Contemporary Acoustic Jazz Trio inspired by the sound of Django Reinhardt

Will Butterworth is “a brilliant pianist showing stunning displays of virtuosity and a remarkable talent” (The Jazzman). London Time Out describes Will as “a precociously talented young modern jazz pianist who plays with spacious and fractious beauty. A rising Brit Jazz piano star”. Tonight Will will be joined by Marcus Vergette on double bass and Preston Prince on drums.

Indulge in the world of Jim Mullen, a true luminary in the realm of jazz guitar, as we bring you an exceptional musical experience. Hailing from Glasgow, Mullen's virtuosity has earned him a revered place among Europe's most distinguished jazz guitarists, a sentiment echoed by Jazzwise, labelling him as "one of today's pre-eminent jazz guitarists." Recipient of numerous accolades, including the prestigious Honorary Parliamentary Jazz Award in 2017, Mullen's legacy is etched through his illustrious collaborations and solo endeavours. His musical journey has intertwined with iconic bands of the '70s and '80s, such as Brian Auger's "Oblivion Express," The Average White Band, and his own highly acclaimed jazz-funk sensation "Morrissey-Mullen." For this very special evening, Jim Mullen takes the lead alongside accomplished British pianist and organist Tom Ball and the rhythmic finesse of drummer Tristan Maillot. Together, they delve into the classic Organ trio format, delivering an electrifying set that seamlessly weaves original compositions and carefully chosen jazz standards. The result is a captivatingly harmonious meeting point of tradition and innovation. Join us on this auditory journey as the trio of hugely experienced and skilled jazz musicians craft a musical tapestry that resonates with the heart of jazz.

Music has been with Neil since early childhood. As is the way with the arts, he does a number of different disciplines within music playing soprano, alto, and tenor saxes and clarinet as well as running various groups including a big band, jazz bands, a clarinet group and workshops (usually with a improvisational slant). Neil also regularly arranges and composes and partakes in quite a bit of band leading. Neil’s influences and interests lie primarily in jazz but also classical music, but he also loves working with salsa, funk, soul, motown, blues and more. Neil will be ably supported this evening by James Clemas on keyboards, Joe Gass on double bass, and Eddie Kingdom on drums.

The Hot House Combo are a staple in the South West scene because they play such fantastically enjoyable music. This will be a fabulous evening of high energy jive and swing delivered with passion and enthusiasm and a shedload of entertainment. Make sure you’ve got your dancing shoes on, and lets raise the roof. Exuding a giddy blend of vintage charm and captivating rhythms, The Hot House Combo will transport you to the colourful and carefree foot-tapping era of yesteryear. Inspired by the great musicians of the 1920s, '30s and '40s, this upbeat, exciting 4 piece perform songs they love and they create new ones in the same style! Their passion and energy will have you struggling to sit still - and they wouldn't want you to anyway!​  So, fasten your swing seat belt - you're in for a thrilling ride! 

Hilda Clemas has a distinctive vocal and wide dynamic range. Capable of great power, she has a deft touch, imbuing standards such as "Desafinado", "Corcovado", "It's only a Paper Moon", and "I'm beginning to see the Light " with a silky smooth and an occasionally husky edge. When the moment is right - such as Hilda and James' boisterous take on Route 66 - she can really swing in style.

Such assured performances didn't arrive overnight. Born into a Scottish musical family in Dundee, Hilda started singing in bands at the age of 16, fronting jazz funk and soft rock bands before focusing on jazz. Hilda Clemas has performed with amongst others Sir Tim Rice, Transfixion, Pete Allen, Mike Bolton, Trichord, Martin Dale, The Cougars, dance music act Magnetic Soul and 80's Jazz Funk Band Tiamo.

Supporting Hilda will be the articulate and sophisticated keyboard playing of James, with Ralf Dorrell on bass and Eddie Kingdom on drums. This will be an evening of jazz standards sung and played with individual style and superb skill.