Boaters Jazz Listings - August 2011
David Rowe
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Sunday 7th August - Zena James Quintet
With her distinctive soulful and bluesy approach to popular standards and lesser-known jazz gems, British vocalist Zena has received rave reviews since the launch of her debut album, Tell Me More, in 2007. She has also just released her second album "Captivated", which has a distinctive crossover sound, as much inspired by 70's soul and pop, as the jazz greats. Her compelling voice takes influences from the likes of Anita O'Day and Peggy Lee, to Stevie Wonder and Eva Cassidy. Described by critics as "the real deal with an intelligent approach to the familiar lyric and a good ear for a neglected classic", her live performance is powerful, stylish and full of infectious grooves. Joining Zena tonight are Frank Walden (sax), Simon Carter (piano), Pat Bettison (bass) and Mike Bradley (drums).
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Sunday 14th August - Tommy Blaize
Tommy is without doubt one of the finest soul singers in the UK today. You will probably have heard him many times as he is one of the featured singers on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing. He has provided backing vocals for artists such as Craig David, Connor Reeves and Lewis Taylor and his voice has been heard on dozens of adverts and radio station idents. Tommy's much anticipated first album has just been released so don't miss this opportunity to catch him live in an intimate setting. Tonight's line up is completed by Simon Carter (piano), Phil Mulford (bass) and Ian Thomas (drums).
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Sunday 21st August - Jazz Proof
Jazz Proof are a collective of young and very talented musicians on the London jazz scene. They play highly arranged original material in a funk and groove based style, and take their influences from the likes of The Brecker Brothers, Weather Report and Jamiroquai. Their eponymous titled second album has just been released so don't miss what is sure to be an exciting and funky night. The line up features Duncan Eagles on sax, Dan Redding (guitar), George Bone (guitar), Max Luthert (bass) and Louie Palmer (drums).
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Sunday 28th August - Simon Spillett Quartet
Simon is one of the most energetic and dynamic tenor saxophonists on the scene today. His roots lie in the hard swing and bebop era and he is often likened to Tubby Hayes, probably the greatest saxophonist that the UK has ever produced. Simon's appearances at jazz clubs across the country have led to rave reviews and unconditional acclaim so it is a great pleasure to welcome him back to Boaters. He is joined by John Critchinson (piano), Alec Dankworth (bass) and Trevor Tomkins.
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