Art Themen & Simon Allen (Saxes)
David Newton (Piano)
Andy Cleyndert (Bass)
Clark Tracey (Drums)

Clark Tracey is an award-winning drummer, bandleader, composer and arranger, who originally featured with the band of his late, great, Father Stan Tracey CBE,MBE. Clark has gone on to establish himself in his own right as one of the country's leading modern jazz drummers; receiving the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the 2019 Queen's Birthday Honours, for services to music and the promotion of jazz.

Clark formed this group in 2004 and has put together a stellar line up of established and well-respected musicians from the UK jazz scene. Art Themen & Simon Allen were both frontmen for Stan Tracey bands over the years.
The legend that is 'Art Themen' was in one of Stan's first groups, despite not being a full time musician. Art was; until his retirement, as an esteemed Doctor, indeed one of the country's leading Consultant Orthopedic Surgeons; Jazz was his sideline....some sideline, as he carved out a mighty career spanning more than five decades.

Simon Allen was in Stan's last few bands and despite being the baby of this group, is extremely well regarded across the Jazz world for his inventive playing. The prospect of these two on frontline is worth the ticket price alone.

Clark's association with David Newton (voted Best Jazz Pianist 16 times by UK jazz audiences) and Andy Cleyndert, also spans more than 40 years. The quality of this rhythm section is simply top drawer!

This new band is firmly in the Bebop and Hard Bop styling; but it brings a fresh look at some of Stan Tracey's most famous compositions along with some beloved Jazz classics.
The Jazz Champions have been playing to sell-out houses since they started playing together, as well as getting stand-out gig reviews.

A gig not to be missed!

Chris While (Vocals, Guitar, Dulcimer, Banjo & Percussion)
Miranda Sykes (Vocals, Bass & Guitar)
Helen Watson (Vocals, Guitar)
Julie Matthews (Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards)

Daphne's Flight have been a long term 5-piece band showcasing five of the leading singer songwriters of their generation. Unfortunately, Melanie Harrold has become seriousy ill and cannot make this tour. Because of this; the other four sisters have decided to honour Mel by making this tour the last ever Daphne's Flight tour..'The Final Flight'

Described as one of the most exciting vocal groups to emerge on the acoustic music scene, their energy on stage is matched only by their collective talents, Daphne's Flight are unrivalled and sit firmly in a class of their own as singers, musicians and writers.

Together they create a unique and unparalleled force, empowering audiences of all ages, producing music that is relatable, moving and uplifting and creating a chemistry on stage that is both joyful and contagious.

Imagine, if you can, the instrumental sparkle and songwriting creds of The Traveling Wilburys combined with the striking vocal prowess of Sweet Honey In The Rock. Then add the warmth and down-to-earth humour of The Derry Girls and you'll be somewhere in Daphne's territory. They create a unique sound and energy which unites singer-songwriter, folk, blues and more.

Julie, Chris, Helen and Mel were delighted to welcome into the fold Miranda Sykes on vocals and double bass in 2022 replacing Christine Collister, adding yet another exciting new element to the band. Join them on what promises to be an unmissable Last Flight to the stage.

Quotes from fans....

Fulvio Sigurta (Trumpet / Flugelhorn)
Hannes Riepler (Guitar)
Esben Tjalve (Piano / Keys)
Jasper Høiby (Bass)
Marc Michel (Drums)

Red Kite is a pan-European Danish / English / Italian quintet that sits at the intersection of jazz, classical, and electronic music. The quintet is led by Danish pianist Esben Tjalve and features a stellar line-up.
Red Kite plays acoustic modern jazz with some electronic elements that help create a cinematic undertone in the music.

The quintet creates colourful instrumentation with trumpet, guitar, piano, and keys. The strong rhythm section consisting of Jasper Høiby (Phronesis, Planet B) and Marc Michel (Planet B, John Hollenbeck) provides a strong underlying groove that creates a solid base for both composition and improvisation.
The moods vary from film noir ballads to groovy car chase scenarios, creating a universe reminiscent of Miles Davis & Arve Henriksen.

Red Kite has previously released the album Theory of Colours, which was recognized with an invitation to play the European showcase at Jazzahead in Bremen in 2021.

Eddie Parker (Flutes & Piano)
Rob Luft (Guitar)
Dave Mannington (Bass)
Jay Davis (Drums)

Renowned jazz composer and flautist Eddie Parker, a key member of the revolutionary, genre-busting big band Loose Tubes and Django Bates' 'Delightful Precipice', brings his singular musical vision to this exciting gig, in a thrilling band sparked further by the presence of hotshot guitarist Rob Luft.

When the 21-year-old Rob Luft sat in for John Parricelli for a few nights during Loose Tubes' reunion set at Ronnie Scott's in 2014, the spark of an idea kindled. A few years later that inner flame took the form of what Eddie describes as a "posh covers band", playing modern classics by John McLaughlin, Keith Jarrett, Kenny Wheeler and John Taylor.

Alongside his internationally acclaimed jazz flute playing Eddie is a superlative pianist and keyboard player in Will Gregory's Moog Ensemble, and so this band with Rob, is also a vehicle for this hitherto largely unknown side of Eddie's career.

After some deliberation on what to call the band; and with a brand-new original set composed by Eddie taking flight; Airborn was born.

The rest of the rhythm section features Dave Manington on the double bass (Julian Arguelles, Marius Neset,Yazz Ahmed Quartet)and Jay Davis on drums (Stan Sulzmann, Mark Lockheart).
Dave was a founder member of the infamous Loop Collective, nominated for Ivor Novello Award 2022. Jay is the proud recipient of the Yamaha Jazz Scholar prize

Gabriel Latchin (Piano)
Calum Gourlay (Bass)
Steve Brown (Drums)

2025 sees the 5th album release of pianist Gabriel Latchin's trio, 'The Man I Love' - a heartfelt tribute to the enduring work of George & Ira Gershwin. This tour is in support of this release.

The trio play a collection of favourite songs from America's pre-eminent composer and lyricist, presented here with new arrangements drawing on influences such as Claude Debussy, Bill Evans & John Coltrane. The album includes ten of Gershwin's most beloved compositions, including 'Summertime', 'I Got Rhythm' & 'Someone to Watch Over Me'.

This builds on the success of Latchin's previous four records - 45 million streams to date - which have been met with critical acclaim worldwide: "this is a masterpiece that shows the true skill of his composition" - Jazz Japan.

Latchin's piano style is firmly in the classical jazz piano genre of the likes of Oscar Peterson, George Shearing, Bill Evans or Benny Green; but its Gabriel's own voicing & touch that makes his sound a bit unique!

This promises to be a delightful evening of memorable tunes that almost everyone knows, performed by some of the UK's best musicians. It will appeal to both Jazz and Classical lovers alike, perfect for a summers day

Michael Arbenz (Piano)
Andy Sheppard (Saxes)

Swiss born Michael Arbenz, is a classically trained pianist and jazz musician, combines his curiosity for new ideas with the experience of his classical training. Micheal is now 'Head of the Institute for Jazz and Folk Music' at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, in Lucerne, Switzerland.

Michael discovered his love of jazz as a child. His independent approach to jazz tradition and other improvised music led to a very personal approach. Michael along with his twin brother Florian (Drums) formed the trio VEIN in late 2005 and successfully toured throughout Europe, North and South America and Asia and they collaborated with some of the best 'A-List Jazzers' in the world, for example, Greg Osby, Ron Carter, Dave Liebman & Wolfgang Puschnig.

In June 2016 I booked the Vein Trio in Bristol at the Hen & Chicken, The guys had expressed an interest in working with Andy Sheppard. I was able to facilitate that connection, with Andy sitting in on the gig. Andy did several European tours with Vein; now, this duo is a spin off of that association and is their second tour together.

Andy, a former Bristol resident, makes his home nowadays in Portugal. This world class saxophonist continues his stellar career, touring Europe and the world in the company of some of the best musicians on the planet. From Shankar to Christine McGregor, Nigel Kennady to Carla Bley, John Martyn & Gil Evans, he is comfortable in all styles and genres of music. His own multi album compositions and many bands have seen over 30 years at the top of the jazz tree. Andy is also a ECM recording artist

Their performance promises to be a journey through a rich tapestry of sounds, weaving together their extensive experiences and diverse influences. Whether interpreting the works of Bach or Ellington, each piece is given a fresh perspective through their unique musical dialogue. The concert is not only a testament to their technical prowess but also to their deep musical connection, making it a must-see event for Jazz enthusiasts and Classical music lovers alike. Expect an evening filled with innovation, emotion, and exceptional artistry, as these two masters of their craft bring their shared vision to life.

Gordon Giltrap (Acoustic Guitars)
John Etheridge (Electric & Acoustic Guitars)

After the success of their 2024 tour, Guitar supremos Gordon Giltrap & John Etheridge join forces again for an unforgettable evening of top-class musicianship performed by two of the UKs most respected and influential musicians.

These innovative guitarists will be performing many of their incredible tunes with incredible arrangements in what promises to be an electrifying show. Performing material from their respective careers and favourite pieces throughout the landscape of their musical visions and influences.
A concert guaranteed to enthral guitar aficionados, acoustic enthusiasts and music lovers in general, don't miss the chance to see these influential guitarists in action.

Gordon Giltrap is a renowned British acoustic guitarist known for his fingerstyle technique and emotive compositions. With a career spanning several decades, he has released numerous albums showcasing his diverse musical influences, from folk and classical to progressive rock.

John Etheridge is a British jazz fusion guitarist known for his versatile and innovative playing style. He has collaborated with various musicians and bands, including Soft Machine and Stephane Grappelli. Etheridge is recognized for his high technical skill and contributions to the contemporary jazz scene.

Chris While (Vocals, Guitar, Banjo, Dulcimer, Bodhran & Percussion)
Julie Matthews (Vocals, Piano & Keys, Guitar, Mandolin & Bouzouki)

Chris & Julie have played more than 3,000 gigs, appeared on over 100 albums, written hundreds of original songs and reached millions of people around the world. Now, 30 years after their debut, they sound as fresh and vital as ever.

They are two of the best and most hard-working musicians on the world & folk roots scene, both are highly regarded producers, and they record everything that they are involved in at their own studio in a small Pennine town far from the London-centric music industry....They truly are inspirational women.

The duo are renowned for their seamless harmonies and affinity for each other on stage, they are stunning singers, songwriters, musicians and performers whose energy and commitment to their craft and their audience is boundless. Chris and Julie have been nominated ten times in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in the 'Best Song, Best Duo & Best Live Act' categories, winning Best Duo in 2009; but it is their longstanding and devoted growing fans that they care most about.

Though internationally acclaimed, they continue to be a leading force on the UK's acoustic/roots arts circuit. Their songs cover life as they see it, from injustice and freedom to matters of the heart and everything in between. Their songs are covered by many singers the world over, but it is 'While & Matthews' musical partnership and obvious joy of performing together that really brings their songs to life. As performers they are unrivalled and their audiences leave their concerts having travelled an emotional journey, entertained and smiling all the way home!