Visilis Xenopoulos at Jazznights with Roger Odell, Simon Brown, Bernie Hodgkins and vocals from Larraine Odell at the Bell Hotel, Clare on Sunday 8th March 2020

Saxophonist, composer and educator Vasilis Xenopoulos is one of the most accomplished Greek jazz musicians of his generation and a genuine representative of straight ahead jazz. London became his permanent home after graduating with honors from the Berklee College of Music in Boston and gradually established himself as one of London’s up and coming jazz saxophonists. He has worked with some of the best musicians of the International Jazz Scene as a band leader, a section leader and as a guest soloist at various projects.

Vasilis Xenopoulos

In 2009 he formed “The Xtet” and their debut album “Loud City” containing 8 original compositions was released on 33Jazz Records in 2011. Two years later he released his second album “The Wind Machine” under the same label, which gained some fine reviews in the top British media such as The Times and BBC radio 3.

In 2017 Nigel Price and Xenopoulos created the XPQ (Xenopoulos/Price Quartet) and recorded their first album under that brand, “Sidekicks” which celebrates some of the most successful guitar/sax pairings in the history of jazz.  

Vasilis Xenopoulos

The Guardian praised him recently for being one of the leading examples of European jazz musicians who live and perform in Britain and bringing his continental element to the jazz scene. Further to that Vasilis has permanent collaborations with artists from Greece and Cyprus where he performs as a leader or guest artist on a regular basis. As a result he is permanently active in three different scenes/markets (British, Greek and Cypriot).

Vasilis’ charismatic performances reveal his truly fabulous style thus his energy and passion interact with his audience. With his great talent, love and respect. he cherishes the instrument’s challenges and pushes it beyond.

Vasilis Xenopoulos

His credits also include seminars on Jazz Saxophone and Improvisation.

His album “DEXTERITY” was released in September, 2019.

Visilis played with the Jazznights Trio who were:

Roger Odell – Drums
Jazznights Roger was one of the founder members and drummer with the jazz-funk group Shakatak and the forerunner band Tracks. Roger has toured internationally and recorded numerous CDs, which he continues to do on a regular basis to this day. 

Simon Brown – Piano
Originally from the West Midlands, Simon graduated from UEA in 1990 and subsequently established himself in the Eastern region as tutor, performer, arranger and musical director. He regularly performs with a wide range of top UK & US artists in the region�s jazz clubs, and is also an experienced accompanist for vocalists, having gained considerable experience on London�s open-mic circuit. He currently runs the Open Mic / Jazz Jams at the club’s Monday night sessions.

Bernie Hodgkins – Double Bass
Inspired by an uncle, who played and recorded with Django Reinhart and Stephane Grappelli in the legendary Quintet de Hot Club of France, Bernie grew up in a Jazz-oriented family. Their influence led him to become a respected bass player behind such people as Matt Munroe, Dickie Valentine and Dennis Lotus, in the early stages of his career.
Touring in Europe and further afield with a wide variety of artists honed his skills and added to his prodigious repertoire. Supports to players like John Scofield, and singers such as Annie Ross always proved inspirational and served to reinforce his enduring love affair with jazz

Larraine Odell

Following the raffle of two jazz CDs and a bottle of wine we had the sitting in spot where local musicians can sit in and play with the Jazznights Trio. Tonight we had the pleasure of our MC Gareth LLewelyn Williams-James playing acoustic guitar accompanying Carol Bleiker singing Jobim’s No More Blues

Gareth LLewelyn Williams-James and Carol Bleiker

Sunday 22nd March – PETE NEIGHBOUR (clt) will be at Jazznights

Pete Neighbour is a highly respected clarinet & sax player; originally from London and now based in the USA. He travels extensively throughout the world performing in his own inimitable style and Jazznights is proud to be part of his annual UK Tour. “Pretty tone, fearless swing and neat melodic embellishment.”

THE BEST IN BRITISH MODERN JAZZ is at Jazznights, Admission £12. Doors open 7.00 pm. Music 7.30 – 10.00 pm.

See website at http://jazz-nights.com/site/

Reserve seating on 01787 237653 or email info@jazz-nights.com

Pay on the night.

You can join us at facebook, read reviews of previous performances on more opinions blog or tweet at twitter.com/jazznightsuk

The Jazznights blog and pictures are now at  https://moreopinions.wordpress.com

Pictures from past gigs can also be found at https://www.flickr.com/photos/dancerd/
and at google photos Here

Art Theman at Jazz-nights at the Bell Hotel, Clare with Mike Gorman, Steve Cook and Roger Odell with vocals from Larraine Odell on Sunday 23rd February 2020

Famously combining the careers of jazz saxophonist and orthopaedic surgeon, Art Theman has been described by critic John Fordham as “an appealing presence on the British jazz circuit for over 40 years. Originally a Dexter Gordon and Sonny Rollins disciple he has proved himself remarkably attentive to the saxophone styles of subsequent generations”.

Themen was born in Manchester, England, where he was involved with the traditional jazz scene in the late 1950s^[4] as a self-taught musician,^[5] having started playing clarinet as a schoolboy.^[6] In 1958 he began his medical studies at the University of Cambridge, going on in 1961 to complete his studies at St Mary’s Hospital Medical School in London, qualifying in 1964. He specialised in orthopaedic medicine, eventually becoming a consultant.

Themen started playing jazz with the Cambridge University Jazz Group – with bandmates including Lionel Grigson, Dave Gelly and Dick Heckstall-Smith^[7] – and then in London playing with blues musicians Jack Bruce and Alexis Korner.^[6] In 1965 Themen played with the Peter Stuyvesant Jazz Orchestra in Zürich, going on to play with such English luminaries as Michael Garrick, Ian Carr, and Graham Collier‘s Music.

Art Theman

In 1974 Themen entered on what was to be one of his central musical relationships when he started playing with Stan Tracey, and he has played with all of Tracey’s groups, touring with him all over the world as well as around the UK. Themen has also played and toured with visiting US musicians, including Nat Adderley, Red Rodney, George Coleman, and Al Haig.^[5

In 1995 Themen formed a quartet with pianist John Critchinson.

Themen’s style originally owed much to the influence of Dexter Gordon and Sonny Rollins, but later influences included such disparate saxophonists as Coleman Hawkins, Evan Parker, and the “sheets of sound” John Coltrane.

Art Theman

Themen was interviewed by Julian Joseph on BBC Radio 3‘s Jazz Line-Up on 22 November 2014 as a celebration of the saxophonist’s 75th birthday. He revealed that he had originally played clarinet, but since page three of the tutor book had been missing he had played for some time with the mouthpiece upside-down. He was inspired to play saxophone after he attended a gig by the Dankworth Seven, at the local Palais, at the age of 16, with a female cousin. The immaculately-dressed and manicured saxophonist Danny Moss winked at Themen’s cousin and the instant effect this had convinced Themen that his future lay in the saxophone.^[8]

Following his retirement as a consultant orthopaedic surgeon, Themen has been focusing on his jazz career.

Art played with the Jazznights Trio who were:

Roger Odell – Drums
Jazznights Roger was one of the founder members and drummer with the jazz-funk group Shakatak and the forerunner band Tracks. Roger has toured internationally and recorded numerous CDs, which he continues to do on a regular basis to this day. 

Apart from a great power drummer he is also a prestigious arranger.

Steve Cook – Double Bass.
Steve has a wonderful rounded tone with great clarity. He has played with Mike Westbrook, Mike Kilpatrick’s Duke Jazznights Steve Cook 010412 Ellington Orchestra, Barbara Thompson, Soft Machine, Seventh Wave and Gil Evans big band at Ronnie Scott’s.

Mike Gorman – Keyboards
As a jazz pianist/organist he has worked/toured with many leading international artists including Marlena Shaw, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Manu Katche, Jimmy Witherspoon, Georgie Fame, China Moses, Scott Hamilton, Bill Watrous, Clare Teal, Stacey Kent and Charles McPherson amongst others.
He has also worked with many of the UK’s leading luminaries in the field including Don Weller, Guy Barker, Anita Wardell, Dave Cliff, Alan Skidmore, Bobby Wellins, Art Themen, Danny Moss and is a regular member of The Peter King Quartet and The Jim Mullen Organ Trio.

Following the Jazznights Raffle of three jazz CD’s we had the pleasure of Geoff Harriman playing All Of Me on his harmonica.

Sunday 8th March 2020 – VASILIS XENOPOULOS (sax) will be at Jazznights

Saxophonist Vasilis Xenopoulos is one of the most accomplished Greek jazz musicians of his generation and a genuine representative of straight ahead jazz. London became his permanent home after graduating with honors from the Berklee College of Music in Boston and gradually established himself as one of the UK’s up and coming jazz saxophonists.

THE BEST IN BRITISH MODERN JAZZ is at Jazznights, Admission £10. Doors open 7.00 pm. Music 7.30 – 10.00 pm.

See website at http://jazz-nights.com/site/

Reserve seating on 01787 237653 or email info@jazz-nights.com

Pay on the night.

You can join us at facebook, read reviews of previous performances on more opinions blog or tweet at twitter.com/jazznightsuk

The Jazznights blog and pictures are now at  https://moreopinions.wordpress.com

Pictures from past gigs can also be found at https://www.flickr.com/photos/dancerd/
and at google photos Here

Harry Greene at Jazznights, Clare on December 29th 2019 with Roger Odell, Simon Brown, Bernie Hodgkins with vocals from Larraine Odell

Harry Greene is a 20 year-old saxophonist and guitarist, currently based in London. Since picking up the sax and guitar at age 7, I’ve been lucky enough to share the stage with a wide range of international artists, such as Bellowhead, UK sax legend Pete King and Sugarhill Gang member Skip McDonald. Performing at venues such as the Royal Albert Hall, Latitude Festival, London Olympic Park and Southbank have also been highlights, as well as opportunities to perform with world class bands such as Derek Nash’s Protect the Beat and the Simon Bates Big Band, conducted by renowned composer Howard Blake.

Harry Greene

I’m currently studying full-time on the jazz course at London’s Royal Academy of Music, as well as playing and writing for a wide range of different bands and projects including my own jazz/funk trio, big band work and an array of funk/soul bands, including MD’ing for ex-Drifter Maurice Cannon. I also play baritone sax/guitar in London-based West African/funk fusion band ‘Afrik Bawantu,’ led by Ghanaian percussion master Afla Sackey. Performance highlights with this band include performing at the 50th anniversary celebration of the BBC World Service, as well as many festivals around the UK and Europe. We’re currently putting the finishing touches to the second album, ‘It’s Not Easy.’

I’m currently guitarist for the the Ashton Jones Project, a hard-working, high-energy funk band for which I’m co-writing and arranging the debut album.

Harry Greene

Pianist/producer Chris Ingham has also involved me as a guest on his latest quartet project, celebrating the music of Dudley Moore. The 16-track album, ‘Dudley’ has received critical acclaim from the Guardian and the Observer among others, and our show at Pizza Express, Soho went down a storm. 

I’m very excited to be a member of a hard-bop quintet, the ‘Barford-Stoneman Organ Quintet,’ showcasing the music of Hank Mobley, Lee Morgan and Eddie Harris among others. We’re very much looking forward to supporting Liane Carroll, Claire Martin and Clare Teal and the Ella Fitzgerald centenary celebration at St John Smith’s Square as part of the EFG London Jazz Festival. 

Harry Greene

Ex-Suzi Quatro guitarist and Cockney Rebel member Robbie Gladwell has also involved me in his band for many years, performing at a huge variety of venues across the UK as well as an annual 3-night charity event in aid of Cancer Research UK. It was when I first started playing with Robbie I had the opportunity to sign an endorsing artists contract with German amplifier company Hughes&Kettner. 

He also works with a wide range of jazz/pop/soul function bands

Simon Brown, Bernie Hodgkins, Harry Greene and Roger Odell

Harry played with the Jazznights Trio who were:

Roger Odell

Sim,on Brown

Bernie Hodgkins

With vocals from our resident Songbird Larraine Odell

Larraine Odell

Following the raffle of three jazz CDs we had the the Sitting In spot which allows local musicians to sit in with band. Tonight we had Carol Bleiker singing Someone To Watch Over Me followed by a very talented young pianist – Oscar Lyons.

Carol Bleiker

Oscar Lyons

Bernie Hodgkins, Harry Greene and Roger Odell

Sunday 12th January 2020 – DEREK NASH (sax) will be at Jazznights

Derek has been a member of the Jools Holland Rhythm and Blues Orchestra since 2004, has led Sax Appeal for over thirty years, fronts the funk/fusion band Protect the Beat, and is a member of the Ronnie Scott’s Blues Explosion. He is renowned for his energetic, vibrant, passionate and charismatic performances on all four saxophones.

THE BEST IN BRITISH MODERN JAZZ is at Jazznights, Admission £10. Doors open 7.00 pm. Music 7.30 – 10.00 pm.

Reserve seating on 01787 237653 or email info@jazz-nights.com

Pay on the night.

You can join us at facebook, read reviews of previous performances on more opinions blog or tweet at twitter.com/jazznightsuk

The Jazznights blog and pictures are now at  https://moreopinions.wordpress.com

Pictures from past gigs can also be found at https://www.flickr.com/photos/dancerd/
and at:

google photos Here

Laura Zakian & Paul Bartholomew at Jazznights at the Bell Hotel, Clare on Sunday 15 December 2019 with Roger Odell, Steve Lodder and Bernie Hodgkins with additional vocals from Larraine Odell

“Zakian swings effortlessly, combines a lightness of touch with a deep reservoir of power and control, and most importantly – always draws the listener in to the song’s lyric.”

Peter Quinn, Jazzwise (in reference to Just One of Those Things)

“Flawless articulation and ability to put any kind of song over in a style that is all her own”

EuroclubdeJazz, Mike Cooke

Laura Zakian

Laura Zakian is a true jazz vocalist. She employs her voice as a musical instrument, improvising and moulding the melodic line to lend each lyric the best possible effect. Based in London, Laura has released four well-received albums, each curating fresh and classy readings of the Great American Songbook alongside unexpected pop tunes. She’s recently been back in the studio and long-awaited new material is due later this Spring.

Laura Zakian

Laura studied jazz singing with Nancy Marano from the Manhattan School of Music in New York and launched her career in Italy, performing with leading jazz musicians in Rome and appearing at the Umbria Jazz Festival. On her return to the UK she quickly became established on the London jazz scene. Laura also has a thriving practice teaching jazz and popular music singing and looks after her gorgeous cat Magnus.

Laura Zakian

Laura sang with the Jazznights Trio who were:

Roger Odell

Steve Lodder

Bernie Hodgkins

With additional vocals from our resident song bird:

Larraine Odell

The Jazznights Trio: Steve Lodder, Bernie Hodgkins and Roger Odell

Steve Lodder, Paul Bartholomew, Bernie Hodgkins, Roger Odell and Laura Zakian

Sunday 29th December 2019 – HARRY GREENE (sax) will be at Jazznights

This 20 year-old saxophonist and guitarist is currently based in London. Since picking up the sax and guitar at age 7 Harry was sitting in at Jazznights soon after. He has since performed at venues such as the Royal Albert Hall, Latitude Festival, London Olympic Park, Southbank and the Bures Jazz Festival.

THE BEST IN BRITISH MODERN JAZZ is at Jazznights, Admission £10. Doors open 7.00 pm. Music 7.30 – 10.00 pm.

Reserve seating on 01787 237653 or email info@jazz-nights.com

Pay on the night.

You can join us at facebook, read reviews of previous performances on more opinions blog or tweet at twitter.com/jazznightsuk

The Jazznights blog and pictures is now at  https://moreopinions.wordpress.com

Pictures from past gigs can also be found at https://www.flickr.com/photos/dancerd/
and at google photos Here

Christian Brewer (alt & sop) playing with Roger Odell, Simon Brown and Bernie Hodgkins with vocals from Larraine Odell at the Bell, Clare on Sunday 17th November 2019

Christian Brewer is a leading saxophonist and composer on the London jazz scene, Christian’s performing work has taken him all over the world, and his jazz credits read like a who’s who of the contemporary scene…apart from his impressive cv as a gun for hire with pop artists like Paul Weller and Seal.

Christian Brewer

He is a regular at London’s prestigious Ronnie Scott’s and both he and his band are in great demand.
His musical roots besides jazz also include funk and groove orientated music. This has lead to commercial work with reggae trombonist Rico Rodriguez, Push, Otis Grand and the Ragga Twins amongst many others. This diversity has enriched his musical outlook and is evident in his style of playing and composing, whilst never compromising the authenticity of the jazz.

Christian studied at Leeds and The Guildhall School of Music. However, the defining musical inspiration came from playing alongside Julian Joseph and the Mondesir brothers in Ian Carr’s London Jazz fusion orchestra.

Christian Brewer

He has performed in Europe’s top clubs and festivals. With pianist Chano Dominguez and bass player Francisco Bosē he played in most of Spain’s international festivals including Seville, Malaga, Granada, Huelva, Jaen and Ceuta (North Africa). The group they formed, ‘Decoy’, also performed in Café Central in Madrid and recorded for television (Jazz Entre Amigos) and radio. In Spain he also collaborated with tenor saxophonists Dave Schnitter (ex Art Blakey), Jorge Pardo and Antonio Mesa; and played extensively with guitarist Tito Alcodo.

Christian Brewer

In the UK Christian has worked predominantly with trumpet player Damon Brown, touring England, Scotland and Italy. He has featured on two of Damon’s CDs and performed at Barcelona’s ‘Jamboree’. With top bass player Geoff Gascoine’s sextet he played extensively and has worked alongside the cream of the jazz scene such as Carl Orr, Jim Mullen and John Donaldson.

“…a remarkably fluent and craftsmanlike improviser… a real sense of purpose about his work” Jazz UK

“…A Phil Woods-like accuracy on fast tracks …and a soul searching Art Pepper quality quality to his ballad playing” Jazzwise

“The future of neo-bop is in safe hands” Evening Standard

Simon Brown, Bernie Hodgkins, Christian Brewer and Roger Odell

With vocals from Larraine Odell

Larraine Odell

Following the raffle of three jazz CDs we had the sitting in spot where local musicians can sit in and pl;ay with the Jazznights Trio. Tonight we had vocals from Carol Bleiker and Geoff Harriman playing his harmonica.

Carol Bleiker

Geoff Harriman

Bernie Hodgkins, Christian Brewer and Roger Odell

The Jazznights Trio were:

Roger Odell

Simon Brown

Bernie Hodgkins

Sunday 1st December 2019 – ANDI HOPGOOD (voc) will be at Jazznights.

Andi’s performance work has taken her all over the UK, Europe and USA. She has released two albums under her own name and is hoping to release another at the end of this year. Alongside her solo work, current projects include The London Vocal Project led by Pete Churchill, a jazz duo with pianist Jim Watson and trio with saxophonist Martin Hathaway.

THE BEST IN BRITISH MODERN JAZZ is at Jazznights, Admission £10. Doors open 7.00 pm. Music 7.30 – 10.00 pm.

Reserve seating on 01787 237653 or email info@jazz-nights.com

Pay on the night.

You can join us at facebook, read reviews of previous performances on more opinions blog or tweet at twitter.com/jazznightsuk

The Jazznights blog and pictures is now at  https://moreopinions.wordpress.com

Pictures from past gigs can also be found at https://www.flickr.com/photos/dancerd/
and at google photos Here

Debby Bracknell at Jazznights with Roger Odell, Simon Brown, Steve Cook and additional vocals from Larraine Odell at the Bell Hotel, Clare on Sunday 3rd November 2019

Debby has many years of experience as a professional singer in both live settings and in the studio. 

She started her vocal training at the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford, completing an HND in Vocals, and receiving the high accolade of most outstanding vocalist of the year.  She continued her studies at the Access to Music College in London where she worked towards an ATCL in Session Vocals passing with distinction.

Debby Bracknell

An experienced and talented singer, Debby is more than comfortable singing most styles of music and in addition to her own bands has performed and recorded both lead and backing vocals with many successful function bands, tribute bands and original artists across the UK and abroad. 

Debby Bracknell

Artists and Bands…

Since 2006 Debby has had extensive involvement as a backing vocalist with the jazz/funk band Shakatak performing with them in many national and international venues on tours, festivals and private gigs. Her backing vocals also feature in several of their album releases. 

Artists/shows she has performed and/or recorded with include:-

Mariah Carey
Ariana Grande
Boy George & Culture Club
Shakatak
Mica Paris
The Shires
SuRie – Eurovision Song Contest
Oli Silk
George Anderson Band
Steve Nichol (Loose Ends)
ACM Gospel Choir (Last Choir Standing)

To name but a few

Simon Brown, Steve Cook, Debby Bracknell and Roger Odell

Debby was singing with the Jazznights Trio who were:

Roger Odell

Simon Brown

Steve Cook

With additional vocals from our resident songbird Larraine Odell

Larraine OIdell

Larraine and Debby

Following the raffle of three jazz CDs we had the sitting in spot where local musicians can play with the Trio. Tonight we had Geoff Harriman playing his harmonica and  Carol Bleiker singing East Of The Sun.

Geoff Harriman

Carol Bleiker

Sunday 17th November – CHRISTIAN BREWER (sax) will be at Jazznights

“Christian Brewer is the kind of mainstream-to-postbop alto saxophonist who’s easy to take for granted on the UK jazz scene. He’s 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”, John Fordham – The Guardian.

THE BEST IN BRITISH MODERN JAZZ is at Jazznights, Admission £10. Doors open 7.00 pm. Music 7.30 – 10.00 pm.

Reserve seating on 01787 237653 or email info@jazz-nights.com

Pay on the night.

You can join us at facebook, read reviews of previous performances on more opinions blog or tweet at twitter.com/jazznightsuk

The Jazznights blog and pictures is now at  https://moreopinions.wordpress.com

Pictures from past gigs can also be found at https://www.flickr.com/photos/dancerd/
and at google photos Here

Nic Meier playing with Roger Odell, Simon Brown and Bernie Hodgkins with vocals from Larraine Odell at Jazz-Nights, The Bell, Clare on Sunday 20th October 2019

UK-based guitarist Nicolas Meier has carved a reputation out as one of the world’s most original and uniquely talented guitarists. Drawing from a love of Turkish, Eastern & Middle Eastern music, Flamenco, Tango and more — all mixed with jazz — Meier’s versatility and musical fluency extends well beyond that, even. (… so much so, that his considerable talents drew the attention of rock guitar legend, Jeff Beck, who made Nicolas a mainstay in The Jeff Beck Group — carrying him on two world tours during the course of the last several years.)

Nicolas Meier

Meier originally hails from Switzerland; born in 1973, to parents who are great lovers of the arts. Never short on ambition, Meier founded his own record label, MGP Records, in 2009. To date, he’s produced twelve albums: as a solo artist; in various group formats (The Nicolas Meier Group; Nicolas Meier Trio; Eclectica!; Nicolas Meier World Group); with his heavy metal band, Seven7, and; in a duo format, with long-time partner, fellow guitarist and collaborator, the fabulous UK master, Pete Oxley. (Their 2015 release, “Chasing Tales,” was a masterful, benchmark album, in the dual-guitar format.)

Nicolas Meier

2017 was a breakthrough year: one in which Steve Vai’s Favored Nations Records released Nicolas’ brilliant solo album, “Infinity.” The album was recorded in LA and performed in a trio format — featuring fellow virtuosic veterans, Jimmy Haslip, on bass, and Vinnie Colaiuta on drums. Most recently, Nicolas has completed and released two new albums on MGP (Meier Group Productions): the already-well-received album new duo album with Pete Oxley, “The Alluring Ascent,” and; (as of this writing) the just-released Nicolas Meier World Group’s pristine effort, “Peaceful.” Meier will support the new release with a 30-date UK tour; with European dates, early next year, followed by more US dates in the fall (of 2020).

Simon Brown, Nic Meier, Bernie Hodgkins and Roger Odell

Having made a lasting impression on gentlemen the likes of the great Bill Bruford, (the aforementioned) Jeff Beck and Steve Vai, Nicolas Meier is unquestionably one of today’s most well-rounded, ambitious and masterful up-and-coming talents on guitar. Stay tuned … this is one star that is still on the rise!

Nic Meier was playing with the Jazznights Trio who were:

Roger Odell

Simon Brown

Bernie Hodgkins

Larraine Odell

Bernie Hodgkins, Larraine Odell and Roger Odell

Following the raffle of three jazz CDs we had the sitting in spot where local musicians can play with the Trio. Tonight we had Geoff Harriman playing his harmonica and our MC Gareth Williams-James paying with Nic Meier

Geoff Harriman

Gareth Williams-James playing with Nic Meier

Nic Meier, Bernie Hodgkins and Roger Odell

Sunday 3rd November 2019 – DEBBY BRACKNELL (voc) will be at Jazznights

Debby has many years of experience as a professional singer in both live settings and in the studio. She started her vocal training at the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford receiving the high accolade of most outstanding vocalist of the year. She has worked as backing vocalist for Mariah Carey, Ariana Grande, Shakatak & Mica Paris.

THE BEST IN BRITISH MODERN JAZZ is at Jazznights, Admission £10. Doors open 7.00 pm. Music 7.30 – 10.00 pm.

Reserve seating on 01787 237653 or email info@jazz-nights.com

Pay on the night.

You can join us at facebook, read reviews of previous performances on more opinions blog or tweet at twitter.com/jazznightsuk

The Jazznights blog and pictures is now at  https://moreopinions.wordpress.com

Pictures from past gigs can also be found at https://www.flickr.com/photos/dancerd/
and at google photos Here

Estelle Kokot at Jazznights at The Bell Hotel, Clare on Sunday 6th October 2019 with Roger Odell, Simon Brown, Bernie Hodgkins and Hannah Horton with additional vocals from Larraine Odell

Estelle performed at the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival in 2015, with Chicago born saxophonist Chico Freeman and launched an album they recently recorded in Cape Town called The Sound of You. It featured South African jazz greats, Herbie Tsoaeli on bass and Kevin Gibson on drums.

While touring South Africa during the past five years, Estelle has appeared at The Orbit in Johannesburg 6 times, The State Theatre African Jazz & Music Nights, Arts Alive Festival in Johannesburg, The Crypt in Cape Town, UKZN in Kwazulu Natal, PE Opera House and the music college at Fort Hare University amongst others.

Estelle Kokot

Estelle performed with UK cellist Kate Shortt at the London Jazz Festival in November 2016 and they presented their show at The Pheasantry and The Vortex. She is back at The Vortex Jazz Club on the 30^th of December 2017 showcasing new material with her trio and will be featuring contemporary classical composer and climate change activist Lola Perrin’s piano pieces.

“If you want to hear a genuine innovator with a creative twist on Jazz vocals include Estelle Kokot” London Jazz Festival

Estelle Kokot

Estelle recorded 2 singles when she was 18 with guitar legend Johnny Fourie and piano maestro Lionel Pillay. Her stage debut in 1987 with jazz super group Phambili at Kippies in Joburg caused a sensation. She went on to guest with South African World Music Stars Bayete, also appearing with SA Jazz greats Barney Rachabane and Mike Makhalemele.  “South Africa, here is a real jazz singer” Don Albert, South Africa

1988 saw Estelle Kokot joining jazz fusion band Rush Hour and their album ‘The Perfect Way’ went on to top the charts. The band embarked on a successful tour of the club, festival and concert circuit in South Africa.

“Nothing short of stunning” Bongani Hlatshwayo

Simon Brown, Bernie Hodgkins and Roger Odell (hidden)

In 1990 Estelle went solo. She has sung at 5 Big band Jazz Galas at Pretoria’s State Theatre and presented her solo shows at the Windybrow and Grahamstown Arts Festivals.

Estelle moved to London at the end of 1993 and soon established herself on the live scene, performing at Pizza Express and The Vortex Jazz Clubs, Cambridge Modern Jazz Cub and Band on the Wall in Manchester.

She has performed at the Cork, London and Soho Jazz festivals, as well as the Dusseldorf Jazz Rally and clubs and theatres in Switzerland and Germany.

Estelle sang with the Jazznights Trio who were:

Roger Odell

Simon Brown

Bernie Hodgkins

Share this:

Hannah Horton

Larraine Odell

Estelle Kokot, Bernie Hodgkins, Roger Odell and Hannah Horton

Bernie Hodgkins, Larraine Odell and Roger Odell

Sunday 20th October 2019 – NIC MEIER (gtr) will be at Jazznights

In just a few short years, UK-based guitarist Nicolas Meier has carved a reputation out as one of the UK’s most original and uniquely talented guitarists. Drawing from a love of Turkish, Eastern & Middle Eastern music, Flamenco, Tango and more — all mixed with jazz — Meier is one of the rising stars in a vibrant British jazz scene.

THE BEST IN BRITISH MODERN JAZZ is at Jazznights, Admission £10. Doors open 7.00 pm. Music 7.30 – 10.00 pm.

Reserve seating on 01787 237653 or email info@jazz-nights.com

Pay on the night.

You can join us at facebook, read reviews of previous performances on more opinions blog or tweet at twitter.com/jazznightsuk

The Jazznights blog and pictures is now at  https://moreopinions.wordpress.com

Pictures from past gigs can also be found at https://www.flickr.com/photos/dancerd/
and at google photos Here

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Josh Kemp at Jazznights with Simon Brown, Bernie Hodgkins and Stuart Pringle with vocals from Larraine Odell at The Bell, Clare on Sunday 22nd September 2019

A jazz saxophonist with a gift for melody, Josh is known for his lyrical improvising style and attractive compositions. Whether its bluesy standards rooted in the tradition or original pieces in a contemporary style, expect high-energy swing with an enjoyable and relaxed groove from a top-level ensemble.

A regular performer at Ronnie Scotts and Jazz Clubs and Festivals around the UK, Josh Kemp has released 5 CDs of original compositions to widespread acclaim, and completed several Art-Council funded national tours. His top-class ensemble blends the ‘Blue Note’ tradition into a fresh contemporary setting to create an exciting and powerful melodic sound. 

Bernie Hodgkins, Josh Kemp and Stuart Pringle

​Sounding equally impressive playing within the jazz standards tradition and also presenting his own original compositions, Saxophonist and Composer Josh Kemp has completed major UK tours in 2014 and in 2015, gaining many plaudits along the way for his fluid improvising style and attractive compositions.

Josh Kemp

With a playing style combining melodic inventiveness, a rich tone and a lyrical style of improvisation, Josh is a regular performer at Jazz Clubs and Festivals across the UK, with recent performances including Ronnie Scott’s and the London Jazz Festival.

Simon Brown, Bernie Hodgkins, Josh Kemp and Stuart Pringle

Josh Kemp was Playing with the Jazznights Trio who were:

Simon Brown

Bernie Hodgkins

Stuart Pringle

With vocals from Larraine Odell

Larraine Odell

Simon Brown, Bernie Hodgkins and Stuart Pringle

Sunday 6th October 2019 – ESTELLE KOKOT (vocals will be at Jazznights)

“If you want to hear a genuine innovator with a creative twist on Jazz vocals include Estelle Kokot” London Jazz Festival. “She is the queen of nuance, understands the power of dramatic expression when sincerely delivered and crashes through the barriers of convention with disarming honesty then delivers the unbelievable”. Gisele Turner – Going Places.

THE BEST IN BRITISH MODERN JAZZ is at Jazznights, Admission £10. Doors open 7.00 pm. Music 7.30 – 10.00 pm.

Reserve seating on 01787 237653 or email info@jazz-nights.com

Pay on the night.

You can join us at facebook, read reviews of previous performances on more opinions blog or tweet at twitter.com/jazznightsuk

The Jazznights blog and pictures is now at  https://moreopinions.wordpress.com

Pictures from past gigs can also be found at https://www.flickr.com/photos/dancerd/
and at google photos Here

Matt Wates at Jazznights Sunday 8th September 2019 – at the Bell Hotel, Clare with Roger Odell, Simon Brown, Bernie Hodgkins with vocals from Larraine Odell

Matt was born in London in 1964 and graduated from Berklee College of Music in 1988. He has appeared with Bucky Pizzarelli, John Colianni, Humphrey Lyttelton, Georges Arvanitas, Helen Shapiro, Don Weller, Bobby Wellins, Dusko Goykovich, Duncan Lamont, Ian Shaw, Norma Winstone and Peter King.

Matt Wates

He has recorded with Paz, Roadside Picnic, Itchy Fingers, NYJO, the Michael Garrick Big Band, Sax Appeal and Jamie Cullum.

The Matt Wates Sextet has recorded eleven albums on the Audio-B label. He won the Rising Star award in the 1997 BT British Jazz Awards, and the Matt Wates Sextet won the Best Small Group award in 2001.

Matt Wates

“A truly remarkable young British alto saxophonist”
Dave Gelly, Observer

“A performer of boundless ability”

Ken Rattenbury, Crescendo

“The most swinging alto player on both sides of the Atlantic”
Duncan Lamont

“An incredibly talented musician and composer”

John Dankworth

“In his modest way, Matt Wates is a bit of a phenomenon”

Dave Gelly, Observer

Bernie Hodgkins, Matt Wates and Roger Odell

Simon Brown, Bernie Hodgkins, Matt Wates and Roger Odell

Matt was playing with:

Roger Odell

Simon Brown

Bernie Hodgkins

Larraine Odell

Following the Raffle of two jazz CDs in the sitting in spot which invites local musicians to play with the band we had the pleasure of Lynn singing I Only Have Eyes For You

The Jazznights Trio: Simon Brown, Bernie Hodgkins and Roger Odell

Simon Brown, Bernie Hodgkins, Matt Wates and Roger Odell (hidden behind Matt)

On Sunday 22nd September 2019 – JOSH KEMP (sax) will be at Jazznights

With a playing style combining melodic inventiveness, a rich tone and a lyrical style of improvisation, Josh is a regular performer at Jazz Clubs and Festivals across the UK, with recent performances including Ronnie Scott’s and the London Jazz Festival. A musician in the finest tradition – just 100 per cent free-range swing.

THE BEST IN BRITISH MODERN JAZZ is at Jazznights, Admission £10. Doors open 7.00 pm. Music 7.30 – 10.00 pm.

Reserve seating on 01787 237653 or email info@jazz-nights.com

Pay on the night.

You can join us at facebook, read reviews of previous performances on more opinions blog or tweet at twitter.com/jazznightsuk

The Jazznights blog and pictures is now at  https://moreopinions.wordpress.com

Pictures from past gigs can also be found at https://www.flickr.com/photos/dancerd/
and at google photos Here