1993 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
A spring season of musical delights in 2010.
A bright new year at lovely Stoke by Nayland Club.
Our second season at Stoke by Nayland Club warmed a fascinating Autumn.
This summer was our first at Stoke by Nayland Club - a lovely venue and great music.
2009 - This spring marked our last gigs at Kersey Mill, but with stunning music.
2009 - We had a Winter Season of Delights, really capital jazz.
2008 - The Autumn season had some Saturday gigs, but it mattered not - The Music was as great as always.
2008 - We loved our summer season - fabulous musicianship throughout.
2008 - Our spring season lived up to the promise of the anniversary season, and included a move to Kersey Mill.
2008 - The winter season was our 15th anniversary celebration, and what wonderful gigs did we have!
2007 - The Autumn season was sheer delight. I feel sorry for those who missed the early gigs.
2007 - The weather needed to be better this summer: the music could not have been bettered.
What a start to 2007 - great singing, great playing, great enjoyment.
The wonderful musicianship of great musicians - our prize for the 2006 autumn
We had a 2006 summer filled with hot weather and cool music from musicians whose temperature was just right.
Glorious music this 2006 spring from three continents.
The 2006 Winter started hot at the Fleece, and just got better and better.
Our Autumn 2005 season had music to dream and dance about.
The 2005 Summer season went from brilliant Bass to bright Beat
Spring sprang with spritely and sophisicated jazz
A Winter season to remember, filled with starry performances.
The autumn was filled with exciting events, many of which sold out.
Summer programmes are not usually as popular as this one, with such stunning music
The 2004 spring programme was even stronger, with many memorable gigs
The winter of our eleventh year had a very strong programme in 2004
An autumn of mellow fruitfulness and stunning jazz in 2003.
A scorching summer for jazz and sunbathing in 2003.
The weather was mixed but the jazz was grand for our 2003 Spring season
We are ever so proud of our 10th Anniversary Winter 2003 season
Delights on a 2002 Autumn
A 2002 summer with many double pleasures
Here is the glorious Winter of 2002.
The Autumn of 2001 gave us quite a string of sellouts
Summer 2001 was another credit to Liz's booking
Spring 2001 brought us musical delights
Winter 2001 was hot at the Fleece
WORLD PREMIERE "New Folk-Songs"
JOHN ETHERIDGE WEEKEND Weekend Ticket £18
1999's summer and early autumn of musical delights.
Lovely spring and early summer 1999 musical weather at the Fleece.
An amazing array of talent displayed at the Fleece in the winter
and early spring of 1999, in reverse chronological order.
JAZZ AT THE FLEECE 5th ANNIVERSARY
Friday 29 November 8.30pm and Saturday 30 November Ticket £9
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.
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.
Liam Noble: "an exuberant talent as a composer and improviser."
but instead book early for Roy on Trombone, John on Saxophones and Bobby
on Drums........
Ladies and Gentlemen, Miss Salena Jones.
Friday 14 November 8.30pm £11 - ALL TICKET
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.
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.
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".
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.
Ana-Mar&iacuta V&eacutlez Group
It's a Fleece debut for Ana-Mar&iacuta and her group - Mark Wood (guitar),
Nic France (drums), Chucho Merchan (bass) and Adam Glasser (piano). Ana-Mar&iacuta's
bewitching vocals and guitar draw upon a unique repertoire of some of the
most beautiful and adventurous Brazilian tunes together with some original
compositions.
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.
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).
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."
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!
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."
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
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).
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.
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).
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.
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.
Reduced N&oacutis
What a fantastic gig to start a new era at the Fleece! Mônica
Vasconcelos 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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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).
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).
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.
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.
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.
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?
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 – one unforgettable show.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Young Lions / Old Tigers – 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).
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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).
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).
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.
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).
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).
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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).
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).
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).
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).
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.
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).
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).
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).
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.
"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).
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.
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.
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).
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).
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.
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).
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.
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.
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).
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).
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).
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.
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.
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?

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).
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).
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).
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.
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).
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).
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).
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).
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).
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.
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).
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.
Guitarist and singer Denny made a big impression on use when he appeared with Lillian Bout&eacut at the Fleece 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&eacut and Dylan Howe (drums).
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.

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.

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).
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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).

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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From New Orleans via Germany it's a very welcome return for the New Orleans Musical Ambassador to the World Lillian Boutt&eacut, who shares 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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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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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).

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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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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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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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 & harmonica), Fred PG(guitar), Javier Garcia (bass) and Evan Jenkins (drums).
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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.

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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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.

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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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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- 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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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).

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).

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 songs that are highly impressive, truly explosive and very entertaining. Featuring a powerhouse band of Matt Johnson (keyboards), Tony Smith (guitar), Winston Blissett (bass) and Ash Soan (drums).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

"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).

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.

We welcome back Tina with her World Class French Band. According to Scott Yanow, one of the world’s most knowledgeable jazz critics, writing in the L.A. Jazz Scene "Tina May, may well be Great Britain’s finest jazz 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.

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).

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.

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’t know London jazz could sound this hip then rush out and hear them" (Dazed & Confused)

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).

Rachael is one of our finest young singers, who has been described by singer Ian Shaw as being ‘able to make a shopping list sound great’. We are delighted to welcome the tenorist Dave Lewis of The Blockheads. Dave O’Higgins has 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.

The authentic sound of New Orleans is brought to us by that city’s musical Ambassador (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).

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]

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.

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]

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.

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]

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

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.

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.]

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).

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.

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).

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.]

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.

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).

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.

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.]

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!!

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).

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).

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.]

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).

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.]

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.]

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]

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.

"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).

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).

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.

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.]

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 free music, 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).

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).

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.

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.]

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.]

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).

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.]

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.

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).

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.]

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).

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.

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.

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).

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).

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.

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).

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).

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).

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.

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.]

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.]

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 & clarinet), Enrico 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.]

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.]

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.]

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).]

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.]

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).

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).

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.]

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).

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).

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.

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.]

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).

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.

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.]

'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.

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.]
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.

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.

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).

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).

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).

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.

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.]

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.

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).

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).

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).

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.

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.]
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).

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!

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.

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.

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).

"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.]

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).

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.]

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.

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.]

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).

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.


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).

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.]

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.

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).

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).

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).

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.

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.]

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).

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.

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).

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).

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.

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.

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.

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).

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).

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’s. He is well 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.

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’s when he worked 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).

Canadian vocalist Katya Gorrie's new CD, "Pousse Café" explores 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.]

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).

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.]

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.

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.]

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).

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.

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 free music, 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).

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).

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).

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.]

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’s Quintet. Featuring Frank Harrison (piano), Quentin Collins (trumpet), Brian Edwards (saxophone) and Larry Bartley (bass).

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.

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).

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).


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 ‘Detour Ahead’, that have 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).

"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’s. His output 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.

The new album "Everything I Love" pays homage to some of the great composers who have influenced Nikki’s piano playing 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.

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 ‘Close Up 2002' (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.


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).

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.]

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.

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).

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.]

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).

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).

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.

Dave is a well-respected tenor saxophonist on the UK jazz scene who also works with artists in the fields of rock, R&B andorld Music. His 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 & keybrds) and Rod Youngs (drums) complete the band.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.]

Polly has a powerful soulful voice with which she can perform gentle jazz ballads and rocking R & B clsics with a versatility 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).

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!

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.]

Described by Duncan Lamont as ‘The most swinging alto player on either side of the Atlantic’, Berklee College 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.]

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’s new CD ‘Cloudburst’ on the Jazzizit 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.]

British vibraphone virtuoso Roger Beaujolais’ glassy toned 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’s astonishing technique.

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’Day. The quintet’s first CD ‘Too Much’ is highly recommended. With Olivier Slama (piano), Dave Chamberlain (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

Tommy Smith is Scotland’s foremost jazz musician and composer and has been internationally recognised as a soloist and bandleader since the late 80’s. He is also 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).

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).

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 ‘Earth to Ether’. Simon Colam (piano), John Parricelli (guitar), Andy Hamill (bass) and Marc Parnell (drums).
[The delightful Alex Keen was our bassist on an exciting evening.]

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’s pianist of 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.]

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).

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’Donnell (bass) and Ian Palmer (drums).

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’. Mike Bishop (piano), Frank Griffith (saxophone), Mike Henry (trumpet), Bill Coleman (bass) and Clark Tracey (drums).

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.

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.

It’a warm welcome 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’movers and shakers, 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 ‘andard Issue’as recorded at Abbey Road Studios and has quite rightly been receiving rave reviews. With Roger Carey (bass) and Greg Leppard (drums).

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).

Drummer Dylan Howe’eagerly awaited return to the Fleece finds him in the company of Andrew McCormack (piano), Brandon Allen (saxophone), Quentin Collins (trumpet) and Aidan O’nnell (bass). If you didn’know better, 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?]

Mark’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’Putte Wickman. With John Pearce (piano), Colin Oxley (guitar), Matt Miles (bass) and Steve Brown (drums).

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.

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).

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.

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).

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’nfluences are as diverse as Bach and Hendrix.

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’say about anyone", says tonight's drummer Martin Drew. John Critchinson (piano) and Alec Dankworth (bass) complete Simon’Quartet.

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? ]

Winner of the Brussels International Young Jazz Singers Award beating 85 contestants from around the world, including Portugal’s Sofia Ribeiro and Australia’s Sophie Brous. Anglo-Italian singer Georgia’s undeniable 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).
Killer Shrimp are Ed Jones (saxophone), Damon Brown (trumpet) with the formidable rhythm section of Ben Hazleton (bass) and Troy Miller (drums). Damon’s trumpet style blends British and American influences with a Blue Note sound of the 50’s, while his 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.
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).
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’s virtuoso guitarists he considers himself above all a composer, his music being very Brazilian, yet it is also universal. "He’s someone who appears only once in a hundred years". Hermeto Pascoal.
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’s in London 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.
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.
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’s was written for the distinctive sound of Iain Dixon’s tenor saxophone 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’Donnell (bass) and he has been the obvious choice to complete this gathering of some of Nikki’s favourite musicians.
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.
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.]
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’s music has instant appeal, his strengths being a beautiful trumpet tone on reflective pieces, a gift for evocative compositions and an ear for group dynamics. Colin’s quintet is Michael Buckley (saxophone), Dave Milligan (piano), Aidan O’Donnell (bass) and Stu Ritchie (drums). We highly recommend his Album ‘Through The Waves’ on the Act label.
[On tenor and soprano, we had the very Scottish Konrad Wiszniewski, who played up a storm in a top 10 gig.]
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.
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.
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’s the way to sing! simply and with spirit". Hanna brings with her Chris Flory (guitar) and Phil Flanigan (bass).
It’a very warm welcome back for Ian, Britain’premier male jazz singer, who tonight is accompanied in our intimate setting by guitarist David Preston making his Fleece debut. Ian has recently recorded “awn to All Things” his debut for 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.
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.
Dave Brubeck’music has rare 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’conception.
A seriously big sound emanates from this supremely integrated super-group. The wonderfully rich sound-scape conjured by Mike Gorman’keyboards allied to Jim Mullen’sublime touch on guitar, welded together by the swinging drive of Matt Skelton’drumming makes for a ferociously swinging evening where the pace never flags.
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.
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 ‘azy Town’has received rave reviews. World class musicians Colin Oxley (guitar), Dave Chamberlain (bass) and Winston Clifford (drums) complete her quartet.
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.
Having formed the original District 6 (named after a section of Cape Town) in the 1980’ Brian is one of the most important and influential UK drummers. He has been professor of jazz studies at London’Guildhall School of Music since 1985. Julian Siegel (saxophone), Dave O’ien (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.]
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’listeners. With 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).
James is one of Europe’most versatile 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). “believe he shows signs of true greatness in the making”ir John Dankworth
[In a musically stunning and very funny gig, our drummer was Matt Home and our bassist was Thad Kelly.]
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).
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’since they 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 Stephen Keogh (drums).
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’leading hard bop saxophonists. Pat was also one of Ronnie Scott’favourite players. The quartet is completed by Nick Weldon (piano), Tim Wells (bass) and Felix Weldon (drums).
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’band is a tight quartet with prominent playing by Denny Ilett on guitar, Phil Parnell on piano, and Dylan Howe on drums. Her latest CD is called ‘les of Misbehaviour’which we highly recommend.
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).
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’repertoire is laced with a subtle sense of humour and reflects Patrick’love of music as diverse as Horace Silver, Thelonious Monk and Igor Stravinsky!
Always the consummate professional Todd is one of Scotland’most renowned 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 ‘ove’Illusions’produced by 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).
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’influences are Freddie Hubbard, Lee Morgan, Woody Shaw and Clifford Brown. Unmissable!
John Law is renowned as one of Europe’finest improvising 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.
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’rich and complex yet readily accessible and beautiful to listen to. Oli Hayhurst (bass) and Gene Calderazzo (drums) complete her trio. ‘lting Pot’released 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.
It’a warm welcome 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).
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). ‘Diva for our time, her voice is a force of nature’ The Observer ‘ovocative and unorthodox’ The New Musical Express.
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).
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 ‘ntastic Englishman’Iain Ballamy 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’ The other members of Anorak are Gareth Williams (piano), Steve Watts (bass) and Martin France (drums).
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).
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 & trumt), Winston Blissett (bass) and Darby Todd (drums). Ladies and Gentlemen - It still ain’dinner jazz!
It’s a real pleasure 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’s eyes singing better than ever. Jim continues to stun audiences with his instantly recognizable guitar playing.
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.]
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.
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.]
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’s debut CD “Introducing..Simon Spillett" is out on Alan Barnes’ Woodville label. “Sounds uncannily like Tubby Hayes, which I never thought I’d say about anyone” says tonight’s drummer Martin Drew. John Critchinson (piano) and Alec Dankworth (bass) complete Simon’s superb Quartet.
Geoff Gascoyne is one of the UK’s most acclaimed 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).
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’re in for a 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).
Gilad’s quartet 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.
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
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’s husband Billy is responsible for all the top class arrangements.
[Clive Dunstall excelled on piano with Billy's wonderful arrangements.]
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
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?
Pianist Frank Harrison leads his trio of Aidan O’Donnell (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’s first solo 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
‘eting Ground’s the musical manifestation of a place where the spirit and soul of a people join together to celebrate life –t is also the title of the group’latest CD. Byron 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.]
A truly international piano led trio formed in 1995 with two highly impressive CDs, Dozen a Day & Undinished, to their name. Led by classically trained pianist David Gordon with Copenhagen’Ole Rasmussen (bass) and America’Paul Cavaciuti (drums), the music is characterised by free flowing improvisation, lyrical melody, strong, groove and near telepathic interaction.
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, ‘e finest jazz singer I’ heard in the last thirty years’
With Joan 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.]
Led by two of the UK’leading jazz 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?]
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. “nnis is that rarest of jazz beasts, a genuine star”#8211 the Independent 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.
Pianist, prolific composer and national treasure Michael Garrick has been leading bands since the 50’and was active in the jazz and poetry movement of the mid 60’where he worked with a band co-led by Don Rendell and Ian Carr. Described by Sir John Dankworth as ‘rld class’he has recorded 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).
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’nowledge 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 tonight as the band showcase their new CD Yuz.
Acoustic Ladyland’pianist Tom Cawley’debut CD, Hidden, 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’imaginative compositions and improvisation, it is an inspired set that draws on influences as diverse as Thelonious Monk to Debussy.
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).
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 “e most flexible and expressive voice of her generation, regardless of genre”
Jacqui is accompanied by Malcolm Edmonstone on piano, Chris Allard on guitar, Alex Dankworth on bass and Andrew Bain on drums.
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.]
Two of our favourite musicians –em>David Newton (piano), and Michael Hanson (guitar) return to the Fleece for an evening of breathtaking technical ability, melody, harmony, rhythmic sophistication and supreme entertainment.
Drummer Dylan Howe’gigs are simply unmissable. If you didn’know better 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).
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.
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’new CD is entitled ‘front’ow on Hard Bop Records. “questionably one of the finest trumpeters we’ ever had in this country.”ony Hall, Jazzwise.
Combining a European heritage with an earthy northern English sensibility, Barb Jungr’passionate singing 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 ‘lking in the Sun’ut on the Linn 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
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’debut CD “capade”ow out on 33 Records is highly recommended.
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.
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’Quartet is completed by Steve Melling piano, Mick Coady bass and Ian Palmer drums. Alan’latest CD “pressions of John Coltrane”a double disc) was recorded live here at the Fleece by our sound man David Lyons in December 2005.
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.
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.
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’long time collaborator, 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.]
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’quintet.
“e of the most impressive jazz drummers in Britain today”he Times
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 – gig not to be missed.
British vibraphone virtuoso Roger Beaujolais’lassy 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 Winston Clifford drums provide an extremely sophisticated backdrop for Roger’astonishing technique.
Described by Duncan Lamont as “e most swinging alto player on either side of the Atlantic”Berklee College 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’latest CD ‘um Lane’s out on the audio-b label and is an exceptional disc.
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.
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!
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.
It’s a real pleasure 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.]
Jutta’s Party Band 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.
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.
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.
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