Diary

Louis Louis Louis are a 4-piece band from Leeds, originally formed in 2011 as a tribute to Louis Prima and Louis Jordan. Over the years, they have extended their repertoire somewhat, and have become specialists in vintage vocal-harmony music, including swing, jump blues, doo wop, rocksteady and soul.

Hot Fingers welcomes you to an eclectic mix of vintage acoustic music. As well as the red hot jazz of 1920’s New York, there will be sophisticated 1930’s Swing. The band re-create the ‘French Coffee House’ sound of the king of gypsy swing Django Reinhardt, the blues guitars of Eddie Lang and Lonnie Johnson, and the syncopated Latin rhythms of Argentinean Oscar Aleman, this is mixed with vocals from the song-writing greats, crooners such as Bing Crosby and Al Bowlly, and hokem from the likes of Cliff ‘Ukulele Ike’ Edwards. From Jump-Jive to swing, from the Charleston to Bossa-Nova, Hot Finger’s wide range of styles and rhythms makes them popular with both sit-down audiences and dancers alike. The band comprises Spats Langham (banjo, guitar, ukulele), Danny Blyth (bass clarinet, guitar) and Malcolm Sked (sousaphone, double bass). They will be joined by the superb vocalist Emily Campbell who adds a touch of class with her plaintive vocals, drawing inspiration from the likes of Peggy Lee and Ella Fitzgerald.

The Roaring Twenties will give you an evening of entertainment from the era of beautiful fashions, elegant celebrities, flappers, gangsters and last but by no means least, Hot Jazz. Tunes from bands such as King Oliver’s Creole Jazz Band, Louis Armstrong’s Hot Five, The Wolverines and the New Orleans Rhythm Kings are all part of the bands repertoire. Added to this are the classis songs from the era, sung by Bessie Smith, Sophie Tucker, Ma Rainey and Mamie Smith in the blues and vaudeville styles. The band that recreate the ‘roaring twenties’ are Simon James, trumpet; David Hepworth clarinet / saxophone; Andy Bramall, banjo / guitar; Liz Hepworth, double bass, Rob Cotterell, drums; and featuring vocalist Suzanne James.

The Jake Leg Jug Band brings you the authentic sounds of 1920's and 30's America - jazz, blues, ragtime and gospel. Songs of murder, betrayal, gambling, liquor and redemption.

After self-releasing their debut album Cotton Mouth, the band signed to one of the UK's most prestigious Jazz labels, recording three albums as part of the 'Vintage Recording Project', recording live around ribbon microphones, as it would have been back in the 1930’s. ‘Next Stop!’ ‘Everythin's Jake’ and ‘Break a Leg’ all met with rave reviews;

"A masterpiece of nostalgic music. The band display real virtuosity and create a wonderful sound that will be hard for any other band to repeat"  Folk North West

The band followed up with the compilation 'Fifth Avenue', their debut release for the Green Bullet record label in late 2018.

"Pick any track at random and prepare to be entertained "  RnR​

January 2020 saw the release of album number 6, 'Goodbye Booze' which commemorated 100 years since the start of the American prohibition, followed in 2021 with an additional vinyl release on Coastal Light Records.​

“Pretty damn good! There isn’t a weak number on the album”  Blues Matters​​

2022 marked the 10th anniversary of the band and saw them play over 100 gigs plus the release of their first ever live album – ‘Live at Audley Theatre’.

“It’s hard to pick out favourites. Thoroughly entertaining” Blues in Britain

In 2023 they released ‘Hello Central’. The album proved to be the band's most successful release to date both critically and commercially, receiving airplay on BBC Radio 2.

"A truly unique and talented group of musicians, their talent shines through on each and every track” Blues Blast Magazine (USA)

"In its genre, this album is simply indispensable" Rootstime (Belgium)

"Probably their best CD. Thoroughly enjoyable - excellent entertainment” Just Jazz

In 2024 the band released its 9th album in 12 years, the award winning 'Some Glad Morning' a full album of Gospel songs.

“An entertaining and varied mix...the Band shows how warming and moving spirituals can still be today…” Rootstime (Belgium)

In 2025, the second live album - ‘Live at Green Note’ was released.

Kevin Grenfell is back with his Jazz Giants! All of Kevin’s fine musicians have appeared at our jazz club over the years in different bands and under several names, this time they come together and appear with his Jazz Friends, of whom they are! No name, no pack drill applies! The Jazz Friends play a mixture of Traditional & Mainstream Jazz with a hint of Blues so there’s going to be something for everyone – this is definitely a session not to be missed!

Established nearly thirty years ago, The Martinique Jazz Band fast became one of the top jazz bands on the local scene in the Midlands.  They have played at many of the premier venues both in the UK and on the continent, and played with many of the top stars in jazz.  Their annual German tour has always gone down well with both the musicians and the audiences.  The Band has also played in Fritzels on Bourbon Street in New Orleans during the Jazz and Heritage Festivals.  After being invited to play at one of the Mayors charity presentations, the whole band were declared "Honorary Citizens of New Orleans!".  The Band refuses to be labelled as a "Dixieland" band and they take pride in playing many different styles of jazz, from King Oliver to King of the Swingers, from Beiderbeck to Brubeck, from Louis Armstrong to Louis Prima through to Louis Jordan.  Their musical repertoire is as broad as it is long.  Many of their numbers will be recognised by even non-jazzers but they also continue to play lesser-heard obscurities because of their unique musical value. The play-list includes, Old Classic Jazz, Blues, Show Tunes, Sinatra and some good old swingers but the main aim is to send people home very happy.

Coming from a family of strong musicians, Carl first started playing the piano when he was six years old. He had classical lessons to the age of twelve (just listening and learning to copy the sounds) and went on to win 'Young Musician of The Year'. A few years later, he switched to a teacher that gave more direction on improvisation, jazz and pop. By the age of eighteen, he'd mastered the art of playing boogie-woogie piano - relying on a strong left hand and a quick technique. Since 2007, he has become one of the resident pianist at Jools Holland's live music venue 'The Jam House' in Birmingham. But he’s also very privileged to have performed at some of the country’s top music festivals and theatres and at countless weddings/private parties - and even done a few for some celebrities! One of our club favourite acts, Carl Sinclair (piano) will make a return visit to us alongside other magnificent guest musicians.

The Jake Leg Jug Band brings you the authentic sounds of 1920's and 30's America - jazz, blues, ragtime and gospel. Songs of murder, betrayal, gambling, liquor and redemption.

After self-releasing their debut album Cotton Mouth, the band signed to one of the UK's most prestigious Jazz labels, recording three albums as part of the 'Vintage Recording Project', recording live around ribbon microphones, as it would have been back in the 1930’s. ‘Next Stop!’ ‘Everythin's Jake’ and ‘Break a Leg’ all met with rave reviews;

"A masterpiece of nostalgic music. The band display real virtuosity and create a wonderful sound that will be hard for any other band to repeat"  Folk North West

The band followed up with the compilation 'Fifth Avenue', their debut release for the Green Bullet record label in late 2018.

"Pick any track at random and prepare to be entertained "  RnR​

January 2020 saw the release of album number 6, 'Goodbye Booze' which commemorated 100 years since the start of the American prohibition, followed in 2021 with an additional vinyl release on Coastal Light Records.​

“Pretty damn good! There isn’t a weak number on the album”  Blues Matters​​

2022 marked the 10th anniversary of the band and saw them play over 100 gigs plus the release of their first ever live album – ‘Live at Audley Theatre’.

“It’s hard to pick out favourites. Thoroughly entertaining” Blues in Britain

In 2023 they released ‘Hello Central’. The album proved to be the band's most successful release to date both critically and commercially, receiving airplay on BBC Radio 2.

"A truly unique and talented group of musicians, their talent shines through on each and every track” Blues Blast Magazine (USA)

"In its genre, this album is simply indispensable" Rootstime (Belgium)

"Probably their best CD. Thoroughly enjoyable - excellent entertainment” Just Jazz

In 2024 the band released its 9th album in 12 years, the award winning 'Some Glad Morning' a full album of Gospel songs.

“An entertaining and varied mix...the Band shows how warming and moving spirituals can still be today…” Rootstime (Belgium)

In 2025, the second live album - ‘Live at Green Note’ was released.

Sarah relocated back to the UK in January of 2017 and has been continuing to lead her ‘Sarah Spencer’s Transatlantic Band’ on both sides of the Atlantic, in Europe and in the USA. Sarah worked for a while for the long-established, Bob Dwyer’s Bix and Pieces band and is the other member of the front line of Mike Owen’s exciting and wonderful Scarlette’s Serenaders, which also performs internationally. In addition to these, she is guesting with many other bands all across the UK and Europe. Sarah Spencer's Transatlantic Band performs powerful New Orleans jazz in the tradition of the great Revival. Drawing influence from bands of that era, as well as taking influence from more modern New Orleans music, blues, rhythm and blues and the greats of all eras of Jazz and Blues; like Henry 'Red' Allen, Louis Armstrong, Kid Ory, Jelly Roll Morton, Big Bill Broonzy, Lonnie Johnson, Louis Jordan, Louis Prima and countless others.

Hot Fingers welcomes you to an eclectic mix of vintage acoustic music. As well as the red hot jazz of 1920’s New York, there will be sophisticated 1930’s Swing. The band re-create the ‘French Coffee House’ sound of the king of gypsy swing Django Reinhardt, the blues guitars of Eddie Lang and Lonnie Johnson, and the syncopated Latin rhythms of Argentinean Oscar Aleman, this is mixed with vocals from the song-writing greats, crooners such as Bing Crosby and Al Bowlly, and hokem from the likes of Cliff ‘Ukulele Ike’ Edwards. From Jump-Jive to swing, from the Charleston to Bossa-Nova, Hot Finger’s wide range of styles and rhythms makes them popular with both sit-down audiences and dancers alike. The band comprises Spats Langham (banjo, guitar, ukulele), Danny Blyth (bass clarinet, guitar) and Malcolm Sked (sousaphone, double bass). They will be joined by the superb vocalist Emily Campbell who adds a touch of class with her plaintive vocals, drawing inspiration from the likes of Peggy Lee and Ella Fitzgerald.

Gary Wood [trumpet/vocal], Tad Newton [ trombone/vocal], Tomas Pedersen [bass], Ronnie Fenn [drums] Alan Haughton [piano] and Richard Exall [clarinet/sax]

Hot Banana performs all your personal favourites across the musical divides.  Particularly, music of the 50s and 60s, Jump Jive, Boogie Woogie and Swing.  Hot Banana creates echoes of the great Louis Prima and Louis Jordan whilst embracing the energy ever present in Rhythm ‘n’ Blues.  Hot Banana’s performances are bound to please, with an exuberant and visual stage presence, infectious feel-good humour and dazzling musicianship for all to enjoy.

All of these qualities have helped Hot Banana to establish in a very short time, the glowing reputation it enjoys whenever they perform.  Hot Banana’s sole ambition is to provide high quality entertainment. The band’s ensemble is made up of  extremely qualified and experienced musicians and soloists,  who pride themselves in the knowledge that a full entertainment package is theirs to deliver, and yours to enjoy.

Coming from a family of strong musicians, Carl first started playing the piano when he was six years old. He had classical lessons to the age of twelve (just listening and learning to copy the sounds) and went on to win 'Young Musician of The Year'. A few years later, he switched to a teacher that gave more direction on improvisation, jazz and pop. By the age of eighteen, he'd mastered the art of playing boogie-woogie piano - relying on a strong left hand and a quick technique. Since 2007, he has become one of the resident pianist at Jools Holland's live music venue 'The Jam House' in Birmingham. But he’s also very privileged to have performed at some of the country’s top music festivals and theatres and at countless weddings/private parties - and even done a few for some celebrities! One of our club favourite acts, Carl Sinclair (piano) will make a return visit to us alongside other magnificent guest musicians.

Formed in 2012 Washington Whirligig has quickly gained an enviable reputation for its versatility and professionalism. Catering for all occasions from birthdays and anniversaries to formal dances and corporate entertainment, they have also taken the jazz club scene by storm, earning praise and gaining great reviews wherever they perform. Playing early New Orleans through to driving mainstream jazz, swing and blues, they have a programme for every occasion. All band members are experienced musicians, respected within the industry, ensuring your event will be a memorable day. “Whirligig by name and by nature, this recently formed band is a joy to both listen to and play with. Their enthusiasm, endeavour and the excitement they create on the bandstand will, in my opinion as an occasional guest member of the band, take them a long way toward their drive to success. As with many other bands, the Alex Welsh Band are among their influences and inspirations, but with one difference, they play with the fire and drive of their idols, missing in so many other “tribute” bands. I will be happy to play with this band as often as they ask me to" Jim Douglas, guitar and banjo, Alex Welsh Band, 1963 to 1981. Dave Hepworth (clarinet & tenor sax), Andy Bramall (guitar, banjo & vocal), Rob Cotterell (Drums), Liz Hepworth (bass & vocal) & Andy Henderson (trumpet & vocal).

Paula Jackman’s Jazz Masters, is made up of great musicians and great friends - ‘we enjoy our music and enjoy our time together. When a band has fun, you can guarantee the audience will too.’ We play Dixieland jazz from its roots in New Orleans through to its heyday during the British Trad boom.’

‘Magic’ Mike Henry - cornet
Paula Jackman - reeds
Mark Aston - trombone
Hugh Crozier - piano and vocals
‘Lord’ Marc Easener - sousaphone
John Watson - drums.

As one of the most versatile and in-demand rhythm sections in the country, our jazz trio brings an unmatched energy and expertise to every performance. Individually, we’ve worked with an impressive roster of renowned artists and established jazz musicians, including Amy Roberts, Alex Clarke, Greg Abate, Simon Spillett, B.D. Lenz, Ray Gelato, Kenny Ball, Idina Menzel, and Dave Stewart.
Our performances have taken us to some of the world’s most prestigious venues and festivals, including the Umbria Jazz Festival, Lincoln Center (New York), Ambassadors Theatre, Glastonbury Festival, South by Southwest (SXSW), and La Bâtie Festival (Geneva).

Recent highlights as individuals include a live performance on BBC Radio 4 Women’s Hour and appearances at one of London’s premier jazz venues, Pizza Express Jazz Club.

In addition to our role as a rhythm section, we are an established trio in our own right, presenting the innovative project ‘Fugue and Groove.’ This venture explores the fusion of jazz and classical music, delivering fresh and inventive arrangements of beloved classics such as Massenet’s Meditation, Mozart’s Turkish March, and Dvořák’s Humoresque. With solos showcasing our individual virtuosity, improvisational brilliance, and seamless interplay, we create a dynamic experience that is both lyrical and high-energy, ranging from evocative ballads to fast, driving swing.

Our performances captivate audiences with a mix of recognition and surprise, offering melodies that feel familiar but come brilliantly disguised. ‘Fugue and Groove’ is proving popular with audiences, blending timeless musical traditions with contemporary creativity in a way that continues to push boundaries and delight listeners.

The Easy Street Spankers started off as the New Toledo Jazz band playing locally in the Sheffield area. Pete Childes and Wil Robinson have always run the band together alongside Andy Bramhall and Rob Cotterell as founder members. The band changed their name to the Easy Steet Jazz Band, and Wil suggested adding "Spankers" to the name to give us a stand out difference to other bands (might have known it was Wil!)........ and as they say the rest is history. The band line up is as follows; Wil Robinson - Trumpet, Eugene Farrah - Trombone, Peter Childes - Clarinet, Andy Bramall - Banjo/Guitar, Chris Bramall - Bass and Rob Cotterell - Drums. The band have been together for over 20 years playing as requested, your passion is our passion and all of us love our music.

Louis Louis Louis are a 4-piece band from Leeds, originally formed in 2011 as a tribute to Louis Prima and Louis Jordan. Over the years, they have extended their repertoire somewhat, and have become specialists in vintage vocal-harmony music, including swing, jump blues, doo wop, rocksteady and soul.

Sarah relocated back to the UK in January of 2017 and has been continuing to lead her ‘Sarah Spencer’s Transatlantic Band’ on both sides of the Atlantic, in Europe and in the USA. Sarah worked for a while for the long-established, Bob Dwyer’s Bix and Pieces band and is the other member of the front line of Mike Owen’s exciting and wonderful Scarlette’s Serenaders, which also performs internationally. In addition to these, she is guesting with many other bands all across the UK and Europe. Sarah Spencer's Transatlantic Band performs powerful New Orleans jazz in the tradition of the great Revival. Drawing influence from bands of that era, as well as taking influence from more modern New Orleans music, blues, rhythm and blues and the greats of all eras of Jazz and Blues; like Henry 'Red' Allen, Louis Armstrong, Kid Ory, Jelly Roll Morton, Big Bill Broonzy, Lonnie Johnson, Louis Jordan, Louis Prima and countless others.

The Easy Street Spankers started off as the New Toledo Jazz band playing locally in the Sheffield area. Pete Childes and Wil Robinson have always run the band together alongside Andy Bramhall and Rob Cotterell as founder members. The band changed their name to the Easy Steet Jazz Band, and Wil suggested adding "Spankers" to the name to give us a stand out difference to other bands (might have known it was Wil!)........ and as they say the rest is history. The band line up is as follows; Wil Robinson - Trumpet, Eugene Farrah - Trombone, Peter Childes - Clarinet, Andy Bramall - Banjo/Guitar, Chris Bramall - Bass and Rob Cotterell - Drums. The band have been together for over 20 years playing as requested, your passion is our passion and all of us love our music.