606 Jazz Club, Chelsea, London - Live Music Programme for May 2025.
Monday, April 28, 2025
Laura Thorne of the 606 Club has forwarded details of the venue's live music programme for May 2025. Fully detailed schedule attached.
Laura Thorne writes;
Hello all you connoisseurs of culture and lovers of live music – greetings from the 606 in Chelsea, known for presenting the best jazz, soul, Latin, groove, R&B & blues musicians in the UK bar none.
This mail provides information about our live performances from the 1st to the 31st of May.
As mentioned in our last mail to you a couple of weeks ago, here are a handful of upcoming May highlights:
Tue 6th Jocelyn Gould ft. Anthony Kerr-vibes – Canadian Juno Award-winning jazz guitarist & vocalist Jocelyn plays music from her latest album, “Portrait of Right Now”
Thu 8th **Album Launch** Imogen Ryall/Chris Coull 4tet: ‘On The Roof’ (the music of Tom Harrell)
Thu 15th Niklas Lukassen ft. Gwilym Simcock; James Maddren – a unique new Trio project ft. German bassist Lukassen on bass cello along with two of the UK’s premier jazz artists!
Wed 21st Donovan Haffner – up and coming young jazz saxophonist Donovan & his Quintet play music from his debut album, “Alleviate”
Sun 25th Mo Pleasure Band – perhaps best known as the Music Director for Earth Wind & Fire, multi-instrumentalist Mo has also worked with Ray Charles, George Duke, Natalie Cole, Dianne Reeves, Michael McDonald, Roberta Flack & many other legends!
Thu 29th **Album Launch** Sandra-Mae Lux - Canadian-born award-winning songwriter, vocalist and saxophonist Sandra plays songs from her new album “Seasons in Jazz”
Information about all of these May events, along with photos, video clips etc are on the website now for your consumption: https://www.606club.co.uk/events/.
And we are now adding June, July and even August shows as well!
MAY 2025 LIVE MUSIC GUIDE
Thu 1st 8:00pm STACEY BROTHERS ROYAL SCAMMERS
This last show of a four-night run is already full!
To join the cancellation list please visit: https://www.606club.co.uk/events/view/the-stacey-brothers-the-royal-scammers-15/
“Jeremy Stacey…a fine…drummer” Time Out London;
“Paul Stacey’s…brilliant guitar work” Concertlivewire
Fri 2nd 9:00pm BRUCE ADAMS/ART THEMEN
Bruce Adams has been a stalwart of the UK jazz scene for almost 50 years, performing with the likes of Harry Sweets Edison, Buddy Tate, Al Cohn and Benny Waters and is widely regarded as one of the finest mainstream cornet/trumpet players in Europe. For this show he’ll be joined by the iconic saxophonist, Art Themen. An exciting, playful and inventive saxophonist described by The Observer as “One of the tiny handful of undeniably perfect jazz musicians”, Art has been a leading light of the British jazz scene for over 50 years. A terrific, swinging jazz gig from two masters.
“Adams…there is as much delicacy as power in his playing” Guardian;
“Themen, a veteran master now, in such eloquent form” Jazzwise
Sat 3rd 9:00pm MORNINGTON LOCKETT WITH ALISTAIR MARTIN
Saxophonist, composer and teacher Mornington Lockett first came to prominence with the Ronnie Scott Quintet in the 1990’s before releasing four critically acclaimed albums of his own, winning the 2002 British Jazz Award for Best Small Group. One of the UK’s great sax players! Mornington’s Special Guest is trumpeter/composer Alistair Martin. Although still relatively new to the scene Alistair has already established himself as a highly respected fluent and creative performer across multiple genres. “Lockett…one of the most complete masters of the instrument alive today.” The Observer;
“Martin…a remarkable talent” Jazzthing
Sun 4th 1:30pm SUNDAY LUNCH: EARL OKIN “CELEBRATING 60 YEARS IN MUSIC”
Singer-songwriter, musician and comedian Earl Okin has been entertaining audiences worldwide with his unique brand of music and wit for six decades now. His repertoire of quirky humour, combined with first-rate playing of classic jazz and Bossa Nova mark him out as a unique talent. His CV includes touring with Paul McCartney, performing at the Edinburgh Fringe 500 times and working alongside such jazz legends as Adelaide Hall, Stéphane Grappelli and Dame Cleo Laine. An accomplished singer (also recognised for his unique ‘vocal trumpet’ solos), pianist & guitarist, today Earl will be joined by Paul Morgan-bass and Michele Drees-drums. Earl has been performing at the 606 since the 1970’s – he’s an absolute treasure!
“…relaxed and assured…his guitar and keyboard playing are a joy” The Times;
“Exceptional…an utter delight” The Scotsman;
“gently witty and beautifully timed” Guardian
Sun 4th 8:00pm EMMA HATTON “SOMETHING TO TALK ABOUT”
Emma Hatton’s soaring voice and transformative abilities have seen her star in the West End as Elphaba in Wicked, Eva Peron in Evita and Grizabella in Cats. She’s as comfortable singing blues as she is soul, jazz and country, joining the world famous musical collective PostModern Jukebox as a lead vocalist and supporting Jools Holland on his UK tour, opening for him at The Royal Albert Hall. She has released two critically acclaimed EP’s, ‘Merry Christmas, Darling x’ and ‘Thirty Three and a Third’ both of which went straight to Number 1 on the iTunes Jazz and Blues chart. This evening, joined by her quintet, Emma presents ‘Something To Talk About’ a lovingly curated celebration of the music and 50-plus year career of singer-songwriter Bonnie Raitt.
“A pint-sized powerhouse. She has grit, she has growl and her voice has the most amazing dynamics…she has that ability to send a genuine shiver down your spine.” Headliner Magazine
Mon 5th 8:00pm SOPHIE ALLOWAY
Drummer Sophie Alloway has been the musician of choice for a wide variety of high-profile artists for some years now. With appearances for the likes of Later With Jools Holland, the Mercury Music Prize, Glastonbury Festival and most recently King Charles III, her featured tracks on ‘Abbey Road Masters: The Drum Sessions’ have been used on radio and TV across the world. For this show Sophie has put together a brilliant band to perform material by iconic composers such as Wayne Shorter, Chick Corea & Herbie Hancock. Featuring award-winning saxophonist Paul Booth (Stevie Winwood), BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year, pianist Deschanel Gordon & bass legend Laurence Cottle (Van Morrison), this is a lineup with some serious jazz credibility.
“Goddess of groove…Sophie Alloway” Jazz FM;
“Paul Booth… effortless…a pleasure to listen to.” Birmingham Post; “the piano man to watch…Deschanel Gordon” London Jazz News;
“[Cottle]…simply one of the most incredible bassists I’ve ever heard” Global Bass
Tue 6th 8:00pm JOCELYN GOULD FT. ANTHONY KERR
Tonight we welcome the impressive Canadian guitarist and singer Jocelyn Gould with her quartet featuring one of the world’s leading exponents of jazz vibraphone, Anthony Kerr. The 2021 winner of Canada’s most prestigious music award, the Juno, for ‘Best Jazz Album-Solo’, Jocelyn has gone from strength to strength. Citing Kenny Burrell, Joe Pass and Wes Montgomery as her influences, she joyfully embodies that style while updating it for the 21st century. As a singer she is just as enchanting and for this show we’ll hear a mix of classic jazz standards as well as music from her latest album ‘Portrait of Right Now’. A magical evening from one of the finest guitarists on the international jazz scene.
“Gould…an exceptional virtuoso” UK Jazz News;
“a jaw-dropping display of guitar prowess” Belleville Intelligencer (Canada)
Wed 7th 8:00pm DAVID GORDON TRIO
After the critical acclaim given to the trio’s brilliant project “Alexander Scriabin’s Ragtime Band” (Mojo’s Jazz CD of the Year), their latest record ‘Pachyderm’, which they are showcasing tonight, marks a return to the group’s original compositions. The trio-David Gordon-piano, Oli Hayhurst-bass and Tom Hooper-drums will feature a selection from the new record together with some brand-new original compositions, choros from Brazil and one or two golden oldies. David is a world class talent with a playful sense of humour, which makes all his shows both intriguing and fun!
“Gordon…a richly gifted player” Independent on Sunday;
“brilliant pianist” London Jazz News;
“genius” Jazz FM
Thu 8th 8:00pm **ALBUM LAUNCH** IMOGEN RYALL/CHRIS COULL QUARTET
Imogen Ryall is widely considered to be one of the leading voices of the UK jazz scene. Championed by Claire Martin OBE and many others, Imogen’s 2023 album ‘Imogen Ryall sings the Mingus/Mitchell Songbook’ was chosen for numerous “Best Of” lists by the likes of Jazzwise, All About Jazz and the NYC Jazz Record and in 2024 she showcased her impressive lyric writing on the album, ‘Songs’, co-written with the lauded Czech pianist and composer, Emil Viklický. Tonight’s show is the launch of Imogen’s latest album “On the Roof - the Music of Tom Harrell” alongside trumpet & flugelhorn player Chris Coull, whose playing takes inspiration from the great lineage of bebop trumpeters from early Miles through to Woody Shaw. The album, as well as the gig tonight, features Si Robinson-piano, Simon Woolf-double bass and Joe Edwards-drums and is comprised of eight compositions by acclaimed US trumpeter/composer Harrell with newly written lyrics by Imogen. Claire Martin called it “an absolute triumph” and we can’t wait to hear this inspired, sophisticated set of music live.
“the honey-toned…voice of Imogen Ryall…combines…effortless precision with a warm, inviting sound, drawing the listener into her beguiling world” London Jazz News; “Exceptional” Jazzwise
Fri 9th 9:00pm BEVERLEY SKEETE
Beverley Skeete’s career in the music industry is the stuff that dreams are made of. A first call singer for numerous high-profile artists including Robbie Williams, Tina Turner and Elton John she was also a pivotal member of ex-Rolling Stones’ bassist Bill Wyman’s Rhythm Kings. Her talent and versatility have put her in a class that few can equal. And watch out for her Special Guest vocalists, Kevin Leo & Maz Pyzer-Skeete.
“Skeete…came into her own with a perfectly paced version of James Brown’s ‘It’s a Man’s Man’s World’” London Jazz News
Sat 10th 9:00pm PETE HORSFALL
A founding member of the “Kansas Smitty’s Band” Pete Horsfall is an award-winning jazz trumpeter and vocalist. Steeped in the blues, bebop and swing, his unique musical voice has seen him featured regularly as a guest on BBC Radio and as a trumpet soloist he has performed at prestigious venues and festivals around the world, including the Royal Albert Hall and New York’s Lincoln Center. Tonight he returns to the 606 with his outstanding ensemble featuring Joe Webb-piano to “explore new material from their deep and eclectic engagement with the jazz and hip-hop traditions”.
“A bittersweet beautiful voice and timeless trumpet” BBC Radio 2;
“Truly a unique new voice” Jazz FM; “Ravishing” Guardian
Sun 11th 1:30pm SUNDAY LUNCH: TONY O’MALLEY SINGS STANDARDS WITH JIM HUNT
A brilliant Groove and R&B singer/pianist we thought it would be fun to start the day showcasing Tony’s equally impressive jazz singing. Appearing as a duo Tony will be performing songs from his two jazz “Standards” albums plus some of his “swing” originals. Joining Tony will be the equally impressive Jim Hunt (Amy Winehouse) on sax. A standout way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
“O’Malley…A hugely entertaining afternoon of music” The Jazz Mann;
“Hunt excelling on saxophone” Close up Culture
Sun 11th 8:00pm TONY O’MALLEY BAND
Tony O’Malley’s brand of Groove and R&B is stunning, with his fabulous, smoky, velvety growl of a voice delivering original material and some covers in his own inimitable fashion alongside an impressive 4-piece band of some of the finest young musicians in the UK. One of the most original and powerful performers on the scene today tonight Tony will be featuring songs from his latest album “Nagenna” alongside his classic material. If you like contemporary R&B then this is definitely for you.
“…one of the UK’s hottest properties” Jazzwise;
“pure groove, funky keyboard, growling vocals and soul to spare…O’Malley has it all” Blues & Soul Magazine
Mon 12th 8:00pm PAUL STACEY BAND
An impressive guitarist Paul Stacey showed his versatility early on when he combined work with the likes of jazz artists Claire Martin and Bobby Wellins alongside appearances with Oasis. Over the years his guitar playing has been heard with the likes of Tom Jones & the Black Crowes as well as a 25-year association, as performer and producer, with Noel Gallagher. This master guitarist is considered to be one of the UK’s leading musicians! In addition to Paul’s searing Rock/Blues guitar the band also features the remarkable singer John Hogg (Magpie Salute, Roger Daltrey Band), Dave Catlin-Birch (World Party)-bass and Paul’s renowned twin brother Jeremy Stacey (Noel Gallagher, King Crimson)-drums. Probably one of the loudest bands we have here(!) it is also one of the most exciting.
“Stacey’s…brilliant guitar work” Concertlivewire
Tue 13th 8:00pm DAN REINSTEIN
American-born saxophonist Dan Reinstein first began playing at the old 606 Club when a medical student in the 1980’s. He returned to the US in the early 90s to become one of the world’s leading laser eye surgeons (he’s now Professor Reinstein). But when he returned to London, it was great to hear his fluent, classic hard-bop, muscular sax playing again and the rest, as they say, is history-Dan & his quartet have performed here for the last 20 years and still going!
“impressive hard-bop saxophonist” Time Out
Wed 14th 8:00pm DULCIE MAY MORENO
Influenced by the likes of Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, Sheila Jordan, Mark Murphy, Sarah Vaughan and Kurt Elling singer Dulcie May Moreno is emerging as a versatile jazz artist with range and poise. Over the last 10 years she has performed on a regular basis around the UK, with notable performances from London and Canterbury to Newcastle and Edinburgh. Tonight Dulcie will be appearing at the Club for the first time with her quintet performing a mix of her excellent jazz influenced originals alongside, as she says “carefully curated classic standards by some of my greatest influences”. Also featured this evening will be Stephen Bridgland-guitar, Frances Knight-piano, Dave Whitford-bass and Matt Home-drums.
“A class act” Bebop Spoken Here
Thu 15th 8:00pm NIKLAS LUKASSEN FT. GWILYM SIMCOCK & JAMES MADDREN
Mentored by Ron Carter whilst studying in New York, German bassist Niklas Lukassen has established himself as an exciting presence on the contemporary jazz scene. Now living between London and Berlin he includes work with the likes of Joe Lovano, Mike Stern, & Richie Beirach on an impressive cv. Fluent on both acoustic and electric bass tonight Niklas introduces his latest Trio featuring him performing on a unique hybrid instrument: the bass cello. The programme will consist of a mix of his original music, written specifically for this project, alongside material from his most recent album “Still Waters Run Deep” (also featuring Kurt Rosenwinkel). Joining him tonight will be two of the UK’s leading jazz musicians, pianist Gwilym Simcock and drummer James Maddren. Gwilym is unquestionably one of the finest musicians of his generation with multiple Awards to his name as well as a ‘Barclaycard Mercury Prize’ Album of the Year. James Maddren is the drummer of choice for a remarkable array of high-profile jazz artists and these three superb musicians will together explore the potential of this unique collaboration at their only London show.
“Lukassen…A great bassist with very musical instincts“ Mike Stern;
“A phenomenal talent, Simcock is a jewel in the crown of the country’s jazz scene” Norwich Evening News;
“Simcock…a jaw-droppingly exciting pianist” The Guardian
Fri 16th 9:00pm BRUCE “MISSISSIPPI” JOHNSON
After seven years in the US Marines, Bruce found himself in Paris. Making the decision to make singing his full-time profession he has, as they say, never looked back. Whilst with the band of legendary blues bassist Big Joe Turner he produced his first CD “That’s The Deal Baby”, which eventually won him the 2017 Living Blues Critics “Artist Deserving More Attention” Award and prompted his move to London. Tonight Bruce will be performing music of the great Gil Scott-Heron as well as his own songs that he promises will be a “Blues & Groove Extravaganza with plenty of jazz thrown in”.
“His voice puts me in mind of…great vocalists such as Lou Rawls” Blues Matters;
“beautifully soulful” Underground Press
Sat 17th 9:00pm JAMES DAVISON WITH SPECIAL GUEST RORY INGHAM
Recipient of the Worshipful Company of Musicians Young Jazz Musician of the Year Award, powerful and melodic trumpeter James Davison works with premier ensembles across both the jazz and classical music genres. A significant force on the UK jazz scene tonight James will be joined by the wonderful young trombone player Rory Ingham. Rory was named ‘Rising Star’ in the 2017 British Jazz Awards, ‘One to Watch’ in Jazzwise’s 2018 ‘Shape of Jazz to Come’ and ‘Student of the Year’ 2018 by the British Trombone Society. Along with their quintet James & Rory will explore the classic repertoire of the great trumpet & trombone partnerships in joyous, swinging fashion.
“Davison…in particularly fine form…effervescent…thrilling” The Jazz Mann;
“[Ingham] effortless virtuosity” Jazzwise
Sun 18th 1:30pm SUNDAY LUNCH: SARAH L KING
The excellent singer Sarah L King’s unique phrasing and ability to imbue an emotional depth to lyrics have brought her significant praise. Including select original songs from her critically acclaimed album “Fire Horse” plus several brand new songs from her forthcoming album “The Light Ahead”, Sarah will also be sharing some of her favourite standards alongside some soulful tunes. Also featuring Jim Watson-piano, Laurence Cottle-bass and Matt Home-drums.
“a formidable song writer and arranger…King has a most endearing vocal presence, and a wonderful way of phrasing that lifts the lyrics, giving them a gravitas and meaning” Jazz Views
Sun 18th 8:00pm THE “WONDER OF STEVIE” FT NOEL MCCALLA & DEREK NASH
Well, this is pretty special, two of the UK’s finest musicians, saxophonist Derek Nash (Jools Holland) and singer Noel McCalla (Manfred Mann), come together to celebrate the music of one of the greatest singer/songwriters of all time, Stevie Wonder. Accompanying these two remarkable musicians will be their stellar band, including Tim Cansfield (the Bee Gees)-guitar. Unique and powerful.
“Nash…breathtaking” Sunday Times;
“McCalla…spine tingling” Guardian
Mon 19th 8:00pm MIKE MAYFIELD
Emerging on the London scene from the ‘W3 Jam Sessions’ Mike was the lead singer and co-writer for the band and the self-titled album that grew out of those sessions, “Bassment Project”. Following that Mike’s unique soulful vocals and astonishing guitar playing were featured travelling the world with acts as diverse as Emeli Sandé, Jamie Cullum, Joss Stone and RAYE. Mike released his debut solo EP ‘Hard Up’ in 2019 and has since then supported Paloma Faith on a run of UK shows and live radio performances. He is also included as a featured artist in the live album and theatre show ‘Both Sides Now - Homage to the Songs of Joni Mitchell’ which features, amongst others Rumer, Hamish Stuart & Jo Harman. We are pleased to welcome Mike back to the Club tonight performing his own, lyrical, groove/indie based material alongside Ross Barnes-keyboards, Louis van der Westhuizen-bass & Luke Harris-drums.
“Mayfield…one of the UK’s most…talented all rounders, with an enviable CV to prove it” BBC Radio 2
Tue 20th 8:00pm MATYAS GAYER TRIO
Award-winning London-based Hungarian pianist Matyas Gayer, twice a Montreux Jazz Piano Competition finalist, is successfully forging his own impressively distinctive style and musical voice whilst still staying true to the swinging jazz piano tradition. Tonight he will be appearing with his trio featuring the brilliant Steve Brown on drums and a legend of the British Jazz scene, Dave Green, on bass. Their latest release, “Westbourne Park”, received significant international success and was featured in the Times’ “Top 20 Jazz Albums of 2024”.
“Gayer…exquisite…a superb…soloist” All About Jazz;
“Gayer’s…sophisticated style…with a distinctive approach that sets it apart” The Times
Wed 21st 8:00pm DONOVAN HAFFNER
Up-and-coming jazz alto saxophonist Donovan Haffner has performed with a multitude of established contemporary jazz musicians, including the likes of Moses Boyd, Jay Phelps, Rasmus Sorensen and US legend Charles Tolliver. In 2024 he was selected as a finalist for both the prestigious Parliamentary Jazz Awards “Jazz Newcomer of the Year” and The Musicians’ Company’s “Tina May Award”. The quintet tonight, featuring Francisco Garcia de Paredes-guitar & Jay Verma-piano, will present Donovan’s own original music, including a selection from his recently released debut album “Alleviate”. This talented young group expertly balance complexity with a sense of melody, accessibility and groove. An impressive musician we are certainly going to hear much more of.
“impressive…Haffner doesn’t rely on technical fireworks, but instead creates genuine depth” Maxazine
Thu 22nd 8:00pm TONY LAKATOS
One of the finest jazz saxophonists ever to come from Hungary Tony Lakatos was born into a musical family, his father a gypsy violinist and his brother Roby one of Hungary’s great jazz violinists. In 1981 he moved to Germany where his flawless technique and flowing melodic improvisations rapidly established him as one of the most respected saxophone players on the international jazz scene. His broad, warm, robust tenor has been heard with the likes of Joanne Brackeen, Terri Lyne Carrington, Randy Brecker, the Mingus Big Band and Kenny Werner, he has recorded over 280 albums as leader or sideman and he’s appeared worldwide, including frequent US tours. It’s a testament to his skill and creativity that fellow US jazz sax giants Dave Liebman and Jerry Bergonzi have said of him: “Tony…has always been the real deal with fire [&] inspired playing” (Liebman) and “From hard burning and swinging to the most delicate ballad playing, he has the history of jazz saxophone…inside his own unique voice” (Bergonzi). Tony more than holds his place amongst the elite saxophonists working today! Also featuring John Turville-piano, Arnie Somogyi-bass & Winston Clifford-drums.
“Lakatos’s… broad, warm, no fooling tenor tone is…inspired” Jazzwise
Presented in association with The Harmónia Műhely Alapítvány
Fri 23rd 9:00pm SAMARA FT. CAROLINA LELIS
Tonight we present an evening celebrating the joyous, rhythms of classic Brazilian MPB with the outstanding Brazilian band “Samara”. Featuring the brilliant Brazilian vocalist Carolina Lelis alongside the powerful piano of Neil Angilley and the swinging flute of our “Gov’nor” Steve Rubie, the band take you on a road trip around Brazil, with music from the South, the North, the North East and beyond. Hear the stories behind some of Brazil’s classic songs and join the band as they perform an infectious blend of Brazilian Samba, Baião, jazz & Latin while everyone has a great time!
“Cracking Latin-jazz quintet…explores…[Brazilian]…classics in great rhythmic style” Time Out
Sat 24th 9:00pm DAVE O’HIGGINS’ “MONKIN’ AROUND”
Highly regarded saxophonist Dave O’Higgins has worked with the likes of Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles and Nancy Wilson. He has 24 albums as leader to his credit, including ‘It’s Always 9:30 in Zog’ which received a British Jazz Award nomination while Dave was also nominated for ‘Best Tenor Saxophonist’. And if all that wasn’t enough, he is also an in-demand producer, most recently producing Matt Bianco’s album ‘Gravity’. Tonight, along with Special Guest Sean Fyfe on piano, Dave will be bringing his latest project “Monkin’ Around” to the Club which, as Dave describes it, will be “playing the timeless themes of Thelonious Monk - swinging, grooving, lyrical and playful”.
“…exceptional fluency…one of Britain’s finest musicians” Observer; “world class” BBC Music Magazine
Sun 25th 1:30pm SUNDAY LUNCH: ELAINE DELMAR/BARRY GREEN DUO
It’s fair to say that after 60 years in the business Elaine Delmar is very much Jazz “Royalty”. From work at 16 with her father, the famous Leslie “Jiver” Hutchinson, through leading roles in stage musicals in London and Broadway to a successful recording career that started in the 1960’s and continues to this day, Elaine has established herself as an international artist of talent, poise and grace. She has appeared in concert with the likes of Andy Williams and Michel Legrand and in 2013 she received the APPJAG Special Award in recognition of her inestimable contribution to the UK jazz scene. Appearing this afternoon as a duo with the wonderful Barry Green-piano (Bobby Watson, Charles McPherson), Elaine will be performing music from her latest album “Speak Low” (which received five stars from BBC Music Magazine) along with a programme of swinging American Songbook standards.
“Delmar…truly defines the word class” BBC Radio 2
Sun 25th 8:00pm MO PLEASURE
One of the great multi-instrumentalists of his generation bass player/pianist/trumpeter Morris “Mo” Pleasure has been at the forefront of US popular music for more than 30 years. He began his professional career with Ray Charles before moving to work with the likes of Natalie Cole, Dianne Reeves and Chaka Khan. In 1994 he became musical director for the legendary group Earth, Wind & Fire, then toured with Janet Jackson, was on the ill-fated Michael Jackson tour and most recently MD’d for Bette Midler. Tonight’s line-up also features the wonderful vocalist Kedma.
“Pleasure proves that jazz can still be made which is smooth yet textured…varied and interesting… Superb” Soul Express
Mon 26th 8:00pm PHIL DEGREG WITH SPECIAL GUEST ALAN BARNES
Phil DeGreg is a Cincinnati-based pianist who has made his mark in the jazz world over the past four decades as a performing artist, composer and educationalist. He has released 16 albums as a leader and includes work with the likes of The Woody Herman Orchestra, Randy Brecker, J.J. Johnson and Harry Allen on a massive and impressive cv. Phil’s special guest tonight is virtuosic sax and clarinet player Alan Barnes. The recipient of more than 30 British Jazz Awards, Alan has also twice been named BBC Jazz Musician of the Year. His many career highlights include numerous tours of the US and collaborations with the likes of Michel Legrand, Jamie Cullum & Van Morrison. He is without doubt a distinguished member of an elite group of British jazz musicians. “DeGreg…imaginative…melodic improvisation” Coda; “DeGreg…flowing lyricism” Cadence; “Barnes…phenomenal” Masters of The Jazz Saxophone
Tue 27th 8:00pm WILLIAM TOPLEY
William Topley first came to prominence in the early 90’s as an electric blues-influenced singer/songwriter with his band The Blessing. Although relatively short-lived the impact the band had, both in the UK and the US, did much to cement William’s reputation as a creative writer and charismatic performer of real power and integrity. With the demise of The Blessing William went solo, producing his debut solo album in 1997 and continuing to record and perform through the 2000’s. Producer Barry Beckett (Aretha Franklin, Paul Simon) called him “the best singer I’ve ever heard” and guitarist Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits) described him as “big-hearted, emotional and strictly legit”. With 10 solo albums to his name William’s music has been described as “subtle vignettes of life that take in universal themes filtered through the lens of late night performances, morning after black coffees and too many cigarettes”. It is with enormous pleasure that we welcome William back to the Club with his band featuring Luke Brighty-guitar and Dorie Jackson-vocals.
“Topley’s songwriting…mature and complex…Brilliant songs and a brilliant voice” Hybrid Magazine
Wed 28th 8:00pm JAMES PEARSON
James Pearson is probably best known for his association with Ronnie Scott’s, where he has been the house pianist and artistic director for over 15 years. His powerful, swinging playing has been heard in an astonishing variety of settings and his ‘musical portraits’ of pianists Oscar Peterson, George Shearing, Erroll Garner and Dudley Moore, all of whom have influenced James’s own style, are legendary. Appearing with his classic piano trio this evening you can expect to hear swinging rearrangements of jazz standards alongside a few original compositions, all fused together with brilliant anecdotes about life as a jazz pianist.
“outstanding players…they’re a joy to listen to” Guardian;
“James’ dazzling playing…driving hard, yet sensitive” London Jazz News
Thu 29th 8:00pm **ALBUM LAUNCH** SANDRA-MAE LUX
An award-winning Canadian vocalist, saxophonist & songwriter Sandra-Mae Lux is widely regarded as one of the most talented musicians of her generation. On moving to London, she made her mark with her debut album “Happily Ever Now” (2020) which explored jazz, funk, and soul grooves and in the process built a loyal fanbase among Rare-Groove and Soul DJ’s and aficionados. However, in the last couple of years Sandra-Mae has gone back to her jazz roots, concentrating on her songwriting as well as performing, creating an outstanding album of brand-new, contemporary, American Songbook style material, “Seasons in Jazz”, which she will be launching tonight. Packed full of swinging numbers bound to raise a smile, atmospheric ballads to bring a tear and everything in between, tonight’s show is guaranteed to delight audiences with its mix of jazz standards, old and new!
“Lux is clearly an artist with flash and flair” The Vancouver Sun;
“Superb” JFSR Radio;
“What a great voice!” Riviera FM (Jazz & World)
Fri 30th 9:00pm ALEC HARPER
Alec Harper has established himself as one of the leading tenor saxophonists of his generation. When he’s not busy playing with the highly popular outfit “Kansas Smitty’s”, you can find him fronting his own group or appearing as an in-demand sideman for artists such as Tom Misch & Soft Cell. He has performed with the likes of the WDR Big Band (Cologne) and at venues around the world, including North Sea Jazz Festival, Ronnie Scott’s & Dizzy’s (NYC). Tonight he brings his All-Star, swinging quartet featuring Liam Noble-piano.
“Harper…a leading contender among the heavies” BeBop Spoken Here
Sat 31st 9:00pm FRASER SMITH QUINTET FT. NAT STEELE
Describing himself as ‘a practical scholar’, from an early age Birmingham-born saxophonist Fraser Smith was drawn to the music of the golden age of jazz associated with Kansas City in the 30’s to New York in the 60’s. With a focus on swing and the straight ahead he channels the sound and language of the “big US Tenor men” and for a decade and a half he has built a significant reputation on the UK scene, including work alongside the likes of US artists Harry Allen, Pat O’Leary (Lionel Hampton) and Chuck Redd (Barney Kessel). His last album “TIPTOP!” was universally well received, being streamed 1.3 million times (!) and watch out for his latest album “LIFELINE” due for release very soon. Tonight the quintet will feature Fraser’s special guest, the wonderful Nat Steele on vibes playing what Fraser describes as classic “swingin’ rep, Lionel Hampton and Modern Jazz Quartet type tunes”. This is feel good music performed with style and verve!
“Confident and…very hard swinging” John Fordham, UK Jazz News;
“Original tunes which take the virtues of 50s and 60s hard bop and…infuse them with a youthful enthusiasm” The Jazz Mann
For additional information about our upcoming performances please go to https://www.606club.co.uk/events/.
606 Club
90 Lots Road
Chelsea
London
SW10 0QD
020 7352 5953