former Miles Davis virtuoso Dave Liebman and others. A remarkable talent whether playing and writing for jazz trios or a symphony orchestra, Dan is impressing musicians and audiences alike with his beguiling vision of contemporary music. He brings with him the great Andy Sheppard saxophone, Robert Mitchell piano, Tom Mason bass and Asaf Sirkis drums.
“…n to watch.” Chris Parker
“…ew talent at work.” Time Out

2008 Friday, 12 September 8.30, Ticket £15 – Dave Lewis Band

Dave Lewis is a soulful and funky American saxophonist originally from St.Louis, but now resident in the UK. He has worked widely as a freelance player, his influences being Dexter Gordon, Joe Henderson and Stanley Turrentine. Vocalist Rachel Calladine, Tim Lapthorne piano, Adam Phillips guitar, Neville Malcolm bass, Peter Eckford percussion and Rod Youngs drums complete this exciting band. We can recommend the band’’Turn it Around’.

[Noel McCalla is ill, and we wish him a speedy recovery. We are very grateful to Rachel for depping at such short notice.]

2008 Friday, 19 September 8.30, Ticket £13 – The Organ Trio with Stan Sulzmann

Nominated in the Best Ensemble category of the 2007 All Party Parliamentary Jazz Awards this big sounding Organ Trio has Mike Gorman on the keys, Jim Mullen guitar, Matt Skelton drums and, special guest, the stellar saxophonist Stan Sulzmann adding extra finesse to the proceedings. With each player demonstrating his dexterity and mastery of his chosen instrument we can expect a liberated swinging evening of great jazz. Look out for the band’ch is released in 2008.
This gig is taking place in the original Kersey Mill, which was the last working steam and water powered mill in the UK. Tickets are limited for this gig.

2008 Friday, 26 September 8.30, Ticket £13 – Benn Clatworthy

Largely unheralded but the equal of anyone Joshua Redman included, Benn has been a staple in Los Angeles for the past two decades where he has played virtually every night. Benn has released no fewer than eleven CDs to critical acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic. Tonight Benn is joined by Robin Aspland piano, Simon Thorpe bass and Martin Drew drums.
“A Master Player” LA Weekly
“Brilliant” London Evening Standard
“Astounds Everyone” The Observer

2008 Friday, 3 October 8.30, Ticket £20 – Gilad With Strings

Charlie Parker’rd with Strings made Gilad Atzmon the musician he is today by inspiring him to pick up a saxophone at the age of seventeen. Jazz in the 50’s and 60’s was a reflection of urban life, now Gilad’s own music reflects our own social environment and as such, twenty eight years later he has decided to give Parker’s music and string arrangements his own touch, by rearranging them, but still keeping the essence of the original music. Backed by Frank Harrison piano, Yaron Stavi bass, Asaf Sirkis drums, the Sigamos String Quartet who are :- Ross Stephen violin, Emil Chakalov violin, Rachel Robson viola and Laura Moody cello.

2008 Friday, 10 October 8.30, Ticket £20 – Stan Tracey Trio featuring Guy Barker and Benjamin Herman

With a distinguished career that has spanned six decades of flourishing creativity, pianist Stan Tracey (the godfather of British jazz) has been a highly influential and stimulating musical voice, not only to his peers but to each successive generation of musicians with which he has worked. Guy Barker is a world class post bop trumpeter, who’ technically impeccable and shows a mastery of all styles and tones. From Holland comes Benjamin Herman, who has been a major influence on the Dutch Jazz scene. He has released around twenty albums under his own name. He and Stan met at a festival in Holland a few years ago and Benjamin took it one stage further, releasing a collaboration on his own label, “essions”ar’stival they were joined by Guy.

Andy Cleyndert bass and Clark Tracey drums make up this fantastic top drawer line up.

2008 Friday, 17 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – The Minimum Trio

The Minimum Trio were formed in Barcelona at the end of 2005. The Trio have an intimate and original take on the standard repertoire and their own original compositions that draw on jazz, soul and Brazilian rhythms. Trumpeter Damon Brown plays with warmth and fluidity that allows him to find considerable variations from the norm therefore making his work worthy of attention. Francesc Capella piano and vocalist Laia Porter complete this stunning trio’b>

2008 Friday, 24 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – Renato D’Aiello Quartet

Italian tenor saxophonist star Renato D’Aiello has a relaxed unhurried style. His playing is intense but at the same time warm and poignant. He showcases one of the most attractive and affecting tenor saxophone sounds in contemporary jazz. Ross Stanley piano Nicola Muresu bass and Massimo Russino make up this star studded Italian Quartet.

2008 Friday, 31 October 8.30, Ticket £13 – Roger Beaujolais Quintet

The vibraphone is capable of great tonal variety, from tinkling of icicles to a warm pulsating cloud of sound and Roger Beaujolais deploys it all with consummate skill, agility, delicacy and invention. He is a player who could frighten any vibes virtuoso on either side of the Atlantic. Roger brings with him a stellar band consisting of Dave Lewis saxophone, Robin Aspland piano, Simon Thorpe bass and Winston Clifford drums.

2008 Friday, 7 November 8.30, Ticket £15 – David Rees-Williams Trio

This trio was formed in 1988 and features David Rees-Williams on piano, Neil Francis bass and Phil Laslett drums. The trio base much of their music on classical composers, who were themselves improvisers walking a tightrope between classical and jazz re-workings of existing tunes to stunning effect.
“The David Rees-Williams trio have just got better and better their new recording of jazz forays into the classical repertoire is just magical”, The Guardian.
“Jacques Loussier may have done it first but David Rees-Williams does it better” Tony Augarde, Music Web.

2008 Friday, 14 November 8.30, Ticket £13 – Sam Crockatt

Saxophonist Sam Crockatt leads this stellar quartet featuring Gwilym Simcock on piano, Oli Hayhurst on double bass and Ben Reynolds drums. The group has been together for three years and have developed its own signature sound. The music is a mix of swing, groove and freer elements, but it is definitely based on melody. Sam is the only saxophonist to have deppedt for Tim Garland in Acoustic Triangle.He is also a member of the Loop Collective which has been attracting a good deal of media attention. Look out for the group’s eagerly awaited debut album.

2008 Friday, 21 November 8.30, Ticket £13 – Kirk Lightsey

Piano jazz legend Kirk Lightsey defines himself as a Detroit pianist incorporating a Bud Powell awareness with an Art Tatum styling together with a bebop feeling. A pianist of immense accomplishment and versatility Kirk has worked with scores of major jazz stars including Yusef Lateef, Betty Carter, Bobby Hutchinson, Sony Stitt, Chet Baker, James Moody, Freddie Hubbard, Harold Land, Kenny Burrell, Dexter Gordon and Benny Golson. Kirk’ences are Hank Jones and Tommy Flannagen. The trio is completed by two of the very finest musicians on the current music scene, Steve Watts bass and percussionist / drummer Dave Wickins.

2008 Friday, 28 November 8.30 and Saturday, 29 November 8.30, Ticket £15 – Sarah Jane Morris

Sarah Jane Morris is a truly amazing singer and songwriter who shows a gleeful disregard for the boundaries between genres. Jazz, soul, pop and contemporary classical are all to be found in her amazing three and a half octave range. Sarah Jane brings with her the stellar band of Martyn Barker drums, Alistair Gavin piano and keyboards, Tony Remy guitar and Henry Thomas bass. Look out for the new album, ‘Migratory Bird’ recorded with guitarist Marc Ribot and another planned CD release early in 2009 called, ‘Where It Hurts’.
“When that throaty, extraordinarily-deep voice comes booming out of that pale auburn-haired face, it’ the possession scene from the Exorcist” (Evening Standard)

2008 Friday, 5 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Paul Towndrow Quartet

Scottish alto saxophonist Paul Towndrow is a highly impressive player. Inspired by the great saxophonist Tommy Smith, Paul plays jazz the way it should be played –om the soul. He brings with him an exceptional band, Steve Hamilton piano, Michael Janisch bass and Alyn Cosker drums –y straight ahead jazz at its very best!

[Our bass player on a wonderful evening of jazz was Euan Burton]

2008 Saturday, 13 December 8.30, Ticket £13 – Nikki Iles

Pianist Nikki Iles needs little introduction to Fleece audiences, her sparkling performances and personality have been entrancing us for years. Nikki is a superb pianist, skill full improviser, gifted composer and accompanist, as well as a widely respected teacher. Mike Walker guitar, Steve Watts bass and Geoff Williams drums complete her superb band for what will be one great unmissable gig.

[Dave Green was the estimable bassist on this gig.]

2008 Saturday, 27 December 8.00, Ticket £16 – Derek Nash and Friends

Saxophonist Derek Nash fresh from the Jools Holland Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, hot foots it to Kersey Mill for what is sure to be a barn storming dance up! Derek’clude Ben Waters keyboards – Jools Hollands best young pretender, Geoff Gascoyne bass and Sebastiaan De Krom drums. An unmissable gig to shake off those Christmas blues too!

2009 Friday, 2 January 8.00, Ticket £15 – Liane Carroll – Sorry, sold out!

Please note the change of date to our marvelous end of season Christmas gig, which sees the return of the multi award winning pianist / singer Liane Carroll with Roger Carey bass and Mark Fletcher drums. Liane has a remarkable vocal delivery, both powerful and soulful. She can when the mood takes her have you in tears one moment with a sad ballad and wooping it up the next with something riotously up tempo! She is also very good between numbers! Her new DVD, ‘Liane Live’ can only add to her growing reputation around the world.

2009 Friday, 9 January 8.00, Ticket £16 – Empirical

Relax – the future of British jazz is safe in these guys hands as all who saw their last storming gig at the Fleece can testify. They play with a maturity that belies their ages. Maintaining the roots of traditional modern jazz but with a finger on the pulse of the contemporary world these four young award winning musicians are Nathaniel Facey alto saxophone, Lewis Wright vibes, Tom Farmer bass and Shaney Forbes drums.

2009 Friday, 16 January 8.00, Ticket £13 – Bryan Corbett

Birmingham based Bryan Corbett is one of the UK’plished trumpet players. He brings with him Levi French keyboards, Ben Markland bass and Neil Bullock drums. The quartet are influenced by the classic Blue Note albums of the 50󈧕the leader taking particular inspiration from his trumpet hero Freddie Hubbard. However this is no mere recycling of the past. This band is a distinctly contemporary outfit playing music with energy, vitality and tremendous technical ability. Look out for their new CD, ‘’

2009 Friday, 23 January 8.00, Ticket £13 – Liam Noble

Dave Brubeck’rare charm and transparent elegance, which has led to its considerable commercial success. This highly interactive trio of Liam Noble piano, Dave Whitford bass and Dave Wickins drums / percussion re-evaluates his legacy through an expanded contemporary language playing music from “Brubeck”, their new CD on Basho Records.
“This CD will be an inspiration and a challenge for me to carry on in the avenues that you have opened. I’e so far into the unknown as you three but I have opened the door and peeked in. Your CD is an invitation to enter”. Dave Brubeck

2009 Friday, 30 January 8.00, Ticket £13 – Sarah Moule

In the past few years singer Sarah Moule has established a growing reputation as one of Britain’ing new vocal talents. Developing from her previous work, her new CD ‘A Lazy Kind of Love’ shows a newfound depth and character in her vocal approach and spotlights Sarah’tions. Sarah is accompanied by her exceptional regular trio of Simon Wallace piano, Mark Hodgson bass and Paul Robinson drums.

2009 Friday, 6 February 8.00, Ticket £14 – Mark Crooks

Whether on clarinet or tenor saxophone Mark Crooks is sure to delight with his brilliance as indeed are the other members of this stellar quintet – Colin Oxley guitar, John Pearce piano, Dave Chamberlain bass and Matt Skelton drums. Mark’m, ‘After You’ released in September 2008 to great acclaim and he has recently been invited to play both Benny Goodman and Artie Shaw programmes complete with orchestra at several prestigious venues.

[Simon Thorpe was tonight’s bassist, playing his socks off, and having a grand time doing it.]

2009 Friday, 13 February 8.00, Ticket £20 – Guy Barker and Ian Shaw

Two of our best loved musicians, Guy Barker trumpet and Ian Shaw vocals and piano come together to go to the movies. This is a new show exploring popular and little known gems from Hollywood and beyond.

2009 Friday, 20 February 8.00, Ticket £14 – Mark Lockheart

Mark Lockheart is one of the most distinctive and creative musicians on the current British music scene. As a saxophonist and composer his work often defies categorisation and crosses the boundaries of the jazz, new music and folk. Mark’ completed by Liam Noble piano, Dave Priseman trumpet, Jasper Holby bass and Dave Smith drums.

[Chris Batchelor’s trumpet help to make this great gig greater.]

2009 Friday, 27 February 8.00, Ticket £17 – Damon Brown Quintet featuring Steve Grossman

Trumpeter Damon Brown brings an all star band of Steve Grossman saxophone, Robin Aspland piano, Mark Hodgson bass and Troy Miller drums to Kersey Mill. Steve Grossman’al career began in 1969 as Wayne Shorter’t in the Miles Davis jazz fusion band. From 1971-1973 he was in the Elvin Jones band, since then he has with great distinction led his own groups.

[A blessed evening of superb music, with Sebastiaan de Krom on drums.]

2009 Friday, 6 March 8.00, Ticket £16 – Lillian Boutte – Sorry, sold out!

Tonight will see the long awaited return of singer Lillian Boutte. When Lillian was named New Orleans Musical Ambassador in 1986 she was the second jazz legend in the city’ be accorded this honour – the first being none other than Louis Armstrong. Lillian continues to capture the hearts and ears of listeners from the Mississppi Delta to Bondi Beach performing her special brand of R&B, Jal. Lillian’m>Denny Ilett guitar, Tom Pilling piano, Andy Crowdy bass and Scott Hammond drums.

2009 Friday, 13 March 8.00, Ticket £13 – Joe Stilgoe

Set to enchant audiences everywhere with his charm, wit and great talent as both vocalist and piano player Joe Stilgoe is also a songwriter of skill far beyond his years. His trio is completed by Chris Hill bass and Ben Reynolds drums. ‘I Like This One’ is Joe’his three CD deal with Candid Records – Highly recommended!!
“Well, stone the crows, this Joseph is a clever kid”. Sir Tim Rice
“Joe’s playing is so fluent it borders on virtuosity. Not since Oscar Peterson’s halcyon days have I heard a young jazz piano player who could be compared to such a great artist in both technique and inspiration”. Sir John Dankworth

[In fact, Geoff Gascoyne was the bassist and John Bleese the drummer on this joyous gig.]

2009 Friday, 20 March 8.00, Ticket £15 – Marlene VerPlanck (GIG CANCELLED)

On Monday (9/03/09) Marlene found out that her husband Billy had been taken ill, and she immediately flew home and cancelled the remainder of her tour. We all send her and Billy our wishes for a speedy recovery

If you have purchased tickets for this gig, please call David Gasson on 01787 211865

Marlene VerPlanck is a contemporary American singer who can stand comparison with the all time greats. Her voice is matched by a flawless technique, her choice of material is highly individual displaying impeccable taste and her accompaniment is always of the highest order. Robin Aspland piano, Paul Morgan bass, Mark Fletcher drums.

2009 Friday, 27 March 8.00, Ticket £14 – Gareth Williams Trio

Pianist and multi instrumentalist Gareth Williams started his training as a doctor before switching to music full time. Gareth is probably best known to Fleece audiences as the brilliant pianist who accompanies award winning British jazz singer Claire Martin. Gareth has also played alongside Bud Shanks, James Moody, Dave Liebman, Tim Garland, Iain Bellamy and Tommy Smith. His trio is Laurence Cottle bass and drummer Ian Thomas fresh from a world tour with Eric Clapton.

2009 Friday, 3 April 8.00, Ticket £17 – Bobby Wellins

The Scottish saxophonist Bobby Wellins rates this quartet, now together for five years, of Mark Edwards piano, Andrew Cleyndert double bass and Spike Wells drums, as his best ever. Bobby’ and instantly recognisable sound stands up against any tenor saxophonist in the world, living or dead. The quartet’apshot” is a live recording –piece coming from various venues and is a selection of contrasting tunes designed to illustrate the various moods and styles of the band’

2009 Friday, 10 April 8.00, Ticket £20 – Michael Garrick Big Band

Pianist, prolific composer and national treasure Michael Garrick has been leading bands since the 50’tive in the jazz and poetry movement of the mid 60’e is leading the biggest band we have ever staged at Fleece Jazz – piece Big Band. It is the sheer weight of Michael Garrick’ to mention the amazing breadth which astonishes most. He is, without question, Britain’Duke Ellington.

2009 Friday, 17 April 8.00, Ticket £17 – Lea Delaria

Over 25 years in the public eye with comedy specials, TV and film roles, Broadway shows and now with four releases on the Warner Jazz label, raconteuse, jazz vocalist and gay icon Lea Delaria is something very special. She is ably supported tonight by Janette Mason piano and Simon Little drums. Her latest release “The Live Smoke Sessions” is simply stunning.
“Every inch a star” The New York Times
“Talks like a coffee-grinder and sounds like a cross between Ella Fitzgerald and a Broadway Diva” The Guardian

[Simon, of course, played amazing bass on this gig which will stand in the memory.]

2009 Friday, 24 April 8.00, Ticket £15 – The Alex Garnett and Leon Greening Quartet

Alex Garnett‘s blistering playing has been exciting audiences all over Europe in the last few years. Alex often gets compared to Johnny Griffin and Sony Stitt. He names both these players as having been a big influence in his playing style.
Pianist Leon Greening’ary solos inspired by the likes of Wynton Kelly and Bud Powell, keep audiences on the edge of their seats and mark him out at the age of only 31 as one of the finest pianists this country has produced. The Quartet is completed by Michael Janish bass and Luke Flowers drums – unmissable!

Please note that this is a change from the published brochure.

2009 Friday, 1 May 8.00, Ticket £15 – Zoe Gilby

Having grown up in the north-east of England in a household always bursting with jazz, (her father Mike Gilby was a professional jazz trumpeter and arranger for 40 years) it’that Zoe Gilby has established herself as one of the most stylish and distinctive young jazz vocalists on the scene. She is possessed of a mezzo-soprano voice with a wide vocal range, warm timbre and clear diction which she uses skillfully to unveil her various moods. Her band is Noel Dennis trumpet, Mark Williams guitar, Andy Champion bass and Richard Brown drums. Check out Zoe’”Now that I am Real”.
“e… a Bell” MBE

2009 Friday, 8 May 8.00, Ticket £15 – David Newton and Tim Kliphuis

The timeless duo of violin and piano has been explored in-depth by the classical composers, but in jazz it is something of a novelty. Tim Kliphuis ranks amongst the world’iolinists and has inherited Stephane Grappelli’m>David Newton, seven times award–o great is a already a legend. Together they combine their talents for virtuoso and romantic improvisation to explore the full range on offer in the duo format. American Songbook hits, he Blues, Bossa Nova and Calypso, famous classics by Bach, Mozart, Schubert and even folk music, everything is possible in this celebration of the Art of Improvisation.
“Ear-caressing” Sir John Dankworth

2009 Friday, 15 May 8.00, Ticket £16 – Snake Davis

A virtuoso saxophonist Snake Davis has a passionate and bluesy approach in his playing. He is in constant demand from the biggest names in the business. Snake is accompanied by Paul Birchall Hammond Organ, Winston Blissett bass and Bryan Hargreaves drums. Check out Snake’test CD, “Talking Bird” which is destined to become a classic recording.
“He doesn’” The Guardian “A virtuoso saxophonist” Daily Telegraph

2009 Friday, 22 May 8.00, Ticket £15 – John Law

John Law is renowned as one of Europe’rovising pianists. Balance, poise and a sense of beauty define not just the sound of the piano but also the compositions. Drive, energy and virtuosity are the hall marks of the driven bass lines and singing tones of Sam Burgess and the world class drum phenomenon that is Asaf Sirkis.

2009 Friday, 29 May 8.00, Ticket £17 – Janet Siedel

Janet Seidel is Australia’ of jazz singing. A world class performer not just at home, but also in Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong and most recently Japan where Janet is consistently voted in the Top 10 vocalists and her CDs top the jazz charts. Guitarist Chuck Morgan and Janet’m>David Seidel on double bass provide a supple and genuine acoustic cushion for Janet’als and jazzy piano work. Unmissable!

2009 Friday, 5 June 8.00, Ticket £15 – Robert Mitchell 3io

Robert Mitchell 3io has its roots in its leader’ng band 𔃷ogether with bassist Tom Mason and drummer Richard Spaven they have been quietly developing a real signature in the traditional jazz piano format. Over the years the trio have honed its mix of influences (song, odd metre, freeform jazz, broken beat, hip-hop, folk) with older and more modern jazz/electronica/rock. The trio’e Greater Good” has just won the Best Jazz Album award at the Gilles Peterson Worldwide Awards 2009.

2009 Friday, 12 June 8.00, Ticket £17 – At Kersey Mill Sweet Chorus

Formed by UK guitar legend John Etheridge as a personal tribute to his erstwhile bandleader and mentor, the great violinist Stephane Grappelli, with whom he toured world-wide for five years, Sweet Chorus have performed many concerts at home and abroad in the past decade. The band feature material by Grappelli himself, originals as well as some famous tunes from the Hot Club repertoire. John teams up once again for the 100th anniversary of the birth of Stephane Grappeli with Dave Kelbie rhythm guitar, foremost British jazz violinist Christian Garrick (now based in France) and bassist Andy Crowdy.

[Providing the engine room of this joyous group was Jez Cook on rhythm guitar.]

2009 Friday, 19 June 8.00, Ticket £17 – At Kersey Mill Steve Waterman

Steve Waterman is one of the top British jazz trumpet players both here and on the international scene. Steve brings with him the stellar line up of Alan Barnes alto sax / baritone sax / clarinet, Nick Weldon piano, Alec Dankworth bass and Clark Tracey drums. The Quintet feature the music of Gerry Mulligan with such classics as “Line for Lyons”, “Walkin’ Shoes”, “Swinghouse”, “Night Lights” and many others, all with new arrangements especially written by Steve for this Quintet. Do not miss this one!

[Jill Cook sang a couple of vocals in the second set of this great gig.]

2009 Friday, 26 June 8.00, Ticket £17 – At Kersey Mill Tina May

One of the brightest singing stars on the scene today, Tina May, cemented her Jazz Diva reputation by recording in New York classics of the American songbook with pianist Ray Bryant. The veteran accompanist of Ella, Billy and Betty Carter and a fan of Tina’s since they first met in Paris in 1997 knows a good voice when he hears one! Accompanying Tina tonight are three stars in their own right – French piano maestro Patrick Villanueva, Pierre Maingourd bass and Winston Clifford drums.

2009 Friday, 3 July 8.00, Ticket £20 – Now at Stoke by Nayland Club Martin Taylor and Alison Burns

Martin Taylor‘s inimitable style has seen him recognised as the world’s foremost exponent of solo jazz guitar playing. His silky accessible tones are also often employed as a consummate accompanist when his formidable technique is harnessed behind the smoky bittersweet jazz singing par excellence of Alison Burns. This is sure to be a memorable debut gig at our new venue – Fleece Jazz at Stoke by Nayland Club.

2009 Friday, 10 July 8.00, Ticket £16 – Now at Stoke by Nayland Club Disassembler

The name suggests a bone crunching thrash metal outfit, but British guitarist Trevor Warren‘s group is actually a warm horn dominated ensemble boasting some of the top pedigree improvisers in the country – Annie Whitehead trombone, Mark Lockheart saxophone, Dudley Phillips bass and Winston Clifford drums. Trevor’s jazz, Indian and African music interests led him to composing rather than improvising, although his distressed post Hendrix guitar artfully blends rock sonics with a jazz sensibility. One of the premier contemporary jazz units in Britain, Disassembler were recently awarded Best Foreign Band at the Granada Jazz Festival 2009 in Spain. Check out the band’s new CD ‘Fear is the Mother of Violence’.

2009 Friday, 17 July 8.00, Ticket £15 – Now at Stoke by Nayland Club Chris Biscoe Quartet

Chris Biscoe is a saxophonist virtuoso of great lyricism, passion, stamina and considerable versatility. He is steeped in the jazz tradition and his conception embraces everything from blues and gospel roots to free improvisation and jazz rock. Tonight the band enter the world of Eric Dolpy’s remarkable musical universe. The excellent Tony Kofi adds a bluesy second alto saxophone while the rhythm section of Larry Bartley bass and Stu Butterfield drums swing freely.

2009 Friday, 24 July 8.00, Ticket £15 – Sara Colman

2009 has seen the release of Sara Colman‘s latest album ‘Ready’ and it’s a perfect example of a singer comfortable in her skin, confident in her instrument and experienced in the genre. Sarah has a genuine feel for the elasticity and playfulness of swing phrasing and a true improviser’s ear. Her great band is Chris Taylor keyboards, Ben Markland bass and Carl Hemmingsly drums. A naturally soulful and emotional singer Sara invokes the range and vulnerability of singers like Rickie Lee Jones, Laura Nyro and Judy Tzuke.
“She doesn’t just make a lovely sound floating over the surface of melody and words; she takes up residence in the song” Peter Bacon

2009 Friday, 31 July 8.00, Ticket £17 – Christian Brewer – Renato D’Aiello Quintet featuring Andrea Pozza

Fiery hard bop altoist Christian Brewer teams up with Italian tenorist Renato D’Aiello, a man often compared favourably to Hank Mobley and Dexter Gordon, for an evening of virtuosic bop classics to excite the soul. Add an all Italian band featuring the great pianist and composer Andrea Pozza and the brilliant bassist Nicola Muresu and super drummer Alessandro Minetto and we are in for something very special tonight.

2009 Friday, 7 August 8.00, Ticket £16 – Barb Jungr

‘Man In a Long Black Coat’ features Barb Jungr celebrating the song writing of the legendary American songwriter Bob Dylan, along with Jenny Carr piano and Jessica Lauren organ and harmonica. Barb is renowned for her unique vocal style, approach to arrangements and interpretation of song. Her acclaimed releases for Linn Records and her live performances have brought her to the world stage and revealed her to be one of Europe’s most exciting voices.

2009 Friday, 14 August 8.00, Ticket £16 – The New Couriers

Originally formed as a tribute to The Couriers, the band co-led by Ronnie Scott and Tubby Hayes, The New Couriers are co-led by saxophonist Mornington Lockett and drummer Martin Drew. Also in their ranks are pianist Steve Melling, vibraphonist Jim Hart and bassist Paul Morgan. Here you have the perfect recipe for the high octane jazz that is this band’s speciality. ‘Brazilian Thoroughfare’ is the title of the band’s new five lengthy track album with compositions by Victor Feldman, Steve Melling and Arthur Schwartz. It’s irresistible, no matter what your taste in jazz.

[Robin Aspland played his butt off on piano for this stunning gig.]

2009 Friday, 21 August 8.00, Ticket £16 – Peter King

It is always a pleasure to welcome back British jazz legend Peter King, the finest alto saxophone player that this country has ever produced. Peter continues to release album after album to much critical acclaim and to the delight of his many fans. Another perfect evening listening to the highest quality jazz is absolutely guaranteed! The other three members of this top drawer quartet are Steve Melling piano, Geoff Gascoyne bass and Martin Drew drums.

2009 Friday, 28 August 8.00, Ticket £15 – Jay Phelps Quintet

Jay Phelps is a Vancouver born Canadian trumpet player formerly co-leader of hit jazz sensation Empirical. Still only twenty six he has toured the world extensively and performed with Wynton Marsalis, Ray Brown, George Benson, Hugh Masakela, Jazz Jamaica, Dennis Rollin’s Badbone and Co to name but a few. He cites his main influences as being Louis Armstrong, Clifford Brown, Fats Navarro and Miles Davis. The other members of this stunning Quintet are Shabaka Hutchings clarinet, bass clarinet and tenor saxophone, Jonathan Gee piano, Karl Abel Rashid bass and Gene Calderazzo drums. On no account miss out on this gig!

2009 Friday, 4 September 8.00, Ticket £17 – Michael Janisch US/UK Quintet

Michael Janisch is one of the jazz world’s prominent new talents on the acoustic and electric basses. He is a relentless musician in both creativity and his drive. Michael is a band leader who is known for his dedication to jazz in its purest form both past and present. He leads his stellar Quintet, a mix of leading US/UK musicians, Jason Palmer trumpet, Jim Hart vibraphone, Paul Booth saxophone and the amazing American, Clarence Penn on drums.
“One of the UK’s most exciting new improvisers with percussive, Mingus-like power” The Guardian

2009 Friday, 11 September 8.00, Ticket £17 – Mari Wilson’s Threesome

Actress and singer Mari Wilson arrived on the scene in the early eighties with her skyscraper beehive hairdo and bizarre sense of fashion. She soon had six hit singles and tours of Europe and America under her belt. Since those times she has rebuilt her career on the jazz circuit, where her voice commands great acclaim. Mari’s fourth studio album is entitled ‘Emotional Glamour’ – it’s Fab! Making up this swinging ‘Threesome’ are Adrian York piano and Matt Backer guitar.

2009 Friday, 18 September 8.00, Ticket £17 – Homage to Grappelli

Homage to Grappelli is a sparkling swinging band featuring four of the world’s top jazz musicians celebrating the late great jazz violinist Stephane Grapelli. This stellar band of Christian Garrick violin, John Horler piano, Alec Dankworth bass and Tom Hooper drums include in their repertoire toe tapping favourites such as Sweet Georgia Brown, Strike up the band, Ain’t Misbehavin, Flamingo, Nuage and the Folks that live on the Hill amongst other favourites.

2009 Friday, 25 September 8.00, Ticket £15 – Organic Matters

Organic Matters is a new organ trio featuring, ‘The Paradise’ B3 (named after its hometown of Paradise in northern California) which arrived in the UK in 2008. This 1956 Hammond B3 console was set up and fine tuned by the legendary Hammond tech Mr Bob Schleicher of EIS Oakland. The band members are Bill Mudge organist making his Fleece debut, Michael Hanson, Britain’s best kept guitar secret and leading jazz drummer Clark Tracey.

2009 Friday, 2 October 8.00, Ticket £15 – Benn Clatworthy

British born saxophonist Benn Clatworthy has been resident in Los Angeles California since 1980 but thankfully makes regular and very welcome trips to the UK. He brings with him the wonderful New York pianist Cecilia Coleman, (making her Fleece debut) together with Jeremy Brown bass and Gene Calderazzo drums for what is sure to be one cracking gig. A harder working or more unheralded player than Benn would be difficult to find. Check out Benn’called ‘Luminessence’.
“A Master Player” LA Weekly “Sublime” Jazz Times

2009 Friday, 9 October 8.00, Ticket £16 – Karen Lane

Karen Lane, musician and songwriter, loves singing swinging jazz standards, as well as luscious Latin Bossa Nova and Samba soundscapes. Her accomplished band of Tom Cawley piano, Andy Hamil bass and Nic France drums groove through a range of styles that highlight Karen’s intimate, evocative and sensual vocal range. ‘Beautiful Love’ her fourth and latest album has received rave reviews by numerous leading jazz critics.
“d elegant singer” NME
“A lovely singer – highly recommended” Michael Parkinson

2009 Friday, 16 October 8.00, Ticket £16 – David Newton Trio

Multi-award winning pianist and composer David Newton brings Andy Cleyndert bass and Steve Brown drums to Stoke by Nayland for an evening showcasing one of the best piano trios around. David has worked with the very finest vocalists and instrumentalists in Europe. His music can be heard on many television productions especially in the USA where over twenty TV movies benefit from David’hemes.

2009 Friday, 23 October 8.00, Ticket £20 – Outhouse Ruhabi

Outhouse Ruhabi is an exciting new ensemble that mixes the sound of contemporary jazz with the tribal West African groove of the Sabar drum. Beautifully stitching together two very different musical genres to create an inspiring and seamless blend of serrated jazz grooves and Wolof rhythms that are extremely entertaining. Highly regarded Gambian artists, Baboucar Camara, Biran Saine, Mambiran Saine, Kaw Secka and Laity Fye, all Sabar drum players, combine with Robin Fincker tenor saxophone and clarinet, Mark Hanslip tenor saxophone, Johnny Brierley double bass and band leader Dave Smith drums to create a sound that is truly unique and has united audiences and critics alike in their praise for this groundbreaking project.
On no account miss this great gig!

[On this very special night, Tom Challenger depped for Mark Hanslip.]

2009 Friday, 30 October 8.00, Ticket £17 – Roger Beaujolais

British vibraphone player virtuoso Roger Beaujolais‘ glassy toned vibes playing is agile, fresh and inventive. He writes crisp idiomatic themes and chooses his material with great taste. Mark Lockheart saxophone, Robin Aspland piano, Simon Thorpe bass and Dave Ohm drums provide an extremely sophisticated backdrop for Roger’s astonishing technique.

2009 Friday, 6 November 8.00, Ticket £18 – David Rees-Williams Trio

The David Rees-Williams Trio brings something very special to the world of jazz and, like the Jacques Loussier Trio, base much of their music on classical composers, who were themselves great improvisers. They walk a tightrope between classical and jazz, reworking existing tunes to stunning effect. They are David Rees-Williams piano, Neil Francis bass and Phil Laslett drums. Those of you who have not seen this magical trio before are missing out big time!
‘The trio far outstrips anything achieved by Jacques Loussier or the Swingles. They are on another plane and deserve huge recognition’ Jon Snow, Evening Standard

2009 Friday, 13 November 8.00, Ticket £0 – No Gig Tonight

Just one week off in this excellent programme. Here is a picture of the club committee instead. No real compensation, I suppose, for missing a gig, but we do our best.

2009 Friday, 20 November 8.00, Ticket £16 – Basil Hodge Quintet

Pianist and composer Basil Hodge released his debut CD entitled, ‘My Guardian Angel’ in late 2003. The band has evolved during the intervening years and Basil’s follow up CD is called ‘Sound Reasoning’ on the Zeal record label and is highly recommended. Tony Kofi saxophone, Byron Wallen trumpet, Larry Bartley bass and Winston Clifford drums make this a truly stellar Quintet. Hard bop played with freshness and originality makes this one gig not to be missed!

2009 Friday, 27 November 8.00 and Saturday, 28 November 8.00, Ticket £20 – Sarah Jane Morris

Unconventional and unorthodox, Sarah Jane Morris is a composer and vocalist who straddles the musical genres of rock, blues, jazz and soul with a massive four octave vocal range. Her career spans more than twenty five years, with nine solo albums, pop stardom on the continent and a set of diverse musical collaborations on record, film and stage and she continues to steer her career to greater heights. Her latest album is entitled, ‘Where It Hurts’ and is viewed by critics as probably her finest album yet. Kevin Armstrong guitar, Tim Cansfield guitar, Henry Thomas bass and Martyn Barker drums are her stellar band.

2009 Friday, 4 December 8.00, Ticket £16 – Zoe Rahman Trio

Pianist and composer Zoe Rahman is one of our most distinctive contemporary jazz artists. With a fresh personal approach, her bold compositions draw ondiverse musical influences from classical, afro beat and blues. Zoe manages a difficult balancing act creating music that’s rich and complex yet readily accessible. Oli Hayhurst bass and Gene Calderazzo drums complete her trio.
Since she was last with us Zoe has released two fine CDs, ‘Where Rivers Meet’- her follow up to her Mercury Music Prize nominated album ‘Melting Pot’ – and Zoe Rahman Trio ‘Live’.

2009 Friday, 11 December 8.00, Ticket £17 – Paul Booth Quintet featuring Ingrid Jensen

Paul Booth is one of the most exciting saxophonists and a very much “in demand” musician on the European scene today. Although a very prominent figure on the jazz scene, his versatility has seen him play in many musical genres stretching from River Dance to Eric Clapton. Band leader Maria Schneider has said of listening to Canadian trumpet player Ingrid Jensen: “I find myself mesmerized by sensuous lines and spellbound by the warmth of her tone … She is quite simply one of the most compelling improvisers I know”. The other members of this stellar sextet are Phil Peskett piano, Phil Robson guitar, Michael Janisch bass and Dave Smith drums.

2009 Saturday, 19 December 8.00, Ticket £21 – Dennis Rollins Velocity Trio

Fresh from the Queen Elizabeth Hall, London it’s a very warm welcome back to Dennis Rollins – the man with the sexiest trombone in the business! Dennis, plus Bristol based Ross Stanley organ and Pedro Segundo drums – bring with them the finest repertoire of wicked, high energy groove based, funky dance music with jazz attitude and styling, together with an element of Dennis’ trademark electronic stage craft, that you are likely to hear this side of the Atlantic.
“Dennis Rollins does for the slide trombone what James Brown once did for singing” Jack Massarik, Evening Standard.

2009 Wednesday, 30 December 8.00, Ticket £17 – Alan Barnes Latin Quintet

A stunning Latin Quintet to end our year featuring trumpeter Steve Waterman, John Donaldson piano, Simon Thorpe bass and Dave Barry drums. Alan Barnes is one of the most versatile reeds men working in the UK today and has contributed fine sections of work and blistering solos to all manner of bands and projects.

2010 Friday, 8 January 8.00, Ticket £15 – Protect The Beat

This blistering funky jazz groove act are sure to get you back into the swing of things after the Christmas and New Year break. The band features high profile musicians, Derek Nash saxophones, Tim Cansfield guitar, Arden Hart keyboards and trumpet, Winston Blissett bass and Darby Todd drums. Definitely NOT dinner jazz!

2010 Friday, 15 January 8.00, Ticket £15 – Denny Ilett

Denny Ilett has picked up the torch from guitar players such as Texan swing-blues maestro Duke Robillard with his playing authentically incorporating the feel of early jazz, swing and be-bop pioneers such as Charlie Christian and T-Bone Walker. His expert manipulation of dynamics and tone however, is all his own. Denny is aided and abetted by Joe Stilgoe piano, Sam Lasserson bass and the wonderful Daisy Palmer drums.
Denny’m as leader, ‘Callin The Children Home’ is out on the Nugene Record label and is highly recommended.

2010 Friday, 22 January 8.00, Ticket £16 – Janette Mason Trio

Pianist, composer and band leader Janette Mason has been a seminal figure on the British jazz scene for the past fifteen years. You may have heard her on many albums from Ian Shaw to Robert Wyatt, or live in concert with Oasis and Jimmy Somerville. Janette also writes theme tunes for television and soundtracks to movies. Her latest album is called ‘Alien Left Hand Syndrome’ and features six original compositions and two covers which highlight her wild imagination and polished piano skills at their best. Completing this sparkling trio are Dudley Phillips electric and acoustic bass and Simon Lee drums.
“A band leader of pugnacious flair and genuine unpredictability.” The Guardian

2010 Friday, 29 January 8.00, Ticket £17 – Nina Ferro

Nina Ferro is a multi award winning vocalist and songwriter whose warm sensuous voice, impeccable timing and stunning vocal range have done much to establish her enviable international reputation. Her energy and feeling for the music is fresh and infectious. Her stellar band are Grant Windsor piano, Femi Temowo guitar, Simon Little bass and Martyn Kaine drums. On no account should you miss out on hearing this wonderful singer!
“A fabulous performer with a knockout voice.” Tony Bennett
“What an amazing voice, a standout performance.” Hugh Jackman

2010 Friday, 5 February 8.00, Ticket £12 – Dylan Howe & Will – The Stravinsky Duo

This is a new collaboration from acclaimed drummer Dylan Howe and the brilliant young piano prodigy Will Butterworth who is already being compared to Brad Mehldau and Keith Jarrett. They have specially arranged and adapted two of Stravinsky’rated works, ‘The Rite of Spring’ and ‘The Firebird’ suite, resulting in a melange of classical melody, mood and structure with jazz improvisation, sensibility and language. This will be a superb and memorable gig. Look out for the album!

2010 Friday, 12 February 8.00, Ticket £17 – Geoff Gascoyne𔃽>

After six years playing and recording with Jamie Cullum, acclaimed composer, arranger and bass player Geoff Gascoyne returns with a new CD and a new quartet, POP BOP. The band featuring Geoff Gascoyne acoustic and electric bass, Jim Mullen guitar, Graeme Blevins alto and soprano saxophone and ex Jamie Cullum drummer Sebastiaan de Krom. The band play hip new arrangements of some favourite pop songs from the last thirty years –heir new CD entitled POP BOP.

2010 Friday, 19 February 8.00, Ticket £17 – Alan Skidmore Quartet

British jazz legend, saxophonist Alan Skidmore goes a considerable way to recreating the atmosphere of a John Coltrane gig. Here is a man for all seasons, a player with immense physical and imaginative stamina, who is at home in any context, from tight structures to total abstraction, and with any tempo, from breakneck to slow. With Steve Melling piano, Geoff Gascoyne bass and drummmer supreme Tony Levin.

2010 Friday, 26 February 8.00, Ticket £15 – Bryan Corbett Quartet

Birmingham based Bryan Corbett is one of the UK’umpet players. He brings with him the excellent pianist Levi French and the solid empathetic rhythm section of Ben Markland bass and Neil Bullock drums. The quartet are influenced by the classic Blue Note albums of the 50󈧕Bryan taking particular inspiration from his trumpet idol Freddie Hubbard. However this is no mere recycling of the past. This band is a distinctly contemporary outfit playing music with energy, vitality, soul and tremendous technical ability. Do not miss out seeing this tremendous quartet, who are up there with the very best!

[It was Chris on bass, and his percussive and legato playing was great. I will find out what his last name is.]

2010 Friday, 5 March 8.00, Ticket £14 – Judy Lewis

Judy Lewis is a world class artist who at the age of seventeen was a nationally recognised classical pianist in the USA. Today she is known internationally as a unique performer and composer of contemporary jazz who has six critically acclaimed albums on the market and the hottest jazz fusion band of Dave Marks bass and Motti Cohen drums, this all adds up to one sensational gig!
“She has established herself as a star attraction on the international jazz circuit” Chris Parker

2010 Friday, 12 March 8.00, Ticket £17 – Nicolas Meier

Multi award winning Swiss guitarist Nicolas Meier’ knowledge of the guitar allows him to play jazz, latin, oriental, rock and heavy metal, but expect to hear strong Turkish and Middle Eastern influences together with flamenco. Nicolas’s band features Mark Lockheart saxophone, Pat Bettison bass and harmonica and Asaf Sirkis drums.
The new album is called ‘Journey’ and is highly recomended.

2010 Friday, 19 March 8.00, Ticket £16 – Tommaso Starace

Saxophonist Tommaso Starace writes tunes with a strong component exploring traditional and more contemporary harmony and always maintaining the sense of swing and groove. His repertoire ranges from his own compositions to modern interpretations of standards. Tommaso’r black and white photography, painting and cinema are a continual inspiration to his writing and music. Frank Harrison piano, Will Collier bass and Chris Nickolls drums complete his stellar band.

2010 Friday, 26 March 8.00, Ticket £15 – Daryl Sherman

A sparkling mainstay of Manhattan nightlife, Daryl Sherman has been a fixture playing and singing for savvy New Yorkers and international visitors at the Waldorf Astoria’s famed Cole Porter Steinway. Her swinging approach is sprinkled with anecdotes, instrumental solos and creative vocal interpretations from the Great American Songbook. Her many recordings have received critical praise and international airplay. Daryl’ording is ‘Johnny Mercer, A Centennial Tribute’. She is accompanied by Dave Cliff guitar and Dave Green bass.
“Effervescent and madly talented” Rex Reed, New York Observer
“A first rate singer / musician” Artie Shaw

2010 Friday, 2 April 8.00, Ticket £20 – Jacqui Dankworth and Charlie Wood

Singer Jacqui Dankworth and the Memphis based Hammond organ virtuoso / pianist and vocalist Charlie Wood team up in a new project celebrating great jazz duets including Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. This is also a particular celebration of the seminal 1961 Ray Charles / Betty Carter album “Dedicated To You”.

2010 Friday, 9 April 8.00, Ticket £16 – Theo Travis – Double Talk

Double Talk is the project of London based saxophonist Theo Travis. Melody based, the music is bluesy, atmospheric, incorporates improvised multi-layers of flute and saxophone and is influenced by the late 60’ychadelia. The band features the soulful organ of Pete Whitakker, the soaring guitar of Mike Outram and the subtle drums of Roy Dodds, a master of light and shade.

2010 Friday, 16 April 8.00, Ticket £16 – Josephine Davies Quintet

One of the top rising female stars of the saxophone Josephine Davies is making her Fleece debut with her stellar band of Ross Stanley piano, Robbie Robson trumpet, Dave Whitford bass and Nick Smalley drums. Winner of the 1999 Perrier Young Jazz Award, Josephine is a regular member of various groups including the all female trio “The Toot Sweet Horn Section”. Her influences are Chris Potter, Brad Mehldau, Walt Weiskopf and John Coltrane. Look out for the super new album entitled “The Brink”.

2010 Friday, 23 April 8.00, Ticket £15 – Jonathan Bratoeff Quartet

Creativity is at the core of guitarist Jonathan Bratoeff‘s quest to produce music which is emotionally and intellectually rewarding in equal terms. The key ingredients are simple with powerful melodies, energetic and vibrant rhythms, rich colourful textures and a mixture of traditional jazz blended with other musical idioms including African, Rock and Latin music. The band consists of Mark Hanslip saxophone, Tom Mason bass and James Maddren drums. We can look forward to an evening of truly contemporary jazz with strong emphasis on melody and energy –
“Imaginative 21st –z” John Fordham, The Guardian

2010 Friday, 30 April 8.00, Ticket £17 – Simon Spillett and Vic Ash

This is a new collaboration from award winning saxophonist Simon Spillett and multi-award winner British jazz legend clarinettist and saxophonist Vic Ash who has worked with the great popular musicians and entertainers – Frank Sinatra used to call him Vic Sax, such was the high esteem in which he was held. Vic has been at the centre of modern jazz in Britain right up to the present day where he is as busy as ever with his own group and the BBC Big Band. With John Critchinson piano, Alec Dankworth bass and Martin Drew drums this promises to be a very special night!

2010 Friday, 7 May 8.00, Ticket £17 – Damon Brown and Steve Grossman

Top British trumpeter Damon Brown, brings his all star band featuring Steve Grossman saxophone, Robin Aspland piano, Mark Hodgson bass and Troy Miller drums to Stoke. American saxophone legend Steve Grossman’s professional career began in 1969 as Wayne Shorter’s replacement in the Miles Davis jazz fusion band. From 1971-73 he was in the Elvin Jones band, since then he has with great distinction led his own groups.

2010 Friday, 14 May 8.00, Ticket £19 – Clark Tracey Sextet

Drummer and band leader Clark Tracey has a keen ear for fresh talent and the ability to nurture it in his consistently high quality outfits. The new band has a sparkling line up that sounds fresh, cohesive and returns with an excellent set of compositions that steer a judicious course between classic hard bop and post bop territory. The new album “Current Climate” features tonight’ Kit Downes piano, Piers Green saxophones, Paul Jordanous trumpet, Lewis Wright vibes and Ryan Trebilcock bass. For three of the band players it is also their recording debut, not that you could tell.
“Current Climate is a very attractive album…fine composer” Jazz Wise Magazine

2010 Friday, 21 May 8.00, Ticket £16 – Georgia Mancio

Award winning jazz vocalist Georgia Mancio returns to Fleece Jazz with her band of John Pearce piano, Steve Watts bass and Dave Ohm drums. In less than a decade of professional work she has established herself as one of the UK’tant new artists. Georgia’latest album “Silhouette” (Roomspin Records) has elements from her much acclaimed 2008 release “Trapeze”. The new album contains original compositions jazz standards and songs by Antonio Jobim, Tom Waits and an improved lyric to Pat Metheny’uestion And Answers”.
“taste, originality and understated eloquence” The Observer
“Marvel at the way Mancio’rasp never fails her in such a variety of groove and swing. She is, without question, the real thing” Jazz UK

2010 Friday, 28 May 8.00, Ticket £16 – Peter King Quartet

In a career spanning five decades of musical accomplishment, Peter King, long considered one of the world’lto saxophonist returns to Fleece Jazz with his stellar band of Steve Melling piano, Geoff Gascoyne bass and Martin Drew drums. Peter is a prolific composer / arranger working in both the jazz and classical traditions. He has toured and played all over the world. His biography is expected in 2010.
“I hear both Trane and Bird in his playing, but he is better than either of them.” Gene Lees
“Peter King is one of the best musicians in the world. Lalo Schifrin

2010 Friday, 4 June 8.00, Ticket £16 – Mônlos – HIH

Although based in London vocalist, composer and band leader Mônlos remains deeply rooted in the Brazil she loves and which inspires so much of her song writing. Her voice is pure, strong and flexible. Monica’ntred on the versatile keyboards of Steve Lodder, the muscular but sensitive bass playing of Dudley Phillips and the intelligently judged percussion of Adriano Adewale. Her latest album “HIH” should not only delight existing admirers but attract new ones to her wonderful music – this one on any account!

2010 Friday, 11 June 8.00, Ticket £20 – Kyle Eastwood Quintet

A rare chance to catch in an intimate setting award winning bassist, composer and band leader Kyle Eastwood making his Fleece debut. The eldest son of actor Clint Eastwood, Kyle is a formidable bassist and composer. His film credits include Mystic River, Million Dollar Baby, Flags of our Fathers, Letters from Iwo Jima, Gran Torino and Invictus. Kyle’z CD was recorded in Paris – it is called “Metropolitain” and was released in June 2009. The album captured the attention of the jazz world with its forward thinking style and gathering of some of the cream of today’ians. His band is Andrew McCormack piano, Graeme Blevins saxophone, Graeme Flowers trumpet and Martyn Kaine drums.
“My roots remain in jazz but I like adding all kinds of different flavours” Kyle says.
“very sharp work. There’ Kyle has imagination and skill” The Observer
“contemplative and highly listenable”ndard

[Richard Beasley played excellent tenor saxophone on this gig.]

2010 Friday, 18 June 8.00, Ticket £16 – Jim Hart Gemini

Gemini features some of the best and most sought after young musicians on the British jazz scene multi instrumentalist Jim Hart is rapidly establishing himself as one of the top vibes players in jazz, Ivo Neame supreme alto saxophone, Danish bassist Jasper Holby and drummer Dave Smith comprise this sparkling band. No dithering is allowed as the four musicians get straight into propulsive intricacy which dominates Gemini’#8217ound, but without clutter, as Jim Hart’s compositions swing with thoughtfulness. This is very engaging contemporary post bop at its best. We highly recommend the band’itled “Narrada”.

2010 Friday, 25 June 8.00, Ticket £19 – Trevor Watkis Quintet

The younger brother of singer Cleveland, pianist and composer Trevor Watkis is making waves on the UK and International jazz scene as a composer and performer. Trevor writes music that has a strong melody, a variety of textures, simple yet challenging at the same time and is not too ‘far out’. He has a strong presence live as a virtuoso performer and together with his stellar band of Nathaniel Facey alto and soprano saxophones, Anthony Kerr vibes, Dave Chamberlyne bass and Winston Clifford drums makes this gig one very memorable evening!
“no – nonsense contemporary jazz by a British pianist-composer of unusual warmth touch and taste. Trevor Watkis is under rated in London but not New York.” Jack Massarik Jazz CD of the week Evening Standard

2010 Friday, 2 July 8.00, Ticket £20 – Stan Tracey Quartet

With a distinguished career spanning six decades of flourishing creativity, pianist and composer Stan Tracey (the Godfather of British Jazz) has been a highly influential and stimulating musical voice, not only to his peers but to each successive generation of musicians with whom he has worked. Stan’ piano playing combines the percussive melody of Thelonious Monk with the robust lyricism of Ellington in a highly idiosyncratic style. A master of harmony, he possesses a potent and compelling improviser’s intellect. Completing this unmissable quartet are Simon Allen saxophone, Andy Cleyndert bass and Clark Tracey drums.

2010 Friday, 9 July 8.00, Ticket £15 – Barb Jungr

In collaboration with composer and pianist Simon Wallace, singer Barb Jungr reveals herself to be a peerless interpreter of popular song. On her new CD, “The Men I Love”, Barb sings the New American Songbook, great songs that bear re-interpretation from the great writers who emerged post-rock n’ roll and everyone that followed – Springsteen, Cohen, Dylan, Diamond, Bryne and Eno. As she says, “This has taken longer to make than anything I’re, in large part because I wanted to get as close as possible to the spirit of the live performance but still make a record in the traditional sense”.

2010 Friday, 16 July 8.00, Ticket £15 – Snake Davis

A saxophonist’s saxophonist, Snake Davis is a virtuoso player with a passionate and bluesy approach. He is in constant demand from the very biggest names in the business. Snake has a unique style of playing that has been influenced by his love of Northern Soul music, King Curtis, Junior Walker and Michael Brecker. A melange of these styles with a good pinch of soul music gets close to the Snake Davis sound. Paul Birchall keyboards, Neil Fairclough bass and Bryan Hargreaves drums make up this fabulous band.

2010 Friday, 23 July 8.00, Ticket £15 – Esther Miller

South African born Esther Miller’nues to rise. She is a jazz singer of the classical school possessing an outstanding technique with sensitive interpretation and her eclectic repertoire will delight. Esther takes her inspiration from Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday, Shirley Horn and Blossom Dearie as well as Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole. Her latest album, “Into the Sunlight”, is a collaboration with pianist / composer Steve Melling, who has worked very closely with Esther over the past ten months and is with her tonight, as is Steve Waterman trumpet, Zoltan Dekany bass and John Perry drums.
“Voice, style and presence –all. A great talent.” – Humphrey Lyttelton.

[Dave Chamberlain was the excellent bassist on this lovely gig.]

2010 Friday, 30 July 8.00, Ticket £15 – Jon Lloyd Quintet

Five great musicians, all at the very top of their game. Soprano saxophonist and composer Jon Lloyd and John Law piano, lead, with Rob Palmer guitar, Rodney Teague bass and Asaf Sirkis drums completing this wonderful quintet. The music visits many different territories, from ECM to post bop, free jazz to modal minimalism!
“Ambitious and virtuosic… one of the most striking writers at the sharp end of British jazz and improvisation” – John Fordham, The Guardian.

2010 Friday, 6 August 8.00, Ticket £17 – Liane Carroll

Multi-award winning pianist/singer Liane Carroll makes a welcome return to Fleece Jazz accompanied by Roger Carey electric bass and Mark Fletcher drums. Liane has a remarkable vocal delivery, both powerful and soulful.
“Swinging like hell one minute, brutally expressive and heart breakingly tender the next…liant.” – Time Out.

2010 Friday, 13 August 8.00, Ticket £15 – Dylan Howe Band

The ubiquitous and ever popular Blockheads drummer Dylan Howe brings another swinging band to The Fleece for an evening that promises much and will deliver more! Steve Fishwick trumpet, Ross Stanly piano and Oli Hayhurst bass complete this exciting quartet.

2010 Friday, 20 August 8.00, Ticket £16 – Matt Wates Sextet

Described by Duncan Lamont as, “The most swinging alto player on either side of the Atlantic”, Berklee College music graduate Matt Wates is a truly remarkable British musician, a performer of boundless ability who performs in the classic be-bop style. This is a sextet with a big band sound boasting a three horn frontline with Martin Shaw, trumpet, Steve Main saxophone, Leon Greening piano, Malcolm Creese bass and Matt Home drums.

[Les Sirkel sat in on drums. He did wonders with the complex charts, and played a quiet storm.]

2010 Friday, 27 August 8.00, Ticket £15 – Drugstore Cowboy Quartet – featuring Brandon Allen & Quen/h3>

With a name taken from a film, this new and exciting Hammond groove driven group co-led by the fiery Australian tenor saxophonist Brandon Allen and hard bop trumpeter Quentin Collins, is making waves on the current jazz scene. The other members of this superb quartet are Hammond Organ supremo Ross Stanley and super drummer Enzo Zirilli. The Drugstore Cowboys play their own diverse originals plus classic tunes from the late 50s to 60s.

2010 Friday, 3 September 8.00, Ticket £14 – Lush Life –oger Beaujolais & B J p>
Roger Beaujolais and the legendary B J Cole, maestros of the vibraphone and pedal steel guitar respectively, have crafted a unique and intoxicating blend of their exotic sounds, woven together with the exquisite double bass of Simon Thorpe. Together they are Lush Life and their new CD with the same title is a must buy!

2010 Friday, 10 September 8.00, Ticket £15 – John Law Trio

John Law is renowned as one of Europe’rovising
pianists. A prize winning classical prodigy he was playing at four and
composing at eight having made his first public appearance at six. Balance,
poise and a sense of beauty define not just the sound of the piano but also the
compositions. Drive, energy and virtuosity are all hallmarks of the driven bass
lines and singing tones of Sam Burgess and the world-class drum
phenomenon that is Asaf Sirkis.

[Our bassist was the international star, Uri Golobev. What a delight! We also had interval entertainment from our Los Vegas visitor, Dana Franks.]

2010 Friday, 17 September 8.00, Ticket £14 – Michael Hanson and David Newton

Two firm Fleece favourites! Michael Hanson is an entirely self-taught guitarist who has been playing professionally for over thirty years. He has developed a highly distinctive style, absorbing elements of swing, be bop, fusion and Latin to brilliant effect with his early blues style. Pianist David Newton is an outstanding talent. His wide-ranging experience has ensured that he is at home in any musical setting.

2010 Friday, 24 September 8.00, Ticket £16 – Renato D’Aellio / Paola Arnesano

An all Italian superstar quintet, led by tenor saxophonist Renato D’Aellio and featuring the award-winning vocalist Paola Arnesano. Renato’ intense, but at the same time warm and poignant. He showcases one of the most attractive and affecting tenor saxophonist sounds in contemporary jazz. Paola was the winner of the Italian Jazz Awards “Luca Flores” 2009 as the Best Jazz Singer in Italy!! She is mainly attracted and influenced by the cool jazz singers of the fifties. Bruno Montrone piano, Dario Di Lecce bass and Fabio Delle Foglie drums complete this stellar band. Not to be missed on any account!

2011 7 January, £22 – Michael Garrick Big Band

Leading bands since the 1950s and prominent in the mid 1960s jazz and poetry movement, world famous Michael Garrick is one of the giants of British jazz. Pianist, prolific composer and national treasure, Michael returns with the biggest band Fleece Jazz has ever staged – piece Michael Garrick Big Band. Without question, Michael is Britain’Duke Ellington.

Early booking is recommended and an excellent interval buffet will be available.

2011 14 January, £16 – Victoria Newton.

With Victoria Newton vocals, Tim Lapthorne piano, Tim Dawes bass and Mike Bradley drums.

Victoria has delighted international audiences with her combination of energy, spontaneity and musicianship. She is simply one of the best latin/jazz vocalists around with a rich sensual voice and powerful charismatic stage presence.

2011 21 January, £20 – The Instant Message Quintet

With Phil Robson guitar, Mark Turner saxophone, Gareth Lockrane flute, Michael Janisch bass and Ernesto Simpson drums.

A brand new all-star band, which plays original music especially written by guitarist Phil Robson. Themed around communication, ancient and modern and showcasing the talents of one of the finest saxophonists in the world today.

2011 28 January, £19 – Milestones

With Terry Seabrook piano, Graeme Flowers trumpet, Alan Barnes alto and baritone saxophones, Ian Price tenor saxophone Paul Whitten bass and Spike Wells drums.

Milestones are a new six piece jazz group formed in 2010 to celebrate the music of trumpeter Miles Davis. In addition to performing the five tracks from Kind of Blue, Terry has written new arrangements of other songs associated with Miles.

2011 4 February, £14 – Asaf Sirkis Trio

With Asaf Sirkis drums, Tassos Spiliotopoulos guitar and Yaron Stavi bass.

Asaf Sirkis is not only one of the world’ummers, but also a composer of rigour, wit and surprising delicacy, as amply demonstrated on the trio’tting Go”.

“y creative”m, The Guardian

2011 11 February, £14 – Buddy Bolden Blew It Project

With Steve Waterman trumpet flugelhorn and cornet, Anthony Kerr vibraphone and Alec Dankworth double bass.

This is a history of the jazz trumpet told through the compositions of great jazz trumpet players such as Louis Armstrong, Bix Beiderbecke, Roy Eldridge, Clifford Brown Kenny Wheeler and many more.

2011 18 February, £16 – Moscow Drug Club Quintet

With Katya Gorrie vocals , Denny Illett guitar, Dave Archer guitar, John Pearce violin and Andy Crowdy bass.

Elements of 1930s Berlin Cabaret, Hot Club de France, New Orleans Funeral Parade, and Gypsy Campfire, originals and classics all combine to provide an intoxicating and intimate musical experience.

2011 25 February, £16 – Steve Fishwick + Osian Roberts Quintet

With Osian Roberts tenor saxophone, Steve Fishwick trumpet and flugelhorn, Mike Gorman piano, Jeremy Brown bass and Matt Fishwick drums. The quintet play mainly original music together with some standards, the emphasis being on swinging improvisation with a 50s/60s ‘hard bop’ sensibility.

2011 27 February, £25 – Fleece Jazz Benefit Day

Many jazz clubs have struggled during the recession and some have had to close. Fleece Jazz are determined not to go the same way – so are staging a fund-raising day to secure the future of this wonderful club.

We hope for the support of very best names in Jazz. Confirmed so far are Gilad Atzmon and Alan Barnes. Tickets will be half price for anyone attending 2 Fleece Jazz gigs in January or February.

Make a note of the date and look out for more details nearer the day.

2011 4 March, £14 – Dylan Howe Quartet

With Dylan Howe drums, Tim Thornton bass, Brandon Allen tenor saxophone and Ross Stanley piano and synths.

Drum-led modern jazz playing compositions by John Coltrane, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter and David Bowie’ums and beyond.

2011 11 March, £17 – Trevor Warren’er

With Trevor Warren guitar, Annie Whitehead trombone, Mark Lockheart saxophone, Dudley Phillips bass and Winston Clifford drums.

A warm, horn-dominated ensemble which boasts some of the top improvisers in the country. Trevor’s jazz and world music interests led him to composing rather than improvising and his distressed, post-Hendrix, guitar artfully blends rock sonics with a jazz sensibility. This is one of the premier contemporary jazz units in the country.

2011 19 March, £16 – Tomasso Starace Quartet

With Tommaso Starace saxophone, Frank Harrison piano, Laurence Cottle bass and Chris Nickolls drums.

Tomasso writes tunes with a strong content which explore traditional and more contemporary harmony and always maintain the sense of swing and groove. His repertoire includes his own compositions and modern interpretations of standards. Look out for the sensational new CD “Blood and Champagne”.

2011 25 March, £17 – Mari Wilson and Ian Shaw

With Mari Wilson vocals and Ian Shaw vocals and piano.

Actress and singer Mari Wilson arrived on the scene in the early eighties with her skyscraper beehive hairdo and bizarre sense of fashion. She soon had six hit singles and tours of Europe and America under her belt. Since then she has established her career on the jazz circuit, where her voice commands great acclaim.

Ian Shaw is one of the finest improvising jazz singers in the world today, and a great standup comedian to go with it. We are lucky that he was able to take over at such short notice from Adrian York (who we wish to have a quick recovery).

2011 1 April, £14 – Phronesis

With Jasper Hoiby bass, Ivo Neame piano and Anton Eger drums.

Phronesis have the ability to excite, inspire and move people in a way that few bands are able. They have developed a fierce reputation as one of the most formidable trios in the UK. Hoiby’ns are anchored on powerful, melodic and hypnotic bass grooves.

2011 8 April, £12 – Tim Richards Trio

With Tim Richards piano, Dominic Howles bass and Jeff Lardner drums.

Pianist and composer Tim Richards was established on the UK scene in the early 80s with his bands Spirit Level and the nine piece, Great Spirit. The trio have appeared frequently over the years at many venues and festivals, delighting audiences from Istanbul to Inverness.

[Tim’s great friend Frank Sebastian played tenor on two numbers – very exciting work.]

2011 15 April, £14 – The Minimum Trio

With Damon Brown trumpet, Laia Porta vocals and Francesc Capella piano.

The trio have an intimate and original take on the standard repertoire and original compositions that draw on jazz, soul and Brazilian rhythms. This is music with minimum pretence, but one charged with emotion.

[A trio became a quartet in the second half with the bassist Manuel Alvarez complementing this great band.]

2011 22 April, £18 – Outhouse + Hilmer Jensson

With Robin Fincker tenor saxophone and clarinet, Tom Challenger tenor saxophone, Johnny Brierley bass, Dave Smith drums and Hilmer Jensson guitar.

A super charged group featuring a frenetic twin saxophone attack, fuelled by a thundering rhythm section. Outhouse is one of the most exciting bands to have emerged from London’ctive. Tonight’est will be rock edged, Icelandic guitar wizard, Hilmer Jensson.

2011 29 April, £20 – Tina May

With Tina May vocals, Nikki Iles piano, Mark Hodgson bass and Stephen Keogh drums.

One of the brightest jazz singing stars on the scene today, Tina cemented her jazz diva reputation by recording, in New York, classics of the American songbook with pianist Ray Bryant. Ray, former accompanist of Ella, Billie and Betty Carter, is a great fan of Tina’D “I Never Told You”, must rank among her very best.
In the second half, the quartet was joined with Roger Neumann, a fine West Coast tenorist and band leader.

2011 6 May, £16 – Tony Kofi

With Tony Kofi tenor sax, David Chamberlain bass and Rod Youngs drums.
Anyone who heard Tony Kofi perform the complete works of Thelonius Monk in the course of one day (London Jazz Festival 2007 ) knows what a dedicated, impressive, solid, passionate yet controlled player he is whether playing Monk or his own exciting compositions.

2011 13 May, £18 – Spike Heatley

With Spike Heatley bass, Alan Barnes sax, Andy Williams guitar and Mal Mortimore drums.
Spike Heatley’s legendary career spans seven decades and every great jazz musician from Barney Kessel to Martin Taylor, the man who got Spike to drop his golf clubs, pick up his bass, drag himself away from France and start touring again and ten years later, thankfully, he’s still at it!

2011 20 May, £14 – Kelly Dickson

With Kelly Dickson vocals, Werner Kristiansen guitar, Tom Mason bass and Pat Illingworth drums.
Kelly’s voice has been described by Jamie Cullum as “A highly individual, mature with a very subtle power that creeps up on you” Her Fleece debut is eagerly awaited.

2011 27 May, £15 – Nicolas Meier Trio

With Nicolas Meier guitar, Paolo Minervini bass and Demi Garcia percussion.
Swiss born London based guitarist Nicolas Meier is a versatile musician whose primary influence is music of the Middle East. This will be an evening of exotic and exciting jazz.

2011 3 June, £16 – Gabriel Garrick’ Quintet

With Gabriel Garrick trumpet, Michael Garrick piano, Sam Walker tenor sax, Matt Ridley bass and Chris Nicholls drums.
Born into a musical family and gigging from an early age Gabriel graduated from the Royal Academy of Music and the National Youth Jazz Orchestra in 1995 since when he has worked with everybody from John Dankworth to King Candy and The Sugar Push! He is also a passionate educator and we should learn something tonight!

2011 10 June, £15 – Richard Fairhurst’s Triptych Amusia

With Richard Fairhurst piano, Riaan Vosloo bass and Tim Giles drums.
Award winning pianist Richard Fairhurst is a powerful keyboard virtuoso and as sophisticated a composer as he is a player. A hint of Bill Evans.

2011 17 June, £16 – Neon Quartet

With Stan Sulzman sax, Jim Hart vibes, Kit Downes piano and Tim Giles drums.
Stan Sulzman is a seasoned veteran of second generation British Modern jazz who has played with such luminaries as Gordon Beck, John Taylor and Kenny Wheeler. The lyricism and dream weaving of all the members of this wonderful Neon Quartet is sure to captivate.

2011 24 June, £15 – Trish Clowes

With Trish Clowes sax, Huw White piano, Chris Montague guitar, Heidi Parsons clarinet, Calum Gourlay bass and James Maddren drums.
“Clowes has a warm and sensuous sound, reflective at times of Stan Getz and Bobby Wellins … Clowes promise and ambitious vision is palpable” John Fordham.
She has a bright future.

[It was an exciting gig, not least for the sound man. The bassist was the excellent Ian Trevelcock. Heidi Parsons plays cello, not clarinet. There was no guitarist, but the wonderful Lewis Wright played vibes.]

2011 1 July, £16 – Kate Williams

With Kate Williams piano, Bobby Wellins sax, Steve Watts bass and Tristan Maillot drums.
Jazz pianist and composer Kate Williams was born into a musical family (her father is the guitarist John Williams) She has released four albums to critical acclaim, the trio CD “Scenes and Dreams” (2005) was rated in the top ten that year. Kate has performed with many of the UK’s leading musicians including John Etheridge, Julian Siegal and Tim Whitehead.

2011 8 July, £16 – Sam Crockatt Quartet

With Sam Crockatt tenor sax, Kit Downes piano, Oli Hayhurst bass and Ben Reynolds drums.
Sam Crockatt has rapidly built a reputation as a hugely talented musician and has worked with many others including Peter King, Stan Sulzman and Jim Hart. A founding member of the London based Loop Collective from which three other associates complete tonight’s band.

[We had two fine players return to us: John Scott on drums and Johnie Bryley on bass.]

2011 15 July, £16 – Zoë Gilby Quintet

With Zoë Gilby vocals, Noel Dennis trumpet, Mark Williams guitar, Andy Champion bass and Richard Brown drums.
Fleece Jazz welcomes an exciting newcomer. Zoë has a voice with a wide range, a warm timbre and clear diction and her lively personality comes across on every number. Her sparkling debut CD “Now That I am Real” has been widely praised.
“Modern, mature, swings like a bell” – Carol Kidd MBE.

2011 22 July, £14 – Will Butterworth Trio

With Will Butterworth piano, Hernrik Jensen bass and Pete Ibbetson drums.
This creative and prodigiously talented modern jazz pianist is sure to give us a stunning evening of brilliant music as he mixes standards and originals to great effect.

2011 29 July, £14 – Paul Booth

With Paul Booth sax, Ross Stanley organ and Andrew Bain drums
One of the most exciting and “in demand” players on the European scene. Paul Booth’s remarkable career, accepted at The Royal Academy at 15 , awards a plenty, is well documented and his previous Fleece appearance is the stuff of legend! Check your holiday dates and change them if necessary!

2011 5 August, £16 – Allison Neale Quartet

With Allison Neale sax and flute, Leon Greening piano, Steve Brown drums and Julian Bury bass.
Alison Neale is a skilful multi-instrumentalist equally at home on saxophone or flute. Her early influences were Paul Desmond and Art Pepper with who she still has a particular affinity.

2011 12 August, £18 – Simon Spillett and Alan Skidmore

With Simon Spillett sax, Alan Skidmore sax, John Critchinson piano, Alec Dankworth bass and Trevor Tomkins drums.
One of the most dynamic tenor saxophonists on the scene, Simon’s driving and energised style has often been favourably compared with his idol, the late great Tubby Hayes. Disciple of John Coltrane, son of Jimmy, Alan Skidmore began his career at 16 and we have enjoyed 50 years of his eloquent and lyrical playing.

2011 19 August, £15 – Georgia Mancio

With Georgia Mancio vocals, Nigel Price guitar and Julie Walkington bass.
In just over a decade of professional work award-winning Anglo-Italian jazz vocalist, Georgia Mancio, has established herself as one of the UK’s most important new artists. 2010 proved to be a landmark year for the rising star: she released her third album, Silhouette (Roomspin Records), to great critical acclaim and demonstrated her formidable skills as a lyricist and songwriter as well as her truly individual interpretations of jazz standards and Latin American song.

“of character, conviction and relaxed virtuosity” – The Guardian
“nality and understated eloquence” – The Observer

2011 26 August, £16 – Shanti

With Shanti Paul Jayasinha trumpet and flugel horn, Patrick Clahar sax, John Crawford piano, Andy Lafone bass and Davide Giovannini drums.
Shanti Paul Jayasinha has been making waves on the London scene for a while now with his various UK world jazz and crossover bands. Latin, eastern etc all bright toned and sparkling.

[We get fantastic deps, for a hugely joyous gig: Paul Booth was on tenor and soprano sax, Steve Lodder was on keyboards, and Davide Matovani (no relation) was on bass.]

2011 2 September, £15 – John Etheridge/John Horler

With John Etheridge guitar and John Horler piano.
Guitar legend John Etheridge is celebrating 40 years in the music business and what better way to do it than in
the company of the great John Horler at Fleece Jazz!
Stephane Grapelli, Nigel Kennedy, John Williams (John E)
Sir John Dankworth, Cleo Laine (John H) are just some of the long list of superstars that these superstars have shared a stage with.

[This giant duo was enhanced by John Horler’s brother David on valve trombone.]

2011 9 September, £15 – Dave Lewis Quartet

With Dave Lewis sax, Sean Hargreaves piano and keyboards, Rod Youngs drums and Neville Malcolm bass.
Dave Lewis is a much revered tenor saxophonist with the
ability to play with intensity in a host of styles whether it is with The Blockheads or with his own band.
He has a flawless command of his instrument and a wonderfully smooth tone.

[Francesco Mendolia was our superb drummer on this exciting gig.]

2011 16 September, £17 – Nina Ferro

With Nina Ferro vocals, Dave Green piano, Julie Walkington bass, and Martyn Kaine drums.

Nina Ferro is a multi award wining vocalist and songwriter whose warm sensuous voice, impeccable timing and stunning vocal range have done much to establish her international reputation. This gig is eagerly awaited.

2011 23 September, £16 – Barb Jungr

With Barb Jungr vocals and Simon Wallace piano.
Barb Jungr is an internationally known singer and songwriter who has performed and given workshops all over
the world. In collaboration with Simon Wallace she reveals herself to be a peerless interpreter of popular song.

2011 30 September, £14 – Kevin Flanagan

With Kevin Flanagan sax, David Gordon piano, Andrew James Brown bass and Russ Morgan drums.
Tenor saxophonist, prolific composer and brilliant academic Kevin Flanagan makes a very welcome return
to Fleece Jazz with his quartet. The list of great musicians with who Kevin has played and collaborated
over the years since his arrival from the USA would fill the whole programme!

2011 7 October, £20 – Norma Winstone

With Norma Winstone vocals, Glauco Venier piano and Klaus Gesing sax and clarinet.
The doyenne of jazz singers in the UK and winner of numerous awards, Norma is a vocalist of brilliance who can
improvise with the fluency of an instrumentalist and breathe life into a song like no other.

2011 14 October, £15 – Phillip Clouts Quartet

With Philip Clouts piano, Carlos Lopez-Real sax, Alex Keen bass and Jon Desbruslais drums.
Renowned for his work with world beating jazz band Zubop for which he has received great acclaim Phillip
swings with rhythmic deliberation and a crystal clear sense of phrasing.

2011 21 October, £17 – Renato D’hld

With Renato D’Aiello saxophone, Rachel Gould vocals, Bruno Montrone piano, Enzo Zirilli drums and Nicola Muresu bass.
With his highly dramatic manner of playing, Renato showcases one of the most attractive and affecting
tenor sounds in contemporary jazz. His solos tell a story. Rachel Gould famously recorded with Chet Baker
and we look forward to her Fleece debut tonight

2011 28 October, £15 – Jon Lloyd Quintet

With Jon Lloyd sax and bass clarinet, John Law piano, Rob Palmer guitar, Rodney Teague bass and Asaf Sirkis drums.
Jon has worked in the field of improvised music, jazz and contemporary composition for over 20 years and has gained a reputation as an innovative and uniquely styled
saxophonist and composer of intelligent and exciting jazz.

2011 4 November, £14 – Partikel

With Duncan Eagles sax, Max Luthert bass, and Eric Ford drums.
A melange of their individual influences of Latin, African and contemporary New York puts an interesting twist
on the standard jazz format while still honouring the tradition of deep harmony and creative improvisation

2011 11 November, £16 – Tamco

With Tammy Payne vocals, Dan Moore Hammond organ, Neil Smith guitar, Dylan Howe drums and Jim Barr bass.
Tammy Payne has an evocative and soulful voice and a way of retelling a story. She attempts to redefine the art of
jazz vocals with a repertoire of well know songs and will be a delight.

[Jim Barr was with Portishead, so we had the Bristol based John Short on bass.]

2011 18 November, £15 – Nigel Price Organ Trio

With Nigel Price guitar, Pete Whittaker Hammond organ and Matt Home drums.
Guitarist Nigel has a particular affinity to the Hammond Organ and features here in his favourite musical context
in what is sure to be a storming evening.

We are in the Garden Room for this gig.

2011 25 November, £15 – Just East

With Jeremy Shoham sax, Neil Anguilly piano and keyboards, Phil Scragg bass and Rick Finlay drums and percussion.
Captivating jazz from this punchy virtuoso whose stunning playing of his far reaching inspired compositions will
excite and energise his audience.

2011 2 December, £15 – John Law Trio

With John Law piano, Sam Burgess bass and Asaf Sirkis drums.
John Law is known for the intricate and intense atmosphere created by his playing and for the whole palette of colours
produced by the virtuosity of his trio. Among his many accomplishments John has composed a large suite for an
ensemble of the London Sinfonetta

[We missed Sam and Asif, but the young geniuses, Tom Farmer on bass and Daoud Merchant on drums were immense in this stunning gig.]

2011 9 December, £16 – Zoe Schwarz’tion

With Zoe Schwarz vocals, Rob Koral guitar, Gareth Williams piano, Paul Robinson drums and Steve Thompson bass.
The bluesy vocals of Zoe Schwarz have won a significant following with jazz and blues fans. Her work with
guitarist Rob Koral and her gritty approach places her apart from other singers.

2011 16 December, £16 – Peter King Quartet

With Peter King saxophone, Steve Melling piano, Geoff Gascoyne bass and Doug Sides drums.
It is always a great pleasure to welcome back Peter King, the finest alto saxophonist this country has ever produced.
Peter continues to release albums to much critical acclaim and to the delight of his many fans.

2011 23 December, £18 – Nette Robinson’s Little Jazz Orchestra

With Nette Robinson vocals, Kate Williams piano, Gabriel Garrick trumpet, Adrian Fry trombone, Tony Woods alto sax, Mick Foster tenor sax, Matt Ridley bass and Chris Nickolls drums.
You will not want to miss the genuine big band sound of this brilliant eight piece outfit fronted by the delightful
Nette Robinson on vocals. Get in the holiday mood and join us for this special Christmas treat!

2011 30 December, £22 – Sax Appeal

With Alan Barnes baritone sax, Derek Nash alto sax, Scott Garland alto sax, Gary Plumley tenor sax, Simon Allen tenor sax, Peter Adams piano, Phil Scragg bass and Mike Bradley drums.
Derek Nash’s award winning jazz group currently celebrating 20 years of gigging sports a glorious five
saxophone line up, a top draw exciting rhythm section and will provide a perfect and exhilarating end to a
great year of Fleece Jazz.

[At this superb gig, we had Darren Altman on drums, and Brandon Allen instead of Gary Plumley.]

2012 6 January, £20 – Liane Carroll

With Liane Carroll vocals, Roger Carey bass, Mark Fletcher drums.
We start the year with a much loved multiple award winning international
superstar who accompanies her powerful and emotional
vocals with her superb piano playing – book early.

2012 13 January, £15 – Deirdre Cartwright

With Deirdre Cartwright guitar, Kathy Dyson guitar, Alison Rayner basses, Winston Clifford drums and Sarah P. vocals.
At last a return visit for this musical polymath acknowledged to
be one of if not the most complete guitarists in contemporary
music.

2012 20 January, £17 – Sarah Gillespie and Gilad Atzmon

With Sarah Gillespie vocals, Gilad Atzmon sax / accordion / clarinet, Enzo Zirilli drums, Ben Bastin bass
If you saw Sarah’s stunning performance at our benefit gig last February
you will not want to miss tonight. Sarah delivers a mix of urban folk
middle eastern blues and raucous gypsy swing while the internationally
renowned Gilad Atzmon tonight in his multi instrumentalist form will dazzle
as always.

2012 27 January, £15 – Dave Chamberlain Quartet

With Dave Chamberlain guitar, Dave O’Higgins sax, Ross Stanley piano, Geoff Gascoyne bass
Dave Chamberlain showcases his some of his favourite compositions from
the canon of hard bop alongside originals and some older swing tunes.
The warm sonic blend of the rhythm guitar piano and bass with tenor sax
will be something special.

2012 3 February, £17 – Joe Stilgoe Trio

With Joe Stilgoe piano/ vocals, Chris Hill bass, Ben Reynolds drums
Joe Stilgoe is a remarkable singer /songwriter and a sparkling pianist who has been favourably compared to Oscar Peterson so expect a treat.

2012 10 February, £15 – Frank Harrison Trio

With Frank Harrison piano, Davide Petrowka bass, Stephen Keogh drums
It is always a pleasure to welcome Frank Harrison whether with Gilad Atzmon’s acclaimed Orient House Ensemble or Frank Williams’s African Jazz Quintet but especially with own very distinguished trio. He is undoubtedly one of the most talented young pianists on the UK circuit and in Europe

2012 17 February, £15 – Latin Underground, featuring Robin Jones

With Robin Jones congas / percussion, Nick Walker sax, Gavin Broom trumpet, Andrew Noble piano, Jonny Gee bass , Mark Cecil drums /timbales
Robin Jones is recognised as of one of the finest exponents of the Afro-Cuban jazz idiom and leads one of the premier jazz groups around today with many fine recordings to its name. We are delighted to welcome him and his fabulous sextet back to Fleece Jazz

2012 24 February, £15 – Mark Crooks Quartet

With Mark Crooks sax / clarinet John Pearce piano Dave Chamberlain bass Steve Brown drums
Whether on clarinet or tenor saxophone Mark is sure to delight us with his brilliance. His career has had many high points one of which was playing the part of Artie Shaw in a gala performance in Dublin which so impressed that he was then invited to perform a Benny Goodman programme followed by featuring as clarinet soloist in an all American band at the Lincoln Center in New York

2012 2 March, £15 – Sarah Moule Quartet

With Sarah Moule vocals, Simon Wallace piano, Mick Hutton bass, Paul Robinson drums
Sarah Moule is one of our most exciting vocal talents. Compelling empowering and highly original was the audience reaction to a recent show of tonight’s singing star whose warmth can lift a lyric off the page

[Unfortunatly Sarah was ill,but what a delight to see and hear Trudy Kerr]

2012 9 March, £15 – Adam Glasser Quartet

With Adam Glasser harmonica, Robin Aspland piano, Alec Dankworth bass, Frank Tonto drums
A very respected musician Adam is one of the UK’s leading chromatic harmonica players appearing on many gigs sessions and recordings. He has also played keyboards for Martha Reeves, Jimmy Witherspoon and many others and done much work in theatre and feature films

2012 16 March, £17 – Damon Brown International Quintet

With Damon Brown trumpet, Martin Zenker bass, Yutaka Shiina piano, Christian Brewer sax, Matt Skelton drums.
Damon Brown appearances at Fleece Jazz have been legendary and this band will add a new chapter to the story. Damon has toured Japan three times with Yutaka Shiina Japan’s premier jazz pianist and composer. They and Martin Zenker the double-bass virtuoso have a shared love of the great Hard Bop composers and performers.

[Guess what? The sax player was Ed Jones. The mystery altoist from Japan was superb, as was the entire band.]

2012 23 March, £15 – Art Themen Quartet

With Art Themen sax, John Donaldson piano, Paul Morgan bass and Clark Tracey drums.
Art Themen, the saxophone playing orthopaedic surgeon, has been an appealing presence on the British jazz circuit for 40 years and has not lost his appetite for the game. We certainly have not lost our appetite for him.

2012 30 March, £15 – Marlene Ver Planck

With Marlene Ver Planck vocals, John Pearce piano, Bobby Worth drums, Paul Morgan bass
Marlene is a contemporary singer who can stand comparison with the greats. Her superb voice is matched with a flawless technique and the New York Times thinks she may be the most accomplished interpreter of popular material performing today!

2012 6 April, £22 – Martin Taylor and Alan Barnes

With Martin Taylor guitar, Alan Barnes saxophones / clarinets
Martin Taylor’s immaculate style has seen him recognised as one of the world’s foremost guitarists. A veritable maestro his silky accessible tones and formidable technique are unmistakable.
Alan Barnes is possibly the most renowned and respected saxophonist in Britain. Apart from also being a maestro he is a serious educator being a fellow of Leeds College a broadcaster and an entertainer par excellence.

2012 13 April, £15 – Ed Jones Quartet

With Ed Jones sax, Ross Stanley piano, Rian Vosloo bass, Tim Giles drums
One of the most exciting and innovative band leaders in Britain Ed Jones playing has been described as fluent, distinctive, vigorous, volcanic and more. An improviser to his fingertips this will be an explosive and wonderful night.

[The excellent Tom Crawley was a last minute replacement on piano.]

2012 20 April, £15 – Janet Seidel

With Janet Seidel vocals, Chuck Morgan guitar, David Seidel bass
Janet Seidel is Australia’s first lady of jazz singing. A world class performer not just at home but all over the eastern world including Japan where her CD’s regularly top the jazz charts.

2012 Saturday, 28 April, £25 – Claire Martin – Sorry, sold out!

1000th FLEECE CELEBRATION GIG with Claire Martin OBE vocals, Gareth Williams piano, Lawrence Cottle bass, Kristiam Leth drums
Claire Martin is the UK’s No 1 jazz vocalist and has been the driving force behind the UK’s jazz scene for 25 years. Claire made the first of her Fleece Jazz appearances in our first year 1993 and we are delighted that she has agreed to come and help us celebrate this proud landmark

[Our delightful drummer was Dave Ohm.]

2012 4 May, £20 – David Rees-Williams

With David Rees-Williams piano,Neil Francis bass and Phil Laslett drums.
Uniting the best of classical and jazz the recordings of this exciting and uniquely talented pianist are widely acclaimed as being the best of their genre.

2012 11 May, £17 – Leon Greening Quartet

With Leon Greening piano, Vincent Herring sax, Michael Janisch bass and Steve Brown drums.
Leon Greening is one of the finest pianists this country has ever produced and his extraordinary solos will have you on the edge of your seat.The sheer brilliance of the entire quartet will keep you there

[It was Alex Garnett on sax. Alex was with Vincent on the “Brooklyn” cd. He played his ass off.]

2012 18 May, £15 – Julian Marc Stringle Quartet

With Julian Mark Stringle clarinet and sax, Dominic Ashworth guitar, Chris Dodds bass and Mike Bradley drums.
Virtoso composer and musician Julian Mark Stringle has, as Sir John Dankworth CBE said, presented his credentials to the Royal circles of Clarinetia. Expect a mesmerising evening.

2012 25 May, £15 – Phronesis

With Jasper Hoiby bass, Ivo Neame piano and Anton Eger drums.
Phronesis have the ability to excite, inspire and move an audience in a way that few are able to do. Everyone who saw them here last time will be here tonight, those who missed are advised not to do so again!

2012 1 June, £17 – Barb Jungr and Simon Wallace

With Barb Jungr vocals and Simon Wallace piano.
Barb Jungr, a fearless iconoclast dives into the deepest waters of popular song to wrest exotic treasure from the ocean floor and deliver a fiery personal tutorial on Mr Bob Dylan.

Barb at her best.

2012 8 June, £15 – Brandon Allen / Quentin Collins Quartet

With Brandon Allen sax, Quentin Collins trumpet, Ross Stanley organ and Enzo Zirilli drums.
Inspired by their passion for the hard bop of the 50’s, 60’s Blue Note, soul and swing, this quartet will blow your socks off!

2012 15 June, £15 – Jim Mullen Organ Trio

With Jim Mullen guitar, Mike Gorman organ and Tristan Maillot drums.
Jim Mullen is a truly original voice in contemporary jazz guitar. Multiple award winner and leader of many bands over the years Jim’s Organ Trio is a must for any self respecting jazz venue.

2012 22 June, £15 – Steve Melling Trio with Alan Skidmore

With Steve Melling piano, Alan Skidmore sax, Andrew Cleyndert bass and Miles Levin drums.
Steve Melling has played for Fleece Jazz with distinction since our early days and if there is a finer pianist around we have yet to meet. It gets better, Steve has prised the wonderful Alan Skidmore away from France to join the trio in what is sure to be a memorable evening.

[No changes to the personnel of this great gig, but contrary to the programme, Skid does not live in France.]

2012 29 June, £15 – Gabrielle Ducomble Quintet

With Gabrielle Ducomble vocals, Nicholas Meier guitar, Dan Teper accordion, Nick Kacal bass and Saleem Raman drums.
This rising star on the jazz scene brings her gorgeously Gallic tones to Fleece Jazz. Her unique interpretation of old favourites is fresh, sophisticated and resonant and will leave you with lingering pleasure.

[A few changes to this really wonderful gig: The drummer was Laurie Lowe, Nathan Mansfield guested on violin, trumpet and flugelhorne, and Dan Teper played piano as well as accordion.]

2012 6 July, £15 – Simon Woolf Quintet

With Simon Woolf bass, Karen Sharpe sax, Gareth Williams piano, Robbie Harvey trombone and Matt Home drums.
Lyrical double bass player Simon Woolf’s band reflects his interest in melodic straight ahead jazz and is a very classy ensemble indeed.

2012 13 July, £15 – Pete Churchill Trio

With Pete Churchill piano and vocals, Anita Wardell vocals and Nia Lynn vocals.
Pete Churchill is something of a musical polymath – Professor of Jazz studies at Guildhall, pianist, composer, vocalist and arranger but despite all this he still finds time to come to Fleece jazz with his latest project – we just can’t wait.

2012 20 July, £0 – Gig Cancelled

Due to circumstances beyond our control, the Dorian Ford Trio gig has been cancelled. We are very sorry about this. In 20 years, we have had 3 cancellations due to snow, petrol strikes, etc. This is our fourth, and we apologise to our customers and to the trio, but there was nothing we could do.

2012 27 July, £17 – Clark Tracey Band

With Clark Tracey drums, Tony Kofi sax, Simon Allen sax, Mark Armstrong trumpet, Steve Melling piano, and Arni Somogyi bass.
Clark Tracey has been a professional jazz musician for over 30 years and in that timeas well as performing with various UK outfits including leading his own bands he has accompanied some 200 international musicians and worked in more than 50 countries. I think he knows what he’s doing! Tonight it is clear that he does as he brings this stellar sextet to Fleece Jazz.

[Paul Booth took the place of Tony Kofi who had a great gig in the States. Not as great as our gig.]

2012 3 August, £15 – Sarah Moule Quartet

With Sarah Moule vocals, Simon Wallace piano, Mick Hutton bass and Paul Robinson drums.
We look forward to Sarah performing some Fran Landesman / Simon Wallace compositions and much more.
“Best Live Vocal Jazz Gig of the Last 15 Years” Brian Blain in Jazz UK’s 2011 Anniversary issue.

2012 10 August, £15 – MJQ

With Matt Ridley bass, Jim Hart vibes, Barry Green piano and Steve Brown drums.
Matt has now firmly established himself as a young talent on the UK jazz scene. This celebration of the Modern Jazz Quartet should not be missed.

[Because of a total cockup, we had a quite different band tonight, absolutely wonderful, last minute and unrehearsed. Jim Mullen on guitar, Damon Brown on trumpet and Troy Miller on drums joined Matt in an evening of amazing improvisation of standards.]

2012 17 August, £17 – Chris Allard Band

With Chris Allard guitar, Ross Stanley piano, Brandon Allen sax, Oli Hayhurst bass and Nick Smalley drums.
With a mixture of originals and new arrangements of standards Chris has wowed audiences in Europe and beyond as well as in the UK. He also has many TV appearances to his name. This brilliant band will go down a storm.

[It was a lovely surprise to welcome vocalist Brigitte Beraha to the stage.]

2012 24 August, £15 – Roger Beaujolais Quartet

With Roger Beaujolais vibes, Robin Aspland piano, Simon Thorpe bass and Winston Clifford drums.
Vibraphone virtuoso Roger Beaujolais writes crisp idiomatic themes, chooses his material with great taste and his playing is agile, fresh and inventive. It is a pleasure to welcome him back.

2012 31 August, £18 – Simon Spillett Quartet

With Simon Spillett sax, John Critchinson piano, Clark Tracey drums and Alec Dankworth bass.

One of the most dynamic tenor saxophonists on the scene, Simon’s driving and energised style has often been favourably compared with his idol, the late great Tubby Hayes.
On no account should you miss this gig.

2012 7 September, £17 – Matt Wates Sextet

With Matt Wates alto, Steve Main tenor, Martin Shaw trumpet, Leon Greening piano, Malcolm Creese bass and Matt Home drums.

We begin our new season with the cream of British musicians in a band lead by altoist Matt Wates. Matt’s compositions can be tender or dramatic, but always, always swing. Do join us.
“[Wates is] is an incredibly talented musician and composer” – John Dankworth
“A seriously good band containing six of Britain’s finest jazz musicians, regardless of age or style” – Dave Gelly

2012 14 September, £23 – Sarah Jane Morris

With Sarah Jane Morris vocals, Michael Rosen sax, Tony Remy guitar, Alastair Gavin piano and Henry Thomas bass.

It is such a pleasure to welcome back Sarah Jane and her musicians to Fleece Jazz. For those who don’t know her, this is a voice once heard, never forgotten. She uses her three and a half octave range with both power and delicacy. The band has a discography as long as your arm. Don’t miss this one if you love the blues.

2012 21 September, £17 – Trudy Kerr and Geoff Gascoyne

With Trudy Kerr vocals, Geoff Gascoyne bass, Andrea Vicari piano and Sebastiaan de Krom drums.

Trudy and Geoff will be playing music from their new album, “The Rhythm of Life”, their first collaborative project. Trudy has style which moves between swing, subtlety and seduction, with all moods fully evident. Geoff we know as one of the country’s finest bassists. When two musicians of this standard and standing write and play together, we are in for a real treat.

[Our pianist for a delightful evening of original and standard music was Tom Crawley.]

2012 28 September, £17 – Spike Robinson Tribute

With John Pearce piano, Paul Morgan bass, Bobby Worth drums, Derek Nash sax, Karen Sharpe sax and Vasilis Xenopoulos sax.

Three brilliant tenorists and a great rhythm section celebrate the music of saxophonist Spike Robinson. Spike’s last recording was made with a band organized by Derek. Do come and join the celebration.

[Our bassist was the estimable Andre Messida.]

2012 5 October, £15 – John Turville Trio

With John Turville piano, Chris Hill bass and Ben Reynolds drums.

John is a classically trained pianist who directs the E17 big band as well as this trio. Chris is currently with Jamie Cullum. Ben is hugely in demand. This is a stunning trio: be there with us to hear them.
“John Turville is a young conservatoire-trained British pianist with very broadly-based resources … his adventurousness with harmony and the always lyrical yet narratively swerving designs of his improvisations often recall UK piano giant John Taylor’s playing” – John Fordham

2012 12 October, £20 – Ben Crosland Brass Group

With Ben Crosland bass, Steve Waterman trumpet and flugelhorn, Martin Shaw trumpet and flugelhorn, Mark Nightingale trombone, Barnaby Dickinson trombone, Steve Lodder piano and keyboards.

The music we will hear is inspired by the Yorkshire Sculpture Park. The colours and textures of his pieces have rich voicings and imaginative ensemble writing. The improvisational skill and creativity of these great soloists are a given. This is a “not to be missed” gig.
“His compositions are colourful, beguiling and thoroughly musical” – Mark Gilbert, The Independent

2012 19 October, £17 – Trevor Warren’s Disassembler

With Trevor Warren guitar, Pete Wareham sax, Annie Whitehead trombone, Dudley Phillips bass and Winston Clifford drums.

When a guitarist can win an award in Granada, he has got to be of the best. Of his band “Disassembler”, John Fordham wrote “Warren’s striking themes and rousing arrangements lift it far above the contemporary Euro-jazz throng”.
It will be lovely to see the great Annie Whitehead back again.
Please join us to enjoy this superb band. We might even get Winston to sing!

2012 26 October, £15 – Catherine Sykes and the Alex Steele Trio

With Catherine Sykes vocals, Alex Steele piano, Mick Hutton bass and Mark Whitlam drums.

Catherine is a Yorkshire lass with a love of Ella. Catherine’s intonation and phrasing are swinging, but precise and clear. In other words she is an excellent singer. Alex’s sound is unique, bringing energy, virtuosity and passion to the music. This gig will be a cracker, so do join us.

“Catherine Sykes is unique…she has the rare gift of making her listeners feel that she is singing directly and exclusively to them.” – David Scott

2012 2 November, £15 – Tim Lapthorn with Bobby Wellins

With Tim Lapthorn piano, Bobby Wellins sax, Arnie Somogyi bass and Stephen Keogh drums.

Tim can really execute some tough and virtuosic shapes and ideas on the piano – in short the guy can play. Bobby has, in my mind, the word “great” in front of his name. It takes two bars on the radio to know it is him: that is how individual his tone and thought on the sax is. With fine drumming and bass playing to boot, it would be a pity to miss this gig.

[Our drummer on a “top 10” gig was Tristan Maillot.]

2012 9 November, £15 – Asaf Sirkis Trio

With Asaf Sirkis drums, Tassos Spiliotopoulos guitar and Yaron Stavi bass.

Asaf formed the Asaf Sirkis Trio with Tassos and Yaron in 2007. They released their first album “The Monk” in 2008. They are currently preparing a new release – “Letting Go”. Asaf is simply among the most accomplished percussionists about.
“Sirkis simply the most sensitive of percussionists” – Chris Parker
“Asaf Sirkis sounding creatively freer and more dramatically inventive than ever on drums” – John Fordham

2012 16 November, £15 – Tim Whitehead

With Tim Whitehead sax, John Turville piano, Oli Hayhurst bass and Winston Clifford drums.

Tim is a jazz saxophonist and composer, and is currently artist in residence at Tate Britain. Tim is a committed and passionate player who is concerned with melody and lyricism. He brings a very fine rhythm section to a gig you must not miss.
“Whitehead has a highly personal, always gorgeous sound on tenor and an infinite vocabulary – in a country of fine saxophonists he is one of the finest.” Peter Bacon
“Whitehead glides ethereally into his phrases like a jazzier Jan Garbarek at times, although the playing is often stronger.” – John Fordham

2012 23 November, £17 – Kate Williams

With Kate Williams piano, Gareth Lockrane flutes, Oli Hayhurst bass and Tristan Maillot drums.

“Lucid and inventive” are the adjectives applied by the late Humphrey Lyttelton to the pianist/composer Kate Williams. Gareth Lockrane co-founded the band “Grooveyard”, which won the Best European Jazz Group award at the 2003 Granada Jazz Festival. These two are joined by old friends Oli and Tristan, whose skills we know well. Do come along.

2012 30 November, £15 – Christine Tobin, Sailing to Byzantium

With Christine Tobin vocals, Phil Robson guitar, Liam Noble piano, Kate Shortt cello and Dave Whitford bass.

Christine was named best vocalist at the 2008 BBC jazz awards, which is no surprise to anyone who has heard her. Her style, while rooted in jazz, is steeped in the singer-songwriter tradition. She draws on a broad range of influences from West Africa to Brazil. Her sound is rich, authentic and deeply expressive and was described by the Guardian as “Tobin’s 24 carat voice”. Not to be missed.

2012 7 December, £15 – The Horn Factory

With East Anglia’s Premier Big Band.

Nineteen musicians will be bringing us the spine tingling sound of the true big band. It would be a shame to miss this one.

Musical Director: Bob Airzee
Lead Alto: Gilly Burgoyne
Alto: Chris Lund
Lead Tenor: Jonathan Farnhill
Tenor: Mark Usher
Baritone: Charlotte Beattie
Lead Trumpet: Richard Steward
Second Trumpet: Roger Chinery
Trumpet: Steve Stone
Trumpet: John “Shep” Birch
Lead Trombone: Paul Little
Trombone: Andy Shipp
Trombone: Steve Bull
Bass Trombone: Chris Neary
Piano: Keith Monk
Guitar: Mike Spearman
Bass: Emma Barnes
Drumkit: Bob Airzee

[There were changes, but with such a big list I have made them in the main description.]

2012 14 December, £17 – Robin Jones Latin Underground

With Robin Jones congas and percussion, Nick Walker sax, Gavin Broom trumpet, Chris Kibble piano, Jonny Gee bass and Marc Cecil drums.

Robin Jones is recognised as of one of the finest exponents of the Afro-Cuban jazz idiom and leads one of the premier jazz groups around today with many fine recordings to its name. We are delighted to welcome him and his fabulous sextet back to Fleece Jazz. They delighted you when they were here last, and are guaranteed to do so again.

[Steve Waterman, who played on Robin’s CDs was our trumpeter. Rob Palmer played bass on no notice at all, as Jonny Gee’s car failed him, and was excellent. We had a guest conga player in Eric Young.]

2012 21 December, £15 – John Etheridge & Art tive Quartet

With John Etheridge guitar, Art Themen sax, Arnie Somogyi bass and Winston Clifford drums.

For the first time for over a decade guitar legend John Etheridge brings a full-on jazz quartet to Fleece Jazz. John spent some years with Stephan Grappelli, and has a tale or three to tell.
The band’s co-leader is Art Themen, the great saxophonist, for many years with Stan Tracey. They are backed by the stellar rhythm section of Arnie Somogyi and Winston Clifford.
Expect an evening where the festive spirit comes not from anodyne versions of Christmas carols, but in the power and verve of the playing. The 2 leaders have 100 years playing experience between them –so look out for sagacity as well!

2012 28 December, £22 – Sax Appeal

With Derek Nash saxes, Bob McKay sax, Gary Plumley sax, Brandon Allen sax, Pete Adams piano, Phil Scragg bass and Mike Bradley drums.

Derek Nash’s award winning jazz group currently celebrating 20 years of gigging, sports a glorious four saxophone line up, with a top draw exciting rhythm section. They will provide a perfect and exhilarating end to a great year of Fleece Jazz.

[Another stunning gig from Sax Appeal. The correct lineup (5 saxes, not 4) is Mike Bradley – Drums
Bob Mckay – Baritone sax and Woodwind
Pete Adams – Piano
Scott Garland – Alto sax
Gary Plumley – Tenor Sax
Brandon Allen – Tenor sax
Derek Nash – Alto/Soprano sax
Phil Mulford – Bass]

2013 4 January, £20 – Liane Carroll

With Liane Carroll piano & vocar Carey bass, Mark Fletcher drums

What a wonderful way to start the year! The one and only Liane will delight us with her amazing vocal interpretations and fine piano playing. The quotes below include her excellent band.

“Deeply soulful, wonderfully honest” – The Times
“Highly Recommended–I love it” – Michael Parkinson
“The real thing.” – Sholto Byrnes, Independent on Sunday
“Utterly brilliant.” – Time Out

2013 11 January, £15 – Martin Speake

With Martin Speake sax, Mike Outram guitar, Josh Blackmore drums

Martin is a lucid, adventurous and inventive alto player who has just completed a new CD “Always A First Time”. Expect meditative ballads, trance like grooves, free improvisation, minimalism, jazz standard songs, Arabic influenced music, heavy metal guitar, unaccompanied solos from each player and more…

“Martin Speake is one of the most interesting and rewarding alto saxophonists now playing jazz on any continent.” – Thomas Conrad, Jazz Times

2013 18 January, £15 – John Law – Cancelled due to John being snowed in in Somerset

With John Law piano, Yuri Golubev bass, Asaf Sirkis drums

John has been a Fleece Jazz favourite for many years. It is such a pleasure to welcome this hugely inventive trio to entertain and amaze us.

“so full of joy that it can renew your faith not just in jazz, but music itself” – Phil Johnson, Independent on Sunday

[Sad to say, this gig was cancelled. John lives in Somerset and was snowed in. Only the 5^th time we have cancelled in 20 years. We will see John again in October.]

2013 25 January, £18 – Renato D’Aiello Quartet

With Renato D’Aiello sax, Dario Di Lecce bass, Ross Stanley piano, Enzo Zirilli drums, with special guest Frode Kjekstad on guitar.

Renato plays with a lyricism, line and invention that is rare, and not to be missed. John Fordam says that he shows how a poetic imagination can rekindle a long-gone style without nostalgia. Dario, Ross and Enzo, players of the highest class, complement his playing perfectly.

“Italian saxophonist Renato D’Aiello oozes class. When he plays quietly the effect is like hearing an old friend” – James Griffith (he is an old friend)

2013 1 February, £16 – OUR 20TH ANNIVERSARY with the Orient House Ensemble

With Gilad Atzmon sax, Frank Harrison piano, Yaron Stavi bass, Eddie Hick drums.

Our 20th Birthday Celebration should be something special, and with Gilad Atzmon leading the Orient House Ensemble it is certain to be very special indeed. Fronting an incredibly talented band Gilad always excites and amazes whether on saxes or clarinet. Come and join our party and be “bowled over with Atzmon’approach… dynamic, charismatic and …exasperating!” – Brian Blain, Jazz UK.

2013 8 February, £18 – Walter Smith III Quartet

With Walter Smith III sax, Matthew Stevens guitar, Jamire Williams drums, Michael Janisch bass

Walter’s latest album, III, had that rarity, a top 10 jazz album.His work has had great critical acclaim, including a four star review for this tour in the Guardian. While capable of great speed, he takes a more thoughtful path through his music, playing “the right number of notes”. This is a truly world class band, not to be missed.

“Smith takes a thoughtful and unencumbered approach to encompass an equally cerebral yet rooted music” – Mark Turner, All About Jazz

2013 15 February, £17 – Emilia Må

With Emilia Må vocals, Barry Green piano, Adriano Adewale percussion, Sam Lasserson bass

At last we get to hear this fine singer with an excellent band. Her music includes work from her native Sweden to Nat King Cole to James Taylor. Do join us.

“ethereal voice” – Time Out
“The New Face of British Jazz 2012” – The Observer
“flawlessly sung” – Chris Parker, Jazz Review
“bewitching young singer”Jazzwise

2013 22 February, £15 – Marc Cecil Quintet

With Marc Cecil drums, Andrew Noble piano, Paul Jayasinha trumpet/flugelhorn, Mick Foster baritone sax, Rob Rickenberg bass

We have heard Marc with the Robin Jones Latin Underground, and loved his work. Here is a chance to see the man with his own band, which encompasses latin, soul and straight jazz: and a fine band it is, too.

2013 1 March, £15 – Will Butterworth Trio

With Will Butterworth piano, Henrik Jensen bass, Pete Ibbetson drums

Will has bowled us over every time he has graced the Fleece Jazz stage, Who can forget the Stravinsky Duo gig? This trio is class jazz, not to be missed.

“His effortless poise and crisp, attractive classically-trained sound is one of his great strengths… Butterworth can capture a sense of atmosphere with well-placed notes and treads artfully between drama and intimacy and romantic sentiment and dry inquisition.” – Selwyn Harris, Jazzwise – 4 stars

2013 8 March, £15 – Chico Chica

With Hilary Cameron voice/piano, Tom Hannah voice/guitar, Barbara Snow voice/flugalhorn

This is a lovely Latin group, three great voices and three great musicians wrapped up in a trio.
We are grateful to them for helping out when Yury Galkin was disgracefully refused a visa extension.

2013 15 March, £15 – Marlene VerPlanck

With Marlene VerPlanck vocals, John Pearce piano, Paul Morgan bass, Bobby Worth drums

Marlene just keeps getting better. She is an American treasure, loving the “Great American Songbook”, but willing to take risks with new music. She is accompanied by the best of British. Her 2012 New York reviews have been splendid, but the following quote sums it up.

“She may be the most accomplished interpreter of popular material performing today…” – The New York Times

[The excellent dep on drums for this truly wonderful gig was Brian McAlistair]

2013 22 March, £18 – Tommy Smith

With Tommy Smith tenor/soprano sax, Steve Hamilton keyboards, Kevin Glasgow electric bass, Alyn Cosker drums

Tommy last graced our stage in 2005 – far too long ago. He is a stunning player, composer, educator, band leader. Missing this gig would be a shame.

“… playing with staggering aplomb and a visceral precision and imaginative interplay that sweeps all before it” – Ray Comiskey, The Irish Times

2013 Sunday, 24 March, £25 – ALL STAR BENEFIT DAY

Damon Brown, David Rees-Williams, Kate Shortt, Denny Ilett, Winston Clifford, Mick Hutton, Liam Noble, Kevin Flanagan, Chris Ingham, , Marc Cecil, Shakatak’s Roger Odell … more to be announced.

Last year we had such a blast. Fireworks are promised again this year, with an afternoon and evening of wonderful music. We will keep you informed of the lineup as time goes by.
There will be a buffet, very well received last year, at a very reasonable price.

2013 29 March, £18 – Frank Giasullo & Art et

With Frank Giasullo piano, Art Themen sax, Dave Green bass, Pat Tamminen drums

We have an international band, with USA and UK greats in Frank and Art. With Dave and Pat as a world class engine room, this is not a gig you can miss.

“Frank is one of the most exciting musicians I’ve heard in quite some time.” – John Coates Jr.
“Anyone who likes swinging straightahead jazz with plenty of blues & gospould beat a path to one of their gigs.” – Jazz Express

[The bassist was the estimable Paul Morgan.]

2013 5 April, £20 – Stan Tracey Trio

With Stan Tracey piano, Andrew Cleyndert bass, Clark Tracey drums

Stan Tracey, CBE, is back, with the 2012 Ivor award, the first winner in the jazz category, Andrew and son Clark are in support, forming a trio that is tight, inventive, always exciting. Do check out his website for a biog, reviews, and effectively a history of jazz in the UK.
This gig will be in the Devora Suite.

2013 12 April, £16 – The Lyric Ensemble

With Nette Robinson vocals, Tony Woods sax, Nikki Iles piano, Matt Ridley bass

Tony’s and Nette’s work for the Michael Garrick Lyric Ensemble have been getting terrific notices. It has been a year since Nikki Iles has graced our stage, and it is always a pleasure to welcome Matt Ridley.
May we welcome you to this excellent gig.

2013 19 April, £15 – Ed Jones

With Ed Jones sax, Ross Stanley piano, Riaan Vosloo bass and Tim Giles drums.

“A formidable saxophonist. Ed Jones may have hit his highest profile through his work with bands US3 and Incognito, but he’ser to his fingertips, a player of forceful imagination, and one of the Uk’nctive saxophonists.” – John Fordham The Guardian.

[Tom Cawley was the terrific pianist on this great gig [same as last year!].]

2013 26 April, £16 – Basil Hodge Quartet

With Basil Hodge piano, Tony Kofi sax, Larry Bartley bass, Winston Clifford drums

Basil writes great stuff, accessible, deep and always interesting. Tony, Larry and Winston know his work well: this is a tight team. It is great to have them back.

“Though classically trained, he’sted in icy technical brilliance. Instead he waves sonorous, thoughtful ideas, articulated with a proper jazz touch.” – London Evening Standard

2013 3 May, £16 – Terry Seabrook Quintet

With Terry Seabrook piano, Graeme Flowers trumpet, Ian Price sax, Steve Watts bass and Chris Nickolls drums.

Terry Seabrook is a jazz pianist, composer and teacher who has played around the world. He has given us much pleasure in the past with Cubana Bop. This evening will be more straight ahead jazz with some Latin for fun.

Do join us for the first gig in our summer season.

2013 10 May, £12 – Dorian Ford Trio

With Dorian Ford piano, Tim Fairhall bass & Pat Levett drums.

Dorian won a scholarship to Berklee College of Music where he won the Chick Corea Jazz Masters Award. He studied with Donald Brown, from Art Blakey’s band at the time. He does classical gigs, acts, does theatre music, but mostly he is a consummate jazz pianist.

The bassist Tim Fairhall from bands local and international joins Dorian and the in demand Pat Levett.

2013 17 May, £18 – Barb Jungr and Simon Wallace – Stockport to Memphis

With Barb Jungr vocals & e piano.

“The greatest musical thing to come out of Rochdale since Gracie Fields” – Matthew Sweet, BBC 3
“One of the best interpreters of Jacques Brel and Bob Dylan anywhere on this angst ridden planet today” -Village Voice, New York

Simon Wallace brings his peerless pianistic skills to a great musical partnership, on the “Stockport to Memphis” CD and many others.

2013 24 May, £15 – MJQ

With Matt Ridley bass, Jim Hart vibraphone, Barry Green piano & Steve Brown drums.

This is the perfect British band to give us the full flavour of the Modern Jazz Quartet. The band is led by bassist/composer/teacher Matt Ridley, who was a fixture with the late Michael Garrick, and many others. Jim Hart we know as a consummate vibraphonist. Barry Green has been with us accompanying Victoria Newton and Polly Gibbons in the past, and it will be lovely to see him again. Steve Brown – never stops smiling, or playing at the world class level.

This will be a gig to savour.

2013 31 May, £15 – Mark Crooks Quartet

With Mark Crooks saxophone and clarinet, John Pearce piano, Dave Green bass & Matt Home drums.

Mark is brilliant on both instruments, but it is on the clarinet that he shines brightest, in our opinion.He swings like crazy on both. He is accompanied by three of the British best.

John Pearce is one of Britain’s most respected and versatile musicians and also one of our best kept secrets – listen to any of Scott Hamilton’s recent recordings.

Dave Green on bass and Matt Home on drums provide the excellent engine room.

2013 7 June, £18 – Nicolas Meier Group featuring Lizzie Ball

With Nicolas Meier guitar, Lizzie Ball violin, James Pearson piano, Asaf Sirkis drums & Demi Garcia percussion.

” …Meier is elegant in tone and bubbling with ideas… his originality as a writer, a player and a team leader dispatches any doubts” – John Fordham

What a fascinating lineup he brings with him: our favourite drummer, Asaf Sirkis, a fine percussionist in Demi Garcia and a violinist. Lizzie Ball plays “z fiddle…e Strad Magazine.

[In addition to the fine musicians above, we had, direct from Florida, the amazing Patrick Bettison on electric bass and harmonica.]

2013 14 June, £18 – Mari Wilson

With Mari Wilson vocals, Alastair Gavin piano and James Nisbet guitar.

Mari Wilson covered Fleece Jazz in 2011 with glamour, camp asides, some blue show-business tales and, above all, majestic vocal talents that made the venue feel like the centre of musical sophistication. And with the amazing backing of Alastair and James this is an unmissable gig.

2013 21 June, £20 – Ray Gelato Giants

With the Ray Gelato Big Band, dancing and a buffet available.

The Devora Suite will be graced by one of the best swing bands in Europe. Spruce up your jive, bring your dancing shoes, or just enjoy first class big band music from the master, Ray Gelato.

From Jim Connell, “Ray, a wonderful sax player and superb frontman, is a London boy heavily influenced by the likes of Sinatra, Bennet and Prima, and with his ‘Italiano/Americano/Big-Band-Gangster-Jazz-Band’ at full pelt, it felt like a Scorsese movie. Dressed in sharp suits the band thundered through two sets of fantastic music, mainly classics, with a few songs penned by Ray himself.”

2013 28 June, £18 – Alan Barnes and David Newton

With Alan Barnes reeds & piano.

And both of them with stories to tell. We have enjoyed these great musicians in duo form with others in the past, but not together.

Don’t miss this special evening.

2013 5 July, £15 – Zoe Francis

Come and be among the first to appreciate a rising vocal star, unfussy, clear toned and honest, who delivers swinging standards.

With Zoe Francis vocals, David Newton piano, Colin Oxley guitar & th bass.

Zoe’s first artistic love was dance, but once she took up singing, she very soon was performing long running spots in midtown Manhattan with musicians including Jo Cohn, Chris Flory, Harry Allen and Warren Vache. Now based in London, she has just released her first CD, “Looking for a boy”, with most of her crew for tonight.

And what a crew. David Newton continuing a residency, Colin Oxley on guitar and Alec Dankworth on bass.

[The bassist tonight was the estimable Julian Bury.]

2013 12 July, £20 – Tribute to Elvin Jones

Experience intricate solos and breathtakingly magnificent ensemble playing from five truly great musicians.

With Alan Skidmore tenor saxophone, Peter King alto saxophone, Steve Melling piano, Alec Dankworth bass & Miles Levin drums.

This new tribute to the late, great American jazz drummer Elvin Jones brings together four of the greatest jazz musicians that this country has ever produced, together with the excellent drumming of Miles, Tony Levin’s son. No slavish tribute this but vibrant 21st century jazz inspired by the best.

We can look forward to intricate solos from all five musicians and breathtakingly magnificent ensemble playing.

2013 19 July, £16 – Sarah Gillespie

A fantastic singer songwriter who delivers a fusion of jazz, folk and blues knitted together by poetic, streetwise lyricism.

With Sarah Gillespie vocals and guitar, Frank Harrison piano, Ben Bastin bass & drums.

“Gillespie, who joins Bob Dylan’te and languid delivery to the forthrightness of Joni Mitchell, with a little rap-like percussiveness thrown in, is an original … guitarist as well as an expressive singer, she’ably going places.” – John Fordham

John also called her work “incandescent”. Her music is a fusion of jazz, folk and blues knitted together by poetic, streetwise lyricism and superb musicianship, well matched by her excellent band.

2013 26 July, £18 – Ola Onabule

A rare chance to catch a soul, jazz , funk, afro and world superstar between European jazz festivals.

With Ola Onabule vocals, Mark Van Der Gucht guitar, Mitch Jones piano, Chris Nickolls drums and Joe Stoddart bass.

Ola has played to sellout crowds twice in the past, and it is a pleasure to have him join us again. The press coverage of his work is immense, including comments like “beautifully clear and appealingly textured, almost classical …with a range and elasticity to match his rich tonal qualities”.

Chris Nickolls played here recently with Tommasso Starace, but Mitch and Mark are new to us. They wouldn’t be with Ola unless they were special.

2013 2 August, £17 – Zoe Rahman

MOBO Award Winner. A superb pianist who delivers calmness and fireworks by turns.

With Zoe Rahman piano, Alec Dankworth bass & zzo drums.

An all star cast indeed for tonight’s episode of jazz. Zoe gets Mercury Prize nominations, Alec is my favourite bass player in this or any other country, Gene is one of the busiest players on the international scene.

But it is Zoe’s gig, so expect fireworks and calmness, and a lot of joy. She is described in The Observer as “a remarkable pianist by any standard”. How else could she attract such superb playing mates?

2013 9 August, £16 – Peter King Quartet featuring Steve Melling

“World’s greatest Altoist” – Nat Adderley

With Peter King alto saxophone, Steve Melling piano, Andy Cleyndert bass & r drums.

“My Man!”, says Nat Adderley. Mine too.
Peter King is back with us, bringing his own quartet. This will be an evening to savour.

Steve is one of the country’s most inventive players, and he has worked with Peter many, many times. If you want a powerful engine room that will think with Peter, Andy and Mark would be your pick.

Join us for what will be a stunning evening of music.

2013 16 August, £15 – ZoÎ Schwarz and Rob Koral Quintet

One of the most engagingly natural partnerships in blues and jazz. Tonight will make you laugh and cry.

With ZoÎ Schwarz vocals, Rob Koral guitar, Robin Aspland piano, Steve Thompson bass & n drums.

ZoÎ and Rob’rtnership has been described as “one of the most engagingly natural partnerships in jazz, ZoÎ’ vocal style particularly well suited to the blues, and Rob’s flawless guitar skills; their gigs are immediately accessible, enjoyable affairs.” –r

They are joined by the excellent Robin Aspland on piano, one of the finest accompanists about; and with Steve on bass and Paul on drums we are in for a great evening. Do join us.

2013 23 August, £15 – The Organ Trio

Richly dynamic, hard swinging, melodic, blues drenched, funky modern jazz.

With Jim Mullen guitar, Mike Gorman Hammond organ & drums.

There is something very special about the sound of an organ trio, and the freedom that format gives the players. This gig brings together three top exponents of the art.

Jim is twice winner of ‘Best Guitar’ in the British Telecom jazz awards and ‘Best Guitar’ in the British Jazz Awards for 2000. Mike is one of the UK’s leading jazz pianists and organists, working with UK musicians such as Don Weller, Bobby Wellins, Alan Skidmore, Georgie Fame and Peter King. Matt has played with Dave O’Higgins, Alan Barnes, Don Weller and Stacey Kent, and regularly appears with the Halle, The BBC Concert Orchestra and the The Britten Symphonia accompanying soloists such as Maria Ewing, Claire Martin, and Sir Richard Rodney Bennet.

2013 30 August, £15 – David Gordon Speaks Latin

A spice feast for all lovers of jazz and latin music.

With David Gordon piano, Jonty Fisher bass & iuti drums.

We know that David and Paul make a formidable team. Jonty has gigged and recorded with David, and leads two bands of his own. David says ” If you thought that Latin jazz was all about salsa and bossa nova [we] invite you to think again. This new project takes a unique and personal look at music from South America, drawing on popular music from that continent, songs which capture the revolutionary spirit of the 60s and 70s – including those by SimÛn DÌaz, Jorge Cafrune, Victor Jara and Mercedes Sosa…”

There is more to say, but they say it with music. Don’t miss it.

2013 6 September, £18 – Liane Carroll

A solo gig from this starry vocalist and pianist.

“Deeply soulful, wonderfully honest” – The Times
“Highly Recommended–I love it” – Michael Parkinson
“The real thing.” – Independent on Sunday
“Utterly brilliant.” – Time Out

And they forgot great fun!
Liane has one more awards that you can shake a crotchet at.
So if you love fine piano playing, stunning singing, and wonderful storytelling, join us for this grand first gig of our season.

2013 13 September, £15 – Chris Biscoe Quartet

An evening with a saxophonist virtuoso of great lyricism, passion, stamina and considerable versatility.

With Chris Biscoe saxophone, Tony Kofi saxophone, Larry Bartley bass and Stu Butterfield. drums
Chris is steeped in the jazz tradition and his conception embraces everything from blues and gospel roots to free improvisation and jazz rock. Tonight the band enter the world of Eric Dolphy’s remarkable musical universe. To have two masters of the sax is very special, as we welcome back Tony Kofi.
The rhythm section of Larry Bartley bass and Stu Butterfield drums swing freely.

2013 20 September, £15 – Esther Bennett

“Knock-em-dead singer” Evening Standard
A real musician with voice that has individuality, originality and flair.

With Esther Bennett vocals, John Crawford piano, Duncan Lamont sax, Steve Taylor drums and Ollie Hayhurst bass.
Esther was a successful saxophonist, and carries that feel and touch into her singing. She is a favourite at several London clubs, and I am sure will become one of ours. She has just completed an excellently reviewed season with Tina May and most of the above crew.

We welcome Duncan Lamont for his debut with us. He is a prolific composer and masterly player, and we will be hearing his music at the gig.

2013 27 September, £15 – Liam Noble Quintet

John Fordham says “a brilliant pianist” and “a tour de force”. True of Liam and his band.

With Liam Noble piano, Chris Batchelor trumpet, Shabaka Hutchings reeds, Dave Whitford bass, Dave Wickens drums and percussion.
Liam’s latest CD with the two Daves has had brilliant reviews. Tonight he brings the “Brother Face” band, with Shabaka Hutchings and Chris Batchelor.
Chris is an award winning composer as well as a very busy instrumentalist, playing with the trans-Atlantic group Big Air and fine European groups.
Shabaka is the 2010 BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artist. His Barbadian background informs much of his music, and drives his versatility.
Liam is a pianist, composer and educator, with a musical wit that is a delight, and he brings a band to complement the wit.
He brings with him a third Dave – the music of Dave Brubeck, who loved it when he heard it.

2013 4 October, £16 – Julian Arg¸elles Quartet

Expect an evening of great variety, energy and amazing musicianship.

With Julian Arg¸elles saxophone, Kit Downes piano, Sam Lasserson bass and James Maddren drums.
Julian began touring with the European Big Band at the age of 14 He soon joined the legendary Loose Tubes. He as recently returned from a tour of North American festivals, with Kit Downes and James Maddren, who make up the quartet tonight, with Sam Lasserson on bass.
This is an exiting, tight group who will leave you breathless.

2013 11 October, £16 – John Law Trio

“combining the vocabularies of jazz and classical in a singular and seamless way, coalescing improvisational surprise and a deep elegiac musicality” – All About Jazz
“so full of joy that it can renew your faith not just in jazz, but music itself” – Phil Johnson, Independent on Sunday
“It was a gratifying experience listening to both of these CDs and my appreciation of Mr. Law and his music only grew with repeated listening” – Cadence

With John Law piano, Yuri Goloubev bass and Asaf Sirkis drums
Yes, they really are that good. Yuri and Asaf are among the few who have the skill and joy to be equal thirds of this trio.

[We slipped up on a change of artist for this gig. We had Ollie Hayhurst on bass and Laurie Lowe on drums. A grand evening.]

2013 18 October, £15 – Roger Beaujolais Quartet

Playing at its finest with four firm Fleece friends and proper jazz

With Roger Beaujolais vibraphone, Robin Aspland piano, Simon Thorpe bass and Winston Clifford drums.
Roger is an acknowledged world class vibraphonist. Robin has power and pianism to spare on the piano. Simon and Winston are anybodies favourite engine room.
If you love great music, this gig will more than satisfy you.

2013 25 October, £15 – Ollie Howell Quintet

“So creative, I couldn’t believe it. This kid really is a 360 degree beautiful young cat” – Quincy Jones.

With Ollie Howell drums, Matt Robinson piano, Duncan Eagles saxophone, Mark Perry trumpet and Max Luthert bass.
Olly has worked with Quincy and other greats, and won a double handful of awards for his playing. The band is tight, with Matt (who has been compared to Woody Allen on speed), Duncan (who records at Whirlwind, as does Ollie), Mark,(who was born in 1987 and has accomplished many awards in his young life) and Max (much in demand and also a Whirlwind Artist).
This is a young and supremely talented group. Do join us; we are in the Devora Suite for this gig.

2013 1 November, £15 – Alex Hutton Trio

Don’t miss “a great British talent and a wonderfully natural pianist” – Ronnie Scott

With Alex Hutton piano, Stu Ritchie drums, Yuri Goloubev bass
Alex is established on the London scene, having worked with Jim Mullen, Bobby Wellins, Art Themen, Pete King, Don Weller, Dave O Higgins, Dave Green, Pete Wareham. and toured North America with “Boy on a Dolphin”.
What a treat to have Yuri back to work with the excellent Alex, and we look forward to the return of Stu, last seen our way in 2006 with the fine Colin Steele band.

2013 8 November, £15 – Josh Kemp Quartet

“Wonderfully rich toned tenorist Josh Kemp with a laconic, subtle, highly nuanced and original sound” – Time Out
“A player to watch…a musician of great individuality” – Alan Barnes

With Josh Kemp saxophone, Tim Lapthorn piano, Mick Hutton bass and Matt Skelton drums.
Josh is a band leader (having won theDaily Telegraph Young Jazz Band of the Year), composer, educator and studio owner. We are hoping that his new CD will be available at the gig.
This is Joshes debut at the club, but the rest ot the sterling band are old friends of the club. Tim is one of our finest pianists, Mick has an international reputation as does Matt.
This will be a joyous evening. Come along.

2013 Sunday, 10 November, £20 – DIVAS’ DAY: The most sensational female vocalists in Britain

The finest line up of singers ever seen in East Anglia, probably in Britain, delivering: Contemporary, World, Pop, Blues, Original, Chanson, Classical, Folk, Jazz, American Song Book, Scat, improvised, etc, and fun!

This amazing Sunday will have BARB JUNGR, CLAIRE MARTIN, GEORGIA MANCIO, GILL MANLY, KATE SHORTT, MARI WILSON, SARAH GILLESPIE, SARAH MOULE and TINA MAY.
Supported by David Newton, Jenny Carr and Nigel Price.
A buffet is available. The hotel buffets have been greatly approved of.

2013 15 November, £15 – Matt Ridley Trio with Jason Yarde

We welcome back this fine bassist, excellent trio and very special guest.

With Matt Ridley bass, Jason Yarde sax, John Turville piano and Nick Smalley drums
Matt wowed us with the MJQ tribute. He has made a name for himself as one of the most creative and hardworking bass players on the London jazz scene, working with a veritable who’s who of UK jazz.
The globally recognized composer Jason Yarde perfectly assimilates the feeling of Ridley’s compositions, singing the melodies from the depths of his soul, and improvising in a way that few saxophonists working in jazz could conceive.
John and Nick are the perfect engine room for this group, as well as being fine soloists.

2013 Sunday, 17 November, £20 – LONDON KLEZMER QUARTET

Whether it is a major international festival or a club gig, this band provides authentic, dynamic and joyous music.

With Ilana Cravitz violin, Susi Evans clarinet, Carol Isaacs accordion and Rupert Gillett bass.
and a cream tea included!
The London Klezmer Quartet is a dynamic group of performers much in demand on the UK folk, world and pop music scenes. Their deep understanding of klezmer, the celebratory and soulful music of pre-war Jewish Eastern Europe, is reflected in exuberant, passionate and accomplished performances that captivate audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
“The LKQ is made up of four of Europe’s most talented klezmer musicians. They are great performers and teachers and bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and excitement to their performances” Frank London, The Klezmatics

2013 22 November, £16 – Saxophone Giants A Tribute to Jazz’s Greatest Saxophonists

Two stunning international saxophonists bring the sound of the greats to Fleece Jazz

With Keith Loftis saxophone, Jean Toussaint saxophone, Reuben James piano, Alex Davis bass and Dave Hamblett drums.
American tenorist Keith Loftis has won top honours in the states for his clarity of tone, honesty and passion. He is paired with Jean Toussaint, former member of Art Blakey & the ers.
These two stars will give us a tribute to some of the twentieth century’s most renowned saxophonists, including Ben Webster, Dexter Gordon, Joe Henderson and John Coltrane.
They are backed by sought after Brummie, Reuben James on piano; Alex Davis, who lugs his bass between York and New York; and Dave Hamblett: all of whom played for the Abram Wilson band.

[The truly excellent bassist on this gig that will stand in the memory, was Mark Lewandowski.]

2013 29 November, £15 – Nick Page Quartet

“Nick Page is amazing – every note is perfect” – Gilad Atzmon

With Nick Page guitar, David Newton piano, Arnie Somogyi bass and Clark Tracy drums.
Nick has played with a huge list of fine musicians. He is a composer and educator and band leader. In that capacity, he brings with him the cream of back line players.
Dave, Arnie and Clark are constant friends and players at our club. What a pleasure to hear them together.
Alan Skidmore says “[Nick] is extremely talented,versatile and inspirational.I Love working with Nick”. You will love hearing him.

2013 6 December, £15 – Heads South

Fine exponents of Latin music in the Cuban style

With John Harriman keyboards, Steve Waterman trumpet, Buster Birch drums, Chino Martell Morgan percussion and Adolfredo Pulido bass.
John Harriman’s music reflects his Irish, French & Englnd, He lived in the USA for many years and nowadays often decamps to his Spanish wife’s Castilian homeland. John has played with a range of leading artists here and abroad.
Steve Waterman is one of the finest trumpeters and lovely flugelists about. He knocks us over with his playing every time he plays for us.
The much in demand Chino Martell Morgan grew up in Cardenas in Matanzas province in Cuba. He started playing percussion in his late teens, influenced by hearing the elderly locals play percussion in the district bars. At Cuban music school he played with renowned Cuban drummer Miguel Zulueta and a number of Latin jazz bands.
The highly regarded Buster Birch plays in a variety of styles and genres. percussionist in two respected world music groups. Buster is a professor of music at Trinity College London.
Bassplayer Adolfredo Pulido was born in Venezuela and by the age of 7 was playing drums, then also tuba, trumpet and trombone before taking up bass at the age of 14 He now is hugely in demand in the Jazz and world scenes.
If you miss this gig, you will miss a bucketload of joy and fine playing.

2013 13 December, £0 – Gig Cancelled.

Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, there will be no gig on Friday, December 13^th.

2013 20 December, £20 – Sarah Jane Morris and Antonio Forcione

Familiar but always surprising forces of nature grace our stage.

With Sarah Jane Morris vocals and Antonio Forcione guitar.
“Those in-the-know rate her as one of the world’s great jazz-soul vocalists of the past twenty years” – Vogue Italia
Together, Sarah Jane Morris and Antonio Forcione create beautiful music that touches the soul.

2013 27 December, £20 – Sax Appeal

Five, count ’em, five fine saxophonists and a great back line help us celebrate the New Year.

With Derek Nash alto & sopron Allen tenor, Brandon Allen tenor, Scott Garland alto, Bob McKay baritone & woodete Adams piano, Phil Scragg, bass and Nic Francis drums.

The ever effervescent Derek Nash takes a break before the Hootnanny to bring us this great band.

Digby Fairweather says they are “probably one of the finest saxophone bands in the world “.
Award yourself a visit to this award winning band.

2014 3 January, £22 – Jacqui Dankworth & TrioStylish contemporary vocalist with jazz, blues, folk and soul influences. The daughter of Dame Cleo Laine & Sir th she has a “multi-faceted voice.” A very special treat to start a New Year.

Jacqui Dankworth vocals, Charlie Wood keyboards/vocals, Geoff Gascoyne bass and Mike Smith drums.
Jacqui’s latest album Live to Love has attracted reviews like “beautifully sung ballads with fine lyrics that clearly show her maturity” (Hi Fi Critic).
It is a special treat to have Charlie Wood on keys and singing.
This is an unmissable gig for any lover of great singing.

[Our brilliant back line was Ollie Hayhurst on bass and Sebastiaan de Krom on drums, with a special mention for a hero piano tuner.]

2014 10 January, £20 – Cubana Bop Octet Jazz On The Latin Side

One of the best homegrown Latin ensembles enliven West Side Story songs, Buena Vista, Santana & stany fun!

With Terry Seabrook piano, Satin Singh congas, Adam Riley drums, Shanti Jayasihna trumpet, Ian Price flute/sax/clarinet, Davide Mantovani bass, Jo Marshall vocals and Paul Roberts vocals.
“It’s danceable, good music. That’s it’s raison d’etre. You wouldn’t want to just sit, it’s for people who want to move around too” (Jack Massarik).
“Terry Seabrook’s band is the king of Cuban jazz-fusion” (Jazz-Wise).

2014 17 January, £16 – Simon Spillett Quintet – Standard Miles

Standard Miles presents a British jazz supergroup revisiting the music played by the legendary Miles Davis.

With Simon Spillett sax, John Critchinson piano, Dave Green bass, Henry Lowther trumpet and Trevor Tomkins drums.
The loose, spontaneous and elastic treatments that Miles’ quintet gave Broadway song material in the 1960’s are the inspiration and provide the repertoire for a band full of well-known names. Trumpeter Henry Lowther is widely regarded as the best among British brass players, whilst pianist John Critchinson, bassist Dave Green and drummer Trevor Tomkins form the most democratic of rhythm sections.
Simon’s latest recording, “Square One”, is reviewed by Stephen Graham thus: “Additive free, non glossy, hoary hard bop that values core qualities. The music is beautifully played, with a speed and energy just right for what it intends”.

2014 24 January, £15 – Katie Brown Quintet featuring Leon Greening

A splendid altoist, (favoured by Scott Hamilton when gigging in the UK), joined by a Fleece favourite, who takes piano to new heights.

With Katie Brown sax, Leon Greening piano, Robbie Harvey trombone, Julian Bury bass and Matt Home drums,
Katie won the Daily Telegraph Young Jazz Soloist of the Year Award in 1992 and in 1994 won a Rotary Scholarship to study jazz for a year at the University of Tennessee. Since returning to the UK she has played with the likes of Scott Hamilton as well as her own band.
Leon is well known to us as a very talented and passionate pianist, who always delights. Matt, Julian and Robbie also make welcome returns.

2014 31 January, £16 – Sue Richardson Quintet featuring Richard Shepherd

A delight on trumpet, flugel and vocals, (why not? Chet Baker did it!), Sue’s “timbre is warm and full-bodied” and, without high-note theatricals, she “evokes the generosity and exuberance of players from the swing era.”

With Sue Richardson trumpet/vocals, Neal Richardson piano, Richard Shepherd baritone sax, George Trebar bass and Sam Glasson drums.
Chet Baker’s friend and drummer says “Sue has a sense and spirit of Chet Baker within her, both in her playing and vocals. Strong yet delicate – sensitive and very lyrical”.
Richard is the heart of the Jay Phelps big band, and we look forward to him, Neil, George and Rod, and, of course, the marvelous Sue.

2014 7 February, £15 – Bryan Corbett and Chris Dodd – Green Quartet

Excellent Birmingham based trumpeter Bryan returns, putting modern beats behind Miles Davis and Freddie Hubbard crossovers to create danceable rhythms with a street-wise swagger.

With Bryan Corbett trumpet/flugel, Chris Dodd bass, Sean Hargreaves piano/keyboard and Simon Pearson drums.
This is a band of friends, tight and full of ideas. Bryan and Chris are at the centre, having just produced an acclaimed duo cd “Green”, and hopefully we will hear some of that material.
We are looking forward to Simon’s debut at the club.
Sean is an adventurous pianist who also has a wealth of experience playing with Guy Barker, Peter King, Mornington Lockett, Jim Mullen, Gerard Presencer, Jean Toussaint, John Etheridge , Marvin Gaye, Michael Bubl&eacutoyet, Natalie Imbruglia and Harry Beckett amongst others.
This will be modern jazz at its best.

2014 14 February, £15 – Ed Jones Quartet

Stunningly direct, top bop-inspired tenorist, Ed brings with him Tom Cawley on piano to enrich his passionate, forcefully imagined improvisations.

With Ed Jones sax, Tom Cawley piano, Tim Giles drums and Riaan Vosloo bass.
Excitement just naturally follows Ed Jones about. One of the most innovative band leaders in Britain, Ed Jones’ playing has been described as fluent, distinctive, vigorous, volcanic and more. An improviser to his fingertips this will be an explosive and wonderful night.
Tom, Riaan and Tim are all top players, making this a very exciting gig, not to be missed.

2014 21 February, £15 – Laura Zakian & TrioA wonderful singer who uses her voice as an instrument, improvising the melodies to maximise the lyric, underpinned by Steve Lodder’s delightful piano.

With Laura Zakian vocals, Steve Lodder piano, Simon Thorpe bass and Nic France drums.
“If anyone deserves to be famous on merit and achievement to date, she [Laura Zakian] does” says the Jazz Journal. Laura sings standards old and new, but it is always fine modern jazz singing.
Her trio is worth hearing on their own any day; together they promise a fantastic night of great music.
Laura will be singing songs from her great new album, “Songs for Modern Lovers”. Inspired by the iconic Frank Sinatra album Songs for Swinging Lovers, this is considered to be her best work yet: a fresh take on an old theme.
“serves to be famous on merit and achievement to date, she (Laura Zakian) does”al)

2014 28 February, £15 – John Law’s Boink!

John Law, prodigious prodigy and inventive musical alchemist, brings an electronic quartet of guitar, drums and live visuals – yet, importantly, the orchestrated sound is far from synthetic, but a refreshing assembly of jazz, rock and ambience.

With John Law keyboards and effects, Rob Palmer guitar and effects, Lloyd Haines drums and Patrick Dunn live visuals.

John Law’s new project, exploring electronic sounds and effects over drum grooves. Spontaneous group interaction between keyboards, soprano/bass clarinet and guitar, coming out of pre-composed electronic music scores. Underpinned by propulsive drum grooves. Jazz, rock, ambient, electronic.. The music will be performed in front of a screen, showing live, interactive visuals, using artwork specially put together for this tour.
“One of this country’native young pianists” – The Times
“When he records for ECM he’ll become a star” – Jazzthethik, Germany
“avura with crystal clear, fast passagework coupled with a sovereign command over everything that is pianistically possible. You wonder if there is actually anything that this pianist cannot do.”um, Germany
“Impressively intricate drum patterns.. atmospheric picture-painting,… fast moving, upbeat riffs.. Take a listen.. you’ll be hooked!”
Listen at Soundcloud
Live at the Blue Boar

2014 7 March, £15 – RIP RAP QUARTET

Kevin Flanagan and David Gordon do amazing things with beat poetry and music inspired by Miles Davis, Keith Jarrett, Ralph Towner, Jan Garbarek, Joshua Redman et al.

With Kevin Flanagan sax, David Gordon piano, Russ Morgan percussion and Andrew Brown bass.
American born Kevin brings new grooves and atmospheric improvisation to this excellent band. He has worked in a range of genres, from classical to rap.
David is a beautiful, thoughtful musician, very funny at times. Russ and Andrew are the perfect engine room for the band.

2014 14 March, £16 – Tammy Weis & Tom

“Isn’t she great! Now there’s a vocalist!” (Michael Bubl&eacuting of Canadian cool “with a luscious sound full of feeling” (Julian Joseph).

With Tammy Weis vocals, Tom Cawley piano, Julie Walkington bass and Dave Ohm drums.
“Not many people reduce me to tears, but Tammy’s song about her mother was the most touching I’ve ever heard, and her voice is beautiful.” (Jenni Murray, BBC).
“An engaging live performer with a Peggy Lee-like sense of cool” (Clive Davis, The Times).

At last a chance to hear this classy Canadian along with one of our favourite pianists, and a great engine room with Julie and Dave.

We are recording this gig, so do come and be part of this special night.

2014 21 March, £18 – Ian Shaw

Unmissable, unmistakeable, (sometimes un-repeatable), a master singer! “A profoundly sophisticated artist with a broad grasp of music … as well as an affecting, emotional and sometimes very funny singer” The Guardian.

With Ian Shaw on vocals and piano.
Ian Shaw has been named, along with Mark Murphy and Kurt Elling, as one of the world’s finest male jazz vocalists. He is a stunningly good pianist too. At this gig we get both of him. If we are lucky, Ian might give us some of his third persona as a standup comedian!
Twice winner of the BBC Jazz Awards Best Vocalist, people say of him “Our finest jazz singer” (Time Out) and “The contemporary scene’s class act” (The Guardian).

[We were delighted to hear special guest Trish Heenan sing Joni Mitchell.]

2014 28 March, £16 – Renato D’national Quintet

Tenorist Renato’s “weighty, behind-the-beat sound shows how a poetic imagination can rekindle a long-gone style without nostalgia”. (John Fordham). Joined by vocalist Marc Thomas, tonight Renato provides a chance to wallow in something rather special.

With Renato d’Aiello sax, Hiroshi Murayama piano. Marc Thomas vocals, Dario Di Lecce bass and Lionel Boccara drums.
“His solos tell a story. Their lines unfold with a natural flow, especially on the ballads” (Jack Massarick)
“D’Aiello’s weighty, behind-the-beat sound shows how a poetic imagination can rekindle a long-gone style without nostalgia” (John Fordham)
Renato’s playing is intense, but at the same time warm and poignant. He showcases one of the most attractive and affecting tenor saxophonist sounds in contemporary jazz.
His excellent companions are pianist Hiroshi Murayama, singer Marc Thomas is a French version of American crooners like Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole, and Lionel is a classically trained percussionist swiftly gaining a world-wide jazz reputation. Dario has made a reputation for himself, playing with the best in New York and London.

2014 4 April, £18 – Tony Kofi Quartet

Just about the most inspiring saxophonist in Britain today, on any sax you care to name, Tony takes the music of Monk and others to new heights. Tonight he plays with Hammond organ, guitar and drums to prove he is no longer “just” good, but truly great.

With Tony Kofi baritone sax, Simon Fensby guitar, Peter Whittaker Hammond organ and Pete Cater drums.
It is always a pleasure to see and hear Tony play, soprano, alto, tenor or beautiful baritone. “The Organisation” that he brings with him is ideally suited to his musical style.

2014 11 April, £20 – Barb Jungr with Simon Wallace

No one gets inside a song like Barb. She inhabits a song and brings out profound intensity, and never more so than when delivering Bob Dylan numbers. Moreover she is hugely entertaining. Do not miss a lady who is fast becoming a world super star.

With Barb Jungr vocals and Simon Wallace piano. with Dudley Phillips bass
No-one but Barb can turn deep thought and study into dynamic passion and joy like she can.
If you have yet to discover Barb, here is the perfect chance, in a delightfully intimate setting. She will be singing the music of Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen, from her much acclaimed CD “Hard Rain”.

And to have the company of that fabulous composer/pianist Simon Wallace, and co-founder of Perfect Houseplants, Dudley Phillips: what an evening we have in store.

We are in the Devora Suite for this one, and it is being recorded for BBC Radio Suffolk.

2014 18 April, £15 – Fletch’s Brew

Drummer Mark Fletcher’s powerhouse jazz fusion quartet with Freddie Gravita on trumpet and Carl Orr on guitar is a regular feature at Ronnie Scott’s and greatly impressed Wynton Marsalis: “We haven’t had anything like this in New York for over twenty years. “Come and discover the power of funky jazz originals and the music of Pat Metheny, Michael Brecker and Weather Report.

With Mark Fletcher drums, Freddie Gavita trumpet, Carl Orr guitar and Steve Pearce bass.
Fletch brings a tankful of energy to anything that he does. Even watching his teaching videos is a revelation.
This band will blow you away with great jazz.

2014 25 April, £16 – Emilia MÂrtensson & TrioThis eclectically folksy, graceful, ethereal and intimate Swedish singer brings her new album to Fleece Jazz. If you ever liked anything by Norah Jones, you will surely love this delightful blurring of folk and jazz. A truly fine emerging talent.

With Emilia MÂrtensson vocals, Barry Green piano, Sam Lasserson bass and Adriano Adewale percussion.
“Martensson invests every sound with a skimming, rapturous lightness and clarity” (John Fordham)
This band delighted us last February. Come and enjoy again, or discover this singer on her way up.

2014 2 May, £16 – Karen Sharp Quartet

From the tender playing of a Strayhorn ballad to the urgency of a Mingus gospel number:
With Karen Sharp saxophone, Nikki Iles piano. Dave Green bass and Steve Brown drums.
These are four Fleece favourites, for whom the word “great” applies. They all play on Karen’s recent CD on Trio Records; the album has garnered some excellent press.
What a delightful way to start our new season.

2014 9 May, £15 – Frank Harrison Trio

From Jazzwise: “Lucid, intelligent, spacious and beautifully controlled explorations”.
With Frank Harrison piano, Dave Whitford bass and Enzo Zirilli drums.
The piano trio is the purest form of jazz, giving each musician space to be dangerous. These three grab that possibility in their fists and run with it.
Ronnie Scott said of Frank, “one of the most talented young musicians I have heard”.

2014 16 May, £18 – Spike Heatley Trio with Art Themen

Spike and Art are at the heart of British Jazz.
With Spike Heatley bass, Art Themen saxophone, Andy Williams guitar and Malcolm Mortimore drums.
Spike, Andy and Malcolm were with us in 2011 , and it is a delight to see them return. Make no bones about it, Art Themen is a class act. Together they celebrate over 7 decades of Spike’s career.

2014 23 May, £16 – Gilad Atzmon: The Spirit of Coltrane

A stunning interpretation of the great John Coltrane.
With Gilad Atzmon tenor and soprano saxophone, Frank Harrison piano, Ernesto Simpson drums and Tim Thornton bass.
Gilad will be playing tenor for this gig, a Selmer Mk.6, the same as Trane played. Of Gilad, John Fordham said, “A formidable improvisational array…a local jazz giant steadily drawing himself up to his full height…”
He is funny too, and the band is great. Don’t miss this one.

2014 30 May, £15 – Jon Lloyd Quintet

“Powerful and… magical stuff” – Downbeat, USA.
With Jon Lloyd reeds, John Law piano, Rob Palmer guitar, Tom Farmer bass and Jon Scott drums.
The group’s CD, “Vanishing point” got four stars and this review from Jazzwise: “Intimate pastoral moods, angular rock riffs and
haunting minimalist grooves… fluid and engaging”. The music is very accessible without losing its improvisational power. All five musicians are virtuosi.

2014 6 June, £15 – Gabrielle Ducomble Quintet

“Astonishingly beautiful voice” – BBC Radio 4
With Gabrielle Ducomble vocals, Nicolas Meier guitar, Dan Teper accordion, Nic Kacal bass and Saleem Raman drums.
Gabrielle and her band are currently touring the UK with her latest album Notes from Paris, which in February 2014 had a sell-out launch at London’s Pizza Express Jazz Club and was Jazz FM’s Album of the Week.
Her band is the same one that blew us away in 2012 , including the magical Nicolas.
If you love great singing, whether in French or English, you need to be at this gig.

We are in the Garden Room for this gig

2014 13 June, £16 – Phil Robson New Organ Trio with Ross Stanley

“Phil is a wonderful guitarist and composer, definitely a unique player” David Liebman, USA sax legend.
With Phil Robson guitar, Ross Stanley organ and Gene Calderazzo drums.
Phil was Best Jazz Musician Of The Year in the 2009 UK Parliamentary Jazz Awards, and just gets better and better.
Ross is stunning on any set of keys, but particularly the Hammond organ.
Musicians say that Gene is “always there, guiding, anticipating, shaping and stimulating”.

2014 20 June, £16 – Derek Nash’s Acoustic Quartet with David Newton

Stunning improvisation and creativity, with four players at the very top of their game working as a single entity.
With Derek Nash saxophones, David Newton piano, Geoff Gascoyne bass and Sebastiaan DeKrom drums.
We really do provide the best of British Jazz. Four top guys: the effervescent Derek, the presidential David, the scintillating Geoff and magesterial Sebastiaan.
We will be “Joyriding” along with the band’s CD.

2014 27 June, £15 – Basil Hodge

These Fleece favourites are an exciting tight, hard swinging unit in the post-bop and Afro-Cuban vein.
With Basil Hodge piano Tony Kofi saxophone, Larry Bartley bass and Winston Clifford drums.
Combine Basil’s great writing with his excellent pianism, add one of the finest saxophonists, a truly great bassist and an absolute top drummer, and you get an evening of music which will live in the memory.

2014 4 July, £18 – Clark Tracey Quintet

The much acclaimed and awarded musician returns to us with a great band – jazz at its best is in store.
With Clark Tracey drums, Henry Armburg Jennings trumpet, Chris Maddock alto sax, Harry Bolt piano and Dan Casimir bass.
“Clark plays with a keen-eared awareness that’s rare among today’s drummers … has always been a highly tasteful and thoughtful drummer” – The Guardian
“There is a calm authority about Clark Tracey’s drumming: he appears undemonstrative, even cherubic, and scarcely seems to move, while all the time generating tremendous power” – Ron Atkins

2014 11 July, £15 – Frank Williams African Jazz Quintet

The band has its roots firmly in South African Township music combining the very best of African music with high voltage rhythm. This is definitely music for the heart and the feet!
Frank Williams saxophone, Pete Oxley guitar, Alistair Gavin piano, Ben Havinden bass, and Daniel John drums.

Frank has been delighting Fleece Jazz audiences for many years with his brand of South African music and tonight he brings his new lineup with Ben and Pete joining the band. The Quintet will be playing music from the South African songbook featuring music by Dudu Pukwana, Chris Mcgregor, Hugh Masekala, Jonas Gwanga and some originals.

This is township music at its best.

2014 18 July, £15 – Gabriel Garrick

Lots of joyous music from a great jazz band.
With Gabriel Garrick trumpet and flugel, Terence Collie piano, Andy Hamill bass and Paul Cavaciuti drums.
Gabriel says, “The quartet came together whilst Gabriel was guesting on a jazz session … Terry Collie (piano) was hosting the session and had gathered together Andy Hamill (bass) and Paul Cavaciuti (drums). The session was a breath of fresh air for each musician and just felt right.”
This gig will have an excellent combination of great playing and good fun.

2014 25 July, £15 – Kevin Flanagan’et

Kevin returns with a stonking, stomping band.

With Kevin Flanagan saxophone, Colin Watling saxophone, Steve Fishwick trumpet, Chris Ingham piano, Andy Brown bass and George Double drums.

The fabulous Rebop sextet specialises in the innovative and exhilarating jazz that flowered in the mid-1940s.

Robert Habermann is ill, and we wish him a speedy recovery. We are grateful to Kevin for bringing his sextet on relatively short notice.

2014 1 August, £15 – Will Butterworth Quartet

“effortless poise and crisp, attractive classically-trained sound” – Jazzwise.
With Will Butterworth piano, Pete Ibbetson Drums, Seb Pipe alto saxophone and Nick Pini bass.
We have been lucky at the club to hear Will, and know his prodigious talent.
The band will play Will’s music based on Oscar Wilde’s children’s story ‘The Nightingale and the Rose’. It will feature the brilliant Seb Pipe on Alto Saxophone. This suite of music employs beautiful melodies and rich and dark harmony, to retell Wilde’s story of love and sacrifice. The quartet uses these melodies as starting points for improvisation, and the result is intense, exhilarating and riveting music making.

2014 8 August, £0 – Summer Break

We all need
a rest

2014 15 August, £0 – Summer Break

We still need
a rest

2014 22 August, £15 – The Horn Factory

Nineteen musicians will be bringing us the spine tingling sound of the true big band. They blew us away in 2012
East Anglia’s Premier Big Band..
If you love the sound of a big, talented band, this will be a joy.

2014 29 August, £16 – Loz Speyer – Time Zone

“Imaginative fusions of Cuban dance forms and pungent contemporary jazz” – John Fordham
With Loz Speyer trumpet/flugel, Martin Hathaway alto sax/bass clarinet, Stuart Hall guitar, Dave Mannington bass, Andy Ball drums and Maurizio Ravalico congas.
“Timezone have a deep, organic understanding of Afro-Cuban rhythms and textures, which they fuse cleverly and compellingly with the more improvisatory jazz of the US mainland… All in all, another delicious evening of first-order live music.” – Ian Kingsbury
A not to be missed gig to end our season.

2014 5 September, £20 – Dylan Howe’s Subterranean, with special guest Andy Sheppard

New designs on David Bowie’s Berlin period: music from “Low” and “Heroes”

Dylan Howe drums, Andy Sheppard tenor sax, Ross Stanley piano, Steve Lodder synthesisers, Dave Whitford bass

A couple of quotes for starters: “A warm, contemplative treat, subtle, cinematic. The painterly atmosphere is conjured by creative electronics and elegant arrangements. A warm tribute to Bowie, but a jazz album too, Subterranean offers plenty to fans from both constituencies.” John Fordham. The Guardian

“4 stars. Succeeds in living up to the source material… subtle reinvention and imaginative twists.” – The Independent

Dylan, Andy, Steve, Ross and Dave start their tour with us. And with you.

Some excellent pictures and tour information are available here

2014 12 September, £15 – Alec Dankworth World Jazz Trio

Five star rating for these three stars. Alec’s love of Spanish music will flood through.

Alec Dankworth electric bass, Ben Castle sax, Paul Clarvis percussion

Alec brings originals and standards from all parts of the globe. This is a world class trio of musicians. Alec is at the top of the bassist game; Ben’playing is brilliant, effortless, creative and very persuasive; whether playing jazz, classical music or rock, Paul is a leader in his field.

[With the delightful surprise of Emily Dankworth on vocals, the band becomes World Spirit.]

2014 19 September, £18 – Sarah Gillespie

“Bob Dylan’s lyrical bite and languid delivery to the forthrightness of Joni Mitchell, with a little rap-like percussiveness thrown in, she is an original” – John Fordham

Sarah Gillespie vocals and guitar, Tom Cawley piano, Enzo Zirilli drums, Ben Bastin bass

“Is she the new Joni Mitchell? PJ Harvey? Bob Dylan even? Glory Days recalls all three but Gillespie’s spiky lyrical gift is utterly distinctive.” Metro, London

Great voice, great storytelling, great musicianship.

2014 26 September, £18 – Dennis Rollins Velocity Trio

A power trio with a rich, funky and distinctive sound.

Dennis Rollins trombone, Ross Stanley organ, Pedro Segundo drums.

“This fine trio set is a real surprise … not because Rollins’ expressive virtuosity was ever in doubt, but because he cuts loose here in the company of Hammond organist Ross Stanley and exciting drummer to paint a broader canvas of melody and texture than this line-up ought to permit” John Fordham

A gig not to be missed.

2014 3 October, £15 – Ben Crosland’s Threeway

“Virtuoso players who know each other so well that their improvisations just seem to fall into place. It’s subtle music, warm, melodic and gently intriguing” – Dave Gelly

Ben Crosland bass, Steve Waterman trumpet, Steve Lodder piano

The Dave Gelly quote refers to the new album, “Looking Forward, Looking Back”. As an older album never strays far from my player, I am greatly looking forward to the new one.

This is a band that gives the term “chamber jazz” a good name. Ben does most of the composition, with additions by the Steves. They are stunning compositions, making exciting use of the available tonalities.

2014 10 October, £15 – Sarah Moule

Her CD launch tour! “Cool, elegant, immaculate – *****” – The Observer
“Sarah’s voice on ‘Men Who Love Mermaids’ becomes elemental: floating and diving in subtle and liquid eloquence” – Barb Jungr

Sarah Moule vocals, Simon Wallace piano Mick Hutton bass, Paul Robinson drums

On her latest album, “Songs from the Floating World”, acclaimed jazz singer Sarah Moule has recorded seven songs by Simon Wallace and Fran Landesman, alongside a new lyric by Julie Burchill, two blues numbers and imaginative reworkings of classic songs.

Songs from the Floating World reminds us that Sarah is a brilliant interpreter of both melody and lyrics.

‘The Floating World’ was the name given to the red light districts in 17th-19th Century Japan where geishas, Kabuki actors and Sumo wrestlers rubbed shoulders with artists and musicians against a backdrop of hedonism.

The reviews of the album have been stellar. Here is part of a five star review by Dave Gelly:
Together, Sarah Moule, Simon Wallace and Fran Landesman made a perfect trio of talents –o, even though Fran died three years ago. Wallace’tly echoes her unsettling but deceptively simple lyrics, and Moule’ brings them both to elegant life. Among the seven Landesman songs here I particularly liked Scars and Did I Break Your Heart? There’of People Do, with a lyric that sounds remarkably like Fran but turns out to be by Julie Burchill, together with several intriguingly recast standards. Wallace’ts are immaculate.

2014 17 October, £18 – Damon Brown Quintet featuring Fredrik Carlquist tenor sax

Five distinguished musicians immersed in a lively jazz scene will supply lyrical and swinging music.

Damon Brown trumpet, Fredrik Carlquist tenor sax, Leon Greening piano, Adam King bass, Marc Miralta drums.

Damon plays with top bods at top clubs all over the world. He brings with him four distinguished musicians from his travels.

The press quotes are amazing for all five.
Example: “Brown has a bright, gleaming tone, a superbly poised attack, and a fine rhythmic sense that paces high long notes, stuttery phrases, pauses and sudden foot-on-the-gas accelerations against each other in eloquent conjunction” – John Fordam”.

[The superb drummer for the gig was Matt Skelton, who played on the CD.]

2014 24 October, £15 – Jazz at the Movies

From “When Harry Met Sally” to “The Ipcress File”: Joanna and her top band will have a ball.

Joanna Eden vocals, Alan Barnes saxophone, Chris Ingham piano, George Double drums, Arni Somogyi bass

“Movie songs like these provide good material for the best jazz singers. Joanna Eden and her first-class band had a ball with them … and so did the audience!” JAZZ JOURNAL

Fronted by acclaimed singer Joanna Eden (“the UK’s answer to Norah Jones and Diana Krall” TIME OUT) and featuring the groovy sounds of the CHRIS INGHAM QUARTET featuring the multi award-winning clarinettist and saxophonist Alan Barnes, JATM put a jazzy spin on the evocative songs and soundtrack themes from classic films including The Aristocats, The Servant, From Russia With Love, Agatha, Let’s Make Love, The Pink Panther, The Ipcress File, When Harry Met Sally and many more.

Featuring material ranging from Bond to Bacharach, Dankworth to Disney, Porter to Pinter, this is an enchanting entertainment rich with anecdote, sophistication and swing.

[The Reverend Andy Brown was our bassist for this amazing show.]

2014 31 October, £18 – Partisans

“One of the most exciting all-star experimental groups in Jazz today” – BBC Radio 3

Phil Robson guitar. Julian Seigal reeds, Thadeous Kelly bass, Gene Calderazzo drums

The Guardian said “…tricky zigzagging heads are played with flawless attack, and the quartet’s trademark of seamless idiom and time-shifting within each piece operates with a gleeful tautness”.

You should book early for this one.

2014 7 November, £18 – Tim Richards HEXTET featuring Dick Pearce and Ed Jones

“Richards’ arrangements are terrific, and the choice of material is just as good… A landmark achievement in a long career.” – John Fordham on “Great Spirit”

With Tim Richards piano, Dick Pearce trumpet, Ed Jones sax, Ralph Wyld vibes, Peter Ibbetson drums and Dominic Howles bass

Pianist Tim Richards’ce combines GREAT SPIRIT founder-members Dick Pearce (Ronnie Scott, Stan Tracey) and Ed Jones (US3, Incognito) with up and coming young lions Ralph Wyld and Peter Ibbetson (ex-Puppini Sisters), plus longtime associate Dominic Howles.

Book early, their last 2 gigs at London’e were sold out…

“Attractive ensemble writing… infectious grooves… powerful soloing…” Kennie Mathieson – JAZZWISE Magazine ****

2014 14 November, £15 – Paul Baxter’s EYESHUTIGHT Trio

A unique blend of accessible, melodic, fiery compositions, expansive improvisation, and an engaging, enjoyable stage show

Paul Baxter bass, Johnny Tomlinson piano, Kristoffer Wright drums

After the success of their first two albums,’Evolution’ and’The Thaw’, EYESHUTIGHT are gaining recognition as real beacon of originality on the UK Jazz scene. They appeared on’The Cutting Edge’ on Jazz FM, and on The Giles Peterson Show on BBC 6 Music.

During 2012 , EYESHUTIGHT were featured on ‘Jazz On 3 ‘. They were also selected to perform on the BBC Introducing Stage at the Manchester Jazz Festival which was broadcast Jazz on 3.

2014 21 November, £16 – Katya Gorrie: The Moscow Drug Club

Berlin Cabaret, Hot Club de France, New Orleans Funeral Parade, and Gypsy Campfire combine for a special evening.

Katya Gorrie vocals, Denny Ilett guitar, Andy Crowdy bass, Mirek Salmon accordion, Jonny Bruce trumpet

The Moscow Drug Club is a curious musical place where certain elements of 1930’aret, Hot Club de France, Nuevo Tango & Gypseet, have a few to drink and stagger arm in arm into the darkness of some eastern European cobbled street on a mission to find the bar where Django Reinhardt & Tom ving an after hours jam with the local Tziganes. Combining their original material with songs by the likes of Jaques Brel, Leornard Cohen, & Tom w Drug Club provide an intoxicating & inti experience. You are cordially invited to share a wry smile with us as you enter the darkly comic world of Moscow Drug Club … this way please & mind

You will find a great voice and fine musicianship there.

2014 28 November, £15 – Jim Mullen Organ Trio

Three masters present the organ trio as it should be.

Jim Mullen guitar, Mike Gorman organ, Matt Skelton drums

From Dave Gelly: “Most jazz musicians have, tucked away at the back of the mind, a collection of tunes that have caught their ear, and that they plan to use one of these days. Guitarist Jim Mullen unearthed these 10 numbers, by Toots Thielemans, Chick Corea, Donald Fagen, Georgie Fame etc., from his wishlist, and they make a fascinating collection.
His trio, with organist Mike Gorman and drummer Matt Skelton, has a light, open, beautifully defined texture. Each piece gets a unique, often surprising treatment, performed with the understated virtuosity that marks out the best and most mature players.”

[Ross Stanley depped for Mike Gorman, and brought his amazing real Hammond B3.]

2014 5 December, £16 – Gilad Atzmon Power Cats

“A revelation, a multi-reed man of enormous talent”-Tony Richards

Gilad Atzmon reeds, Ross Stanley organ, drums to be announced

Gilad is an amazing musician. He is leader of several bands, is a prolific and powerful composer, and an excellent producer.

“Asaf Sirkis has earned a reputation as one of the world’s premier drummers” – Ian Patterson, All About Jazz

Ross Stanley is an internationally celebrated pianist and organist who has played with stellar jazz names such as Dennis Rollins, Guy Barker,Liane Carroll, Stan Sulzman, Steve Arguelles, John Paracelli, Bobby Wellins, Clark Tracey, as well as being a regular member of the Jim Mullen Organ Trio, the Mark McKnight Organ Quartet and the Jacqui Dankworth band, and performing in many small and large ensembles.

[Enzo Zirilli not only drummed, but arranged some tunes for this gig.]

2014 12 December, £20 – Sarah Jane Morris

“River deep, mountain high, Sarah Jane Morris has a magnificent, enormous voice” – `Sunday Times

Sarah Jane Morris vocals, Tim Cansfield guitar, Tony Remy guitar, Henry Thomas bass

I have heard a preview of Sarah Jane’s new CD “Bloody Rain” and it is bloody good. Tony and Henry feature on it.

The two stunning guitarists and such a fine bassist provide not just a great backing, but superb solos.

If you miss this gig, you are missing a force of nature performing.

2014 19 December, £18 – Ian Shaw

The classiest jazz singer in the world comes to Fleece Jazz.

Ian Shaw vocals and piano

It’s a trio, really: fine comedian, great pianist and what a singer!

“Best Jazz Vocalist” at the BBC Jazz Awards in 2007 and 2004 , and nominated in the Best UK Vocalist category at the JazzFM awards in 2013 , Ian Shaw has already amassed a number of highly acclaimed intentionally released albums and is a popular performer both in the UK and the US. He has been cited, along with Mark Murphy and Kurt Elling, as one of the world’s finest male jazz vocalists.

[Not a dep at all: Jamie Safirudden played superb listening piano, and Ian sang. And told stories. And jokes.]

2015 2 January, £16 – Fletch’

Hard bitten drum led modern jazz exploring fusion led mix of classics

Mark Fletcher drums, Carl Orr guitar, Freddie Gavita trumpet, Jim Watson organ, Steve Pearce bass

A powerful and very jolly way to begin the new season.
Drummer Mark Fletcher‘s powerhouse jazz fusion quartet with Freddie Gravita on trumpet and Carl Orr on guitar is a regular feature at Ronnie Scott’s and greatly impressed Wynton Marsalis: “We haven’t had anything like this in New York for over twenty years.”
Come and discover the power of funky jazz originals and the music of Pat Metheny, Michael Brecker and Weather Report.

2015 9 January, £15 – Alex Garnett

Enjoy the dark husky sound of Ronnie Scott’s resident reeds man

Alex Garnett sax, Liam Noble piano, Michael Janisch bass, James Maddren drums

The press on Alec’s debut album, “Serpent” was excellent, and fans and fellow musicians agreed. Tonight we have the pleasure of Alex’s amazing tone and range, and a very starry band: a pleasure to welcome back Liam, Michael and James.

“… Britain’plished post bop musicians”boutjazz

2015 16 January, £15 – OH LA LA

Sophisicated and charming acoustic quartet

Fifi La Mer vocals and accordion, Kit Massey violin, Colin Oxley guitar, Julian Bury bass

The Oh La La! musicians have played across the globe in Europe, North America, Japan, Australasia and the Far East. At home, they have performed at music venues including Ronnie Scott’s, the Royal Opera House (Covent Garden), Wilton Music Hall, the Queen Elizabeth Hall and the National Theatre. They have had several television appearances.

The band has a huge range including classic jazz, chanson and pop, in both English and French.

2015 23 January, £15 – Don Weller Quartet

The Legendary Don Weller is one of Europe’s leading hard bop tenor sax players

Don Weller sax, Chris Ingham piano, Mick Hutton bass, George Double drums

Even a legend needs to start somewhere. Don began learning clarinet at the age of 14, and was classically educated on it for four or five years, soloing in Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto at Croydon Town Hall when aged 15.
In the 1970s his jazz-rock group Major Surgery played only Weller’s compositions. This was followed by a quartet with drummer Bryan Spring and working with Stan Tracey, and Art Themen. He has played with artists such as Alan Price, Tina May and Charlie Hearnshaw – pretty versatile legend.

Chris, Mick and George are a top class back line.

[When poor Don Weller and Mick Hutton had a dead car in Cockfosters, a big but wonderful change occured. We had the BBC Big Band and Ronnie Scott Allstars singer/trumpeter Georgina Jackson, with Rob Palmer on bass. Great gig.]

2015 30 January, £18 – Simon Spillett: Tubby’s Anniversary

Described by Humphrey Lyttleton as formidable: here with his line up of Britain’s finest

Simon Spillett sax, John Critchinson piano, Alec Dankworth bass, Clark Tracey drums

Simon wins awards all over the place, as do his very starry band. I would come to a gig with any one of these guys, but to have all four is magic.

This gig celebrates one of the British (and world) greats, Tubby Hayes.

“Those of us who have caught him live…have been left blinking in disbelief. It’s not just his mastery of the tenor saxophone, phenomenal though that is, but the absolute conviction of his playing that is so impressive” – Dave Gelly

2015 6 February, £16 – Tammy Weis

A Fine Canadian singer with a mix of classical jazz standards and beautifully crafted originals

Tammy Weis vocals, Tom Cawley piano, Julie Walkington bass, Dave Ohm drums

What a pleasure to welcome back such a stunning singer/songwriter, equally at home with standards and with her own excellent compositions. Other people say..
“Isn’t she great! Now there’s a vocalist!” – Michael Bublévening of Canadian cool “with a luscious sound full of feeling” – Julian Joseph.
“Not many people reduce me to tears, but Tammy’s song about her mother was the most touching I’ve ever heard, and her voice is beautiful.” – Jenni Murray, BBC.
“An engaging live performer with a Peggy Lee-like sense of cool” – Clive Davis, The Times.

2015 13 February, £15 – Pete Oxley and Nicolas Meier

John Etheridge says of their new album, “Marvelous guitar album featuring elaborate, harmonically rich and texturally varied compositions with virtuosic soloing from the two players.
So much variety and such effective use of different instruments … exemplary”

Pete Oxley guitar, Nicolas Meier guitar

Pete is an Oxford club owner and guitarist.He regularly performs with some of the world’zz artists including Chris Garrick, Gilad Atzmon, Tim Whitehead, Dave O’by Wellins, John Etheridge and his own band Curious Paradise.

With his unique style that is a blend of Metheny-esque jazz and Turkish inspired world music, Nicolas Meier has toured extensively around the world with his band the Meier Group, sharing the bill with some of the biggest names in jazz including Bill Evans and Brad Mehldau.

The Oxley-Meier guitar duo aim to entertain by playing with a spontaneity and an intuitive interplay between them that keeps them fresh and fired up from gig to gig. The duo therefore comes to the performance with what they hope are the audiences anticipations: to expect the unexpected!

2015 20 February, £15 – Robin Phillips Trio

One of London’s top jazz entertainers: he is a singer and pianist of equal distinction

Robin Phillips vocals and piano, Joel Humann bass, Alex Best drums

Emerging as one of the UK’s leading jazz singer pianists, Robin Phillips’performances are as informative as they are engaging and entertaining. With Joel Humann on upright bass and Alex Best on drums, this young and energetic trio definitely hark back to a golden age of jazz, but their arrangements have a distinctly modern edge.

At Robin’s Fleece Jazz performance prepare to hear standards you thought you knew with rediscovered lost lyrics, and be dazzled by his lightning-quick vocal delivery.

“Well Done, Well Sung!.. You show great taste and discretion…”, Jon Hendricks (jazz singing legend)

2015 27 February, £15 – Josh Kemp Quartet

An acclaimed jazz saxophonist and composer known for his inventiveness, warm tone and lyrical approach

Josh Kemp sax, Pete Whittaker organ, Dick Pearce trumpet, Chris Higginbottom drums

Josh Kemp is equally impressive playing within the jazz standards tradition and also presenting his own original compositions, Josh’s playing style combines melodic inventiveness, a rich tone and a lyrical style of improvisation.The man has played over 200 gigs this year!

He brings a great band, all favourites with the club. Pete Whittaker’s Organ playing is influenced by the great Jimmy Smith. Dick Pearce is a wonderful trumpeter, very under-rated in our opinion. Chris Higginbottom currently plays for the Ronnie Scott Allstars, Gilad Atzmon and Kyle Eastwood.

“ sax playing made me feel that Coleman Hawkins had just entered the room –w and punchy … Splendid”immonds, Artistic Director, NC JAZZ

2015 6 March, £16 – Christine Tobin: It Might as Well be Spring

An exceptional singer songwriter, Christine specialises in idiosyncratic highly musical poetic vignettes

Christine Tobin vocals, Phil Robson guitar, Dave Whitford bass, Gene Calderazzo drums

A wonderful evening of classic songs is in store from the ever popular Great American Songbook by 2014 ‘Jazz Vocalist of the Year’, Parliamentary Jazz Award winner Christine Tobin.

Her programme for this concert marks a return to the classics and includes favourites by Jerome Kern, Ellington, Gershwin, Michel Le Grand and many more.

Christine’s stellar band are; A-list jazz guitarist Phil Robson, Dave Whitford double bass & US dCalderazzo.

“Gorgeous, affecting and deeply human” The Guardian ****

2015 13 March, £16 – Tim Whitehead

Tim has a highly personal and always gorgeous sound on tenor sax and an infinite vocabulary

Tim Whitehead sax, Jonathan Gee piano, Oli Hayhurst bass, Eddie Hick drums

Lawyer turned jazz musician, highly acclaimed Tim Whitehead, is now well known on the British jazz scene. His career goes back forty years when he played with Ian Carr’s Nucleus before becoming a member of the prestigious twenty one piece band “Loose Tubes”.

Tim brings with him three musicians with their own national reputations, Jonathan Gee, Oli Hayhurst and Eddie Hick who have entertained and enthralled us many times.

“igious tenor player whose graceful compositions always rise above the mere technicalities of the conservatoire… amid the crowd of anonymous, garrulous and hard-edged tenor saxophonists, Tim Whitehead’s music is marked by a sense of grace and economy.” – The Times

2015 20 March, £18 – The Derek Nash Picante Latin Band

Award winning saxophonist Derek Nash makes a welcome return to the Club bringing his new Latin/Salsa band.

Derek Nash saxes, Dominic Ashworth guitar, Robin Jones percussion, Marc Cecil drums, Neil Anguilly keyboards, Andy Staples bass.

“At the forefront of the British Jazz movement, Derek Nash is ‘one of the most versatile saxophonists in the UK today'” (The Guardian) To demonstrate that versatility, he brings to the club his new Latin/Salsa project.

Did I mention that two of his many bands are Fleece favourites? Tonight’s band will no doubt join that list. How can it miss with the great Robin Jones, Dominic, Marc, Neil and Andy in attendance?

2015 27 March, £15 – Tom Green Septet

London based trombonist, composer and arranger and winner of The Dankworth prize for composition leads this great young band.

Tom Green trombone, Matthew Herd alto and soprano, Sam Miles tenor, James Davison trumpet, Sam James piano, Misha Mullov-Abbado bass, Scott Chapman drums

Having listened to these stunning young musicians on Youtube, I am eager to hear them. They have an lovely accurate big band sound.

John Fordham says, “This medium-sized band manages to sounds like a big one, and Tom Green sounds like an even bigger prospect”. This is a tour to promote the band’kyline”

The music is contemporary, accessible and a delight.

2015 3 April, £18 – Liane Carroll, Solo

“Deeply soulful, wonderfully honest” The Times.
“Utterly brilliant” Time Out
“Highly recommended … I love it” Michael Parkinson
“The real thing” Sholto Byrnes, Independent on Sunday

Liane Carroll vocals and piano

What a joy it is to welcome Liane again. It is not just the list of awards she has been given, or the fine and accurate reviews of her work that we love her. She is a true original. And she is great fun.

“Some musicians are talented, some brilliant and a few just seem to be made of music. Liane Carroll is one of these. Every phrase she sings sounds unstudied, fresh and somehow inevitable. It is best to experience her in person” – Dave Gelly

2015 10 April, £15 – Chris Ingham Quartet – Celebrating Hoagy

A Sophisticated tribute to a master.

Chris Ingham piano and vocals, Paul Higgs trumpet, Andrew Brown bass, George Double drums

Sold out at Ronnie Scotts in October 2014 and a top ten album of 2014 in the Sunday Time, Chris Ingham’s Celebrating Hoagy is packed with songs and stories of one of America’s most enduring and endearing songwriters. Wry, wise, sentimental, down-home and sophisticated,

All four members of tonight’s band have graced our modest stage on numerous occasions and it is with great pleasure we welcome them all for what we are sure will be a truly memorable night.

Stardust should settle on Fleece Jazz this night!

2015 17 April, £16 – Bryan Corbett Quartet

Highly regarded both nationally and internationally, this multi award winning musician brings his acclaimed quartet back to Fleece Jazz by popular demand.

Bryan Corbett trumpet/flugel, Al Gurr piano and keyboards, Neil Bullock drums and Ben Markland bass.

Bryan made his initial impact in classic hard bop mould but then branched out into a more contemporary sound and feel on his 2003 album �ok jazz to a younger audience, one of Bryan’ms and one we share, although I must stress Fleece Jazz welcomes young and old alike and our audience has included a nine and a ninety year old!

A striking aspect of Bryan’ his rich trumpet sound which he has kept alive rather than going down the route of heavy electronic manipulation.

Three superb musicians in Al Gurr, Neil Bullock and Ben Markland complete this stellar quartet

We are in for a truly inspiring evening of great jazz from this multi award winning quartet.

2015 Friday, 24 April, £22 – Kyle Eastwood – Sorry, sold out!

With considerable charm and unassuming excellence, composer, performer, arranger Kyle demonstrates his monster bass chops

Kyle Eastwood bass, Andrew McCormack piano, Quentin Collins trumpet, Brandon Allen sax, Chris Higginbottom drums

This gig will start at 8:30pm, not our usual 8:00pm.

In demand bassist Kyle Eastwood makes a welcome return to Fleece Jazz. Kyle has very much made his mark as a performer, composer and arranger and his many screen credits as composer include Mystic River, Million Dollar Baby, Gran Torino & Inviarranger, Flags of our Fathers and Changeling. Kyle has also appeared onscreen in several Hollywood productions.

He brings a truly starry band who all showcase their equally impressive talents.

This is not a gig to be missed.

2015 1 May, £16 – Ant Law Quintet

Come and discover a fine contemporary guitarist who delivers imaginative, essentially acoustic jazz.

Ant Law guitar, Michael Chillingworth reeds, Sam Leak piano, Tom Farmer bass, James Maddren drums

Ant is touring to showcase his second solo C.D. Zero Sum World recorded between a 29 and, this, a 27 date tour! He brings with him the cream of young British jazz.

Their intimate collaborative working will be very evident after so many gigs.

Expect an eclectic mish-mash of influences from around the world, bound together into one uniform statement by Ant’s thematic writing and playing.

They “strike that hard-to-find balance between tricky and catchy, and the players he has chosen, are the sort of musicians who willingly embrace the fuzzy logic of improvisation.” – Irish Times
Come and enjoy an approachable but stimulating evening.

2015 8 May, £16 – Jim Hart’s Cloudmaker Trio

Wonderful vibes playing, somewhere between New York’s ‘downtown’ sound and the modern European tradition, The Cloudmakers Trio is led by “one of the UK’s most creative new jazz artists.” – The Guardian

Jim Hart vibraphone, Michael Janisch bass, James Maddren drums

As Dave Gelly writes “This vibraphone-led trio display phenomenal musicianship and a knack for getting out of tight corners.” Its second release, Abstract Forces which is to be featured at this Fleece gig, “further highlights the group’s exceptional vibraphone-bass-drums telepathy”(which) draws from such diverse musical worlds*including free-jazz, funk, electronic experimentation, pure swing and unbridled improvisation” their music is not only impossible to resist, but gets better” – Downbeat Magazine.
Do not resist. You will enjoy Jim’s amazing playing and interplay with incredible fellow drummer, James Maddren and the stunning bass of Mike Janich which would enhance any gig.
“Jim Hart’s vibraphone work shows why this lonely instrument deserves more ears” – JazzTimes.

Come, enjoy, and bring your ears … and your friends.

2015 22 May, £20 – Barb Jungr: This Wheel’s On Fire

Barb Jungr is one of the very best performers in the world. Broadway agrees! She has been nominated as “Celebrity Artist” in the prestigious MAC Awards (Manhattan Cabaret and Clubs) and invited to sing at the ceremony!

Barb Jungr vocals, Barry Green piano, Davide Mantovani bass

Barb has entertained Fleece audiences for over 15 years and has always been wonderful, but has matured into a phenomenal performer. She takes a lyric, absorbs it, owns it, and presents it as her own, from her own heart and soul, but without betraying any part of the original.

She brings two superb musicians: Barry Green is a sought after educator and composer as well as a superb accompanist. Davide Mantovani’s bass playing is always wonderful.

“This Wheel’s On Fire” show extends the Dylan/Cohen material from the excellent Hard Rain CD

At the end of a gig you may feel seriously wrung out, but also enriched, always enriched.

2015 5 June, £15 – Will Butterworth

“A precociously talented young modern jazz pianist who plays with spacious and fractious beauty. A rising Brit Jazz piano star” – Time Out.

Will Butterworth piano, Seb Pipe alto sax, Nick Pini bass, Chris Nicholls drums

“His effortless poise and crisp, attractive classically-trained sound is one of his great strengths… can capture a sense of atmosphere with well-placed notes and treads artfully between drama and intimacy and romantic sentiment and dry inquisition. Butterworth is a young pianist deserving more attention.” – Jazz Review.
“A precociously talented young modern jazz pianist who plays with spacious and fractious beauty. A rising Brit Jazz piano star” – Time Out.

What a talented team! Altoist Seb Pipe, bassist Nick Pini and drummer Chris Nicolls have all been enjoyed at our club.

2015 12 June, £15 – The John East Project

John East on Hammond and vocals and his stellar band will make this a gig to remember.

The proceeds from this gig are going to Edwardstone Church.

John East Hammond organ and vocals, Mark Fletcher drums, Steve Pearce bass, Carl Orr guitar, Scott Baylis trumpet/flugel/piano, Dave Lewis tenor sax

The John East Project led by vocalist and organ player John East was formed five years ago and is a regular and popular feature tan the 606 Club in Chelsea and elsewhere. John has played the Hammond for many years working with musicians such as John Etheridge, Phil Robson and Katie Kissoon. John’nd of Mark Fletcher (drums) Steve Pearce (bass) Carl Orr (guitar) Scott Baylis (trumpet) and the great Dave Lewis (tenor sax) are all firm Fleece favourites. Melodic vocal jazz with blistering solos driven on by the distinctive Hammond sound is sure to give us a night to remember.

2015 Friday, 19 June, £24 – Clare Teal at The New Wolsey Theatre – Sorry, sold out!

The gig is now sold out, but there is a waiting list at the New Wolsey Theatre.

Clare Teal vocals and compere, Jason Rebello piano, Simon Little bass, Matt Skelton drums

Fleece Jazz are proud to present Clare Teal and her band as part of the Ipswich Jazz Festival.

Clare performs jazz standards, including music by her heroes, Ella Fitzgerald, Doris Day and Peggy Lee as well as more contemporary covers and original material. Beautiful melodies, fabulous arrangements and all interspersed with Clare’s warm and witty story telling. A night of wonderful music to open the Ipswich Jazz Festival.

Multi-award winning Clare is backed by a superb trio led by Jason Rebello.

You will experience a dazzling evening of exquisite melodies sung by one of the UK’s greatest interpreters of song

For musicians, there will be masterclass, by this great band, but it is now sold out.
Tickets for Ipswich Jazz Festival gigs are available, information on the Ipswich Jazz Festival website.

2015 3 July, £16 – Jacqui Hicks Quintet

“Jacqui is the best we have.” Digby Fairweather
“Jacqui Hicks is one of those rarities, a great singer and a consummate musician.” Bruce Adams
“Be it the most romantic ballad, hard swinging standard, or the raunchiest blues, Jacqui knows how to put any song across. She is world class.” Paul Lacey – Back To Basie Orchestra

Jacqui Hicks vocals, Martin Shaw trumpet, Chris Ingham piano, Dave Green bass, George Double drums

Jacqui is a classically trained clarinetist, jazz saxophonist and acclaimed singer. The Yorkshire post says “…a singer of warmth, poise and intelligence whose smoky voice is a pleasure to listen to.”.

Her band is one we know and love well. This will be an unmissable gig.

“Jacqui Hicks is not only a fine singer, but a consummate musician also with a genuine feeling for the music.” Brian Dee
“….not only a great vocalist but a singer who is a complete musician as well.” Bill Sharpe – Shakatak

2015 10 July, £16 – Mark Crooks Quartet

Mark’s flair for phrasing is reminiscent of Stan Getz and his return is eagerly awaited

Mark Crooks clarinet/tenor sax, Colin Oxley guitar, Jeremy Brown bass, Josh Morrison drums

“Mark is brilliant on both instruments (tenor sax and clarinet), but it is on the clarinet that he shines brightest, in our opinion”. Quoted from comments in a local paper regarding a previous visit to Fleece Jazz. More shining from this polished quartet is promised tonight.

First rate indeed, with Colin Oxley, Jeremy Brown and Josh Morrison to work and play with.

2015 24 July, £16 – Kevin Flanagan: Rip-Rap

“Acoustic jazz of the highest order where the musicians solo beautifully and sit in grooves like they’ve found a new place to live.” – Sue Edwards, Royal Festival Hall.

Kevin Flanagan sax, David Gordon piano, Joel Humann bass, Tom Hooper drums

Riprap features quite extraordinary musicians who knit so well together in their modern progressive jazz style.

Kevin and Gordon seem to work as one mind in the RipRap context. The band wowed us at their last visit.

Kevin has made an indelible mark on the British jazz scene, having played with a huge range of top people in a variety of styles.

Gordon is a classically trained pianist and composer with much work for BBC Radio 3 and others, as well as with fellow jazz musicians.

Joel and Tom are the heart of the band: excellent players. You won’t want to miss them.

2015 7 August, £15 – Robert Habermann Sings Gershwin

Robert Habermann takes his audience on a journey through some of the 20th Century’s greatest love songs and the stories behind them. He has met many of the actual writers! His show is punctuated with anecdotes and stories to make this a fun evening

Robert Habermann vocals, Trevor Brown piano

Robert Habermann is an accomplished singer/songwriter of The Great American and British Songbooks. He worked in the U.S.A where he was voted Best International Performer 1994 by the prestigious Manhattan Association of Cabarets of New York, resulting in several major tours.

Robert was the first major British singer to perform a concert to celebrate Frank Sinatra’s 80th Birthday at London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall.

Pianist Trevor Brown is known for his versatility and virtuosity. Trevor spent twenty years as pianist with the Joe Loss Orchestra. Nowadays he very much enjoys being part of The Syd Lawrence Orchestra.

[The excellent pianist was Bunny Thompson]

2015 21 August, £16 – Basil Hodge Quintet: Ten Pieces of Silver

Pianist Basil Hodge and his brilliant band pay homage to the influential American jazz piano player, composer and hard bop pioneer, Horace Silver, who died last year, aged 85.

Basil Hodge piano, Tony Kofi saxes, Steve Fishwick trumpet, Larry Bartley bass, Matt Fishwick drums

Basil Hodge has played with some of the leading UK players such as Jim Mullen, Dave O’Higgins, Pete Wareham and Renato D’Aiello. He has led his own band for some years, and has been much admired at Fleece Jazz. Basil’s hard swinging, bop-tinged piano perfectly captures Silver’s sound.

Multiple award winning Tony Kofi spent four years at Berklee college. He returned to the UK in 1991 and joined the Jazz Warriors. His playing on any sax is passionate.

Steve Fishwick is “well known as a fleet and expert bebopper, but his sideman performances in more experimental groups at the last London jazz festival confirmed his sharp ear for other kinds of melodies and structures” – John Fordham.

Passionate is also the word for the playing of Larry Bartley. He has a huge reputation on the UK scene.

Two quotes about our drummer, Matt Fishwick “Rhythmically assured, confidently played and hugely pleasing” – Jazz UK
“Sizzling brush work” – Downbeat

2015 4 September, £16 – John Critchinson: “Ronnie Remembered”

This band’s memories of Ronnie are sure be a season opener to be remembered

John Critchinson piano, Mornington Lockett sax, Dick Pearce trumpet, Tim Wells bass, Trevor Tomkins drums

Ronnie Scott was a giant, and five very tall people, four of whom played with him. are here to celebrate his work.
The gig is led by John Critchinson, who worked closely with Ronnie. Critch has played for us many times, and is a great Fleece favourite. He is joined by Ronnie’s close colleages Mornington Lockett and Dick Pearce.

Trevor Tomkins and Tim Wells complete and complement tnis fine quintet.

Mornington is “Abrasive and roaring one moment, then cutting suddenly to a gentle caress – exciting stuff ” – The Venue

“Sounds like Hendrix on sax ” – Noel Gallagher

2015 11 September, £16 – Big Screen Trio

Matt has a unique connection with film music by virtue of his tenure with the incredible John Wilson orchestra

Matt Skelton drums, David Newton piano, Tom Farmer bass

If you need a fine drummer, call on Matt. We last heard him at our Wolsey Theatre gig with Clare Teal, and are delighted to see him any time with any band. His own
trio displays a love of film music rendered as proper jazz.It must have been fun playing with John Wilson at the Royal Albert Hall.

Our president, David, is one of the finest and most sought after pianists in the business, and Tom’s reputation is similarly high.

From Linn Recordings, of David: “one of our nations treasured pianists: the man has a lovely touch.

And of Tom: ” He swings. Highest-possible praise again, particularly when it comes to the bass. Okay, he possesses excellent intonation, too. “

[Matt was on telly again last night, promming. Our drummer was the wonderful Steve Brown]

2015 18 September, £15 – Georgia Mancio

A superb, highly skilled, versatile, imaginative and accessible singer plus a great band.

Georgia Mancio vocals, Nigel Price Guitar, Julie Walkington bass

Award-winning jazz vocalist/lyricist, Georgia Mancio, has proved herself one of the UK’nal, adventurous and multi-faceted new artists. A true improviser with a boundless and bold imagination, Georgia produces music of beauty, bite and unfailing integrity, embracing a wide-ranging jazz and modern song repertoire alongside influences from her Anglo/Italian/Uruguayan heritage.

Nigel Price plays a mean guitar and is always a pleasure to listen to. Accompanying, he provides an atmospheric background much appreciated by vocalists and audiences alike.

Nigel and Julie Walkington appeared with Georgia on her excellent “Come Rain or Come Shine” album.

“the archetype of a modern singer who can style-hop at will and produce…usical and textually convincing versions of –ing”
“Her intonation was impeccable, her fluidity around the pulse and a feeling of real pleasure derived from her interaction with … other musicians was just incredibly infectious” – London Jazz News

2015 25 September, £15 – Peter King Quartet

This great hero of British jazz honours us with his presence.

Peter King alto sax, Mike Gorman piano, Geoff Gascoyne bass, Mark Fletcher drums

It is always a pleasure to hear and watch Mike Gorman, whether on organ, or in this case, piano.
Geoff is one of our favourite bassists, and is clearly one of the most sought-after bass men in the country.
Mark is an old friend of the club, a superb soloist and accompanist.

“World’s greatest Altoist” – Nat Adderley
“My Man!”, says Nat Adderley. Mine too.

2015 2 October, £18 – Jazz At The Movies

Fronted by acclaimed singer Joanna Eden and featuring the Chris Ingham Quartet, Jazz at the Movies features evocative songs and soundtrack themes from classic films including The Aristocats, The Servant, From Russia With Love, Agatha, Let’s Make Love, The Pink Panther, The Ipcress File and many more.

Joanna Eden vocals, Alan Barnes saxes, Chris Ingham piano, Rev. Andy Brown bass, George Double drums

Joanna Eden is the “UK’s answer to Norah Jones and Diana Krall” – TIME OUT. Chris Ingham has a serious reputation as pianist, composer, band leader and record producer.

We welcome the prolific international performer, composer, arranger, bandleader and touring soloist, Alan Barnes back for his first gig with us of the season.

The excellent bassist, Andy Brown and the in demand drummer, George Double complete this excellent band.

“Movie songs like these provide good material for the best jazz singers. Joanna Eden and her first-class band had a ball with them … and so did the audience!” – JAZZ JOURNAL

2015 9 October, £16 – Gareth Lockrane’s Grooveyard Unplugged

Grooveyard wowed New York, now its our turn!

Gareth Lockrane flute, Alex Garnett sax, Ross Stanley piano and Hammond B3 organ, Dave Whitford bass, Tim Giles drums

Grooveyard’s new album, “THE STRUT”, was the material that Winton Marsalis liked so much in New York. No surprise to us: this is an exceptional band, with a great front line, the wonderful Ross Stanley on both Hammond and piano, and Dave Whitford and Tim Giles on bass and drums.

“le Lockrane…a stunning display of sharp-accented runs, earthy whoops and constantly refreshed melodic ideas.”ham

“all the individuality, skill and stamina every star soloist needs, and his debut album as leader is an impressive affair.”tandard

2015 16 October, £15 – Theo Jackson Quartet

Expect sizzling swing and a sense of fun

Theo Jackson vocals/piano, Jo Caleb guitar, Huntly Gordon bass, Marco Quarantotto drums

“’s second album, ‘ The Girl’fashioned kind of record. That’s “old-fashioned” as in melodic, swinging, understated, lyrically engaging—d in a really good way.” Lindsey.

“One of the most interesting jazz vocalists and composers to emerge on the British scene in recent years, Jackson can flit between ballads and rapid-fire scatting in the blink of an eye.” – The Daily Telegraph.
“One of Britain’s finest jazz musicians and singers.” – Michael Wilson, JAZZ FM
“a genuine jazz talent . . . it is safe to say he has a bright future.” – JAZZ JOURNAL

[Our estimable bassist (on 6 string bass guitar) was Giazonne Royes]

2015 23 October, £15 – Phil Meadows Group: Lifecycle Tour

**** – John Fordham, The Guardian.
**** – Jazzwize Magazine.
**** – All About Jazz.
“Gods on the rise…”

Phil Meadows sax, Laura Jurd trumpet, Elliot Galvin piano, Flo Moore bass, Simon Roth drums

Featuring a host of award-winning talent and fresh from their sold out 2014 EFG London Jazz Festival showcase the PMG features the 2015 Parliamentary Jazz Instrumentalist of the Year and trumpeter Laura Jurd, European Young Jazz Artist Award winner and pianist Elliot Galvin, acclaimed bassist Flo Moore and drummer/percussionist Simon Roth.

As one of the UK’s leading young saxophonist and composers Phil Meadows has already received the 2015 London Music Awards ‘Rising Jazz Star’, 2015 Parliamentary Jazz Ensemble of the Year (Engines Orchestra), 2014 Parliamentary Jazz Newcomer of the Year and 2013 Peter Whittingham Jazz Award

2015 30 October, £16 – Sarah Gillespie, featuring Tom Cawley

Sarah is
“Brilliant, the bee’obert Wyatt
***** The Independent
**** The Guardian
**** Mojo

Sarah Gillespie vocals and guitar, Tom Cawley piano, Ben Bastin bass, Eddie Hick drums.

Sarah Gillespie is a British/American singer songwriter and guitarist based in London. She is known for combining poetic lyrics with gritty folk, blues and elemental jazz and for writing songs that explore and satirise numerous political themes.

Recently on maternity leave Sarah has been back performing since spring this year at all her favourite haunts with her usual flair and sparkle.

Expect a sparkling show tonight with brilliant support from the fabulous Tom Cawley on piano, Ben Bastin on bass and Eddie Hicks on drums.

“Bob Dylan’s lyrical bite and languid delivery to the forthrightness of Joni Mitchell, with a little rap-like percussiveness thrown in, she is an original” – John Fordham

2015 6 November, £15 – Maciek Pysz Trio

Maciek is major new presence on the guitar scene, Maestro Yuri and master drummer, Asaf complete this stunning trio

Maciek Pysz acoustic and classical guitars, Yuri Goloubev bass, Asaf Sirkis drums

Presenting music from the critically acclaimed new album ‘A Journey’ released on Dot Time Records. An unforgettable evening of world music, jazz and fusion combined with heart touching melodies. The Trio is famous for amazing energy and interaction on stage.

“Pysz’s highly melodic writing and well delineated and unhurried playing style make for a highly satisfying and often beautiful album ****” – Ian Mann (The Jazz Mann)

2015 13 November, £16 – Geoff Mason Sextet: Tribute to Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers

Geoff plays with Ronnie Scott’s big band. Tonight he leads his own sextet for an evening of swinging tunes

Geoff Mason trombone, Steve Fishwick trumpet, Simon Spillett sax John Horler piano, Trevor Tomkins drums, Tim Wells bass

Former Coldstream Guards trombonist Geoff Mason has established himself as one of the UK’onents of “Blue Note” era jazz. He brings a superb band to honour the great drummer, educator and general jazz hero, Art Blakey.

Simon Spillett and Steve Fishwick make up a superb front line. John Horler is one of the finest jazz pianists about. We know Tim Wells and Trevor Tomkins from their excellent work with John Critchinson’s tribute to Ronnie Scott earlier in the season, and many other gigs.

Be prepared for a joyous, swinging evening.

2015 20 November, £18 – Tina May Quartet featuring Nikki Iles

“Tina May and Nikki Iles have a rapport that takes a partnership between singer and pianist to a stage far beyond mere voice plus accompaniment. A distinctive atmosphere surrounds everything they do together, a kind of wistfulness, even at the most lively moments.” – The Scotsman

Tina May vocals, Nikki Iles piano, Jeremy Brown bass, Stephen Keogh drums

Tina and Nikki have graced our stage many times, both separately and together, and they have been staunch supporters of Fleece Jazz; both played our first benefit gig and Tina starred on Divas’ Day. We take pleasure in publicly thanking them, and welcoming them “home.” In a sense we have all grown up together. However their professional, polished performances do not preclude a mischievous glint in the eyes, and wry humour. Nor do they prevent spontaneity. Those who saw the entirely unplanned duets between Tina and Winston Clifford a few years ago, will testify to that!

Fully in support they have the solidly skillful pairing of Jeremy Brown, a frequent visitor, and Stephen Keogh, who we are glad to welcome back.

You really should come to see a lady who is considered “one of the finest jazz vocalists the UK has ever produced (All Music Guide) who with Nikki “handles the classics as the gems they still are.” The Guardian

[A debut for Matt Fisher on drums, as Stephen missed his plane.]

2015 27 November, £18 – Simon Spillett Quartet

“He’s stood old head and young shoulders above many of his contemporaries as a live performer for several years…gets five stars …omas, BBC

Simon Spillett sax, John Critchinson piano, Dave Green bass, Spike Wells drums

Simon Spillett, the son of a semi-pro musician, is an excellent band leader who puts together a well-balanced programme. He is also the chronicler and guardian of the legend and legacy of the great Tubby Hayes. Simon has played with three generations British Jazz greats, including Stan Tracy, Bobby Wellins, Alan Barns and Gwilym Simcock.

On Piano, tonight and for the Quartet’s last 10 years, is John Critchinson, who became a member of Ronnie Scott’s Quartet when Simon was only 5 years old. On Bass is Dave Green and on drums Spike Wells, two more well known and loved Fleece regulars.

“A bruising, scruff-of-the-neck hard bopper,…s huge excitement, passion and swagger.”ham. Unmissable!

2015 4 December, £20 – Ian Shaw and Sarah Jane Morris

“Our finest jazz singer, marvellous” – Time Out (of Ian, but as true of Sarah). “Two of the most amazingly talented singers you will find anywhere in the world” – John Anderson

Ian Shaw piano and vocals, Sarah Jane Morris vocals

Jamie Cullum said “able Ian Shaw… absolutely fantastic.”so have used “.”forsook singing for stand up and still excels as a comedian. He emerged with Julian Clary, Rory Bremner and Jo Brand and was invited by Barry Humphries to take his alternative comedy to Oz. (Heckling not advised). Fortunately for us, Dave Illic, critic for City limits, saw his musical talent and identified his as “ decade.”ues to be true, as the decades pass.

Sarah Jane’s last recording Bloody Rain, brought together musicians from across Africa and the world (including Ian) and is acclaimed as “ece” “a visceral lyricism with intense moral and political engagement”, “nt mix of cold fury and compassion”er) Her integrity is as large as her talent, as Jazzwise say, “t sing an insincere note if she tried”adian adds to the acclaim: “, idiosyncratic singer on the borders of jazz, soul and pop, she’s a majestic, if raw-nerved singer of awesome eloquence.”Sarah bills the gig as “Fleece Jazz Christmas Special” No need to add to that IT WILL BE. For all that the evening may be stimulating and emotional, I guarrantee that above all else it will be musically excellent and tremendous FUN.

2015 11 December, £18 – Alex Garnett Jazz Ambassadors

In a change to the printed program, we are delighted to bring this fine band to the club

Alex Garnett alto, Robbie Robson trumpet, Ross Stanley piano, James Gardner-Bateman tenor, Sam Burgess bass, Chris Higginbottom drums

Alex Garnett has been one of the leading saxophonists in the UK and Mainland Europe for over two decades, being instantly recognized by his dark, husky sound. He is an in demand session, studio and commercial saxophonist, having racked up countless recording credits along the way. His frequent visits to our club have been most welcome.

Ross Stanley has almost become resident keyboard player at the Fleece, a brilliant and maturing player. His superb pianism is always welcome, whether on the Hammond, or as tonight, the Fleece piano

Robbie Robson studied Jazz at Leeds College of Music where he was awarded the John Coates Prize for Outstanding Musicianship. He was a national finalist in the Young Jazz Musician of the Year 1999, and the runner up in the Perrier Young Jazz Musician 2000.

Although James Gardner-Bateman has worked in many genres with an impressive list of people, his main passion lies in Jazz music and the main projects that he’ith currently are The Guy Barker Orchestra, The Reuben Fowler Big Band, Floating Points Ensemble and Keith Tippett’> Sam Burgess comes from a very musical family, started on piano, as you do, fell in love with bass guitar at 15. He says, “I love Dave Holland, Ray Brown, Christian McBride, Paul Chambers and Avishai Cohen” We love Sam.

Chris is “Precise and virtuoisic” (Jazzwise magazine). He is one of the UK’rs, currently a member of the Kyle Eastwood Band, and many others. A Royal Academy of Music graduate, Chris played with many of the biggest names in jazz including Mark Murphy and Seamus Blake.

2015 18 December, £15 – African Jazz Quintet

Frank Williams brilliant band with its roots in South African township music will keep your moving parts moving!

Frank Williams sax, Kari Banaman guitar, Robert Bailey piano, Michael Bailey bass, Richard Bailey drums.

It may be another five days until the days start getting longer again, but this evening Frank Williams will take us straight to the sunshine of South Africa, the land of his birth, and set us moving to the sounds of Township Music.

Frank Williams, who leads from the tenor sax, has been bringing his African Jazz Quintet to Fleece Jazz since 1993, with performances that sold out in advance

Winston, Kari and the Baileys are also steeped in this music that always delights and excites with the infectious rhythms of the music.

[The guitarist was the shining Cameron Pierre; a joyous gig.]

2015 Wednesday, 30 December, £16 – Alan Barnes Quintet

Multi award winning Alan Barnes plays hard urban post-bop with passion and energy with this stellar quintet

Alan Barnes reeds, Robert Fowler saxes, David Newton piano, Dave Green bass, Matt Home drums

World class reeds player, inspirational band leader, composer, arranger, master of the humorous quip, educator, music businessman and potential Eurostar ticket inspector (see David Newton’s website), Alan Barnes is always at his most exuberant leading his own band.

“Barnes, plays music that was radical 50 years ago – hard, urban post-bop – but he infuses it with so much passion and energy you could believe it was minted on the spot, which is …ohn L. Walters, The Guardian.

With the pianistic heroism of our Presidente, David Newton, the mellow reeds of Robert Fowler, the eminent and jolly pair of Dave Green and Matt Home, this will be a gig to savour.

2016 1 January, £15 – Horn Factory

East Anglia’s premier big band will give 2016 a flying start: 18 brilliant musicians.
Bob Airzee percussion & MD.< musicians will be bringing us the spine tingling sound of the true big band. They blew us away in 2014
They are East Anglia’s Premier Big Band.

If you love the sound of a big, talented band, this will be a joy, and as we are in the Devora Suite, there will be a dance floor.

2016 8 January, £18 – Fletch’s Brew

Prised away from near residency at Ronnie Scott’s to deliver funky jazz originals and Metheny,
Brecker and Weather Report classics: last year’s gig of the season.
Mark Fletcher drums Freddie Gavita trumpet Jim Watson piano/keys Lawrence Cottle bass

A powerful and very jolly way to continue the new season.
Drummer Mark Fletcher’s powerhouse jazz fusion quartet with Freddie Gravita on trumpet is a regular feature at Ronnie Scott’s and greatly
impressed Wynton Marsalis: “We haven’t had anything like this in New York for over twenty years.” Tonight they will be joined with Lawrence Cottle and Jim Watson.

Come and discover the power of funky jazz originals and the music of Pat Metheny, Michael Brecker and Weather Report.

2016 15 January, £15 – Theo Travis Double Talk Quartet

Hi octane, innovative jazz, continually evolving with underlying rock and ambient influences creating “a rare, fine English psychedelic jazz.” MOJO ****
Theo Travis reeds/flute Pete Whittaker hammond organ Mike Outram guitar Nic France drums/percussion

Theo Travis’ play powerful bluesy progressive jazz, with smoking Hammond organ, explosive guitar solos, and powerhouse drumming, all fronted by internationally acclaimed tenor sax and flute player and composer Theo Travis.

Promoting their brand new album ‘n’be an evening of passionate music and haunting instrumental songs from one of Britain’axophonists and flautists who has also played with the likes of Gong, Robert Fripp, Soft Machine Legacy and Keith Tippett.

“Enthralling modern jazz organ quartet that features himself on tenor, soprano sax and flute, alongside the excellent rock-edged guitar work of Mike Outram, growling Hammond of Pete Whittaker and fine drumming …ng a right humdinger of a band.” – Jazzwise

2016 22 January, £15 – Alex Merritt Quartet featuring John Turville

Alex has something special and original* – Mike Gibbs. Close empathy creates an exciting foundation for musical interaction.
Alex Merritt tenor John Turville piano Sam Lasserson bass Jeff Williams drums

A unique sound drawing on a diverse range of influences, notably Warne Marsh, Joe Henderson and John Coltrane, as well as contemporary classical music. The close empathy in the quartet that has developed over time creates an exciting foundation for musical interaction, risk-taking and reinvention. Part of the ‘Anatta’ tour to promote the release of their new CD in December 2015 on F-IRE records.

2016 29 January, £18 – Derek Nash Acoustic Quartet

From smooth cool to groovy funk, to ingeniously recast standards, to quite gorgeous ballads, the music fizzes with energy, even at its most restrained.

Derek Nash saxes David Newton piano Geoff Gascoyne bass Sebastiaan De Krom drums

Derek is renowned for his energetic, passionate and charismatic performances on baritone, tenor, alto and soprano saxes and has won many prestigious Jazz awards.
David was voted best Jazz pianist in the British Jazz for the thirteenth time in 2004.
Geoff is a bass player, composer and producer, and has played with a variety of groups in a variety of styles finally forming his own jazz group in 1999.
Sebastiaan won the prestigious Buddy Rich Award. He has performed with artists such as Herbie Hancock and John Scofield.

A quartet of this quality can only mean an evening of great music to be savoured like a good glass of port.

2016 5 February, £15 – David Gordon’s Alex Scriabin Ragtime Band

An amazing tapestry of music from 1910 ‘s: many genres with the eponymous rag, which gets the makeover to end all makeovers!
David Gordon piano Jonty Fisher bass Paul Cavacuiti drums

“Gordon takes an unlikely concept and makes it work superbly. The broad mix of musical styles keeps both band and audience on their toes and the playing is infused with wit and wisdom throughout” – www.thejazzman.com

Expect a combination of laughter and great musicianship delivering fascinating material

2016 12 February, £15 – Zoe Francis & Jim

Uber Statesman Jim leads a top notch trio to show case Zoe’s stunningly beautiful voice
Jim Mullen guitar Zoe Francis vocals Stan Sulzman saxophone Mick Hutton bass

“My claim to fame is that I taught Billy Connolly the chords for ‘Sweet Georgia Brown’ on the banjo,” says Jim Mullen with a wry chuckle. I think you will find there is much more to this wonderful musician.

Zoe Francis is a singer who communicates a love and understanding of the classic American songbook with the lightest of touches. She has a beautiful voice and exquisite taste, backed by three of Britain’s finest and most experienced musicians. You can’t do much better than that.

[Our bassist was the excellent Arnie Somogyi.]

2016 19 February, £18 – Mike Paxton Quintet

“The instrumentation might suggest just another hard bop combo: not so…libre of musicians he has recruited, the playing is exemplary and Paxton’s up there with the best.” – Peter Vacher.

Mike Paxton drums Martin Shaw trumpet and flugel, Mornington Lockett sax Robin Aspland piano Alec Dankworth bass

Mike Paxton, drummer, composer and arranger, has worked with many of the top names in British Jazz including Humphrey Littelton, Alan Barnes, Ronnie Scott and Peter King, and several top US visitors.

Martin Shaw has a warm and distinctive sound on both horns and is recognised as one of Europe’z soloists.

The power and subtlety of Mornington Lockett‘s tenor playing has always delighted our audience, and the myriad of stars that he has worked with.

We have the gifted and imaginative and very busy Robin Aspland on piano and keys, and the huge sound and precise intonation of Alec Dankworth on bass.

With such a great line up, including so many Fleece favourites, this is a gig not to be missed.

2016 26 February, £18 – Renato D’Aiello Quartet & Deelee Dubée

Hard bop and straight jazz in its most vibrant form.
Renato D’Aiello sax Deelee Dubée vocals Sean Hargreaves piano Nicola Muresu bass Pier Paolo Pozzi drums

“Renato is a superlative saxophonist with a passionate and poetic soul.” “a beautiful sense of time and pacing” – Ian Carr.

Deelee Dub&eacutn resident singer at Renato D’Aillo’s Acoustic Jazz Lounge at Ronnie Scott’s for a year. Influences include Sarah Vaughan, Joni Mitchell, and Billie Holiday. She will be appearing with Renato at the Royal Albert Hall.

Renato brings the superb back line of Nicola Muresu, Sean Hargreaves and Pier Paolo Pozzi.

[Nicola was unfortunately quite ill. We wish him well. It was a pleasure to welcome Simon Little on bass, who we have not seen for too long.]

2016 4 March, £15 – Marc Cecil Quintet

Superb swinging bebop, bossa, salsa, lyrical ballads, the lot!
Marc Cecil drums Paul Jayasinha trumpet James Arben sax Gunther Kurmayr piano Dominic Howles bass

Last time this band came, the five musicians on our stage had a great time, and a pile of fun, and therefore so did we. We got bop and salsa and ballads and fun watching the musicians enjoy themselves and each other.

About their album, Digby Fairweather writes, “isited the music of Dizzy Gillespie with affection, skill and admirable attention to detail. The result is a live album in which both arrangements and solo outings would have prompted smiles of approval from Dizzy himself “ith the storming James Arben, Gunther Kurmayr and Dominic Howles (last with us with Tim Richards), it will be a gig to savour.

2016 11 March, £18 – Marlene VerPlanck

“…She may be the most accomplished interpreter of popular material performing today…” – The New York Times

Marlene Ver Planck vocals Barry Green piano Paul Morgan bass Bobby Worth drums

Marlene Ver Planck is the finest Great American Songbook exponent I have ever heard live. Her articulation is so good that while you hear every nuance of every word, there is no exaggeration or falseness, and her storytelling is superb. And yet, she is willing to take risks with a new song. Throughout her career, Marlene has stuck to her guns, paying loving care to the great standards and new songs from our finest composers. Songwriter Hugh Martin (“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” etc.) expressed it well: “We know our songs are safe in the hands of Marlene VerPlanck, and she will sing them better than anyone else.” She uses wonderful arrangements, mostly from her late husband, Billy. Billy did not write simple stuff, and only a band as good as the one she brings can play it to perfection.

Barry, Paul and Bobby are a stunning trio, all superb accompanists and soloists.

“Marlene VerPlanck keeps acquiring superlatives in reviews of her albums and performances, and ‘ In’ly why!” – Joe Lang, NNJS

[Our pianist was John Pearce; he, Paul and Bobby are on Marlene’s wonderful new CD, “The Mood I’m In”.]

2016 18 March, £15 – Oh La La

Charming and sophisticated acoustic quartet

Fifi La Mer vocals/accordion Colin Oxley guitar Louis D’ince violin Will de Biste bass

Expect classic jazz, Parisienne 󈫺Chansons realistes”Piaff and Serge Gainsbourg, impressionist (Satie), and the quartet’sions of classical popular music.

The Quartet has performed at venues in London (including the Royal Opera House!) Paris and also at music festivals both in the UK and mainland Europe.

They went down a storm on their previous visit and we can be sure that the charm and skill of this delightful and fun loving quartet will captivate us once again.

[The violinist couldn’t make it, but we got the wonderful Alex Garnett instead. On sax. And Will de Biste is the excellent Julian Bury.]

2016 25 March, £18 – Zoe Rahman

A vibrant and highly individual pianist and composer, deeply rooted in jazz yet it reflects her classical background, British/Bengali heritage and her very broad musical taste.

Zoe Rahman piano Alec Dankworth bass Gene Calderazzo drums

Zoe Rahman has firmly established herself as one of the brightest stars on the contemporary jazz scene and most recently picked up the prize for the piano category in the 2015 British Jazz Awards. She has worked extensively throughout the UK and internationally with a diverse range of other artists, including Courtney Pine and Clark Tracey. Zoe’s compositions are a confection of American, Bengali and Irish music, reflecting her classical background, her family roots and her study of Jazz piano in the U.S.A. What emerges is a ‘melting pot’ of beautifully fluid jazz.
“She loves musical conversations and her vivacious relationship with her regular trio often sparks memorable live shows.” – John Fordham

Alec Dankworth has been a frequent visitor to Fleece Jazz, both as a bandleader and as a sideman. He is an award-winning jazz bassist and composer who, in addition to leading several groups of his own, has worked with an amazing list of artists including Van Morrison, Stephanne Grappelli, Abdullah Ibrahim, The Dave Brubeck Quartet and more recently Ginger Baker’s Jazz Confusion with Pee Wee Ellis. He is known for his energetic stage presence, versatility of style and some of the most imaginative bass solos around.

Gene Calderazzo is an American jazz drummer and he has become one of the most in-demand drummers on the European scene today. He has played with an exhaustive list of jazz musicians.
“Calderazzo’s time and energy creates an excitement similar to that of a young Tony Williams, a drummer with forward gears” – Stan Sulzman, Musician Magazine

[Many thanks to Roger O’Dell for the loan of the drum kit.]

2016 1 April, £15 – Pete Churchill and Mishka Adams

Internationally known singer/pianist Pete with singer/songwriter/saxophonist Mishka will be special.
Pete Churchill piano/vocals Mishka Adams vocals

Pete and Mishka have important stories to tell of how we became who we are.

Pete and Mishka are both heavily involved with the London Vocal Project, an a cappella jazz choir, so they share a deep degree of empathy.

The songs are very much in the singer/songwriter tradition rather than the jazz one, although their jazz sensibilities are clearly evident. They remind me most strongly of James Taylor’cially when he had players like Don Grolnick in the band –o listen to Unbreakable Chain on Stories To Tell, and you will see what I mean.

Pete Churchill has been working as a composer, pianist, singer and teacher for over two decades. He is now Professor of Jazz Composition at the Royal Academy of Music in London whilst running the jazz choir at Trinity College of Music.

Mishka Adams’roots include the literary, visual and musical arts. Back in her hometown of Manila in 2004, she was invited to perform at a musical evening called ‘Jazz in Time’, organised by the British Council. That led to some stunning recordings under the Candid label. Mishka has co-founded the London Vocal Project, and became a percussionist and lead vocalist for Rhythms of the City.

This will be an entrancing evening, with two fine singers and Pete’nism.

[The duet became a trio with Loz Garratt on electric and standup bass and vocals. Lovely job for a dep stolen from Jamie Cullum for the evening.]

2016 8 April, £15 – Matt Ridley Quartet

“highly creative and exciting, four talented musicians who have developed an almost telepathic musical understanding.” – Jazz Views .

Matt Ridley bass Jason Yarde sax John Turville piano George Hart drums

Celebrating the launch of their second studio album, the virtuoso bassist Matt Ridley leads his dynamic quartet of A-list musicians to give us a pulsating set of original material that showcases his unique compositional style. Initially working as a trio, the core rhythm section was joined by the globally recognised and prolific saxophonist Jason Yarde.

Jason Yarde has great speed and range of dynamics on both the soprano and alto saxophones. His music has been described as powerful, spiritual, evocative, rhapsodic, hair-raising and formidable.

It is a pleasure to welcome the continuation of John Turville‘s season at Fleece Jazz. On drums we have the versatile and accomplished drummer, George Hart.

2016 15 April, £15 – Bryan Corbett Quartet

A stunning gig last spring, and a beautiful CD recorded here.

Bryan Corbett trumpet, Al Gurr piano, Chris Dodd bass, Neil Bullock drums.

‘..trumpeter Bryan Corbett deserves a wider recognition for a great sound, stage presence and sense of purpose’ (Alex Webb). A stunning gig last spring, and a beautiful CD recorded and on sale here at the Fleece.

As well performing under his own name, Bryan Corbett has been performing with world renowned stars, a who’s who in the jazz and commercial world. Bryan is not only a great performer of the jazz standards repertoire but an artist who pushes the boundaries writing and performing original works with his various line-ups. ‘A warm brilliant tone and formidable technique’ (the Independent).

Al, Chris and Neil are widely admired as being outstanding musicians.

We loved this gig last year, and the CD of the gig is excellent. We get the treat of a brand new studio CD as well as a great gig.

2016 22 April, £15 – Matt Anderson Wild Flower Sextet

“This is sophisticated stuff, with a proper handle on Shorter’s post-bop genius . . . . Everyone plays superbly and the whole set is wholly recommended.” ***** – Mark Gilbert, Jazz Journal

Matt Anderson sax Laura Jurd trumpet Alex Munk electric guitar
Jamil Sheriff piano Sam Vicary bass Sam Gardner drums

Wild Flower Sextet, led by saxophonist Matt Anderson, plays original music inspired by the work of U.S. jazz legend Wayne Shorter, as well as new arrangements of his compositions. Wayne Shorter is a legendary figure across the whole spectrum of jazz, from Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and his own seminal albums on Blue Note Records, through to Miles Davis’ Second Great Quintet and Weather Report to his new Quartet.

The sextet draws on an all-star line-up of UK jazz musicians. Award winning Laura Jurd returns to us. We have the superb pianism of Jamil Sheriff. Sam Vicary and Sam Gardner are hugely in demand.

The band released their debut album in 2015 to widespread critical acclaim and airplay on BBC Radio 3 alongside a nationwide tour, Selwyn Harris of Jazzwise writes: “Their own unique stamp on Shorter’s very personal repertoire…y that resonates with its inspirational source…n-pretentious.”

[Two changes. The wonderful Laura Jurd was in Bremen with her band as a UK showcase group. The bassist was Will Harris. We had a stunning quintet.]

2016 29 April, £0 – Cancellation: Dennis Rollins Velocity Trio

We are sad to announce that due to circumstances beyond our control, the gig this Friday, 29th April has unfortunately been cancelled. Anybody holding tickets will of course be able to use them at any future gig (or have a refund if preferred)

We look forward to seeing you on May 6th for the first gig of our new programme when the multi- talented Georgina Jackson makes a welcome return to Fleece Jazz.

2016 6 May, £15 – Georgina Jackson

Georgina Jackson is an avowed fan of Frank Sinatra, big bands and the American Songbook. The native of Wigan is also a talented trumpet player and a singer with a sassy, vibrant style, and it’s a winning combination.
Georgina Jackson vocals/trumpet, Chris Ingham piano, Dave Green bass, George Double drums

As a trumpet player Georgina has performed with Nancy Sinatra, Gladys Knight and Seal, as well as in the orchestras of West End shows such as Chicago. Her singing career has emerged gradually in recent years, performances with the BBC Big Band and the Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra

Her voice has a genuine ’50s vibe.

She brings a fine band: Chris Ingham on piano, the legendary Dave Green on bass, and George Double on drums.

2016 13 May, £18 – Gilad Atzmon and Alan Barnes: Lowest Common Denominator

It is impossible to imagine two finer exponents of the saxophone than Alan and Gilad sharing a stage AND with a top trio, can’t wait!
Gilad Atzmon reeds, Alan Barnes reeds, Frank Harrison piano, Yaron Stavi bass, Chris Higginbottom drums

Gilad Atzmon and Alan Barnes have both been frequent visitors to Fleece Jazz in the past, but for the first time they share the stage here for what promises to be a very special performance. Despite their different backgrounds and approaches, the two reedsmen share a passion for performance, a healthy sense of competition and a firm belief that a jazz audience is there to be entertained.

Gilad arrived on the British jazz scene in 1994 from his native Israel and impressed critics and jazz fans in equal measure. “a formidable improvisational talent * a jazz giant * combines thrilling jazz musicianship with a maverick political intelligence” – The Guardian.

Alan is a prolific international performer, composer, arranger, bandleader and touring soloist. He combines a formidable virtuosity with a musical expression and collaborative spirit that have few peers.

It is always a pleasure to welcome back Frank, Yaron and Chris: formidable players.

[When we get deps, do we get deps! Ross Stanley was our stunning pianist.]

2016 20 May, £20 – Antonio Forcione

“By turns lyrical, funky, ethereal, haunting, and playful, his one-man show is a delight, and his playing, simply breathtaking.” – Tim Maguire, Edinburgh Festival
Antonio Forcione guitar

Italian acoustic guitar virtuoso Antonio Forcione, described as “the Hendrix of the acoustic guitar”, returns to Fleece Jazz for a solo performance.

Be prepared for an eclectic range of songs, given the Forcione treatment, as he produces an amazing range of sounds from just one instrument, sounding like guitar, bass and percussion all in one. He fuses many traditions into his own unique style, and while he plays with great passion and intensity, between songs he chats with laconic humour.

2016 27 May, £15 – John Law New Congregation

Intriguingly creative new jazz from a master pianist and composer

John Law piano/keyboards and more, Sam Crockatt sax, James Agg bass, Lloyd Haines drums

John Law is a prize-winning classical prodigy on piano who turned away from classical piano studies to pursue jazz and improvised music when he was 23 His work always amazes and intrigues us.

With Sam (of whom John Fordham said “haunting lyricism”), and the in demand James and Lloyd, this will be a gig to savour.

” technical bravura with crystal clear, fast passagework coupled with a sovereign command over everything that is pianistically possible. You wonder if there is actually anything that this pianist cannot do.” Jazz Podium, Germany.

2016 3 June, £15 – Philip Clouts Quartet

Philip’s African inspirations extend beyond Cape jazz to Gnawa music, Afrobeat and further to pan-European folksong, soul-jazz and beyond.
Philip Clouts piano, Sam Eagles sax, Alex Keen bass guitar, Dave Ingamells drums

Pianist Philip Clouts was born in Cape Town and as well as the music of his homeland he has soaked up Caribbean calypso and the soulful strains of the Indian subcontinent while honouring and learning from jazz heroes including Bill Evans, Keith Jarrett and Charles Lloyd.

Sam, Alex and Dave are rising stars who are the perfect complement for the music.

“Pulsating groove orientated music – distinctive*spiritual and soul jazz – strongly melodic themes.” Jazzwise. A gig not to be missed.

[How do they do that? Our wonderful bassist was a dep, Tim Fairhall.]

2016 10 June, £16 – James Pearson

The Fleece brings Ronnie Scott’s to East Anglia with the long and eagerly awaited return of the pianist, composer and creative tour de force that is James Pearson.

James Pearson piano, Sam Burgess bass, Ian Thomas drums

The late Sir John Dankworth said: “it takes an exceptionally gifted artiste to stand out and be noticed. James Pearson is exactly that; his masterful playing and his imaginative work as a composer and arranger combine to make him head and shoulders above most of his contemporaries. I believe he shows signs of true greatness in the making.”

James is joined by a fellow Guildhall alumnus and Ronnie’s house band member, Sam Burgess who is noted for his wide experience, adaptability and if required *thumping, pounding, relentlessly driving bass.* Ian Thomas, one of the most versatile, adaptable and popular drummers around, completes the line-up. Ian, of course, also plays regularly at Ronnie’s, so we are assured of a tight trio.

It has taken three years to smuggle James out of Ronnie’s. No telling when we will get him back again. Do not miss the chance to check his progress towards greatness.

[Our superb dep on drums was Dave Ohm.]

2016 17 June, £18 – John Etheridge and Vimala Rowe

Legendary guitarist John Etheridge and the remarkable live performer, vocalist Vimala Rowe, successful in the far east and now firmly established on the London jazz scene.

John Etheridge guitars, Vimala Rowe vocals

John Etheridge enjoys a glowing reputation throughout the jazz world and beyond, and has been described by Pat Matheny as “One of the best guitarists in the world” He is prodigiously gifted and creative with an eclectic approach which refuses to acknowledge musical boundaries, well illustrated by his long simultaneous associations with both the iconic Staphane Grapelli and the legendary jazz-fusion group The Soft Machine.

Vimala Rowe is an award winning jazz, soul and R & B si her early teens she left England for the Far East where she quickly established herself as a vocalist.Back in England she made the eponymous EP “Vimala” with Simon Horn a recording of original compositions which Garnered the Indy Music award for Best Soul, Jazz Funk act.

“Vimala Rowe is Sensational” – The Arts Desk

“A wonderful singer with a passionate delivery which completely captures the audience ” – John Etheridge

2016 24 June, £20 – Liane Carroll

A solo performance from this deeply soulful and wonderfully honest singer pianist who we simply adore!

Liane Carroll vocals and piano

Award winning Lianne Carroll is unique. She is a larger than life character with a strong voice, in which one can find influences of the great soul singers and of her semi-pro country club singing parents. She performs her own compositions and a wide selection other jazz standards to which brings her own sound. Lianne adds in her classically founded mastery of the jazz piano and wittily delivered personal anecdotes, making her the complete one woman show. She is not to be missed.

“Carroll’s confidence in the expressiveness of the smallest utterance gives her an irresistible eloquence, as strong at low volumes as it is at full throttle” John Fordham

2016 1 July, £15 – Don Weller

“Don Weller was and is, among the true originals of British jazz with his cavernous sound and utterly unpredictable turn of phrase” – The Observer

Don Weller sax, Chris Ingham piano, Andy Cleyndert bass, George Double drums

The young Don played on south London’s Dixieland scene, but was also listening to recordings of Ben Webster, John Coltrane, Colman Hawkins and Sonny Rollins.

Don has toured with the Gill Evans orchestra and played with Stan Tracey, Bobby Wellins, Peter King, Alan Barnes, Art Theman, Dick Morrissey and most everyone else at the top of British modern jazz.

His sax sound is relaxed, rich and mellow. It is reminiscent of the sound of Ben Webster.

On piano and drums are Suffolk based musicians Chris Ingham and George Double respectively, both of whom we heard in May’s sensational evening with vocalist-trumpeter, Georgina Jackson. On bass is Andy Cleyndert, a stunning player who we have not seen in far too long.

2016 Sunday, 10 July, £20 – Side by Side with Refugees Fundraiser

We are indebted to 15 excellent performers, from 7 countries who are giving their time and talents freely to help Side by Side help refugees.

Featuring the wonderful Ian Shaw, Tina May, Chris Allard, Kevin Flanagan, Kate Williams, Alice Zawadzki, David Tughan, Winston Clifford, Elliot Weight, Jose Canha, Michael Spearman, Carole Burgess, Simon Brown, Rod Youngs and Rob Palmer and watch out for more information soon.

2016 15 July, £15 – Nigel Price Trio + 1

Nigel brings his exciting trio (plus a surprise) and we may have to reinforce the roof!

Nigel Price guitar, Ross Stanley hammond organ, Matt Home drums, wait and see – Saxophone

This from Sebastian Scotney: “Aha, so this is it, the real thing. This is the stage where every arrangement has been learnt, internalized, completely owned and the sheet music has (just about) disappeared. This is the level of empathy which still allows each band-member the freedom to take the others completely by surprise, deliver the unexpected, and make them smile.”

Be prepared for a band who are absolute masters of their instruments, with a wicked sense of humour to leaven the virtuosity and intensity.

2016 29 July, £15 – Asaf Sirkis International Quartet

Asaf Sirkis is not only an inventive drummer but also a composer of rigour, wit and delicacy. He is one of the worlds premier drummers.
Asaf Sirkis drums, Sylwia Bialas vocals, John Turville piano/keyboards, Kevin Glasgow bass

“There`s an almost devotional intensity to her singing that rarely fails to deliver” says Andy Robson, writing about Sylwia Bialas in Jazzwise.

This band has four people with serious international reputations. Asaf’s power and delicacy are in demand all over Europe for his compositions as well as his playing. Sylwia is also a composer. Her distinctive phrasing ans style has made her international star. John returns to us for the third time this year, always a great pleasure. His harmonic adventures and immense technique are a delight. Kevin has worked at top venues in New York as well as at many international festivals.

Expect soulful melodies, aerospheric sounds with strong grooves, a full colour electroacoustic jazz with an ethnic touch and some uncommonly used instruments and sound effects.

2016 12 August, £15 – Robert Habermann Sings Berlin

Robert Habermann takes his audience on a journey through some of the 20 th Century’s greatest love songs and the stories behind them. He has met many of the actual writers! His show is punctuated with anecdotes and stories to make this a fun evening.

Robert Habermann vocals, Trevor Brown piano.

Robert Habermann is an accomplished singer/songwriter of The Great American and British Songbooks. He worked in the U.S.A where he was voted Best International Performer 1994 by the prestigious Manhattan Association of Cabarets of New York, resulting in several major tours.

Robert was the first major British singer to perform a concert to celebrate Frank Sinatra’s 80 th Birthday at London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall.

Pianist Trevor Brown is known for his versatility and virtuosity. Trevor spent twenty years as pianist with the Joe Loss Orchestra. Nowadays he very much enjoys being part of The Syd Lawrence Orchestra.

Look out for a special guest!

2016 26 August, £18 – Derek Nash Sax Appeal

Derek Nash’s brilliant award winning band with 5 (yes five!) saxophones,will be a knock-out!

Derek Nash, Matt Wates, Bob McKay, Brandon Allen, Vasilis Xenopoulos Saxes, Pete Adams Keys, Alec Dankworth Bass, Mike Bradley Drums

Derek is a member of the Jooles Holland Band, and often does the Fleece Jazz Christmas – New Year gig, fresh from recording Jooles’s New Year’s Eve TV show.

He is famed for his “Protect the Beat” and “Acoustic Quartet” line-ups; for “the Picant Latin Band” he bought here in March; as well as for tonight’s “Sax Appeal”, the “John Dankworth Award” winning line up he has led for 30 years.

Thelonious Monk’s advice on jazz is that “You’ve got to dig it to dig it!”. There is nothing better than Derek’s music to start digging into Jazz – “You dig?”.

2016 9 September, £20 – Ryan Quigley Quintet

Ryan has assembled an all-star line up for his new recording “What Doesn’t Kill You” (Whirlwind)

Ryan Quigley trumpet, Paul Booth sax, Geoffrey Keezer piano, Michael Janisch bass, Clarence Penn drums

Ryan Quigley is one of the premier trumpeters in the UK known for his talents as both a world class lead player and virtuosic improvisor. He’s been featured with the upper echelon of big bands (Quincey Jones, Robbie Williams), symphonies & orch (BBC, Scottish Royal, Metropole), and pop and jazz stars (The Bad Plus, Kurt Elling, Aretha Franklin) around the world. As a composer and small band leader he has won multiple awards in the UK including the Parliamentary Award for band of the year.

He has assembled an all-star line up for his new recording What Doesn’t Kill You (Whirlwind) which is touring in September 2016 in support of the release. With Paul Booth (tenor sax), along with one of the most exciting rhythm sections to tour the UK in years: Americans Geoffrey Keezer (piano), Michael Janisch (double bass), and Clarence Penn (drums).

2016 16 September, £15 – Alison Rayner Quintet

Alison’s driving force skilfully guides this stunning band

Alison Rayner bass, Steve Lodder piano, Deirdre Cartwright guitar, Diane McLoughlin saxophone, Buster Birch drums

For the past two years ARQ has built a substantial and wide ranging audience for their *deliciously upbeat, groovy and thoughtful jazz* (Jazz UK). They released their first album “August” to critical acclaim with Arts Council England Grants for the Arts support for their new project “A Magic Life”.

Alison Rayner has had a lengthy career as a bass player and composer, touring and recording with Afro-Latin group the Guest Stars in the 80 s; and working with a myriad of jazz stars, with Tal Farlow, Ian Shaw, Jean Toussaint and John Etheridge, to name a few.

Alison is supported by a wonderful band: pianist Steve Lodder guitarist Deirdre Cartwright Diane McLoughlin, saxophone and drummer Buster Birch.

The new album “A Magic Life” will be released in November 2016 and is bursting with melodic and harmonic references. It follows on from the success of their acclaimed debut album August, with it’s funky grooves and influences of roots and folk musics.

2016 23 September, £15 – Kate Shortt

“Wacky ebullient cellist with wide ranging vocals” The Stage
“A remarkable cellist – John Fordham
“Wicked and very funny” – JA

Kate Shortt ~ vocals, piano, cello & maybn

Kate is a unique talent who sings rap, romantic ballards or high opera, with with her tongue in her cheek! She has great musical ability on piano, organ or cello. She delivers self-penned, keenly observed humorous songs, in a show laced with impressions. She continues to do extraordinary things with the cello from serious classical, through improvised jazz to seriously improvised comedy! Kate also does frighteningly implausible things with her face, contorting it in a way that makes “le” like a serious understatement.

Think Victoria Wood, think Jim Tavare think Kate Shortt! Same league, without question. If you have seen Kate, you will surely come to this gig, if not, do come and see what you’ve been missing!

2016 30 September, £20 – Barb Jungr

Passionate, original & inveinterpretation of jazz and soul: Magnificent

Barb Jungr vocals, Barry Green piano, Davide Mantovani bass

Last May, Barb’ce performance, featuring Dylan and Leonard Cohen songs, generated a rapturous reception and a long queue for her CD “ain”>
Driving on a motorway somewhere in the East (was it from our gig?) Barb decided she wanted to make a recording in New York. The result was a collaboration, with Grammy winning American pianist and arranger Laurence Hobgood, to produce the 2016 CD “r From The Storm”Jungr – Hobgood originals, plus songs by Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Dave Bowie, Sondheim & Bernand Rogers & Hammn. This year, Barb’ram comprises mostly material from this CD.

Barb has the brilliant pianist Barry Green and stunning bassist David Mantovani to support her.

“Bob Dylan, jazz, northern soul, Nina Simone and continental Europe’ret music perform a subtle dance in Jungr’ciousness.” – The Guardian
“Barb Jungr is the alchemist among jazz singers. She takes dubious songs, and turns them into gold. And she takes songs we already knew were gold, and makes them interestingly different.” – Ivan Hewett, The Telegraph.

2016 7 October, £18 – Tony Kofi & The sation

“eals not so much with the past as with the eternal truths of jazz music – swing, in-the-moment lyricism, the lust for life – and he continues to find compelling ways to express them.” About Jazz

Tony Kofi saxes, Pete Whitaker Hammond B3, Peter Cater drums, Simon Fernsby guitar

Award-winning and internationally recognized saxophonist Tony Kofi teams up with the ‘Organisation’ to perform a hard-hitting selection of tunes in blues, jazz and funk idioms, including many under-acknowthe ledged classics by likes of Woody Shaw, George Russell. Joe Henderson and Duke Pearson.
His many accolades include: Best Instrumentalist at the 2008 BBC Jazz awards; Best Ensemble at the 2005 Parliamentary Jazz Awards; Radio 3 Jazz line-up album of the year at the 2005 BBC Jazz awards; a MOBO nomination in 2008.

With the stunning Pete Whittaker on the Hamond B3 organ, the gifted and versatile Pete Cater on drums and the excellent Simon Fernsby on quitar, expect “er band with real bite, especially when the heat was on”zwise

2016 14 October, £15 – Chris Allard

“One of the great guitarists in this country” – Jamie Cullum.
“A non-cliched linear improviser of great originality and talent…views.

Chris Allard guitar, Oli Hayhurst bass, Charlie Wood keys and vocals Nick Smalley drums

Freelance guitarist Chris Allard has performed at many prestigious venues and festivals, including the Royal Festival Hall, Montreux Jazz Festival the Royal Albert Hall. He has recorded with Jacqui Dankworth, Gwilym Simcock, the BBC Big Band, Dame Cleo Laine, Sir John Dankworth and Jamie Cullum amongst others.

Charlie Wood is a singer/songwriter and keyboardist whose eclectic musical style incorporates elements of jazz, blues, traditional r&b. BoMemphis, TN, he spent many years there performing nightly with his Hammond organ trio in a long-standing residency at King’s Palace on Beale Street where he was awarded the equivalent of a Hollywood Hall of Fame Star.

Oli Hayhurst and Nick Smalley are busy and much sought after musicians, perfect as the drive behind Charlie and Chris.

Chris is regarded as one of the UK’s finest contemporary jazz guitarists/composers, producing ” Full blooded solos…on the money” – Jazzwise.

2016 21 October, £0 – A NIGHT OFF!

Watch telly or do the ironing but do be here next week – please

2016 28 October, £15 – Tassos Spiliotopoulos

Sweden based Athenian and former Londoner brings something truly new to jazz

Tassos Spiliotopoulos guitar,Orjan Hulten sax, Kevin Glasgow bass, Asaf Sirkis drums

“Compelling guitarist Spiliotopoulos creates dark, modal jazz… a band and a guitarist to watch out for.” – Time Out, London

Tassos has worked extensively with the Israeli born drummer and composer and Fleece favourite, Asaf Sirkis and appeared on several of his albums. Others with whom Spiliotopoulos has worked with in the UK include Yaron Stavi, Gary Husband, Gareth Lockrane, John Turville, and fellow guitarists John Parricelli and John Etheridge. “Archipelagos” featured a guest appearance on trumpet by the late, great Kenny Wheeler.

“…Guitarist Tassos Spiliotopoulos, a six-string shredder clearly influenced by Allan Holdsworth and John McLaughlin, flaunts some impressive chops…” Bill Milkowski, Jazz Times

The brilliant Pelle, Asaf and Kevin complete this superb band.

2016 4 November, £18 – Jay Phelps

A fiery, swinging and very exciting quartet quartet led by a former Tomorrow’s Warrior and Empirical star

Jay Phelps trumpet Rick Simpson piano Mark Lewandowski bass Shane Forbes drums

Trumpeter Jay Phelps is from Vancouver, Canada. He has a warm and projecting tone, influenced by Louis Armstrong and Miles Davis. Tonight will include music to be included in his second album, – out this winter.

Jay played with ‘amaica’#8216rrow’iors’ater co-led his own group ‘cal’e also appearing with Courney Pine, Ray Brown, John Dankworth, Dennis Rollins, Amy Winehouse and others.. ‘cal’ sell-out when it came to Fleece Jazz in 2007 In 2012, Jay guested with Wynton Marsalis’ ‘t Linclon Centre Orchestra’arsalis’o Square’. Later that summer ‘elps Big Band’wo sell out nights at Ronnie Scott’/>
Rick Simpson piano is well established on the London scene. He is currently in ‘r� he won a Yamaha Scholarship Prize for Outstanding Jazz Musicians. Mark Lewandowski bass from Nottingham, first appeared at the Fleece in 2013,as a dep with Saxophone Giants. He brought the review comment “uly excellent bassist on this gig that will stand in the memory”Shane Forbes drums, from Lewisham, was also a member of both ‘Warriors’#8216rical� Shane was the winner of the Worshipful Company of Musicians award. .

[John Scott was on drums, wonderful player new to the music – perfect playing.]

2016 11 November, £15 – Alice Zawadzki Trio

“Uncategorisable, beautiful –l force to be reckoned with” – Jamie Cullum, BBC Radio 2
“something of a phenomenon” –Magazine

Alice Zawadzki ~ vocals and violin, Phil Peskett ~ piano, Misha Mullov-Abbado ~ bass

Imagine the excitement of encountering a new colour for the first time. You will find this useful preparation for a first encounter with Alice. This young singer-songwriter is “ine original with a pure, pealing voice that can darken into brooding low tones, and twist with the flexibility and harmonic awareness of a jazz singer.” Fordham) Additionally she is “y fine violinist. Singing and playing double stops at the same time is quite amazing to hear and watch.”

Alice has a wonderful rapport with her audience and with ease, leads you to brave new worlds and familiar ones seen quite differently. Her talents, like her name, really do seem to encompass everything from A to Z.

Alice is joined by Phil Peskett, a pianist with a wealth of experience, as a leader, accompanist and educator. On bass, Alice has called upon the unfailingly inventive Misha Mullov-Abbado, band leader and multi award winner, noted for his propulsive playing. Powerful support for an inventive lady.

A uniquely expressive performer and a gifted storyteller, Alice Zawadzki’s star is set to rise (as she) takes the listener on a journey of love, compassion, conflict and joy! – Whirlwind Recordings
UNMISSABLE –est & mostidual performer to emerge in years.

2016 18 November, £18 – Paul Baxter: Seven pieces of silver

“Great arrangements, great playing, great atmosphere … Such energy! If any promoter is thinking of booking this band, just do it, you’safe hands.” – Grimsby Jazz, 2015

Paul Baxter ~ Bass, Andrzei Baranek ~ Piano, James Lancaster ~ Trumpet, Matt Ball ~ Trombone, John Mckillup ~ Tenor Sax, Stuart Macdonald ~ Alto/Baritone Sax and Paul Smith ~ Drums

Seven Pieces of Silver celebrate the music of the late, great hard-bop pioneer Horace Silver who will forever be associated with his landmark recordings of the early ‘hese have a magic combination of catchy melody and unique improvisation.

Paul Baxter has been a professional bassist for 15 years and has worked with many great UK jazz artists including Alan Barnes, Mark Nightingale and Steve Waterman.

James Lancaster, John McKillup, Stuart MacDonald and Matt Ball form the horn section. All are accomplished musicians with a long pedigree of performances on stage and screen. Andrezei Baranek (edgy and and fiery sound) and Paul Smith complete the rhythm section.

“This is a really swinging band, packed with great soloists … and really plays as a unit!” – Alan Barnes

[Our trombonist was Brian Archer, a lovely player.]

2016 25 November, £18 – Jeff Williams Quartet

“A top notch British band plays superbly throughout with Williams’ intelligent but approachable compositions giving them plenty to get their teeth into.” **** -Ian Mann

Jeff Williams – Drums,Josh Arcolio – Sax John O’Gallagher – Alto Sax and Sam Lasserson – Bass

Over his forty-year career the American drummer and composer, Jeff Williams has accompanied the likes of Dizzy Gillespie, Lee Konitz, Joe Lovano, Paul Bley, Randy Brecker, Kenny Wheeler, Norma Winstone and Mike Gibbs, amongst others. Since 2005 he has been based both in New York and London with bands in each location, working with an exploding generation of younger players. From this pool of talent Jeff has cast his current UK ensemble.

Josh Arcoleo won a Yamaha Parliamentary Jazz Scholarship and the Kenny Wheeler Jazz Prize. He is “one of the best young saxophonists to emerge in the UK in recent years” according to Jazz critic, Ian Mann.
John O’Gallagher is a stunning American saxophonist.
Double bassist Sam Lasserson John Fordham called him “the lynchpin” in Jeff’tet, says John Fordham.

“A treasure of a group” – Mike Collins

2016 2 December, £18 – Jazz At The Movies

Joanna Eden vocals, Mark Crooks reeds, Chris Ingham piano, George Double drums, Arnie Somogyi bass

Vocalist Joanna Eden (“UK’s answer to Norah Jones and Diana Krall” – TIME OUT) studied piano from age 4 and wrote and performed her first song at age seven. She has performed all over the world and supported such artists as Jamie Cullum, the Buena Vista Social Club and the Blockheads.

Mark Crooks on clarinet has incredible phrasing and subtle dynamics. He is a Getzian powerhouse on sax.
Chris Ingham has built a huge reputation as pianist, composer, band leader and record producer.
Arni Somogyi has performed and recorded with a wide variety of leading musicians from pop legend Tom Jones to renowned jazz artists including John Dankworth and Stan Tracey.
George Double is an in-demand session drummer, and has worked with a wide variety of musicians from all walks of music.

“Movie songs like these provide good material for the best jazz singers. Joanna Eden and her first-class band had a ball with them … and so did the audience!” – JAZZ JOURNAL

2016 9 December, £15 – Sarah Gillespie Quartet

“From Dylan’s lyrical bite and languid delivery to the forthrightness of Joni Mitchell with a little rap like percussiveness thrown in: she is an original” – John Fordham

Sarah Gillespie vocals and guitar, Frank Harrison piano, Eddie Hicks drums, Ben Bastin Bass

Sarah Gillespie was born in London to an American mother and British father. She grew up in Norfolk, England –spersed with numerous trips to Minnesota, where she soaked in the sounds of Bessie Smith, Bob Dylan, Cole Porter and early blues and jazz. From the age of 4, Sarah composed songs on piano, and then at 15 began playing guitar. At 18, she moved to the USA, busking in the streets and playing gigs.

On returning to London, she gained a first class degree in Film And Literature and an MA in Politics and Philosophy from Goldsmiths University. Sarah’ically acclaimed albums Stalking Juliet (2009) In The Current Climate (2011) Glory Days (2013) and her anti-war narrative suite The War on Trevor (2012) all received 4 and 5 star reviews in the broadsheet and music press. Sarah has since performed live on BBC Radio 4’n’, been interviewed by Andrew Marr on Start The Week as well as receiving radio play on BBC Radio 2, BBC Radio 3 and numerous radio stations world wide. She has performed in many festivals, arts centres and jazz venues in Europe and across the UK including headline shows at the world famous Ronnie Scott’ondon.

Her music is a fusion of jazz, folk and blues knitted together by poetic, streetwise lyricism. The Guardian’ critique John Fordham describes Gillespie as ‘ng) Bob Dylan’cal bite and languid delivery to the forthrightness of Joni Mitchell, with a little rap-like percussiveness thrown in, she is an original.”’ features Eddie Hicks on drums, Ben Bastin on bass and our good friend Frank Harrison on piano.

2016 16 December, £20 – Sarah Jane Morris

River deep, mountain high, a truly magnificent voice with a special FleeceJazz Christmas concert! Don’t miss “the breathtaking range and timbral richness of Sarah Jane Morris’s voice..” JAZZWISE
“Sarah Jane Morris could not sing an insincere note if she tried.” – Jazz Wise

Sarah Jane Morris Vocals, Tony Remy –r, Tim Cransfield –r

Sarah Jane Morris is a singer at home in a wide range of genres including pop (she worked extensively with the Communards), rock and R&B as s Jazz . She has a throaty, extraordinarily deep voice. With her flamboyant, idiosyncratic style, she is a singer 0f awesome eloquence.

She brings UK guitar supremo Tony Remy, musician, composer and educator, and Trinidadian guitarist Tim Cransfield who is the first call session musician for just about anybody.

“Her excellent voices oars and swoops with the agony and ecstasy of the Delta and smoky Chicago clubs” – Telegraph.

2016 23 December, £20 – The Alan Barnes Octet – Sorry, sold out!

PRESENTS: A Jazz Christmas Carol * A treat for anyone who loves music, literature or Christmas!

Alan Barnes REEDS and READs (geddit?), Bruce Adams trumpet, Mark Nightingale trombone, Robert Fowler sax and clarinet, Karen Sharpe sax and clarinet, David Newton piano, Simon Thorpe bass, Clark Tracey drums

Reeds maestro Alan Barnes presents an all-star octet to perform his suite based on Charles Dickens’s seasonal tale. With composer/arranger Alan leading from the front on sax and clarinet, the ensemble includes Bruce Adams on trumpet, Mark Nightingale on trombone, Dave Newton on piano and Clark Tracey, drums. As Alan is a master raconteur and frontman as well as the UK’ing mainstream-to-modern saxophonist and bandleader, this is guaranteed to be a very entertaining evening.

[Our trumpeter tonight was Nathan Bray. Nathan was new to us and was a star.]

2017 6 January, £18 – Fletch’s Brew

An explosive start to 2017 Spontaneous and seamless explorations of funk, bop, fusion, reggae and rock!

Mark Fletcher drums, Ross Stanley organ and piano, Mornington Lockett sax, Laurence Cottle bass

This brilliant and popular gig wowed us two years running! The nod to Miles Davis’s “Bitches Brew” in the band’s name is not accidental. Those who know Mark will not be at all surprised to hear his band described as a “powerhouse jazz fusion outfit.” He is a remarkably talented and muscular drummer, capable of subtlety but never better than when leading an all-guns-blazing charge; which is both very exciting and intensely engaging.

Mornington Lockett is a powerhouse saxophonist with the ability to be lyrical at need. He is “One of the country’s most accomplished contemporary improvisers … with a fearsome technique and an advanced harmonic approach ” – Time Out

Ross Stanley is the UK premier jazz organist and an amazing pianist. He has played for a huge range of top rank artists. He is a Hammond endorsee.

Laurence Cottle is a very diverse musician. He has played bass for artists as varied as Black Sabbath, Eric Clapton, Brian Eno, James Galway, Nina Hagen, Hanson, Tom Jones, and Seal. His jazz credentials are impeccable.

Come and embrace the “fusion of talents playing some of the most exciting and challenging music that can be found anywhere on the jazz scene”

2017 13 January, £16 – Pavillon

Jim Rattigan’s French horn led big band. Their uniquely rich, swinging style will warm and impress you.

The foremost french horn player leads a brilliant 12 piece band

Jim Rattigan french horn, composer and arranger, Martin Speake alto sax, Andy Panayi tenor sax, Mick Foster baritone sax Steve Fishwick trumpet, Percy Pursglove trumpet, Robbie Robson trumpet, Mark Nightingale trombone, Sarah Williams bass trombone, Hans Koller piano, Dave Whitford double bass, Gene Calderazzo drums.

“Jim Rattigan is teaching us something new and brilliant here. Listen and celebrate.” – Pip Eastop

Jim Rattigan formed “Pavillon” in 2000, and has several brilliant recordings of the band. He has performed all over the world both as a jazz soloist and as a band member of groups like the Michael Brecker Quindectet, the Charlie Haden / Carla Bley Liberation Music Orchestra, the McCoy Tyner Big Band, Django Bates’ Delightful Precipice, the Creative Jazz Orchestra with Kenny Wheeler, Brad Mehldau with the Britten Sinfonia, the Guy Barker Big Band.

2017 20 January, £18 – Ben Crosland Quintet plays The Ray Davies Songbook

Look at the line-up! Easy to understand that they present familiar tunes with a *fresh glow* (Dave Gelly) and help them find a home in the jazz genre

Ben Crosland bass, Dave O’Higgins sax, John Etheridge guitar, Steve Lodder piano. Sebastiaan de Krom drums

Dave Gelly explains: “Ray Davies’s tunes – evocative, catchy and deceptively simple – serve his lyrics so well that it’s easy to take them for granted. By recasting them in the jazz idiom and delicately elaborating their harmonies, bassist and composer Ben Crosland brings them out in a fresh glow.”

And look at the rest of the line up!
the stunning John Etheridge with his affectionate gentleness through to blistering passion;
the sensitive and sophisticates sax of Dave O’Higgins;
Steve Lodders superb pianism and fun;
and to hold all this together you need a very reliable, swinging drummer and there are few better than Seb de Krom.

2017 27 January, £15 – Phil Hopkins’ Toots Thielmans Tribute

A timely homage to perhaps the greatest jazz chromatic harmonica player who died last year. Think of the Midnight Cowboy theme and you have starting point for this gig.

Phil Hopkins harmonica, Jonathan Gee piano, Martin France ~ drums, John Paricelli guitar, Paul Morgan bass

Phil Hopkins is a harmonica player and percussionist who has performed in many different settings including the Globe (as musical director). He has been the featured harmonica soloist for major West End productions and on many TV, film and recording sessions performing in many different styles.
Phil’s brilliant quintet is composed of good friends of the club. We haven’t seen Jonathan Gee’s fine pianism in far too long. John Paricelli was a Loose Tubes founder. Paul Morgan’s phenomenal technique and intonation (and individual sound) is alway welcome. Professor Martin France is our superb drummer for the night.

The concert features music from Toots’ collaborations with the greats of Jazz and Latin such as Charlie Parker, Benny Goodman, Quincy Jones, Bill Evans and more.

2017 3 February, £16 – Damon Brown’s International Quintet

A welcome return to the UK for the man whose hard driving trumpet will surely blow you away. “Fluent, impassioned and technically superb” – Jack Masserick.

Damon Brown trumpet and vocals, Christian Brewer sax, Paul Kirby piano, Sean Pentland bass. Manuel Weyand drums

“Damon Brown is a superb musician with a unique voice on both trumpet and Flugelhorn” – Ian Carr

“a bright, gleaming tone, a superbly poised attack, and a fine rhythmic sense” – John Fordham

Of Christian Brewer, John Fordham says, “almost as agile and fluently expressive as the Charlie Parker disciple Phil Woods on fast pieces, and his ballad playing echoes the raw-nerve soulfulness of the late Art Pepper.”

Paul (Scotland), Sean (U.S.A.) and Manuel (Germany) together are a band in their own right, called The Resonance Trio. They first played together when all three became music professors in Seoul, met Damon and recognised a good thing when they saw him, and then encountered Christian and found a further kindred spirit.

2017 10 February, £18 – Brandon Allen Sextet

One of the very best tenorists around, emotional and blues drenched, leading an incredibly exciting sextet.

Brandon Allen tenor sax, Paul Booth alto sax, Mark Nightingale trombone, Tim Lapthorn piano, Dave Whitford bass, Matt Home drums

Brandon Allen is one of the very best tenor players around: emotional and blues drenched. He leads six bands. His Sextet, comprising six of the Fleece’s favourite musicians, performs his arrangements of standards and classic jazz compositions.

From Perth Australia, Brandon has been based in London for 16 years. Eric Clapton, Neil Diamond, The Blockheads, Claire Martin, Stan Tracey and Pete King, are a serendipitous selection from the multitude of stars he has appeared with.

With him are the cream of UK musicians: the blues power and funky drive of Paul Booth, the magical mastery of trombonist Mark Nightingale, the bluesy, flowing, lyrical pianist, Tim Lapthorn, top bassist Dave Whitford, the highly sought after drummer Matt Home.

“Brandon’s four-octave range and flawless command of the altissimo register was nicely offset by his full-bodied yet raucous tonal quality offering something for fans of the entire history of the instrument- from Hawkins to Brecker- he’s got ’em covered.” – Frank Griffiths.

2017 17 February, £15 – Will Butterworth Quartet

This is the first date of a national tour by this impressive quartet launching their new recording, a suite based on an Oscar Wilde story, ‘The Nightingale and the Rose’.

Will Butterworth piano, Seb Pipe alto sax, Nick Pini bass, Pete Ibbetson drums

A precociously talented jazz pianist, Will Butterworth grew up playing cello and improvising on piano and started playing Jazz professionally in 1999. Will has worked with many of Britains finest musicians and is steadily becoming an increasingly important presence on the UK Jazz scene as pianist, composer and band leader.

Seb Pipe has worked with many top musicians such as Tony Kofi, Portuguese group Pequenos Mundos and spent some time playing with American pioneer Steve Coleman and his Five Elements Band, as well as his own band.

The back line of Nick Pini and Pete ibbetson are known to us as fine, flexible musicians.

The suite of music employs beautiful melodies and rich harmonies to retell Wilde’s story. The quartet uses these melodies as starting points for improvisations and the result is intense and exhilarating.

2017 24 February, £0 – NO GIG TONIGHT

With any luck, the telly will be good.

2017 3 March, £15 – Josh Kemp Hammond Organ Band

Josh’s tenor playing demonstrates that he is a jazz-man through and through. “A mix of Stan Getzian breeziness and Coltrane’s imploring cry.” – The Guardian

Josh Kemp sax, Ross Stanley organ, Steve Fishwick trumpet, Tristan Mailliot drums

Josh first performed locally as a child, giving an impressive performance, sitting in with his father’s band, at Sudbury’s Quay Jazz Club. He has matured into one of London’s finest tenor Saxophonists.

He read philosophy at Oxford, and won scholarships to study Jazz at London’s Guildhall and Trinity Schools of music. Josh is an active member of the E17 jazz collective.

“Josh Kemp embodied the spirit that sustains jazz no matter which way the weather vane of vogue is pointing.” “Kemp’s playing recalls the soulful fluidity of Hank Mobley” – Jazzwise

Ross Stanley, Guildhall classical and Jazz piano graduate, on Organ, has played with may greats including: Stan Sulzman, Bobby Wellins, Jim Mullen, and Jacqui Dankworth. Steve Fishwick is Trumpet and Tristan Mailliot is on drums. Ross and Steve are with Josh on the CD “Rare Grooves”.

[Apologies for misspelling Tristan’s name (twice), now corrected above.]

2017 10 March, £15 – Sam Crockatt Quartet

“Haunting lyricism” – John Fordham.
“Performances full of power and invention, delivered with precision, poise, and grace” – Helen Mayhew

Sam Crockatt sax, Ivo Neame piano, Oli Hayhurst bass, Jon Scott drums

The Sam Crockatt Quartet has received massive interest since winning the Parliamentary Jazz Award for best album. Sam has quickly built a reputation as a hugely talented musician with a robust and characterful voice on the tenor sax.

Ivo Neame is a musician of immense talent with an astute musical intelligence and a natural improvisatory flair. He is one of the busiest and most in-demand players on the UK scene.

Oli Hayhurst is a long-standing member of the quartet. He has a beautiful, warm tone and plays melodically, underpinned by a driving rhythmic feel.

Jon Scott has developed a reputation as a creative and flexible player on the UK jazz scene, while building up his international connections, playing extensively throughout Europe.

The music is highly lyrical and though sometimes very free, never loses touch with melody.

2017 17 March, £0 – NO GIG TONIGHT

Read a really good book.

2017 24 March, £18 – Tim Kliphuis

Widely regarded as StÈphane Grappelli’s heir, Tim breathes new life into existing styles with a high-energy blend of classical, gypsy jazz and folk music. An accessible innovator.

Tim Kliphuis violin, Nigel Clark guitar, Roy Percy bass

Tim Kliphuis has been hailed as a contemporary improvising “Paganini”. He has shared the stage with Richard Galliano, Frankie Gavin, Les Paul and many gypsy jazz groups including The Rosenberg Trio. He has a busy international schedule including work with The Netherlands and Tallin Chamber Orchestras and The Hague Philharmonic, is an in-demand educator at competitions, masterclasses and conservatoires and is the author of best-selling book “Gypsy Jazz Violin”.

Award-winning violinist Tim Kliphuis is a legend in the gypsy world. His Trio with Nigel Clark and Roy Percy celebrates 10 years of performing a ground-breaking and profoundly musical blend of gypsy jazz, classical and folk music.

2017 31 March, £18 – John East Project

John East on vocals and Hammond makes a welcome return to the Fleece and brings with him a stellar line-up.

John East Hammond organ and vocals, Mark Fletcher drums, Neville Malcom bass, Carl Orr guitar, Dave Lewis tenor sax, Dan Priseman trumpet, Daniel Hewson trombone and piano.

The John East Project led by vocalist and organ player John East was formed five years ago and is a regular and popular feature at the 606 Club in Chelsea and elsewhere. John has played the Hammond for many years working with musicians such as John Etheridge, Phil Robson and Katie Kissoon.

John’s stellar band of Mark Fletcher (drums), Carl Orr (guitar), Dan Priseman (trumpet), Neville Malcom (bass), Daniel Hewson (trombone and piano) and the great Dave Lewis (tenor sax) are all (or will become) firm Fleece favourites.

[Our drummer tonight, the estimable Paul Robinson, and on trumpet, the excellent Paul Higgs.]

2017 7 April, £15 – Solstice, featuring John Turville

“One of the brightest stars in the jazz firmament” (Ian Mann)returns with friends from the E17 Collective who combine influences from Brazil, New York, and France to serve up music to savour.

John Turville piano, Tori Freestone saxes and flutes, Jez Franks guitars, Brigitte Beraha vocals, Dave Manington bass, George Hart drums

Solstice is an exciting new collaboration between some of the foremost bandleaders and composers emerging from the thriving east London music scene. They have a unified sound drawing on influences from Brazil, New York, and France such as Hermeto Pascoal, Edward Simon and Pierre de Bethmann.

John Turville is a prodigiously talented pianist with very broadly-based resources. “His adventurousness with harmony and the always lyrical yet narratively swerving designs of his improvisations often recall UK piano giant John Taylor’s playing” (John Fordham, The Guardian).

With Tori Freestone’s robust tenor playing, Bridgitte Beraha who has been bracketed with Norma Winstone and Flora Purim, the staggering improvisational force that is Jez Franks, and the superb back line of Dave Manington and George Hart, this promises to be a special gig.

“Refreshingly joyous music . . . led by the heart, that grips you from the first minute to the last . . .” – Gwilym Simcock

Here is an excellent promo video for Solstice.

2017 14 April, £0 – NO GIG TONIGHT

Garden needs digging.

2017 21 April, £18 – Theo Travis: Double Talk

We welcome back this multi talented, multi reedsman who wowed us last year. Theo is renowned for his powerful, bluesy progressive and “rare, fine English psychedelic jazz.” – MOJO

Theo Travis saxes and flute, Mike Outram guitar, Pete Whittaker Hammond organ, Nic France drums

The full flowing effect of the music from the Double Talk Quartet returns to Fleece Jazz after an astounding performance in January 2016. His many musical interests come together in this distinctive quartet project, which delivers music at the fluid interface between jazz, ambient and prog. He has become one of the most active jazz artists and composers in the U.K. and in addition to having his own group, he is in demand as a sideman to musicians from a variety of musical genres.

The bluesy, progressive jazz of the quartet draws heavily on the soulful Hammond organ of Pete Whittaker, the soaring guitar of Mike Outram and the powerful but subtle drums and percussion of Nic France.

“Travis’ tenor is a warm, mellifluous instrument and together with the luscious, bluesy Hammond organ they create something rather unexpected…a prog-rock/jazz/blues hybrid of genuine power and excitement” – Guy Hayden

2017 28 April, £15 – Nicholas Meier and Pete Oxley

Demonstrating a unique style that is a blend of Metheny-esque jazz and Turkish inspired world music, Nicholas has graced our stage for a decade and continues a firm favourite in company with Pete whose history includes George Formby and Herbie Hancock!

Nicholas Meier guitars, Pete Oxley guitars

Pete and Nicholas have been performing as a duo since 2011. They appeared here together in 2015, and have often come separately with groups, including as leaders. Pete was born in Bury St Edmunds, came to jazz via rock band Kashmir, a stompers band in Bury and Leeds College of Music. He went on to hone his skills in Paris. His own group, the New Noakes International includes pianist Dave Gordon. Nicholas was born in Switzerland. He studied at Conservatoire de Fribourg, and Berklee College of Music He has been influenced by American guitarist Pat Metheny and by music from Turkey, Bohemia and Java.

They launched their third album “Colours of Time”, in February. Expect anything from Turkish panache, to English pastoral to the rhythms of Latin America; performed on a selection of their a dozen or more guitars – nylon and steel stringed, acoustic and electric, fretted and fretless …

Of the latest album Dave Gelly writes in the Observer “when it comes to empathy this duet of guitar virtuosi comes close to perfection. Their roots lie in jazz, but they cover a whole bunch of genres in the course of this double album – Latin, Middle Eastern, English pastoral and their own brand of simply music”.

All Guitar- oh so many guitars, and so many genres!

2017 12 May, £15 – Alex Merritt

Merritt’s warm dry Getzian fluency is a joy!

Alex Merritt tenor sax, John Turville piano, Sam Lasserman bass, Jeff Williams drums

This band has forged a unique sound and approach to its material be it Alex’s original music or Jazz standards. The close empathy in the quartet creates an exciting foundation for musical interaction, risk-taking and reinvention.

Alex has been freelancing in London since graduating and has been fortunate to perform with many of the top players on the UK jazz scene.

John Turville is one of the most original and creative voices on the UK jazz scene as his Parliamentary Jazz award attests.

Sam Lasserson is one of the most developed and distinctive musical voices to have emerged from the UK Jazz scene in recent years.

The dynamic pairing with drummer Jeff Williams allows Sam to fully realise his musical thought. This has also been well evidenced in their recent work with Ethan Iverson (the Bad Plus), John O’Gallagher and Jeff Williams’ own UK band.

“Merritt makes music of shapely robustness, but he builds in options allowing his improvisers to follow his map or pursue their own diversions” – John Fordham

[Our terrific bassist was Calum Gourley]

2017 19 May, £16 – Partisans

“Partisans were the highlight of the festival, jazz that makes you blink in its glare* – John Fordham,

Phil Robson guitar, Julian Seigal sax, Thaddeus Kelly bass, Gene Calderazzo drums

Partisans can rightfully be cited as the godfathers of the new wave of Brit-Jazz. Since their formation in 1996 , they have always embraced Coltrane, electric Miles and Hendrix in equal measure, and countless points in between. It’s an approach that’s helped lay the foundation for the sort of cross-pollination of genres that many now take for granted in forward-looking jazz.
Julian Siegel is one of the premier saxophonists of his generation in the UK and Europe. His awards include Best Instrumenalist” from the BBC.
Phil Robson is a seminal figure in contemporary British music. His awards include Jazz Musician of the Year in the Parliamentary Jazz Awards.
Thad Kelly has played on most continents over the past 25 years, with the likes of an Shaw, Claire Martin and Jackie Dankworth, Orquestra Mahatma and Billy Jenkins.
“Gene Calderazzo’s time and energy creates an excitement similar to a young Tony Williams, a drummer with forward gears” – Stan Sulzman, Musician Magazine

“Restless, almost reckless energy* delirious listening* consistently thrilling.” – BBC Music Magazine

2017 26 May, £15 – Jonathan Gee Trio

“One of European jazz’s most celebrated musicians 0 0 0 precise, lucid and original, and at times breathtakingly lyrical.” – Visions of Britain

Jonathan Gee piano, Rod Youngs drums, Ben Hazelton bass

Jonathan Gee has performed around the world at some of the biggest festivals and clubs in jazz. His facility and imagination at the piano put him in the very highest company, and it is not coincidental that in the last few years, he has been playing at some of the most prestigious venues in New York and the Eastern seaboard of the States.

Ben Hazleton is best known through his collaboration with Tony Kofi, together with Jonathan Gee, who has described him as *Ben the Zen* for his calm persona during performances.

Rod Youngs, originally from Washington, D.C. and now based in London, is one of the most expressive and adept musicians in Jazz today.

“Gee doesn’t disappoint … a really knotty, Monkish flavour at times.” – Properganda magazine

2017 9 June, £15 – Mark Lewandowski Trio: Tribute to Fats Waller

“With Lewandowski’s sonorous, fluent delivery, Noble’s vibrant piano and Clarvis’s deft brush work, the numbers jump out at the listener” – All About Jazz

Mark Lewandowski bass, Liam Noble piano, Paul Clarvis percussion

Fats Waller was a masterful stride pianist, a playful vocalist and one of the greatest and most enduring songwriters of the early Jazz age. This new trio finds ways of bringing such a strong musical identity into the 21st century while retaining the core values that his music stands for – swing, romance, humour and social relevance.

Mark Lewandowski has been described as having “a huge vibrant, singing tone” and “soloing with the agility and articulation of a horn player”

Liam Noble has been described as “a brilliant pianist who hardly plays a solo without at least one turn of phrase that brings you to the edge of your seat” (John Fordham, The Guardian).

Paul Clarvis is a very talented percussionist, who displays remarkable technical gifts, enthusiasm and flair. His clear awareness of the past traditions of jazz drumming helps bring depth to his playing, although he also works in folk and classical forms where, again, his work is exceptional.

“Three musicians known for their intricate dialogues and humour, paying tribute to another musician who had these attributes.” – The List

[When we get deps we get great ones. Ivo Neame played fantastic piano on this gig.]

2017 16 June, £18 – Sam Eagles Sextet

“His assurance and inventiveness are impressive at any tempo…”John Fordham

Sam Eagles sax, Duncan Eagles sax, Sam Leak piano, Ralph Wyld vibraphone, Max Luther bass, Dave Hamblett drums

A formative grounding in classical piano, along with a fascination for the recordings of Kenny Garrett, were pivotal in bringing Sa to theto saxophone. Notably, Samuel gained a place in the Royal Academy of Music’s Junior Jazz band, directed by respected educator Nick Smart.

Duncan has become a member of British vocalist Ola Onabule’s touring band regularly performing at major International Jazz Festivals.

Sam, Ralph, Max, and Dave play with the best and have considerable composing credits.

Not only is Eagles a saxophone player to be reckoned with but a top notch composer too!– Bebop Spoken Here

[Unfortunately, the vibraphone player was unavailable for this gig. We had a stonking quintet, though.]

2017 Sunday, 25 June, £20 – Paul Lacey’s Back to Basie Big Band at the New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich

Tickets at various prices available at the New Wolsey Theatre.

Directed by trumpet-player Paul Lacey, Back To Basie features London session musicians and jazz soloists all dedicated to the music of Count Basie’s legendary *Swingin’ Machine’ – straight ahead swing played with dynamics, good humour, and a large dose of the blues!

With Paul Lacey trumpet and conductor, Jacqui Hicks vocals and 17 of the UK’s finest instrumentalists.

Launched in 2001 , Back To Basie have since been presenting concerts with accuracy and style throughout Britain and Europe to great reviews.

Back To Basie has been voted Best Big Band in the British Jazz Awards six times – in seven years!

“The music and the magic of Count Basie were back in town!” ~ Sunday Times

This is a community production presented by Fleece Jazz as part of the New Wolsey’s annual Open Season, and the Ipswich Jazz Festival.

2017 7 July, £18 – Fletch’s Brew

Prised away from near residency at Ronnie Scott’s to deliver funky jazz originals and Metheny, Brecker and Weather Report classics.

Mark Fletcher drums, Freddie Gavita trumpet, Jim Watson organ, Laurence Cottle bass

A powerful and very jolly way to spend an evening. Drummer Mark Fletcher’s powerhouse jazz fusion quartet with Freddie Gravita on trumpet is a regular feature at Ronnie Scott’s and greatly impressed Wynton Marsalis: “We haven’t had anything like this in New York for over twenty years.”
Tonight they will be joined with Jim Watson and Laurence Cottle.

Come and discover the power of funky jazz originals and the music of Pat Metheny, Michael Brecker and Weather Report.

2017 21 July, £18 – Sue Richardson: The Music of Clifford Brown

Multi talented Sue “plays swinging trumpet and sings with a musician’s phrasing” – The Observer.

Sue Richardson trumpet and vocals, Andy Panayi sax, Neal Richardson piano, Andy Cleyndert bass, Rod Youngs drums

Sue was touring with big bands by the age of 16 and has played in over 50 countries. She has worked in Paris with French singer Mina Agossi and Archie Shepp on a blues project., and also worked with Ian Shaw and The Humphrey Lyttelton Band.

With Andy Panayi playing all the flutes and all the saxophones, Neal Richardson firmly rooted in the acoustic piano jazz and blues, Andy Cleyndert – top bassist and mix/master genius, and Rod Youngs, one of the most expressive and adept of musicians, we are in for a superb gig.

Sue’s gigs are a great combination of her original songs and imaginatively reworked standards. Her tightly-knit band has taken their special brand of modern jazz with a main stream twist to many venues on the national and international circuits.

2017 28 July, £18 – Tony Kofi and the Organization

Tony’s full bodied sound, clear articulation and committed attack carry immediate impact, with the Hammond Organ, guitar and drums this is unmissable

Toni Kofi saxes, Pete Whittaker hammond organ, Peter Cater drums, Simon Fensbey guitar

Fleece Jazz favourite, Tony Kofi, is back with the same line-up he had at last October’s gig, remembered for the his outstanding baritone solo in Cannonball Adderley’s “Work Song”

Tony and the Organisation perform a hard-hitting selection of tunes in blues, jazz and funk idioms, including many under-acknowledged classics.

2017 4 August, £18 – Odette

Odette Adams is a huge British talent, as smooth, seductive and soulful a voice as you will ever hear! She is a star.

Odette acoustic guitar and vocals, Stefanos Tsourelis guitar and oud, Matt Hodge percussion, Eric Ford drums, Dave Jones acoustic and electric bass, Kartik Raghunathan vocals and violin

Odette spent four years travelling the world, paying her way by working as a singer on cruise ships. Using her free time on those long voyages to concentrate on her playing and writing, Odette’s travels have fundamentally influenced the sound of her music.

“Odette unleashes a chain of sun-kissed original numbers with the verve of R&B, but none of its bombast or cliches. – Clive Davis, The Sunday Times
“Odette’s music is very positive and uplifting. It’s absolutely wonderful to hear great music combined with beautiful, honest lyrics that have substance. A breath of fresh air!” – Emily Boulting

2017 18 August, £15 – Kevin Fitzsimmons

Kevin makes his long overdue Fleece Jazz debut with a top drawer band.

Kevin Fitzsimmons vocals, Leon Greening piano, Jeremy Brown bass, Matt Home drums

Kevin Fitzsimmons is a London born jazz singer, bandleader, lyricist & songwriter, with a self-produced album ‘Show Me The Way’ released to considerable critical acclaim. His distinctive vocals have been used by global brands and corporations for campaigns in New York, Far East, Europe, London, as well as for TV and radio commercials.

Leon, Jeremy and Matt are a top class trio

“Fitzsimmons is highly personable and “a musician’s singer” – dread expression but one validated by the way Greening and Co. encourages the vocalist and he them.” – Jazz Journal

2017 1 September, £18 – Clark Tracey: tribute to Stan Tracey’s Hexad

One of the finest drummers now inherits the mantle of the great Stan Tracey’s jazz legacy
Clark Tracey drums, Steve Melling piano, Alex Ridout trumpet, Sean Payne alto, Chris Maddock tenor/soprano, Daniel Casimir bass

Stan Tracey belonged to the first generation of British performers who were trying, in those restless, optimistic years after the war, to learn from the inspirations of Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie and Thelonious Monk despite being 3000 miles away from the source, and then develop a style of their own in a culture that had never been hospitable to jazz. Tracey, one of the undisputed giants of the music in Britain, managed exactly that.

In November 1985 , Tracey’s new band Hexad played opposite Chet Baker fro a season that represented one of Ronnie Scott Club’s most perfect balances of utterly different persuasions in jazz. Both Baker and Tracey defined the spirit of jazz in their different ways, and the audiences responded by being utterly absorbed in a manner rare for a night-club.

Clark Tracey is a band leader, composer, educator, promotor and a highly professional and brilliant drummer; not to mentions multiple award winner. He brings an excellent sextet to give us the music of the original Hexad.

What a pleasure to have Steve Melling with us after far too long an absence.

[It was Chris Maddock on alto, not tenor and soprano. That role was taken by Nadeem Teimoori on this marvelous start to the season.]

2017 8 September, £18 – Brandon Allen’s Gene Ammons Project

The Brandon Allen quartet reinterprets the music of the late great saxophonist Gene Ammons
Brandon Allen tenor, Bas Van Lier piano/organ, Arnie Somogyi bass, Matt Home drums

Ammons was one of the founders of the Chicago style of tenor saxophone playing but was often in the shadow of his tenor-playing contemporaries, Dexter Gordon, Wardell Gray, and Sonny Stitt.
Despite this he forged a lasting partnership with Stitt, recording some classic tenor battles in the 1950 s.

While adept at the technical aspects of bebop, in particular its love of harmonic substitutions, Ammons more than Young, Webster or Parker, stayed in touch with the commercial blues and R&B of his day. In 1950 the saxophonist’s recording of “My foolish heart” made Billboard magazine’s black pop charts. The soul jazz movement of the mid-1960s, often using the combination of tenor saxophone and Hammond B3 electric organ, counts him as a founder.

People say nice things about Brandon.
“Brandon Allen is arguably the most exciting tenor player in Britain today. His phrasing is unashamedly emotional, soaked in the blues tradition.” – Tony Hall (JAZZWISE)
“His four-octave range and flawless command of the altissimo register was nicely offset by his full-bodied yet raucous tonal quality offering something for fans of the entire history of the instrument- from Hawkins to Brecker- he’s got em covered.” – Frank Griffith (London Jazz News)

Brandon’s quartet has played together for many years. The project has been received very well at gigs throughout the UK and the rest of Europe. With luck, we will have the new CD to buy at the gig.

2017 15 September, £15 – Jam Experiment

“Jam Experiment is one of the best young bands I’ve ever heard…A really refreshing presence on the scene — Alan Barnes

Rory Ingham trombone, Alexander Bone sax, Toby Comeau piano/keys, Joe Lee bass, Luke Tomlinson drums

This young quintet, winners of Jazz North Introduces Scheme is a true collective that has taken inspiration from such luminaries as Mark Nightingale and Dennis Rollins. They won the 2014 “Jazz North Introduces” scheme, shortly after their debut gig supporting Liane Carroll. They have played at leading jazz festivals across the UK, leaving audiences in awe. The band displaya an energetic approach of original compositions and arrangements and will entertain us all this evening.

“Jam Experiment is ‘feel good’, accessible, intelligently crafted… and irresistible.” — London Jazz News
“Fizzes with youthful energy” — Jazz Views

2017 22 September, £0 – No Gig Tonight

Go out and look at the colours of the leaves

2017 29 September, £15 – The Paper Jam Duo

No duo works better than this. They have a quality that fills space and keeps you tapping your toes to a bright shimmering sound

Christian Garrick violin, David Gordon piano.

Christian Garrick is an improvising violinist, a composer and a bandleader. He is active on the international concert circuit and on the London studio session scene. He is a professor of jazz and non-classical violin at three of London’s major music conservatoires. Tonight he will show us his quality and range of playing both in styles and in instruments played.

David Gordon started piano lessons at age 4, composing at 6, and discovered jazz for himself at the keyboard one day at 10. The house where he grew up was always full of baroque music, and contained a harpsichord. Jazz and baroque music have remained equally irresistible forces on him ever since. He is now based in London and continues to play with a variety of performers in a range of styles and formats, some of which we will no doubt hear tonight.

What we are guaranteed is an evening of exciting music from two virtuosos, each with a huge sense of fun.

2017 6 October, £20 – Derek Nash: Protect the Beat

Derek is at the forefront of the British jazz movement, book early for this unmissable gig
Derek Nash saxes, Tim Cansfield guitar, Arden Hart ~ trumpet/keys, Winston Blisset bass, Darby Todd ~ drums

It was 2010 when we last saw this energy funk filled jazz group, and the room still retains the beat. We have five guys on a mission to mix up styles and drive audiences into happy submission. Derek wears many hats, all successfully. He is a Jools Holland saxophonist, runs a recording studio, and leads many bands. He is always engaging as a performer, but in this fiery company he really stretches out.

“Guitar is in the hands of Tim Cansfield. Looks of an actuary, sound of a Larry Carlton holed up in Chicago on a tour with Curtis Mayfield.” – Pete Sargeant. Arden has a Milesian tone and is a superb keyboardist and composer.

Winston, who tours with Massive Attack, is a powerhouse lownote bandit. He will burst into Chic riffs then stalk Hart’s Rhodes like a man on a vengeance mission.

And Darby on drums: he uses every part of the kit to drive what is flowing and tumbling around him. The band will throw him into solo’s and see what bursts out of him: seven varieties of magic.

Definitely NOT dinner jazz!

[Two wonderful deps tonight. Laurence Cottle on bass and Nick France on drums.]

2017 13 October, £18 – The Meier/Budjana Group

We are in the Garden Room for this one, folks.

Acoustic fretless and fretted nylon string and steel guitars with Indonesian guitarist Dewa Budjana and bass legend Jimmy Haslip

Jimmy Haslip bass, Dewa Budjana guitar, Nicolas Meier guitar, Asaf Sirkis drums, Saat Syah bamboo flutes

This is stop 9 on the band’s European tour, the last in England, at Fleece Jazz, after which they go on to Holland, Belgium, Germany & Switzerland.

Swiss born, England based, Nicholas Meier has appeared here many times over the last ten years, in groups, solo and duo format.
Jimmy Haslip has been on the modern jazz scene for four decades, and was a founder member of the ground breaking Yellowjackets.
Dewa and Jimmy are new to the Fleece, but have both previously recorded with each other, and Nicholas. Twenty years leading Indonesian rock band Gigi has made Dewa Bujanda a guitar legend. However this musician, of Balinese decent, has also had a career as a composer, a solo artist, and appearing with Garry Husband, Jimmy Haslip and other jazz musicians.
Mochamad Saat Syah, originally from Borneo, is also big on the Indonesian music scene. This master of the suling (flute), contrasts percussive and legato playing in his jazz improvisation.
Asif Sirkis , who has often worked with Jimmy, is already well known and liked by Fleece regulars.

“True sonic explorers”, “distinctive ethnic bland of Middle-Eastern and South-East Asian flavours, theirs is a music which is both soulful and cerebral.” The Jazz Man

2017 20 October, £18 – Sara Dowling and Tommaso Starace: Nancy goes Cannonball

Checking this out on Google I was right away transfixed by this lovely singer, you will love her! And Tommaso!
“…the old world sultry class of Julie London, and the gritty attitude of Amy Winehouse with a dash of Dinah Washington, Dowling’s voice has a timeless quality.” Sally Evans Derby.

Sara Dowling vocals, Tommaso Starace sax, Chris Ingham piano, Arnie Somogyi bass, George Double drums

A salute to the Nancy Wilson/Cannonball Adderley album of 1962 featuring prodigiously gifted vocalist Sara Dowling and effervescent Italian alto saxophonist Tommaso Starace

Sara Dowling graduated from the Royal Northern College of Music as an accomplished cellist and composer, writing for film and TV. She later began singing displaying an impressive range (particularly resonant in the lower register), precise diction and a melodic ringing tone.
Tommaso Starace was born in Milano, moving to the UK in 1994 where he studied at Birmingham Conservatoire and later at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. He has performed with some of the most respected jazz musicians including Billy Cobham, David Liebman, Kenny Wheeler, Stan Sulzmann, Jim Mullen etc. Tommaso has also written for film and television
The superb back line of Chris Ingham, Arnie Somogyi and George Double complete this excellent quintet

2017 27 October, £15 – Steve Waterman

Trumpeter par excellence Steve leads a group of his jazz peers for this brilliant gig
Steve Waterman trumpet, Anthony Kerr vibes, Alec Dankworth bass, Dave Barry drums

This quartet comprises top of the tree musicians, who have appeared at Fleece Jazz countless times, in various popular groups. They performed with Steve on his trio/quintet “Buddy Bolden Blew It!” recording, of which the Guardian’s John Fordham writes “the leader’s repertoire of early-jazz growls and note-shakes are joined by impish resolutions in the manner of Wynton Marsalis”.

Steve is an established educator and composer. He runs several of his own bands, and is a sought after Trumpeter for groups of all sizes, including ones led by Alan Barns, Don Weller, Carla Bley and Michael Garrick

He brings with him a wonderful trio: Anthony Kerr is a vibraphone master, Alec Dankworth is among the great bassists, and Dave Barry is a hugely sought after percussionist.

2017 3 November, £15 – Dave O’Higgins Quartet

Dave is rightly acknowledged as one of Britain’s finest Contemporary jazz musicians
Dave O’Higgins soprano, Rob Barron piano, Geoff Gascoyne bass, Sebastiaan de Krom drums

Saxophonist Dave O’Higgins evokes an impassioned sound somewhere between Dexter Gordon and John Coltrane with an excellent sense of pacing and presentation. He feels his main apprenticeships were served with John Dankworth and Cleo Laine, Jim Mullen and Martin Taylor.

Dave brings a very classy trio. Rob Barron has a list of credits to die for. Geoff Gascoyne and Sebastiaan de Krom are firm Fleece Jazz favourites.

This quartet plays some of the most swinging music you will hear today – straight-ahead jazz firmly in the harmonic and melodic tradition, played by some of the finest UK-based jazz musicians. – The Observer

2017 10 November, £0 – No gig tonight…

due to circumstances beyond our control. Too early for Christmas shopping?

2017 17 November, £15 – Eyal Lovett

Israeli born, Berlin based pianist and composer demonstrates his delicate touch, harmonic prowess and clever arranging

Eyal Lovett piano, Eran Har Even guitar, Mathias Jensen bass, Aidan Lowe drums

Pianist-composer Eyal Lovett creates a wide range of music. Although classically trained, he is deeply immersed in the jazz tradition, as well as in the diverse music located in Israel and the Middle East. He studied classical music and Jazz at The New School in Tel Aviv and in New York. His music is influenced by classical music, Israeli tunes and Yiddish folklore.
Eran Har Even is an Israeli guitarist, composer and music teacher currently residing in Amsterdam. He has established himself as a leading figure in the Dutch Jazz scene.
Mathias Jensen is a member of the Holon Trio whose achievments include being prize winners at the European Young Artists’ Jazz Award Burghausen in 2015.
Aidan Lowe trained at the Australian National University in 2011 and was an active member in the Canberra music scene, playing in many different ensembles in a variety of genres.

The melody is Eyal Lovett’s art form, the tune that makes you think. He produces them with impressive delicacy. Somewhere inbetween and away from his great influencers Bach and Chopin, Bill Evans, Brad Mehldau and Miles Davis.

[Our emergency and brilliant bassist was Gianfranco Coppola.]

2017 24 November, £16 – Quentin Collins Quartet

Quentin has established himself as one of the UK’s top jazz/commercial trumpeters, and brings a lively young band.
“It’s so damn infectious, it’s almost impossible to resist!” – Blues and Soul Magazine

Quentin Collins ~ trumpet, Andrew McCormack ~ piano, Daniel Casimir ~ bass, Winston Clifford ~ drums

For two decades, Quentin Collins has established himself as one of Europe’s top trumpeters, having worked with a wide range of internationally renowned artists across many genres. His quartet highlights his formidable, soulful original compositions alongside his uncanny ability to interpret lesser played classic material from the jazz canon.

Whether appearing with Kyle Eastwood or Jamie Cullum, with a symphony orchestra or as a solo pianist, at outdoor festivals or an intimate club, you can always expect Andrew McCormack to deliver the highest level of performance.

Daniel Casimir is an electric and upright bassist based in London. He won the Young Jazz Musician Award 2016 “with a great mix of communicativeness, simplicity and sass”.

Winston Clifford is one of the most in demand drummers on the jazz scene to date. His playing is free from the usual restraints of stylistic expectations and a true reflections of listening and responding “in the moment. He is also a top Fleece favourite.

Quentin is “A trumpeter whose style is a sizzling update of the Morgan/ Hubbard approach.” – Mojo Magazine

2017 1 December, £15 – Josephine Davies: Satori

“A truly gifted and imaginative saxophonist, Davies undoubtedly possesses the art of the improviser and has produced an album of exuberant lyricism and consistently engaging tunes” – All About Jazz

Josephine Davies sax, Paul Clarvis percussion, Dave Whitford ~ bass

Playing drums from childhood, Paul Clarvis at school and performed with the National Youth Orchestra. Among jazz musicians with whom Clarvis has worked with include Alan Barnes, Gordon Beck, Tim Garland, John Law, Henry Lowther, Sam Rivers, Andy Sheppard, and Stan Sulzmann.
Dave Whitford held the bass chair in the award winning Cornwall Youth Jazz Orchestra and worked in a variety of musical genres. Dave quickly established himself as one of the most in demand young bass players in London.

An improvisatory trio project reflecting the definition of its Buddhist title “Satori” – a moment of enlightening presence and inner spaciousness away from the clutter of thought – finds British saxophonist and composer Josephine Davies collaborating with sidemen Dave Whitford and Paul in an immersive album of chordless originals.

2017 8 December, £18 – The Spirit of Trane: Gilad Atzmon & the OHE

“Coltrane is for us, jazz at its best: an authentic creative wave of constant transformation and innovation. ‘Trane is for us; first and foremost … a spirit.” – Gilad Atzmon
“Gilad’s sheer dexterity makes for some delicious, mind challenging listening” – Sammy Stein, Jazz in Europe

Gilad Atzmon tenor and soprano sax, clarinet, bass clarinet, Frank Harrison ~ piano, Yaron Stavi bass, Enzo Zirilli drums

Marking fifty years without John Coltrane, Gilad Atzmon & The Orient House Ensemble attempt to reflect upon the beauty of the man’s music. John Coltrane was the most influential tenor saxophonist in jazz history.

Gilad Atzmon is a frequent visitor to the Fleece: a larger-than-life character, he exudes fire and energy in his playing. The sound of his tenor matches his somewhat edgy presence while on soprano he is passionate and expressive.
Frank Harrison’s playing has been described as “thoughtful, delicate and imbued with texture and colour” as well as “cranium-shattering in its levels of intensity” by The Guardian.
Yaron Stavi is a bassist who has performed all over the world with many musicians, playing double and electric bass and crossing genres into rock, classical, jazz and World Music.
Italian born master drummer and percussionist Enzo Zirilli has definitely paid his musical dues and has the resumÈ to back it up.

2017 15 December, £0 – No gig tonight…

Due to circumstances beyond our control. You have time for late shopping.

2017 Wednesday, 20 December, £20 – Ian Shaw and Barry Green

“Best Jazz Vocalist” at the BBC Jazz Awards in 2007 and 2004, and nominated in the Best UK Vocalist category at the Jazz FM awards in 2013, Ian Shaw, is a popular performer both in the UK and the US. He has been cited, along with Mark Murphy and Kurt Elling, as one of the world’s finest male jazz vocalists.
Ian Shaw vocals, Barry Green piano

Ian Shaw’s career in performance began unusually for a jazz musician on the Alternative Cabaret Circuit, alongside such performers as Julian Clary, Rory Bremner and Jo Brand. During the next few years Shaw moved from the singer-pianist format to working with his new band to an eventual move into jazz. He has also performed regularly in the States including Jazz at the Lincoln Center (New York). Collaborators over the years have been many and include Quincy Jones, Abdullah Ibrahim, Guy Barker, Kenny Wheeler, John Taylor, Iain Ballamy, Barb Jungr, Cleo Laine, John Dankworth, Cedar Walton and Joe Lovano.
Barry Green Studied classical music and Jazz at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and now plays regularly at jazz venues all over the UK. He has played and recorded with many jazz luminaries. Barry is now a professor of jazz piano at the Guilhall School of Music and Drama. He has also played in clubs and festivals in Germany, Ireland, Spain, Slovenoa, Italy and Spain and elsewhere around Europe.

Ian Shaw was awarded Best Jazz Vocalist at both the 2004 and 2007 BBC Jazz Awards. He is widely regarded as one of the world’s finest male vocalist. Tonight he is joined by Barry Green, his regular pianist and one of the most highly regarded accompanists on the jazz scene. Sit back and enjoy….

2018 5 January, £20 – Derek Nash/Rod Pooley Drawtones

This Jazz/Funk/Soul organ band with the stunning Derek Nash will be a cracker.
Derek Nash saxes, Rod Pooley organ, Jessica Dann drums, Andy Williams guitar, Simon Brewin bass

More information soon…

2018 12 January, £15 – Michael Spearman Trio

Michael has received commissions from Arts Council England and the Britten Sinfonia to write and perform new jazz and classical chamber music.
Michael Spearman gitar, Rob Palmer electric/acoustic bass, Tom Jiggins drums/percussion

More information soon…

2018 19 January, £16 – Georgina Jackson

*Beautiful tone and phrasing, very special, the real thing* – Seal
Georgina Jackson vocals/trumpet, with the Robin Aspland Trio

More information soon…

2018 26 January, £16 – Bryan Corbett

Bryan is not only a great performer of the jazz standards repertoire but an artist who pushes the boundaries writing and performing.
Bryan Corbett trumpet/flugel, Al Gurr keys, Ben Markland bass, Neil Bullock drums

More information soon…

2018 2 February, £18 – Charlie Wood Band

“*the growl and moan of Eric Burdon, the otherworldly lilt of Donald Fagen, and the scorched majesty of Kurt Elling.” – Jazz Times
Charlie Wood piano/vocals, Chris Allard guitar, Dudley Phillips bass, Nic France drums

More information soon…

2018 9 February, £16 – Mick Foster Sextet Celebrating Gerry Mulligan

Featuring the beautifully crafted sextet arrangements of Gerry Mulligan together with some new pieces by Mick Foster & Adrian Fry, this group celebrates the West Coast sound with an all star UK line up.
Mick Foster baritone sax, Laura Jurd trumpet, Robert Fowler tenor sax, Adrian Fry trombone, Dave Chamberlain bass, Tristan Maillot drums

More information soon…

2018 16 February, £16 – Percy Pursglove/John O’Gallagher Quartet

Trumpet player Percy leads a new quartet alongside New York Saxophone legend, John O’gallagher
John O’Gallagher alto sax, Percy Pursglove trumpet/flugel, Tim Giles drums/cymbals, Sam Lasserson bass

More information soon…

2018 23 February, £18 – Martin Speake Quartet

“Speake is a strikingly talented improviser with a seemingly bottomless well of inspiration.” – Encyclopedia of Popular Music
Martin Speake sax, Mike Outram guitar, Fred Thomas bass, Jeff Williams drums

More information soon…

2018 2 March, £0 – no gig

making room for our 25 anniversary gig

2018 Sunday, 4 March, £25 – Sunday pm Alec Dankworth All Star Quintet and Georgia Mancio/Chris Allard Duo

Celebrating Fleece Jazz’s 25 Anniversary with the top of the British jazz tree.
Georgia Mancio vocals, Chris Allard guitar (2pm)
Alec Dankworth bass, Alan Barnes saxes, Dave O’Higgins sax, Dave Newton piano, Clark Tracey drums (3.30pm, 2 sets ending about 6 pm)
Refreshments will be available.

More information soon…

2018 9 March, £0 – no gig

Resting after the anniversary gig

2018 16 March, £20 – Julian Siegel

“Julian Siegel, the classically trained multi-instrumentalist who in the 0 s blossomed into one of Europe’s leading jazz player-composers, plays most reed instruments 0 0 0 but he approaches the tenor saxophone with a special forensic aplomb” – John Fordham
Julian Siegel sax, Liam Noble piano, Oli Hayhurst bass, Gene Calderazzo drums

More information soon…

2018 23 March, £18 – Pete Oxley & Nicolas Meier

Performing works from their scintillating new album “The Colours of Time”
Pete Oxley guitars, Nicolas Meier guitars, Raph Mizraki basses, Paul Cavaciuti drums/percussion

More information soon…

2018 30 March, £16 – Matt Wates Sextet

“A seriously good band containing six of Britain’s finest jazz musicians, regardless of age or style” – Dave Gelly, Observer
Matt Wates alto sax, Martin Shaw trumpet, Steve Main tenor sax, Leon Greening piano, Malcolm Creese bass, Matt Home drums

More information soon…

2018 6 April, £18 – Ed Jones

“A formidable saxophonist… he’s an improviser to his fingertips, a player of forceful imagination, and one of the UK’s most distinctive saxophonists.” – John Fordham
Ed Jones saxes, Ross Stanley piano, Riaan Vosloo bass Tim Gilles drums

More information soon…

2018 13 April, £15 – John Law’s Recreations

John Law’s new project: playing well known tunes from the world of jazz and pop, featuring award winner saxophonist Sam Crockatt
John Law piano/keyboards, Sam Crockatt saxophones, Yuri Goloubev bass, Billy Weir drums/percussion

John Law was a child prodigy, who went to the Royal Academy aiming to be a concert pianist. He turned to jazz in 1983, during further study at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna. He is now one of Europe’s leading jazz pianist/composers. In this project the quartet use well known tunes from the world of jazz, pop and classical music. They could include tunes, by the Beatles, Sting, Adele, etc..

Like Fleece Jazz, Sam is a Parliamentary Jazz Award winner. “Honoured Artist of Russia”, Yuri Goloubev, was born in Moscow and graduated from the Tchaikovsky Conservatory.ely. Billy Weir grew up in Cheltenham. He went on from Gloucestershire JYO to South West Music School and the National Youth Jazz Collective.

“One of the UK’s most imaginative and versatile jazz pianists.” – International Piano

2018 20 April, £18 – Gill Manly

“Gill’s voice is nothing short of electric…singers with this much control and technique are a scarcity nowadays” – Jazz On Cd Magazine
Gill Manly vocals, Trevor Hyatt mandola/guitar/vocals, Thomas Coffey guitar/vocals

Gill Manly has been singing jazz and blues for over 35 years and “Going Home” is her 4th album release, but her first blues cd and first live recording.

The rich tradition of blues and gospel music was always a huge love, and Gill views all blues as a form of folk tradition, the formation of her acoustic blues trio lends itself beautifully to that genre. But make no mistake, Gill’s eclectic approach to song choice means she has delved into composers such as Dory Previn, Doc Pomus, Bill Withers, Percy Mayfield, as well as Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Mississippi Fred MacDowell.

Trevor Hyatt and Thomas Coffey are the ideal accompaniment to this wonderful singer.

“Great voice, terrific vocal range and technique, commanding stage presence, and packed houses. The audience and Ronnie Scott’s Club loves Gill Manly.” Simon Cook (Ronnie Scott’s)

2018 27 April, £20 – Barb Jungr

“Barb Jungr is the alchemist among jazz singers. She takes dubious songs, and turns them into gold. And she takes songs we already knew were gold, and makes them interestingly different.” – Ivan Hewett, The Telegraph.

Barb Jungr vocals, Jenny Carr piano, Dudley Phillips bass

Barb Jungr returns to the writing of Bob Dylan again and again to explore the richest veins of inspiration. One of the very finest vocalists around, Barb does not just sing songs, but, based on her deep insightful understanding, completely inhabits them in her own unique way. She delivers lyrics with enveloping emotion, by turns rich in passion or tenderness, anger or humour and her performances are honed to a perfection which renders the word “interprets” wholly inadequate.

Joining Barb is Australian pianist Jenny Carr who has worked extensively with her over the years and always provides sensitive accompaniment with increasingly jazz infused solos overlying her classical roots.

Dudley Phillips has worked regularly with many singers including Amy Winehouse, Bill Withers and of course Barb.

Expect an emotional roller-coaster that will invite you to reflect on the world in which we live, but always with the safety net of amusing and sometimes downright hilarious commentary, delivered in Barb’s own inimitable style.
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2018 4 May, £18 – Chris Allard Band

“Allard’s master class in electric jazz guitar was worth the price of admission in it’s own right!” – Harrogate Festival

Chris Allard ~ guitar, Ross Stanley ~ piano, Oli Hayhurst ~ bass, Nick Smalley ~ drums

Musician magazine says, *Chris Allard is a regular on TV, radio and the international jazz festival circuit. His original jazz is approachable and witty, especially in the company of his band… Top drawer! * His CD, *Invisible Landscape* features Oli Hayhurst on double bass and Nick Smalley on drums. After laying down the main guitar parts on electric guitar (Gibson 335 ) live with the trio, extra guitar parts were added to a number of the pieces * extra dimensions and colours of various different guitars; steel-string acoustic, classical guitar, electric guitars with differing textures and effects * all of which add interest and distinguish the band from other guitar-led jazz groups without losing focus or direction.
We have the addition of the great keyboardist, Ross Stanley to the CD’s trio format, tonight on piano.
*Rocking with bluesy angular lines*somewhere between Scofield and Carlton with a dash of fleet-footing Martino*he demonstrates gorgeous nylon-string polyphony*evocative acoustic work*demonstrates enough compositional and stylistic colour * to suggest bebop is far from being Allard’s only brush* – Guitarist

2018 11 May, £18 – Fishwick Brothers play Cedar Walton and Duke Pearson

Celebrating the timeless compositions of two Hard Bop heroes of the Blue Note era

Steve Fishwick ~ trumpet, Matt Fishwick ~ drums, Dave O’Higgins ~ sax, Rob Barron ~ piano, Dario De Leche ~ bass

This project was formed to perform the timeless compositions of two pianist/composers associated with the Hard Bop era of jazz and the Blue Note Record label: Cedar Walton and Duke Pearson. Although some of these tunes have become jazz standards (Walton’s Bolivia and Ugetsu, and Pearson’s Jeanine for example) there is a great wealth of material by these composers that is very rarely played. This project aims to redress the balance, bring these tunes to a new audience and generally celebrate the work of these great jazz artists. Steve and Matt recorded with Walton in 2007 (The Osian Roberts/Steve Fishwick Quintet meets Cedar Walton! HBR33006) and Matt was mentored by Bob Cranshaw (Duke Pearson’s bass player) during the 5 years that he lived in New York, so there is a discernible link to these performers and the composers of this music.
Please note that this gig is in the Garden Room, through the bar and to your right.

2018 18 May, £16 – Luca Santaniello Quartet: tribute to Philly Joe Jones

Luca Santaniello’s bebop influenced style coupled with his deep classical training has helped to shape his sound and has given birth to a refreshing new voice in jazz.

Luca Santaniello ~ drums, Steve Fishwick ~ trumpet, Gabriel Latchin ~ piano, Calum Gourlay ~ bass

Italian born Luca Santaniello moved to New York in 2001, aged 21, to further his studies at Brooklyn-Queens College and Juilliard. Since then he has matured into a fine performer, composer, arranger and educator. Hebegan his professional career aged 14 and has played with some huge names (like Herbie Hancock, Joe Lovano, Roy Hargrove and Ron Carter), in some of the greatest venues (Blue Note, Lincoln Centre) and across genres including symphonic works and film.

For this tribute to Joseph Rudolph “Philly Joe” Jones (1923 – 1968), Luca brings with him the fine trumpeter, Steve Fishwick, who we know can really blow and pianist Gabriel Latchin, who is described by Renee Fleming as “elegant, tasteful and swinging!” Completing the line-up is Glaswegan Calum Gourlay who switched from cello to bass when he was infected by jazz.

Philly Jo is credited on around 100 recordings but is probably best remembered with John Coltrane on Blue Train and as Miles Davis’s favourite drummer, recording 10 albums with him, including Round About Midnight and Milestones. His New York Times obituary noted a characteristic “combination of deep-toned tom-tom and bass drums with subtle swirls of cross-rhythm on cymbals.”

Luca’s “talent makes him very unique – especially to the jazz world, where (he) has proven his high commitment to the music” – Stanley Crouch, NY Times

2018 25 May, £15 – David Gordon Trio

“a richly gifted player with a sparkling style and boundless imagination” – Phil Johnson, the Independent

David Gordon ~ Piano, Oli Hayhurst ~ Bass, Paul Cavaciuti ~ Drums

David Gordon: He is a master of the Piano and Harpsichord, and of the Jazz and Baroque idioms; with a Bristol degree in mathematics and logic.
“A richly gifted player with a sparkling style and boundless imagination” – Phil Johnson, the Independent

Oli Hayhurst:. “A really positive, pro-active bassist, with super-human control of time and tuning” Sebastian Scotney, London Jazz News.

Paul Cavaciuti: A graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston in 1986, Paul is a frequent performer for us, most recently with Meier and Oxley.

In February 2016 David brought us music from his new CD “Alexander Scriabin’s Ragtime Band” – neither the early 20th century music of Russian Алекса́ндр Скря́бин, nor the New Orleans ragtime of the same era, but 21st century jazz inspired in David by both. This time, David revisits some of that music, but he also brings us new work destined for his next CD “Appartimento”. David takes his cue from the great 18th-century Italian masters, and the “Partimenti” (base lines they wrote for their students to practice on), to create super-hip jazz melodies and improvisations. Alongside them he puts some 20th century Latin American hits that share some of the same characteristics and history.

2018 1 June, £20 – QCBA: Quentin and Brandon

“This talented quartet get the full five stars … for performing brilliantly, for playing bright, tuneful neo-bop originals that swing from start to finish.” – Jack Massarik, Evening Standard

Brandon Allen ~ Tenor Sax, Quentin Collins ~ Trumpet, Ross Stanley ~ Organ, Lloyd Haines Drums

QCBA is the brainchild of Quentin Collins on trumpet & Brandon Allen on sax. They are an organ driven quartet of virtuosos playing smart, sassy, contemporary original music, influenced by the great Blue Note era of the 1960s. Since their inception in 2008, QCBA have taken the contemporary jazz scene by storm, having performed across the UK and Europe at many top venues and festivals. They are noted for collaborating with a broad range of artists, including Liane Carroll, Natalie Williams, Dennis Rollins and Antonio Forcione. Quentin and Brandon are also the front line for the Kyle Eastwood band.

For two decades, Quentin Collins has established himself as one of Europe’s top trumpeters, having worked with a wide range of internationally renowned artists across many genres including Gregory Porter, Roy Hargrove and Tim Garland. Originally from Perth, Western Australia, Brandon Allen relocated to London in 2000. Since arriving in the UK, he has worked with many varied artists and groups/ensembles including Eric Clapton, Jools Holland, Carleen Anderson, Stan Tracey, Pete King, Darius Brubeck and others.

The new quartet line-up is completed by the masterful Ross Stanley on Hammond organ and the exciting young drummer, Lloyd Haines. Any time Ross Stanley can bring the B3 Hammond to us is a joy. Ross is in high demand, having worked with Dennis Rollins, Guy Barker, Joel Frahm, Liane Carroll, Stan Sulzman, Steve Arguelles, John Paracelli, Bobby Wellins, Clark Tracey, Jacqui Dankworth, Simply Red, Goldie… too many to name here. Award winning drummer Lloyd Haines is fresh. The terms ‘rising star’, ‘name to watch out for’ and ‘new kid on the block’ would be equally appropriate but are becoming well-worn. Lloyd is not.

“It’s so damn infectious, it’s almost impossible to resist” – Blues & Soul Magazine

2018 8 June, £18 – Sirkis/Bialas International Quartet

With an emphasis on band interaction and sheer joy of playing, this band celebrates music from a wide range of genres.

Asaf Sirkis ~ Drums/Compositions/Konnakol, Sylwia Bialas ~ Vocals/Compositions, Frank Harrison Piano/Keys, Kevin Glasgow ~ Electric Bass

A not to be missed opportunity to hear this renowned group in an intimate venue
The Quartet, a collaboration between the Asaf Sirkis Trio and Sylwia Bialas, is truly International with:-
Sylwia Bialas: Polish vocalist/composer extraordinaire, who says “I am tremendously fulfilled in being part of the band, contributing to its sound, adding different colours, sharing the joy of interacting and taking risks together.” Norma Winston was one of her influences.

Asaf Sirkis: Israeli drummer/composer, resident in the UK since 1999, first played at the Fleece with Gilad Atzmon’s Orient House Ensemble, and is now a frequent performer here. He is respected for his sensitive drumming, especially with vocalists. He is very busy on the international music scene.

Frank Harrison: English Pianist & Keyboards player, has been playing gigs since he was 15, and won a scholarship to Berklee School Of Music, Boston. His many appearances here have included ones with Gilad and Asaf.

Kevin Glasgow: Scottish string electric Bassist, moved to Ireland as a child and returned to study music at Edinburgh’s Napier University. Kevin has played around the world with various groups including the Scottish Jazz Orchestra.

The Quartet, making its second visit to the Fleece, will play material intended for their next album “Our New Earth” With an emphasis on band interaction and sheer joy of playing, this quartet celebrates new music from Asaf and Sylwia, with a wide range of influences including European Jazz, Polish and Scandinavian folk, Middle Eastern, Indian and Classical music. Expect soulful melodies, and full colour electroacoustic jazz, with a few unusual instruments too.

“Bialas’s voice is not only exceptional, both in timbre and range, but her improvisations are stunning. She uses her voice like an instrument, wordless, powerful, soaring…” Free Jazz Album Reviews, Los Angeles

2018 15 June, £16 – Roger Beaujolais Quartet

Of Roger’s 19 th album, Ian Mann the Jazz Man says, “A very classy piece of work that will help to consolidate Beaujolais’ reputation as one of the best loved musicians on the UK jazz scene.”

Roger Beaujolais ~ Vibraphone, Robin Aspland ~ Piano, Simon Thorpe ~ Bass, Winston Clifford ~ Drums

These four have worked together as a Quartet, and in a Quintet, since 1999. The Quartet recorded “Mind the Gap” (2013) and “Sunset” (2017). The Quartet plays acoustic jazz in a classic modern jazz setting. Their influences are the small cool and hard bop bands of the fifties, as found on Blue Note. Their arrangements include ones influenced by the output of Wayne Shorter, Wes Montgomery, and Chick Corea. The rhythm section achieves remarkable dynamic interplay, without ever losing its hard swinging drive.

Roger started to teach himself the vibraphone at 24. By 30 he was making a living as a vibes player. He joined a ‘jump jive’ band featuring Ray Gelato; formed the Latin jazz ‘Beaujolais Band’ and the jazz/funk/soul ‘Vibraphonic’ group, who reached the top of the US jazz charts in 1995. Recently he has has concentrated on his acoustic Quintet and Quartet, and teaching at London’s Trinity College of Music.

Robin, from Leeds, studied music at Colchester Institute and jazz at Guildhall. He has played with Ronnie Scott, Peter King, Jon Dankwoth, George Fame, Van Morrsen and the BBC Big Band.

Simon is well known for his sound, quality, melodic solos & solid beat. He has played with Stacey Kent (featuring on 5 albums), Bobby Wellins , Alan Barnes, Dave & Don Weller. He leads a number of bands and composes for TV. Winston has played with most of the top musicians living in England, and with visitors such as Stanley Turrentine, Freddie Hubbard and Art Farmer. He studied with Trevor Tomkins at the Guildhall School of Music.

Of Roger’s 19th album, Ian Mann the Jazz Man said it “will help to consolidate Beaujolais reputation as one of the best loved musicians on the UK jazz scene.”

[Dave Barry did a wonderful job depping for Winston. I hope is car troubles are over soon.]

2018 Sunday, 24 June, £20 – Jacqui Dankworth at the Ipswich Jazz Festival
buy tickets (from the New Wolsey Theatre)

Jacqui Dankworth is one of the most highly regarded vocalists in the UK. Her concert appearances and her stylistically diverse recordings showcase her virtuosic and effortless mastery of a wide spectrum of genres.
The gig is at St Peters by the Waterfront, College Street, Ipswich IP1 1XF
Tickets from the New Wolsey Theatre, 01473 295900

Jacqui Dankworth ~ Vocals, Charlie Wood ~ Piano, Chris Allard ~ Guitar

Jacqui Dankworth is one of the most highly regarded vocalists in the UK. Her concert appearances and her stylistically diverse recordings showcase her virtuosic and effortless mastery of a wide spectrum of genres. Known primarily as a jazz singer, Jacqui also draws on folk, soul and blues influences. Her voice has been described as “multi-faceted” and “incomparable”, “one of our finest singers, regardless of category.” Sunday Times

Charlie Wood is a singer/songwriter and keyboardist whose eclectic musical style incorporates elements of jazz, blues, traditional R&B and popular music. Wood is an accomplished and prolific singer/songwriter and has received stellar reviews for his original music. “Remember the first time you heard Dylan, or Springsteen, or Costello, or Waits? Charlie Wood delivers that same jolt.” Jazz Times

Chris Allard (right) has performed at many prestigious venues and festivals and he has performed/recorded with numerous big names. Chris also leads his own band, which has played all over the UK and in Europe, including the International Guitar Festival and Ronnie Scott’s, and performed and had radio-play as far afield as Los Angeles. His last album received critical acclaim including four stars in Guitarist Magazine.
“One of the great guitarists in this country.” Jamie Cullum

Check out the rest of the Ipswich Jazz Festival.

2018 29 June, £16 – Freddie Gavita Quartet

“He solos with fluent authority, his tone ranging from the warmly conversational to the eloquently strident.”

Freddie Gavita ~ Trumpet, Tom Cawley ~ Piano, Calum Gourlay ~ Bass, Josh Blackmore ~ Drums

Freddie Gavita is a young trumpet player at the top of his game. Having won the British Jazz Award for best trumpeter of 2017, he is one of the most in-demand and versatile trumpet players in Britain today. Whether playing searing trumpet or delivering heartfelt ballads, he is guaranteed to wow any audience. He is a regular visitor to Fleece Jazz as a member of Fletch’s Brew. Freddie has also played with, among others, Peter Erskine, Joe Locke, Jon Hendricks, Kenny Wheeler, Stan Sulzmann, Tim Garland, Gregory Porter and Dionne Warwick.

Pianist and composer Tom Cawley has played all over the world and led bands in residencies at the Blue Note in New York and Ronnie Scott’s. Formerly the pianist with genre-bending iconoclasts Acoustic Ladyland and leader of his much-acclaimed group Curios. Tom’s piano-playing betrays many influences: Phineas Newborn, Brad Mehldau and all points in between.

London-based double bassist and composer Calum Gourlay is known for his deep warm tone, controlled execution as both a supporter and improviser, and rock-solid time and pulse. He has become a mainstay on the London scene.

Josh Blackmore was an incipient member of the piano trio ‘Curios’ with Tom Cawley; he co-founded Troyka with Chris Montague and Kit Downes. He has been described as “cerebral without being self-conscious, playful without seeming glib, simply bursting with intelligence and wit.” (Jazzwise)

“A talented trumpet prodigy” – John Walters, The Guardian

2018 13 July, £18 – Chris Ingham’s Dudley Moore Show

Following their acclaimed Hoagy project, the quartet revisit Moore’s music on ther new CD, “Dudley”
“A vibrant and moving homage.” – Downbeat
“An intimate and heartfelt pleasure” – London Jazz News

Chris Ingham ~ Piano, Paul Higgs ~ Trumpet, Geoff Gascoyne ~ Bass, George Double ~ Drums

Chris Ingham is a popular regular at the Fleece when not leading the house trio at the Jazz at the Hunter Club in Bury St Edmunds. He has played with the likes of Peter King, Scott Hamilton, Tina May, Bobby Wellins, John Etheridge and others. As well as Dudley Moore, Chris has also paid homage to Hoagy Carmichael and film music.

Paul Higgs is one of the UK’s leading trumpet players and composers, blending the traditions of classical and Jazz. He has played with such luminaries as Sir Peter Maxwell Davis, Johnny Dankworth and John Williams and many others.

Goeff Gascoyne played piano from the age of 6. He later played bass in punk bands. Since moving on to Jazz, he has played alongside many of the UK’s best musicians, touring with Jamie Cullum and even appearing in ‘The Talented Mister Ripley’ with Guy Barker’s band.

George Double’s playing and recording credits include Dame Shirley Bassey, Jack Jones, Marc Almond, Ruthie Henshall and Kym Mazelle. He is active on the British jazz scene and appears regularly at Ronnie Scott’s club and with musicians like John Etheridge, Digby Fairweather, Ray Gelato and Derek Nash. He is also curator of Hadleigh and Southwold Jazz Clubs.

“Unfailingly tuneful and spiced with gentle harmonic guile… Dudley would have been delighted.” – Observer

2018 27 July, £16 – Rob Barron Quartet

Rob Barron is a London based jazz pianist, arranger and composer and has been described as ” of the most creative and versatile musicians of his generation.”

Rob Barron ~ Piano, Nat Steele ~ Vibraphone, Jeremy Brown ~ Bass, Josh Morrison ~ Drums

Rob is a London based jazz pianist, arranger and composer and has been described as ” of the most creative and versatile musicians of his generation.” Rob Barron started playing the piano at the age of five and in his teens, was performing his first gigs with a local band. He moved to Leeds in 2000 to study Jazz at Leeds College of Music. During his time in Leeds 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.

Nat Steele is a jazz vibraphone player and drummer, who has been described by Clark Tracey as “one of the best vibes players this country has ever produced.” Self-taught, and following in the style of Milt Jackson and Cal Tjader, Nat takes a two mallet approach to improvisation, focusing on melodic interpretation and a great swing feel.

Jeremy Brown has work in Peter King’s quartet and pianist Julian Joseph’s trio. He is much in demand in the UK and Europe backing performers and working as the regular member of many groups including Stacey Kent, the BBC Big Band and the Anita Wardell quartet.

Josh Morisson is a London based drummer who as worked with several bands, particularly pianist Gabriel Latchin, Steve fishwickand and has recorded and toured with Stacey Kent.

“Pianist Rob Barron was particularly impressive, his spidery, Horace Silver-like runs carving out their own space amongst the rest of the band.” – John Fordham

2018 10 August, £18 – Fletch’s Brew

The band’s style floats seamlessly between the idioms of fusion, funk, bop, reggae and rock.
“…this quartet… could without overstating the case easily be called Band of Virtuosos” – Jazzwise magazine

Mark Fletcher ~ Drums, Freddy Gavita ~ Trumpet, Ross Stanley ~ Organ, Laurence Cottle ~ Bass

In 2010, drumming tour-de-force Mark Fletcher founded Fletch’s Brew, a band which blurs the boundaries of musical styles and surpasses preconceived notions of jazz. Whether playing original compositions or new arrangements from across the jazz canon, their style floats seamlessly between the idioms of fusion, funk, bebop, reggae and rock. Mark is a remarkably talented and muscular drummer, capable of subtlety but never better than when leading an all-guns-blazing charge.

Freddie Gavita is an award-winning British trumpeter and composer who has cemented his place as a leading light on the British jazz scene. Freddie leads his own superb quartet who visited us back in June. Once described as “a cross between Kenny Wheeler and Freddie Hubbard”, he has also played with, among others, Peter Erskine, Joe Locke, Jon Hendricks, Kenny Wheeler, Stan Sulzmann, Tim Garland, Gregory Porter and Dionne Warwick.

Ross Stanley is a regular at Fleece Jazz and an outstanding talent on the Hammond organ. He is always in high demand, playing with Guy Barker, Lianne Carroll, Stan Sulzman, Steve Arguelles, John Paracelli, Bobby Wellins, Clark Tracey, as well as being a regular member of the Jim Mullen Organ Trio, the Mark McKnight Organ Quartet and the Jacqui Dankworth band.

Laurence Cottle haas been the bassist of choice for some of the biggest names in the entertainment business over a career stretching back thirty years. His remarkable and varied career has spanned gigs with top jazz players – Jim Mullen, Django Bates, Gary Husband, Jason Rebello – as well as some of the biggest names in rock and pop – Black Sabbath, Eric Clapton, Brian Eno, Tom Jones and Van Morrison.

“We haven’t had anything like this in New York for over twenty years.” – Wynton Marsalis

2018 24 August, £18 – Georgia Mancio Quartet

“an object lesson in subtlety … in the impact of nuance … It’s beautiful” – All About Jazz *****
“Pure, well enunciated vocals…a real talent for jazz phrasing…a highly skilful storyteller…The air of fragile beauty was haunting and effective” The Jazz Mann.

Georgia Mancio ~ Vocals, Kate Williams ~ Piano, Steve Watts ~ Bass, Dave Ohm ~ Drums

Georgia Mancio is an award-winning jazz vocalist/lyricist and one of the Europe’s most original, adventurous and multi-faceted new artists. Her unfailing integrity, emotional commitment and ever-evolving imagination, produces music of beauty and bite whether classic jazz, Latin or modern song repertoire or her own bold new writing.

British pianist/composer Kate Williams playing is full of graceful storytelling themes and uptempo swing, delicate piano breaks glowing with a Bill Evans hue, bebop horn solos over nimble walking grooves. She is a member of Chris Biscoe’s Mingus Moves, and has performed with many other leading UK artists including Tina May, Henry Lowther, and Jim Mullen.

Steve Watts studied classical bass at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, leaving as soon as he discovered Jazz. Since then he has played with Mark Copeland, Julian Arguelles and many other top Jazz artists. Steve is currently Professor of Bass at the Royal Academy of Music and back at the Guildhall school of Music and Drama.

Known as “the powerhouse”, the much -in-demand drummer, Dave Ohm has played, toured and recorded with amongst others, Benny Golson, Mornington Lockett, Dave Newton,Claire Martin, Pete King and is a regular member of the Ronnie Scott’s All Stars.

Georgia is one of the great voices of the contemporary British jazz scene having both outstanding technical ability and great warmth.

[The young and very brilliant bassist was Conor Chaplin.]

2018 14 September, £25 – Sarah-Jane Morris and Antonio Forcione

They have each been compared to an array of musical geniuses including Janis Joplin and Tom Waits (vocally) as well as Jimi Hendrix (instrumentally) * a comparison Antonio wears with pride. They also exude a wonderful chemistry when performing together.

Sarah Jane Morris vocals, Antonio Forcione guitar.

‘Leave your preconceptions at home,’ begins one London critic’s assessment of sensual singer-songwriter Sarah Jane Morris. Expect just fantastic singing and intense brilliance. ‘Morris does not interpret soul. She is soul, with all its passion and pain, joy and sorrow, hard times and highs.’ The Gazette, Montreal.

Sarah Jane trained as an actress at the Central School of Speech and Drama, alongside comedy duo French and Saunders, actor Rupert Everett and film star Kristen Scott-Thomas. She found fame with The Communards and with the BBC ban of her version of Me and Mrs Jones. Since then she has become a world superstar, with hits in Japan, Germany, Greece (two no. 1 ‘s), and Italy, (awarded the key to the city of Verona!), honoured with a European Grammy and won the international San Remo song festival.

Antonio’s playing is a thing of wonder, both as a stunning soloist at Fleece Jazz and with Sarah. He is a multi-award winning, charismatic, inventive, mould breaking, genre bending, Hendrix of the acoustic guitar. Recently he has been writing and playing with Sarah in what promises to be one of her best ever partnerships.

Come and see a “flamboyant, idiosyncratic singer on the borders of jazz, soul and pop, she’s a majestic if raw-nerved singer of awesome eloquence” The Guardian.

2018 21 September, £18 – Kate Williams Quartet

“…crisp, incisive and totally at one with the rhythmic ebb and flow.” – “Williams has a quality rare among jazz composers: a musical vocabulary that’s all her own” The Observer ****

Kate Williams piano, Stan Sulzmann saxophones, Oli Hayhurst bass, David Ingamells drums

Jazz pianist/composer Kate Williams was born in London into a musical family (her father is the guitarist John Williams, her mother a classical pianist). A recipient of the John Dankworth Award For Talent Deserving Wider Recognition, she has gained a distinctive reputation as both a writer and performer.

She has released several previous CDs, each one to critical acclaim, including ‘Made Up’ (with her septet) and ‘Smoke And Mirrors’ (with tenor legend Bobby Wellins – an album that is always very close to my pleyer). Both were in Mojo magazine’s top ten jazz albums in 2011 and 2012 respectively.

She was featured at the Pizza Express Steinway 2 – Piano Festival in 2010 , 2011 and 2013 (with Robin Aspland and Nikki Iles respectively), with two of the concerts being broadcast on Radio 3 ‘s Jazz Line Up. Her Four Plus Three album with the Guastalla string quartet has got rave reviews

A veteran of the UK jazz scene, Stan Sulzmann has a rich and varied career that has included playing with musicians as diverse as Kenny Wheeler, Larry Grenadier and Gwilym Simcock, as well as a prolific output as bandleader.

Always moving forward, Stan’s Neon Quartet sees him amongst some of the UKs most sought-after young musicians, and their latest album *Subjekt* explores Stan’s ever-developing musical influences. Stan is also a highly respected composer and arranger; his vibrant big band arrangements have excited and inspired people for the last 25 years, and in 2013 Stan was commissioned to write an original piece for the London Jazz Festival.
Highly in demand as a sideman, Stan has worked with a host of musicians, including: John Taylor, Jim Mullen, Nikki Iles, Mike Gibbs, Marc Copland, Allan Botchinksy, European Jazz Ensemble, Kit Downes, Michael Brecker and Gil Evans. And now with Kate, which will be a magical combination.

Oli Hayhurst has been one of the busiest bass players on the London jazz scene since graduating from the Royal Academy of Music in 2000 He is involved in a wide range of music playing with stars of jazz, classical and world musics. He has been featured on over 60 albums and toured extensively. He is a firm Fleece Jazz favourite.

David Ingamells was born in 1990 and started to play the drum kit at the age of seven. In 2009 he was awarded a place to study at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama with Martin Hathaway, Scott Stroman and Malcolm Edmonstone. He is currently a Fellow of the Guildhall School. Whilst at the Guildhall, David had the opportunity to play with the Southbank Sinfonia, as well as being involved in several projects featuring musicians such as Mike Gibbs and Nikki Iles. He graduated from the Guildhall in 2013 with a First Class Honours and was awarded both the Chartered Surveyors’ Prize and the Yahama Jazz Scholarship in the same year. In addition to concert venues such as Queen Elizabeth Hall, Barbican Hall and St. John’s, Smith Square. He has performed in the Isle of Wight, Marlborough and Lillehammer Jazz Festivals, as well as the City of London Festival and the BBC Proms.

*a triumph of integrity and classy musicality* – The Guardian ****

2018 28 September, £15 – Jon Shenoy

Jon Shenoy is ‘A unique multi-instrumentalist, he plays with sophistication, heart and soul and is equally eloquent on each’ – Claire Martin OBE “Shenoy displays a melodic sensibility that bears comparison with any of the great saxophone balladeers of yore.” * Bebop Spoken Here
Jon Shenoy tenor sax, Will Bartlett organ, Sam Dunn guitar, Chris Draper drums

Jon Shenoy is a saxophonist, clarinettist and composer/arranger living in South London. A talented improviser and creative spirit, he plays a wide range of music and leads a number of celebrated ensembles. A stylistic chameleon, he makes a prolific contribution towards the contemporary sounds of the London jazz scene.
Will Bartlett read music at St. Peter’s college, Oxford, specialising in composition and musical analysis as well as directing the Oxford University jazz orchestra. Since then he has worked as a pianist, educator and composer/arranger with names including Stan Sulzmann, Norman Winstone, Claire Martin and the Nelson Riddle Orchestra.
Sam Dunn is a jazz guitarist based in Yorkshire. His playing can be described as ‘Contemporary in language and style but strongly influenced by the history of jazz and the guitar. Recent work has seen him playing with fellow guitarist Howard Alden and performing at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London.
Chris Draper grew up as a multi-instrumentalist specialising in both Jazz Trumpet and Classical Percussion studying at The Purcell School of Music and Royal Academy of Music. Known in the UK and abroad as a versatile musician, his credits include The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars, Mica Paris, Clare Teal, Kyle Eastwood and Soweto Kinch.

‘A total master of all his instruments …Shenoy can hardly contain the force of his own inventiveness.’ Pete Long (MD. Ronnie Scotts Big Band). Another new name rocks the Brirish Jazz scene. Don’t miss this one.

[David Ingamells depped on drums. Great stuff.]

2018 5 October, £18 – Paul Booth Quartet

Paul has firmly established himself as an in-demand solo artist, as well as a ‘first call’ sideman for many big names in both the jazz and popular music worlds.
His technical skills are outstanding and is a long standing master of his chosen instrument. His performing style goes far with a deep understanding of the roots of Jazz.

Paul Booth saxophone, Steve Hamilton piano, Dave Whitford bass, Andrew Bain drums

Paul Booth is one of the most in demand saxophonists on the international scene today. He first played tenor saxophone in public at age 11.Still in his teens he was playing with Jazz luminaries such as Spike Robinson. He then studied at the Royal Academy of Music going on to win the award for Most Promising Jazz Player Of The Year Under 21. Since then he has played with many other top Jazz musicians as well as his own groups.

Steve Hamilton studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston. He then moved to London where he became the most in-demand pianist across the genres performing with legends such as Freddie Hubbard and Gary Burton.

Dave Whitford started playing the bass guitar aged 13. Soon after he held the bass chair in the Cornwall Youth Jazz Orchestra and found himself working in many musical settings and working with many well known Jazz musicians and playing at all the important venues and festivals.

Ronnie Scott has likened saxophonist Paul Booth’s style to that of the late Tubby Hayes – and John Fordham to the lyricism of Stan Getz and John Coltrane. A gig not to be missed.

2018 12 October, £18 – Joanna Eden Quartet: Embraceable Ella

“The UK’s answer to Diana Krall and Norah Jones” – Time Out
“Eden’s songs have melody, mystery and bite* – Mojo Magazine

Joanna Eden vocals, Chris Ingham piano, Joe Pettitt bass, George Double drums

Joanna Eden presents a ‘labour of love’ show celebrating the music of her vocal hero Ella Fitzgerald. From the throw-away A Tisket A Tasket which brought Ella to fame in the forties with the Chick Webb Orchestra to later songbook album classics like Porter’s Every Time We Say Goodbye and Gershwin’s Someone to Watch Over Me , Eden mines the rich seam of Ella Fitzgerald’s unrivalled canon with humility, style and obvious deep affection. Joanna launched Embraceable Ella to much acclaim at the London Jazz Festival 2016 and will be touring this heart-warming collection of songs and anecdotes around jazz clubs and live music venues all over the UK and Europe with her world class band the Chris Ingham Trio.

Lincolnshire born Joanna wrote and performed her first song Happy December age seven. The daughter of a musician and a drama teacher she could read music before she could write, studied piano from age 4 and left university 17 years later with her first tour (with college Indie-band ‘Precious’), an all consuming love of Ella Fitzgerald and a weakness for drummers.
Since then, Joanna has released 4 albums and over 35 original songs.

Multifacited Chris Ingham is a frequent and very welcome player at Fleece Jazz. He composes, arranges, researches, compéres plays piano all to a very high level, and from time to time even sings! We love him whether with his own shows (“Dudley Moore”, “Hoagy Charmichael” and others), in smashing trio form or as an accompanist.

I love Joe Pettitt‘s essay on the Gary Williams website – “How to sing with a big band”, not that Joanna needs the advice. Joe is a respected educationalist and a very fine bassist whether standup or electric. He is in demand in a huge range of genres, from classical to pop, but he is a consumate jazz bassist.

George Double‘s playing and recording credits include Dame Shirley Bassey, Grammy Award Winner Jack Jones, Marc Almond, Ruthie Henshall and Kym Mazelle. His West End and touring theatre record includes stints on Wicked, Guys and Dolls, Avenue Q, Sinatra and Anything Goes.

He is active on the British jazz scene and appears regularly at Ronnie Scott’s club in London and elsewhere as a freelancer (with John Etheridge, Digby Fairweather, Ray Gelato, Ian Shaw, Derek Nash, Alan Barnes, Tina May, Don Weller, Art Themen, The Joe Loss Orchestra and many others). He is also curator of Hadleigh and Southwold Jazz Clubs.

Joanna will be bringing her stunning new album ‘Truth Tree’. If you like the music of Joni Mitchell, Carole King, James Taylor and Kate Bush, you will love ‘Truth Tree’.

2018 19 October, £15 – Frank Harrison + Brigitte Beraha: The Way Home

“Lucid, intelligent, spacious and beautifully controlled explorations” – Jazzwise
“Norma Winstone-like subtlety and precision” – The Guardian

Frank Harrison piano, Brigitte Beraha vocals

Frank Harrison, is one of his generations leading jazz pianist. He first performed aged 15. Frank first bought his quartet here in 1998, and has often appeared here with his own groups, Gilad Atzmon’s Orient House Ensemble, or with Julian Argüelles. Berkley scholarship winner, Frank, recalls listening to Billie Holiday recordings, aged 11, and thinking out how the harmony and melodies worked. In his formative years he did the same for successive jazz styles.

Brigitte Beraha is one of the most versatile and exciting vocalists to emerge on the UK jazz scene. Brigitte appeared at the Fleece in 2012 with Chris Allard and was here in April with John Turville’s Solstice. Brigitte has sung with leading musicians from Peter King to Gwillym Simcock, and is associated with London’s Loop collective. She leads workshops in US and across Europe. Frank and Brigitte have been performing together for about 5 years. They will include work from the album “The Way Home”, released this year. Sebastian Scotney (LJN) wrote, of the album’s launch concert this May, that the “unashamedly lyrical” performance “demonstrated that the partnership has evolved and taken on new life” since the tracks were recorded in 2016. “Beraha’s voice and Harrison’s right hand at the piano seamlessly kept a melodic line going”.

“Notions of love and home are given shape … by the lyrical piano of UK’s Frank Harrison, and the ethereal vocals of London-based Brigitte Beraha.” – Alison Bentley, London Jazz News

Sebastian Scotney, London Jazz News
Beraha’s highly effective partnership with Frank Harrison is, on balance and in the main, more unashamedly lyrical, than, say her collaborations with Barry Green and John Turville. The duo with Harrison goes back around five years, and is a continuing, living thing. The material on the album The Way Home (Linus Records) was all recorded more than two years ago, and last night’s concert demonstrated that the partnership has evolved and taken on new life since then The most abiding memory of the gig was the ease with which Beraha’s voice and Harrison’s right hand at the piano seamlessly kept a melodic line going, and of how naturally Beraha moves from singing words to singing wordlessly, and how both complement each other.

2018 2 November, £18 – Andrew McCormack’s Graviton

“Graviton represents the highest level of musicianship you could get together in one band.” – Jamie Cullum

Andrew McCormack piano, Noemi Nuti vocals, Josh Arcoleo saxophone, Robin Mullarkey bass, Josh Blackmore drums

Internationally acclaimed pianist and composer Andrew McCormack consistently challenges himself to explore new and different musical styles as an artist. Dividing his time between NYC and Europe has enabled him to hone his craft, find direction and a coterie of like-minded musicians to work with. His latest project, Graviton, is a fusion of minimalism, neo-soul and jazz rock for which he has assembled a group of talented musicians, all of whom bring something special to the mix.

Born and raised in New York from Italian descent, Noemi Nuti is a jazz and Latin singer and composer currently residing in London. A former member of the London Vocal Project led by Pete Churchill and lead singer of British Samba Band Rhythms of the City, she has toured with artists of varied nationalities, and has appeared at premier UK jazz venues, including Ronnie Scott’s and 606 Club, as well as venues in Brazil.

Josh Arcoleo was fortunate to start saxophone lessons with Pee Wee Ellis when he was 13. At the age of 18, he enrolled at the Royal Academy of Music in London where he graduated in 2011, winning the Yamaha Jazz Scholarship and the Kenny Wheeler Jazz Award. He started touring with Pee Wee when he was 16 years old with Assembly and the band Still Black Still Proud, with whom he has toured throughout Europe.

Rob Mullarkey is an established London musician with an eclectic and accomplished musical history. He was responsible for mixing and producing the Graviton album and Andrew acknowledges that he was instrumental in producing the band’s unique sound. He has played as part of Jacob Collier’s live band, as well as with Anton Eger and Zero7.

Josh Blackmore is one of only a handful of UK drummers potentially able to reflect Anton Eger’s intensity, speed and dexterity. He co-founded Troyka with Chris Montague and Kit Downes; he has toured with Gerard Presencer, Martin Speake, Ronnie Scott’s All Stars and Dave O’Higgins among others.

“It’s certainly jazz, but not as we know it. Amazing stuff.” – Chris Philips, Jazz FM

2018 9 November, £15 – Elina Duni & Rob Luft Duo featuring Fred Thomas

“A fiercely individual voice, infused by jazz as well as her own cultural roots. – EFG London Jazz Festival
“Luft has delivered the most fully-realised debut from a guitarist since Julian Lage. A remarkably original statement that highlights his prodigious chops and his singular gifts as a composer and sonic provocateur.” – Downbeat Magazine (USA)

Elina Duni, vocals Rob Luft guitar, Fred Thomas piano/drums

Elina Duni is a Swiss-Albanian singer whose hallmark combination of traditional Albanian folk songs and jazz has led to worldwide critical acclaim. Born in Tirana, Albania, in 1981, Elina made her first steps on the stage as a singer aged five, singing for National Radio and Television. In 1992, after the fall of the communist regime, she settled in Geneva, Switzerland, with her mother, where she started studying classical piano and thereafter discovered jazz. She went on to study on the jazz programme at the Hochschule der Künste in Bern. During this time, she formed the Elina Duni Quartet which represented a return to her musical roots, a combination of Balkan folk songs and jazz.

For this new project, Elina is joined by guitarist Rob Luft, acclaimed as one of the rising stars of London’s flourishing contemporary jazz scene. His playing incorporates echoes of West African high-life, English folk and indie rock; his virtuosity has been compared to that of six-string legends John McLaughlin, Al Di Meola & Paco De Lucia. Rob was the recipient of the 2016 Kenny Wheeler Prize from The Royal Academy of Music, and he also received the 2nd Prize in The 2016 Montreux Jazz Guitar Competition at the Montreux Jazz Festival. His joyously original sound finds an ideal counterpart in Elina Duni’s vocals as together they steer us on a journey through timeless folk songs which still resonate so truly today.

The duo will be joined by multi-instrumentalist and composer Fred Thomas. Fred studied jazz piano at the Royal Academy of Music. He now performs regularly with a wide variety of creative projects: original and improvised music with his own band, the Fred Thomas Trio; contemporary classical and improvised music with the Fred Thomas/Jiri Slavik Duo; Blues with Sister Mary & the Choir Boys; traditional and contemporary Senegalese music (on double-bass) with Kadialy Kouyate’s Sound Archive; folk (on percussion) with The Magic Lantern.

” . . . nothing less than magical” – Downbeat

2018 16 November, £20 – Tina May

“Lesser artists… may have grabbed the headlines, but Tina May remains the most expressive and technically gifted jazz singer on the UK scene” – Kenny Mathieson, The Scotsman

Tina May vocals, Robin Aspland piano, Arnie Somogyi bass, Steve Brown drums

Tina May first played the Fleece in … well, a long time ago, in the last millenium. I believe this might be the 22nd time she has graced our stage, which is neat as, to date, she has released 22 albums of her own and many collaborations. The show will feature songs from the latest “Cafe Paranoia” which includes lyrics by Mark Murphy and Tina and compositions by German pianist Andy Lutter, sometime collaborator with Murphy. Apart from celebrating Murphy it will also include songs from Berlin, Paris and Broadway.”

To give a flavour of what to expect, Peter Jones (London Jazz News) calls it “a complete delight, stuffed with … gorgeous melodies…..Some of the material is tricky, yet May carries it off in a light, hip, effortless style…I have never heard her sing better.” We agree wholeheartedly that Tina has blossomed as a performer. Her last performance at the Fleece was relaxed, totally engaging and a joy to witness.

Tina is essentially part of part of the Fleece family and that connection, built over the years, gives the sense of someone playing to goood friends with confidence, fun and pure enjoyment. To fully understand the magic, you have to be there.

Over the years Tina has been accompanied by a large number of talented musicians. Tonight is no exception. Initially I started writing individual notes for Robin, Arnie and Steve, all themselves Fleece stalwarts, but realised I was effectively saying the same thing for each. They are all hugely talented musicians, they improvise with flair as part of a band, never seeking to dominate their collaborators and they listen as though their lives depend on it.

Finally a quote from Tina herself: “Swinging melodies with a great band. What’s not to like” P.S. I [John Anderson] genuinely am flying back from Greece for this gig.

2018 23 November, £16 – African Jazz Quintet

Exciting African Township music will keep your feet tapping!

Frank Williams ~ Tenor Sax, Alastair Gavin ~ Piano, Cameron Pierre ~ Guitar, Raph Mizraki Bass, Kofi Oheneba Adu ~ Drums

There is nothing in the world like the sound of South African jazz played by guys who have it in their souls. The rhythms are irresitable. Frank Williams left South Africa in 1978 and made his name in the UK in the 1980s playing with fellow South African jazz exiles in Chris McGregor‘s legendary Brotherhood of Breath and, later, Dudu Pukwana‘s Zila. It is a great pleasure to be able to welcome back Frank’s quintet.

Alastair Gavin is well known in these parts not least for his gigs with Sarah Jane Morris. His mastery of the keyboard is matched by his composition and his versatility. He has an impressive body of work having recorded with many household names and his extensive CV includes being the MD of a hit musical on both sides of the pond.

Cameron Pierre was born in London, spent his early years in Dominica before returning to the UK, coicidently in 1978. has gone on to work with Courtney Pine, Pee Wee Ellis, Orphy Robinson, Mighty Sparrow, Ernest Ranglin, David Rudder, Andy Narell, Alex Wilson, Mario Conange, Sarah Jane Morris, Byron Wallen, Jazz Jamaica, Dennis Rollins, to name a few.
Raph Mizraki kicked off his professional musical career at the age of 14 as a drummer and pianist. Since that time he has honed his skills on an extraordinary range of instruments and is now widely regarded as one of the finest jazz bass players in the country. Some ighlights in a career spanning over three decades include playing percussion for Kaboodie Theatre, Pan Projects and Tara Arts; playing keyboards for Nigerian jazz artist Gasper Lawal and the Oro Band; playing drums for Maddy Prior and the Carnival Band; and playing bass for Hassan Erraji and Arabesque, for Todd Sharpeville and the Blues Barons, and for Jamie Cullum.

Kofi Adu was co-founder of the seminal Hi-Life International band and has a long discography, including work with King Onyina, Anansi,Trevor Watts and Boombaya.

All music should be the joy that this group delivers.

2018 30 November, £16 – Talinka

Talinka- When jazz meets with Tango, Early music, Folk and Jazz again
“Terrific emotional depth . . . Very entertaining and richly enjoyable.” – Peter Jones, Bebop Spoken Here

Tali Atzmon vocals, Gilad Atzmon bass clarinet/soprano sax/accordian/guitar, Yaron Stavi bass, Jenny Bliss viola da gamba/flute/barque violin/vocals

Talinka creates a new, distinctive sound that is at times haunting, connecting with deep moody jazz standards and a new international form of World Music. The unusual choice of instruments and combination of personalities creates an amalgam of past and present, East and West. A natural continuum between ethnic, jazz, tango and Early Music, transcending musical boundaries.

Tali Atzmon was a renowned actress and singer in Israel. She has been described as “an amazingly soulful jazz singer, whose voice captivates while the music weaves a magical spell on the listener, drawing you in.” (The Progressive Aspect)

Jenny Bliss is a baroque virtuoso, best known for playing baroque and early music but who is an open-minded artist readily capable of moving easily between musical genres. The melancholy sound of her cello-like viola da gamba reflects the ineffable sadness of Tali’s lyrics, while her breezy, effervescent flute-playing brings a ray of hope.

Gilad Atzmon is no stranger to Fleece Jazz – he is, of course, an internationally acclaimed jazz saxophonist with an affinity for ethnic sounds. The sound of his soprano sax is passionate and expressive and his versatility on a range of other instruments will be very much in evidence tonight. He has been described as “a formidable improvisational talent . . . a jazz giant . . . (who) combines thrilling jazz musicianship with a maverick political intelligence” by Guardian critics.

Yaron Stavi is a bassist who has performed all over the world with many musicians, playing double and electric bass and crossing genres into rock, classical, jazz and World Music. He is supremely accomplished with a palpable stage presence. He frequently appears at Fleece Jazz with Gilad as part of the Orient House Ensemble.

“Intrinsically beautiful and elemental, enchanting the spirit, warming the heart and freeing the soul.” – Peter Thelen, Exposé

2018 7 December, £16 – Sarah Gillespie

Gillespie “who joins Bob Dylan’s lyrical bite and languid delivery to the forthrightness of Joni Mitchell, with a little rap like percussiveness thrown in, is an original” – John Fordham, The Guardian

Sarah Gillespie Vocals & Guitar, Tom Cawley Piano , Chris Montague Guitar, Ruth Goller Bass, Dave Hamblett Drums

Sarah Gillespie, Anglo American singer, songwriter, poet, political commentator and lovely lady was introduced to The Fleece by one of our team of scouts, Gilad Atzmon. Although not strictly pure jazz, who cares? She is brilliant and we are delighted that she keeps coming back. Impossible to pigeon-hole, Sarah is a truly exciting intelligent musician with plenty to say, and a First Class degreein Film and Literature and MA in Politics and Philosophy guarantee that it is worth hearing. She began piano and composing when she was four and took up guitar aged 13, and busking ang gigging in the States at 18, so do not think her youth means inexperience.

Sarah’s influences include Bob Dylan, Tom Waits, Cole Porter, T.S.Eliot, James Tate and the Beat Poets over a bed rock of early blues and jazz. Mix that together and you have Sarah’s latest album Wishbones which was lauched at a sellout concert in the Purcell Rooms in late October this year.

Wishbones has drawn fantastic **** reviews including “achingly pretty and bitter sweet” (The Independent), “streetwise and romantic, tender and tough” (Daily Telelgraph) and “a beat poet adventurer who strays beyond the bounds of singer-songwriter” (Mojo). Come and listen before you buy.

Sarah is joined by pianist Tom Cawley, a favourite at the club. Chris Montague of Troyka fame, regularly plays with Kit and exciting Italian bassist Ruth Goller (check her out with Accoustic Ladyland) as well as very talented drummer Dave Hamblett. All in all, an excellent outfit to support Sarah’s genius.

Do not miss “an incandescent new presence with superior lyrics” The Guardian ****

2018 14 December, £20 – Liane Carroll

“Liane Carroll doesn’t just sing jazz. She is jazz. This is jazz of the highest quality. Believe.” **** Mojo
Liane Carroll vocals/piano, Roger Carey bass, Russell Field drums
Multi award winning Liane Carroll is unique – a larger than life character with a strong voice, in which one can find influences both of the great soul singers and of her semi-pro country club singing parents. She performs her own compositions and a wide selection of jazz standards to which brings her own sound. Add to that her classically founded mastery of the jazz piano and the witty delivery of personal anecdotes, Liane is the complete entertainer.

Her husband, Roger Carey and fellow Hasting resident Russell Field complete the trio

In 1993, when we first booked her at the Fleece, Liane was a struggling young musician, working in both jazz and R&B. National prominence and the string of awards came later. She has recorded solo and with Bobby Wellins, Kenny Wheeler, Mark Fletcher, Gwillym Simcock and Paul McCartney and more. Liane revels in live performance. She has made many appearances at Ronnie Scott’s, has toured as far afield as New Zealand and Brazil and has performed at Jazz Festivals, including with sparring with Alan Barnes at Titley.

“Carroll’s confidence in the expressiveness of the smallest utterance gives her an irresistible eloquence, as strong at low volumes as it is at full throttle” John Fordham The Guardian; “Liane sings her way through the whole spectrum from jazz diva to fragile victim.” – Kathryn Shackleton

2018 28 December, £25 – Sax Appeal

Sax Appeal – showcasing saxophone and sax players, blowing away cobwebs and having so much fun for (try to believe this) over 40 years! The perfect late Christmas gift to yourself.

Derek Nash Saxophone & Compositions, Matt Wates Saxophone, Brandon Allen Saxophone, Paul Booth Saxophone, Bob McKay Saxophone, Pete Adams Piano, Phil Scragg Bass, Mike Bradley Drums

Derek Nash has been an irregular regular at Fleece Jazz both as player and leader almost from its start. Sax Appeal first played The Fleece on October 18th 1996, sandwiched between Tim Richard and Elaine Delmar. Derek always gives 100%, whether he is producing or engineering, protecting the beat, providing a picante evening, playing accoustically, featuring in Ronnie Scott’s Blues Explosion, leading Sax Appeal or hamming it up with someone’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra. Watch as he tries to upstage everyone on Hootenanny!

Derek has written and arranged almost all the material for four decades, with a bit of help from his dad, but amazingly he still bursts on stage like a teenager. If anyone finds a way of bottling his energy and enthusiasm, put me down for a case. One day we may get to see the portrait of him (rumoured to be in his attic), which ages, as he doesn’t.

Sharing excellent Sax solos with Derek are History of Art graduate, and humourist Dr. Matt Wates PhD, escapee from Perth, Western Australia & proud father of two, Brandon Allen, former student in Perth and Spanish bar performer (aged 11) Paul Booth and Bob McKay who began recording in 1974, including with NYJO (1977) and claims he usually plays in bigger bands than this! (Michael Garrick, Pete Cater, Vic Lewis Big Bands in fact).

To keep such tours de force in order you need a solid back row. Welcome then the usual suspects, all of whom can produce fine solos: Pete Adams makes the piano swing like blazes with bluesy, funky and boogie fervour. Phil Scragg, in this setting, provides a powerful sturdy bass line and former NYJO drummer Mike Bradley uses a wealth of experience to underpin the whole venture

Between Christmas and New Year, before the resolutions get in the way, get come to The Fleece and have some fun, enjoy vibrant quality jazz and a bit of Panto from the ever youthful “Peter Pan” of Jazz, Derek Nash.

[The superb Nic France was our drummer.]

2019 4 January, £18 – Chris Ingham and Mark Crooks – Getz: A Musical Portrait

“Ingham has a warm and generous way with music..his style is based on rhythmic presence and dynamic propulsion” – Downbeat

Chris Ingham piano, Mark Crooks tenor sax, Arnie Somogyi bass, George Double drums

Stan Getz is one of the great heros of modern jazz. A tenorist with an instantly spottable tone, Stan was an influence on many, particularly the Grammy award people who gave him five!

To discover the life and music of this great musician, you will find no better people than Chris and Mark. Chris Ingham is a sought after pianist (see the Downbeat quote), but also a musical scholar with a subtle sense of humour and an engaging connection with an audience.

Mark Crooks has graced our stage many times. He is supremely versatile, his playing is melodic and flowing, and his last CD, “How my Heart Sings”, was released to critical acclaim. He has an abiding love for Getz’s music.

Arnie Somogyi on bass and George Double on drums are the perfect backline pair for this gig.

2019 11 January, £20 – Toni Kofi and the Organisation: Point Blank

*A killer band with real bite* – Jazzwise
Tony Kofi saxophone, Pete Whittaker organ, Simon Fernsby guitar, Pete Cater drums

From a CD review of “Point Blank” bye Adrian Pallant:
“The sight of Tony Kofi picking up baritone sax never fails to produce a tremor of excitement – and on Point Blank, he and The Organisation fervently explore the post-bop jazz repertoire through ten choice numbers from ten artists/composers, including Wes Montgomery, McCoy Tyner, Henry Mancini and Jimmy Smith.
The Organisation – guitarist Simon Fernsby, organist Pete Whittaker and drummer Peter Cater – began life as a London-based organ trio, over a decade ago; and it was only a fortuitous depping opportunity in 2010 which brought Kofi into the mix (shortly after he had recorded in the US with Ornette Coleman), establishing this fine and peppy quartet line-up.”

Tony Kofi is a British Jazz multi-instrumentalist born of Ghanaian parents, a player of the Alto, Baritone, Soprano, Tenor saxophones and flute. Having ‘cut his teeth’ in the “Jazz Warriors” of the early 90’s, award-winning saxophonist Tony Kofi has gone on to establish himself as a musician, teacher and composer of some authority. As well as performing and recording with Gary Crosby’s “Nu-Troop” and “Jazz Jamaica”, Tony’s playing has also been a feature of many bands and artists he has worked/recorded with include “US-3” The World Saxophone Quartet, Courtney Pine, and Ornette Coleman.

London-based jazz organist Pete Whittaker became fascinated with the Hammond organ after hearing the classic 1960s jazz recordings by the likes of Jimmy Smith, Richard “Groove” Holmes, and Jack McDuff. After a few years touring the western world with rock bands, Pete has in recent times been involved with several jazz projects including UK saxophonist Theo Travis’ “Double Talk” and guitarist John Etheridge’s “Blue Spirits”. Pete is also regular member of the Nigel Price Organ Trio.

Simon Fernsby moved to London in the early 80’s. Initially working on the the rock and pop scene he has toured extensively in the UK, Europe, Scandanavia the former Yugoslavia, the US Canada and Japan. Headlining such prestigious venues as The Royal Abert Hall, the Forum, Paris Olympia, the Whiskey a go go and the Universal Amphitheatre Los Angeles. He has multiple TV and radio credentials, and has played with a huge range of fine international musicians.

“A gifted and versatile drummer, at home in any context”(Rough Guide to Jazz) Pete Cater is a natural self-taught drummer who has been playing since infancy. Pete first formed his own big band when still in his teens and of more recent years the Pete Cater Big Band has released three highly acclaimed Cds, broadcast on Radio 3, appeared at major jazz festivals across the UK, and they are doing an ongoing UK wide series of concerts commemorating the music of the late, great Buddy Rich. Pete’s big band expertise sees him in regular demand with a variety of large ensembles including the BBC big Band and the Back to Basie Orchestra. Pete remains in demand as a freelance player and educator with special emphasis on jazz and improvisation.

2019 18 January, £18 – Nigel Price Quartet

“Nigel Price is probably the most dynamic and gifted guitarist on the British jazz scene today” – All About Jazz

Nigel Price guitar, Jim Watson organ, Vasilis Xenopoulos tenor sax, Joel Barford drums

Starting his professional career in his early 20s, Nigel Price toured Europe with various reggae and funk bands before settling on a solo guitar career and turning his attention to jazz. Citing early influences as Wes Montgomery, Joe Pass, John McLaughlin and the Mahavishnu Orchestra. Nigel has played on more than 50 albums including 5 as a leader.

Jim Watson is a freelance Pianist, Keyboardist Composer and Improviser. He studied at Leeds College of Music (BA Hons) then at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. London/Suffolk based he is currently working with Manu Katche. Recent work includes Sting, Katie Melua, Richard Bona, Raul Midon, Zero 7, Incognito, Meshell Ndegeocello amongst others.

Saxophonist and composer Vasilis Xenopoulos is one of the most accomplished Greek jazz musicians of his generation. Now London based, he has worked with some of the best musicians in the British jazz scene, such as Jim Mullen, Steve Waterman, Alan Barnes, Derek Nash. Internationally, he has appeared with a variety of top performers.

Joel Barford is a 21 year old freelance drummer based in London. Joel is primarily a jazz drummer and has played with a variety of people such as Alex Hitchcock, Ross Stanley, Sam Leak, Tom Seals, NYJO, Nigel Price, CC Smugglers, Dave Swift, Derek Nash, John Etheridge, Conor Chaplin, Nick Costley-White, Alex Ridout, Pete Long, Liane Carroll and many more. Joel has played established venues and festivals such as Ronnie Scotts, Pizza Express Jazz Club, 606 Club, North Sea Jazz Festival, London Jazz Festival, Cambridge Jazz Festival and more across UK and Europe.

A great band led by a brilliant guitarist – well worth braving the winter weather for.

2019 25 January, £18 – Alan Barnes Quartet

Whether on alto, baritone or tenor, Barnes’ melodic sense bypasses the usual scale-running clichÈs that pepper the playing of lesser bop disciples. – Peter Marsh, BBC Music Review
Alan Barnes saxes, Robin Aspland piano, Arnie Somogyi bass, Sebastiaan de Krom drums

Whatever the instrument, Alan plays it hard and fast and with the sort of inventive flexibility and invention that ensures that he has his own sound and style.
The young Alan Barnes was recognized – and hired – by the established greats of the time. But he is equally respected for his longstanding and fruitful collaborations with contemporaries such as David Newton, Bruce Adams, and Martin Taylor. He has made over thirty albums as leader and co-leader alone.

After working with various bands in the Leeds area, Robin Aspland moved to London in 1984. He became very well known in UK jazz circles, playing with resident and visiting artists. He continued to build a reputation as an excellent and inventive soloist on a range of keyboards.

Arnie Somogy first took up the violin at the age of 5. By the time he was 14 he was playing bass guitar. Five years later he was playing with Portishead’s Adrian Utley and later with Tommy Chase. An outstanding bass talent, musician, bandleader, composer, presenter, and music lecturer.

Dutch drummer Sebastiaan de Krom started playing drums at age three. He received his frst lessons from his father. He later went to the Berkley School of Music, where he received lessons by John Ramsey, Joe Hunt, and Jon Hazilla among others. He has played with Guy Barker, Tommy Smith, Wynton Marsalis, John Scofield, among many others.

“Barnes, plays music that was radical 50 years ago – hard, urban post-bop – but he infuses it with so much passion and energy you could believe it was minted on the spot, which is always part of the story with jazz.” – John L. Walters, The Guardian.
As ever, a gig not to be missed.

[Matt Home was our brilliant drummer on this gig.]

2019 1 February, £16 – Basil Hodge Quartet

“Timeless and enjoyably unpretentious modal bop with strong themes, punchy choruses and spirited playing” – Independent on Sunday

Basil Hodge piano, Ed Jones tenor sax, Oli Hayhurst bass, Winston Clifford drums

Pianist and composer, Basil Hodge has thrilled audiences throughout the UK for over 20 years with his charming compositions and emotional hard swinging performances. With two critically acclaimed recordings under his belt, this project will showcase Basil’s new compositions and the evolution of his older ones. Championed by no less a figure than Julian Joseph, Basil has forged a solid reputation in British jazz, having played with some of the leading UK players such as Jim Mullen, Tony Kofi, Dave O’Higgins, Pete Wareham and Renato D’Aiello.

UK jazz saxophonist/composer, Ed Jones works in the UK and internationally on a wide range of his own projects and collaborations. His experience as a sideman reflects his diverse interests. Over the past decade he has performed with U.S jazz musicians George Benson, Dianne Reeves, Charles Earland, Horace Silver, Clifford Jarvis and Dr Lonnie Smith. “A formidable saxophonist… an improviser to his fingertips, a player of forceful imagination . . .” (John Fordham, The Guardian.)

Oli Hayhurst has a beautiful, warm tone on the bass and plays melodically, underpinned by a driving rhythmic feel. He has been one of the busiest bass players on the London jazz scene since graduating from the Royal Academy of Music in 2000. He has played with Gilad Atzmon’s Orient House Ensemble, Zoe Rahman and Pharoah Sanders.

A firm Fleece favourite, Winston Clifford, is one of the most in-demand drummers on the jazz scene to date. His playing is free from the usual restraints of stylistic expectations and a true reflection of listening and responding in the moment. This approach has led him to play with Carleen Anderson, Stanley Turrentine, Archie Shepp and Freddie Hubbard among others.

“Hodge generates more piano power…his starry front liners frequently lock horns in a harmonic manner reminiscent of Horace Silver’s groups.” – Chris Yates, Jazz UK

2019 8 February, £18 – Chris Bowden Quintet featuring Bryan Corbett: “Unlikely Being”

Atmospheric tunes, extended arrangements, powerful performances and good old fashioned grooves -London Jazz News

Chris Bowden alto sax, Bryan Corbett trumpet/flugel, Jim Watson piano, Chris Dodd bass/bass guitar, Neil Bullock drums

These musicians have all played with too many jazz greats to list. They are now regularly performing together. The evening will include work from the 2018 “Unlikely Being” CD, and perhaps material destined for their next album. Chris Bowden, from Birmingham. came to prominence with his 1996 funk/ acid /latin-jazz/album “Time Capsule”, reinforced by his 2002 album “Slightly Askew”. His has played for Us3, The Herbaliser, 4Hero, and The Heritage Orchestra.

His “Unlikely Being” project, which started in 2017, heralds Chris’s return to full health. It haas a mellower and more relaxed sound than his earlier work. Bryan Corbett went to The Royal Northern College of Music and Liverpool (Hope). He has performed with the BBC Concert Orchestra, Ben E King, the Polish Funk de Nite. His own Quartet, recorded a double CD here at Fleece Jazz. In 2017 he led the Bluenote Sessions at the Birmingham Jazz Legends Fest.

Jim Watson read Jazz at Leeds and Guildhall. His work has ranged from being in Strictly Come Dancing Orchestra to touring with French drummer Manu Katchés. Chris Dodd, a Berklee College of Music scholar, was joint leader of the Green Quartet with Bryan. He recently backed Polly Gibbons at the London Jazz Festival.

Neil Bullock Following his period as drummer in the Midlands YJO, he was tutored by “Take Five” drummer Joe Morello. Niel has toured with Chuck Berry.

“The effect of the doubled horns is eerily ambiguous – clearly not a single instrument yet so closely together in tune and tone” -Mark McKergow. on track 1 of the CD, London Jazz News)

2019 15 February, £20 – Deelee Dubé and Renato D’Aliello

‘A voice of deep grainy power … Dubé has a quick-witted musicality’ – Daily Telegraph

“Renato is a superlative saxophonist with a passionate and poetic soul. He has all the virtues – a beautiful sense of time and pacing and a technique which effortlessly projects his brilliantly flowing ideas.” – Ian Carr

Deelee Dubé vocals, Renato D’Aiello tenor sax, Bruno Montrone piano, Darren McCarthy bass, Alfonso Vitale drums

Deelee Dubé (pronounced Doo-bay, accented “é”) made history by becoming the first British Winner of the 2016 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition and is one of today’s foremost gifted vocalists to have emerged from the London scene in many years. Embodying a stellar African musical lineage, the eclectic tastes of a London upbringing and a deep love and respect for the jazz tradition, Deelee possesses what Jazz Times called ‘a warm tone, genuine blues feeling and easy rhythmic authority.’ A songwriter as well as a vocalist, Deelee has had her work reach the semi-finals of the UK Song writing (UKSC) Contest.

Renato D’Aiello is a welcome returner. This modest Neapolitan’s hard bop and straight ahead jazz are much appreciated at Fleece Jazz. In 1984 he became first alto in the Bologna Big Band. By 1986 he was on Italian TV in Giovanni Tommaso’s big band. In 1987 he became a scholarship student at Berklee College of Music. Renato is now an England based tenor player, composer, and educator. He has performed throughout Europe and toured Japan. He has played with Art Farmer, Claire Teal, Steve Melling, and John Chritchinson. His latest CD is Satori (2015).

Bruno Montrose will be having his debut with us, and we are looking forward to seeing him.

Darren McCarthy is an Irish bass player based in London. He earned his degree at the Leeds College of Music and Masters Degree at The Guildhall School Of Music and Drama. He has established himself on the London jazz scene as a much sought-after bassist working with notable musicians such as; Bruce Barth, Pee Wee Ellis, Larry Coryell, Alex Garnett, Leon Greening, Tony Miceli,Steve Fishwick, Jim Mullen, Ernesto Simpson, ,Ofer Landsberg, Dave Cliff, Emma Smith, and Henry Lowther and outside of the jazz world -Oscar Winner Glen Hansard, Andrew Philpott (Depeche Mode) and film composer Maurice Seezer.
Darren has been a long time member of Irish cult folk rock band Interference led by Fergus O’Farrell (RIP), who features in the Oscar winning Irish independent film and now Broadway musical ‘Once’. Darren performed with Interference to a sold out Radio City Music Hall , New York City 2008. Other engagements included an hour long concert on Irish Televison’s ‘Other Voices’ numerous international music festivals.

Alfonso Vitale, Italian drummer. Ex enfant prodige, Alfonso starte playing the drums at age 3 and at 12 was already playing professionally. Resident in London he is the house drummer at Acoustic Jazz Lounge at Ronnie Scott and he is becoming a very much in demand drummer in London.

2019 22 February, £20 – Clark Tracey Quintet: “No Doubt”

Celebrating his 40th year in jazz, Clark has assembled his newest line-up of gifted young musicians for 2018.

Clark Tracey drums, Alex Ridout trumpet, Sean Payne alto sax, Elliott Sansom piano, James Owston bass

Named Best Drummer at both the 2017 and 2018 British Jazz Awards, Clark Tracey has carved out a serious career for 40 years. He has worked with most of the great American players and almost every leading British musician, including his late father, the great jazz legend, Stan Tracey. He has brought together a group of brilliant young players, already causing ripples on the jazz scene, and guarantees to deliver the hard bop message for which he is so revered. Formed in January 2018, they released their first CD ‘No Doubt’ in September, which showcases the talents of these formidable stars in the making.

All four members of Clark’s band have been finalists of the BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year award. Alex Ridout was crowned the winner in 2016 at the age of seventeen. “We were enchanted by Alexandra’s presence as a musician, her sound, but most importantly the relationship with the blues and swinging that sounds important in her playing” said Julian Joseph who was Chair of the jury that year.

Sean Payne won the same award in 2014 at the tender age of thirteen. Sean has been playing sax since the age of eight and jazz proper since he was eleven! Both musicians were heard by Clark at the Purcell School of Music some years ago and are currently studying at the Royal Academy of Music.

Elliott Sansom started playing piano at the age of five and eventually studied at the Birmingham Conservatoire where Clark teaches regularly. He was another contender in the 2016 BBC Young Musician Jazz Award. James Owston was another Birmingham Conservatoire student and yet another contender in the BBC Young Musician Jazz Award, but this time in 2018.

So, we have four, obviously talented young people and it will be interesting to hear how Clark has moulded them into his Quintet.

“Clark Tracey is an increasingly important catalyst in the development of young musicians” – Jazz Views

2019 1 March, £18 – John Turville Quintet featuring Julian Arguelles

*World-class* exquisite* consistently inventive and beautifully performed throughout, Conception is one of the best jazz recordings I’ve heard* ****** John Adcock
*For the ability simultaneously to deliver great subtlety of musical character with both emotional energy and intellectual power, [Julian] is one of the very best we have.* – Peter Bacon

John Turville piano, Julian Arguelles tenor/soprano sax, Robbie Robson trumpet, Dave Whitford bass, James Maddren drums

Pianist and educator John Turville has established himself as a mainstay of the UK and European contemporary jazz scenes in his varied roles as sideman, co-leader and trio/quartet leader. After a classical education at Cambridge and the Guildhall, he has forged an international performing career. He has recorded and performed with many renowned jazz and tango groups, including Tim Garland’s Acoustic Triangle and Lighthouse Trio, the Tony Kofi/Alan Barnes Quintet, Kairos 4tet, Asaf Sirkis Trio, Gilad Atzmon, Transtango and El Ultimo Tango. Taking inspiration from British jazz legends John Taylor and Kenny Wheeler, as well as the Argentine composer and tango pianist Diego Schissi, John’s writing is refined and wide-ranging, from lyrical ballads and spiky rhythmic compositions to reflective classical vignettes.

From his beginnings with the legendary Loose Tubes, through his worldwide collaborations, to his searching solo projects, UK composer/saxophonist, bandleader and educator Julian Arguelles has built an impressive reputation for presenting world-class, small-band post-bop that now spans almost three decades. His compositions have been described as “supremely lyrical, with beautiful melodies whilst staying clichÈ free”. His recordings, compositions and arrangements have earned him the highest accolades internationally with wide critical acclaim and awards.

Robbie Robson studied Jazz at Leeds College of Music, where he was awarded the John Coates Prize for Outstanding Musicianship, then moved to London to do his Postgraduate Diploma at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Since then he has been active on the London Jazz scene, participating in a very wide and varied spectrum of jazz projects including the London Jazz Orchestra and the Gareth Lockrane Big Band.

Dave Whitford discovered a passion for music at school where he started playing the bass guitar aged 13. Soon after he held the bass chair in the award-winning Cornwall Youth Jazz Orchestra and worked in music theatre, swing, funk and reggae bands. Dave has continued to forge a reputation for himself and can frequently be heard in the capital’s top venues.

James Maddren is a highly gifted drummer who has, in recent years, become the first-call drummer of choice for both the younger and more established generation of jazz musicians in the UK including Gwilym Simcock, Kit Downes Trio, Jacob Collier, Martin Speake Quartet, Nikki Iles and Norma Winstone among others.

“Mining as deep a seam of musical ideas as Brad Mehldau” – The Guardian

2019 15 March, £18 – Steve Fishwick Quartet

“Contemporary hard bop from four excellent practitioners.” – All About Jazz)

Steve Fishwick trumpet, Alex Garnett saxophone, Mike Karn bass, Matt Fishwick drums

Well-known as a fleet and expert bebopper, Steve Fishwick is widely considered to be one of the best jazz trumpeters to come from the U.K. He is rapidly gaining a global reputation due to his flawless technique and his beautifully flowing, harmonically rich improvisations. Heavily influenced by the melodic approach of the late, great Kenny Dorham, Steve grew up in Manchester and played his first professional gigs while still in his early ‘teens before leaving for London to study at the Royal College of Music. He has played with most leading U.K. jazz musicians including Sir John Dankworth, Stan Tracey, Peter King and Mike Carr among others.

Steve is accompanied by Ronnie Scott’s Allstar Alex Garnett, one of the leading saxophonists in the U.K. and mainland Europe for over two decades, being instantly recognised by his dark, husky sound. A versatile musician and first call sideman, he has enjoyed success as both a jazz artist, composer and arranger, and an in-demand session, studio and commercial saxophonist, having racked up countless recording credits along the way. He has a reputation as a fearsome soloist and has worked with Wynton Marsalis, Pete King, Scott Hamilton and Van Morrison.

American saxophonist and bassist Mike Karn has been involved in the New York jazz scene for more than 20 years and in that time he has worked with many of the music world’s most creative artists. Mike began to seriously pursue the bass in 2007 and within a few years he was working with some of New York’s best musicians, including tenor great Lew Tabakin, jazz vocal legend Jon Hendricks, Jimmy Heath’s big band, as well as with his brother Albert “Tootie” Heath on numerous occasions including engagements at the Blue Note, the Village Vanguard, and the 2013 Chicago Jazz Festival.

Like his twin brother, Matt Fishwick became interested in music at an early age and, together with Steve, entered the thriving Manchester jazz scene a few years later. He also studied at the Royal Academy of Music in London and met many like- minded musicians that have since made an impact on the London Jazz scene and internationally; these include Tom Cawley, Gareth Lockrane, Orlando Le Fleming and tenor saxophonist Osian Roberts.

“From cool, slow-burning and moody ensemble pieces to fast-paced, explosive, unison playing”

2019 22 March, £20 – John East Project

“East and the band brought the house down” – City AM

“Vocalist and Hammond player John East leads a fine band” – TIME OUT

John East Hammond Organ and vocals, Mark Fletcher drums, Freddie Gavita trumpet, Nigel Price guitar, Steve Pearce bass, Dave Lewis tenor sax, Dan Hewson trombone and piano

The John East Project led by vocalist and organ player John East was formed seven years ago and is a regular and popular feature at the 606 Club in Chelsea and elsewhere. John has played the Hammond for many years working with musicians such as John Etheridge, Phil Robson and Katie Kissoon.

John’s stellar band of Mark Fletcher (drums) Steve Pearce (bass) Nigel Price (guitar) soon to be announced (trumpet), Daniel Hewson (trombone and piano) and the great Dave Lewis (tenor sax) are all (or will become) firm Fleece favourites.

Melodic vocal jazz with blistering solos driven on by the distinctive Hammond sound is sure to give us a night to remember. It certainly did the last time the project graced the Fleece Jazz Stage.

Come share a great evening with John East on Hammond and vocals and his stellar band.

2019 29 March, £18 – Sean Khan Quartet

Sean’s blissful and gifted alto sax playing demonstrates a rare technical prowess an understanding of Jazz history and a raging determination to carve out it’s future.

Sean’s second album was described simply by Jazzwise as “Stunning”, the acclaim and success of this album led to Sean and his band playing to sell out crowds at Ronnie Scott’s and The Jazz Cafe.

Sean Kahn – alto & soprano sax, Sam Leake – piano, Lorenzo Bassignani – bass, Laurie Lowe – drums

Sean Khan is a London based saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist who studied classical music at Goldsmiths College during the 90s. Sean has shared a stage with Sun-Ra and Pharoah Sanders collaborator Clifford Jarvis, Bheki Mseleku, Joe Armon-Jones, Binker Golding, Lisa Stansfield, and even the Beastie Boys.

Sam Leake is a London based Jazz Pianist and a recent graduate of the Royal Academy of Music. His performance credits include playing with Stan Sulzmann, US Electric Bass virtuoso Janek Gwizdala, a duet with John Taylor and supporting Benny Golson at Ronnie Scotts.

Lorenzo Bassignani was born in Varese, Italy,in 1978. Studied with Marco Conti in Italy, Steve Watts and Geoff Gascoyne in London. His professional career started in Italy. He later moved to London and began performing all over the world at venues such as Pizza Express, 606 Club, Tokyo Opera House.

Laurie Lowe has been playing drums since the age of six and has gained experience with many different artists in many different genres of music. Laurie has gone on to play with some of the top jazz musicians in the country such as Robert Mitchell, Panacea, Gilad Atzmon, Nicolas Meier, Jim Mullen and many others.

Sean is seen as one of the Jazz scene’s key pioneers. His first visit to Fleece Jazz should be one to remember.

2019 5 April, £20 – Fletch’s Brew

“Mark Fletcher’s ensemble playing is filled with drama, it is never static.” – Adam Garrie

Mark Fletcher drums, Jim Hunt tenor sax, Jim Watson piano and keyboards, Laurence Cottle bass

Like the great master drummers of African music, Mark Fletcher’s styles have linear narrative. This sense of purpose makes him the ultimate ensemble player. Not to mention how much fun he is.

Musical prodigy Jim Hunt’s career has taken in an extraordinary breadth of artists. As arranger, saxophonist and horn section leader he has toured and recorded with Primal Scream, Richard Ashcroft,Paloma Faith and Noel Gallagher to name a few. Amy’s horn section was a key part of her sound and having the best in the business leading it was essential.

Organist (and pianist) Jim Watson was with us this season with Chris Bowden and Nigel Price. What a marvelous player we saw. He is a Nord recording artist.

Laurence Cottle is a major player and educator. His credits would take a book to list, but consider: notable releases such as Five Seasons, Laurence Cottle Quintet Live and others. He was a member of the Los Angeles, California-based fusion quartet, The Fents, and appears on their second album, The Othr Side. He played with The Alan Parsons Project on their final Arista LP Gaudi in 1987, as well as Parsons’ final collaboration with Eric Woolfson, Freudiana, in 1990. It goes on…

Across evolving line ups the central ethos of the “Brew” remains commitment to spontaneity, whether playing original compositions or new arrangements across the jazz styles.

2019 12 April, £18 – Sara Oschlag Quartet

A unique and individual voice making interesting material effortlessly her own. A singer with a natural musicians ear and a beautiful sense of swing.

Sara Oschlag vocals, Tony Kofi sax, Jason Henson guitar, Simon Thorpe bass

We are hugely looking forward to “the arrival of the exciting young singer Sara Oschlag. Since the Danish-born singer relocated to Brighton she has lit up the local scene and been warmly welcomed by its musicians. She displays a maturity beyond her years in her song selection as well as her interpretation and whether swinging hard or caressing a ballad, Sara takes the listener on a journey, breathing new life into the old standards. I urge fans to catch one of Sara’s gigs and, in the meantime, check out her dazzling album: ‘My Little Boat’ which whets the appetite for the future of this great young singer.” – Jim Mullen

The sight of Tony Kofi picking up baritone sax (or any sax for that matter) never fails to produce a tremor of excitement. His band was with us recently with a wonderful gig based on his CD “Point Blank”.

Jason Henson has worked with many of the world’s finest musicians, including the US legend Joe Lee Wilson, Bobby Wellins, Jo Hunter, Andy Mackintosh, Louis Stewart, Jim Mullen, Alan Barnes, Andy Panayi, Simon Spillett, Geoff Simkins, Rino Van Hooijdonk, Charlotte Glasson, Chris Speading, Herbie Flowers, Sam Spoons, Mike Piggott, and Jonny Hepbir. He travelled to the gypsy campsites in Holland and Germany to play with some of the grand masters of gypsy jazz.

The return of Simon Thorpe is always welcome

Don’t miss this great band.

2019 19 April, £20 – Ant Law Quintet

Described as “An innovator” and “A gamechanger” by The Guardian, British guitarist Ant lives in London and leads his quintet, dubbed “An exciting band to hear live” by John Fordham.

Ant Law – guitar, Michael Chillingworth – sax Ivo Neame – piano, Tom Farmer – bass, James Maddren drums

Ant Law was born in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. From a young age he was exposed to early blues and rock ‘n’ roll and Arabic music. He began playing piano and guitar around the age of 8. Ant has played in Tim Garland’s band with Jason Rebello & Asaf Sirkis and won the Jazzwise Best Album award. He is a member of Trio HLK touring with Dame Evelyn Glennie.

Michael Chillingworth is a London based saxophonist and clarinetist. Over the years He has worked with many fine musicians including Kit Downes, Jim Hart, Stan Sulzmann, Gareth Lockrane, James Maddren, and many others Ivo Neam is an award-winning pianist and composer. In addition to leading his own bands, he is a vital cog in several of European jazz’s most forward-lookinggroups. He has performed and recorded with top musicians around the world.

Tom Farmer is most renowned as one quarter of the hugely acclaimed international touring quartet Empirical. He has also graced the Jon Lloyd group.

James Maddren was born in Sussex into a musical family. From a young age he was playing the Cello, piano and Drums. He later focused on drums and percussion and performed in many contrasting bands and orchestras.

“How refreshing is this Englishman who romps in the border areas between the bop and modern jazz guitar of the post Peter Bernstein-generation, it’s self-assured and thoroughly convincing.” Jazz Podium (Germany)

2019 26 April, £18 – Christian Brewer Quartet

“Brewer…never missed a trick, his playing is crackling” – Guardian, Jim Mullen

Christian Brewer saxophone, Leon Greening piano, Adam King bass, Matt Skelton drums

Christian Brewer is one of the most lyrical and soulful alto players to have emerged from the UK in recent years. Loved for his melodic playing and pure tone, he has risen to prominence on the British jazz scene. He is now a regular at London’s prestigious Ronnie Scots and both he and his band are in great demand. Christian is considered to be as agile and fluently expressive as the Charlie Parker disciple Phil Woods on fast pieces, and his ballad playing echoes the raw-nerve soulfulness of the late Art Pepper.

Leon Greening simply gathers you up in the energy and momentum of his playing and sweeps you up along with his endlessly inventive improvisations. And yet for all his speed of execution, each note is placed with exact precision, struck with the clarity of pure crystal and weighted with deep emotion. He is a consummate master of his art, using both hands to build cliff-hanging tension. Like a Formula 1 driver he anticipates the road ahead and knows exactly when to change gear and when to hit or ease off on the accelerator. Leon’s playing is spell-bindingly awesome.

Bassist Adam King’s success in the 2015 annual Musicians’ Company Young Jazz Musician Award revealed one of the most promising jazz artists of his generation.

Matt Skelton is a graduate of the Royal Academy of Music. Equally at home in modern and vintage Jazz styles Matt enjoys a diverse musical career that also encompasses Symphonic and Light Orchestral Music. He has accompanied many leading Internationally-known Jazz figures such as John Pizzarelli, Warren Vache, Michael Moore, Harry Allen and Scott Hamilton. He has recorded and appears regularly with singers such as Marion Montgomery, Dame Cleo Laine, Maria Ewing and in concert for Jesse Norman’s Ellington and Gershwin Concert Series (2006). Matt accompanied Richard Rodney Bennett and Claire Martin in their American Song Book Show.

A super gig to end our spring season.

[The drummer was New York based Mark Taylor. A minimal kit and maximal talent.]

Last Update – 7 August 2019