Please note, there are no advance tickets or seat reservations available unless clearly stated in the event listing.
LIVE MUSIC EVERY DAY!
Monday 7pm – 12am
Tuesday See Listings
Wednesday 5pm – 3am
Thursday 5pm – 3am
Friday 5pm – 3am
Saturday 2pm – 3am
Sunday 5pm – 3am
Proof of vaccination or a negative lateral flow test must be shown upon entry from 9pm, Wed-Sun. Please test before attending.
January 2022
Mon 24
8pm-10.45pm £12/£8 THE JAZZ BAR’s 17-Piece BIG BAND
Open Rehearsal 8-9pm, full gig from 9.15-10.45pm
FOUR trumpets, FOUR trombones, FIVE saxes and FOUR rhythm! It’s a variable line-up of top-class pro players, who travel in from around Scotland to participate in this outstanding gig. Nowhere else can you hear this standard of regular Big Band playing. Led by saxophonist Keith Edwards, the personnel changes weekly, as does their selection of fantastic arrangements.
Tue 25
CLOSED
Wed 26
6.15pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm JOHN HUNT’S AFTER WORK BLUES
Acoustic/Electric Blues by singer/guitarist John Hunt – and check out his amazing hand-built guitars! ‘Gritty, Funky Boogie-Woogie from a master of blues slide-guitar’ – Evening News
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 PAUL KIRBY TRIO – ONE LOOK Album Launch
New music from local expat pianist with melodic and swinging music drawing on influences from across the spectrum. Catchy tunes and driving rhythms, this is music to drive away bad times and bring back the good!
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 GLAMOUR & THE BAYBES
6-Piece funk with ripping horns and massive vocals that grab you by the soul and drop you on the dance floor! Featuring the spectacular voice and eclectic madness of Angus Munro. ‘Soulful and outrageous… the largest vocal range I’ve ever heard!’ (Scotsman)
Thu 27
6.15pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm GRAEME MEARNS – Acoustic Swing
A Hat, a Suit, and a Guitar. With a swing/jazz/acoustic style somewhere between Django Reinhardt and Richard Thompson, you’ll hear familiar songs in a way you’ve never imagined
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 TENEMENT JAZZ BAND
Tenement Jazz Band are a traditional jazz band formed in early 2018, who aim to capture the raw energy and excitement of the early jazz recordings, to find and revive lesser-heard songs and cultivate their own interpretations of these, all in order to captivate experienced jazzers, dancing persons, and uninitiated ears alike.
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 101ST AIRBORNE
Fat grooves, jazzy excursions, soulful vocals and bags of pocket from guitarist Aki Remally’s soul-funk four-piece band… with the baaaadest rhythm section in town supplying ALL of your Tuesday funk with a set covering everything from Funkadelic to Vulfpeck.
Fri 28
6.15pm-8.30pm £6/£5 HALF MOON MEDICINE SHOWCASE
Cera Impala, Edinburgh’s esteemed banjo babe, brings roots, folk, old-time jazz, gospel, rag, and original indie-love to The Jazz Bar as she hosts a one-of-a-kind showcase featuring talent from her eclectic community of artists. The Half Moon Medicine show(case) – the cure for what ails you!
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 COLIN STEELE QUINTET PLAY MILES DAVIS
With thrilling empathy, phenomenal solos and driving musical energy, Steele’s trumpet fronts a quintet covering classic arrangements of Miles Davis’s seminal albums of the 50s and 60s, from Milestones to Kind of Blue. Featuring Martin Kershaw (saxophone), Dave Milligan (piano), Kenny Ellis (bass) and Alyn Cosker (drums).
12.15am-2.30am £8/£5 THE FRESH SQUEEZE
Fronted by the high-energy vocals of Kat Brooks, The Fresh Squeeze mix up funk classics and up-tempo R&B ranging from the 70s to the present day. Backed up by Alex James (guitar) and a solid rhythm section made up of Ali Tod (bass), Joe Revell (keys) and Carter Skillicorn (drums), there’s no doubt you won’t be spending the night in your seat.
PLUS DJ
Sat 29
2.30pm-5.30pm Free AFTERNOON JAZZ with THE MELLOTONES TRIO
Hot swinging jazz from Alan Anderson (piano), Jimmy Taylor (bass/vocals) and Dave Swanson (drums).
6.15pm-8.30pm £7/£5 THE SPOTLIGHT SESSIONS
Each week a top-drawer piano trio, led by bassist Ed Kelly, is joined by a special guest spot. Saxophonists, guitarists, trumpeters and singers showcase their talents in a broad range of jazz styles. From swing, blues, bossa, trad and modern, this is a variable early-evening session of intimate and enjoyable jazz. This week’s spotlight: Susanna McDonald (vocals)
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 ‘WORLD PREMIERE’ QUINTET
Every Saturday, a different hand-picked selection of five excellent jazz players meets on stage for the first time (hence the name) – to play with no rehearsal, and no set list! Always a fresh line-up. This week: Stewart Forbes (sax), Colin Steele (trumpet), Chick Lyall (piano), Mario Caribe (bass), Tom Gordon (drums).
12.15am-2.30am £8/£5 AKI & THE LIONS
Classic and new funk from the deepest of pockets from this 5 piece groove machine… 2 sets of wholesome floor shakin’ to keep EVERYBODY moving. Led by Aki Remally (guitar vocals), aided and abetted by Jonny White (sax), Rob Harrison (keys), Tom Wilkinson (bass), Ben Collard (drums), groovin’ YOU hard all night
PLUS DJ
Sun 30
6pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm HOT TIN ROOF
Stripped-back atmospheric Blues/Soul from Andy Challen (guitar/voc) and Gavin Jack (lead guitar), AND loads of Swing/Blues Dancers on the dancefloor!
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 ALI AFFLECK’S SPEAKEASY SESSIONS
Held on the last Sunday of each month, award-winning vocalist Ali Affleck brings a fiery New Orleans passion with heavy doses of old-time pop and deep digs into the rarest of trad and blues. Hot roots, blues, prohibition-era jazz, and cheeky Creole tunes from the finest swing bands around. Each month sees both new friends and old; special guests and long-time favourites of the swing dance community – the perfect end to the month!
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 THE SUNDAY SINNERS
Neo-soul, trip-hop grooves and re-edited classics are delivered to your ears, feet and hips by this vocals-fronted band with a rhythm section to die for. Guaranteed to keep your feet moving and your jaw dropped. Featuring hot vocals from Fiona Lynch, funky guitar from Aki Remally, and dope grooves from Jim Drummond (drums) and Dougie Coulter (bass).
Mon 31
8pm-10.45pm £12/£8 THE JAZZ BAR’s 17-Piece BIG BAND
Open Rehearsal 8-9pm, full gig from 9.15-10.45pm
FOUR trumpets, FOUR trombones, FIVE saxes and FOUR rhythm! It’s a variable line-up of top-class pro players, who travel in from around Scotland to participate in this outstanding gig. Nowhere else can you hear this standard of regular Big Band playing. Led by saxophonist Keith Edwards, the personnel changes weekly, as does their selection of fantastic arrangements.
February
Tue 1
Open 6pm – Midnight
7pm-9.30pm Free EUJS STUDENT JAM SESSION
Every fortnight, Edinburgh University’s Jazz society is taking over the jazz bar! Our jam is student-focussed yet open to all jazz lovers and enthusiasts, whether you are keen to lay down some tunes or just relax and listen. We establish a comfortable and friendly environment where all are welcome. If you’re looking to meet like-minded musicians passionate about jazz, look no further.
Wed 2
6.15pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm JOHN HUNT’S AFTER WORK BLUES
Acoustic/Electric Blues by singer/guitarist John Hunt – and check out his amazing hand-built guitars! ‘Gritty, Funky Boogie-Woogie from a master of blues slide-guitar’ – Evening News
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 FRASER URQUHART TRIO
Fraser Urquhart, 2017 Scottish jazz award’s ‘Rising Star’, is one of Scotland’s most in-demand pianists celebrated for his classy touch infused with deep, mellow swing and heartfelt lyricism. Widely regarded for his vast repertoire, tonight Fraser leads his trio through a selection of classic swing, lesser-known Broadway showtunes and tender ballads from the back-catalogues of Gershwin, Porter, Ellington, Burton Lane etc. The trio features his right-hand man on bass, Ed Kelly, and ace American drummer Max Popp.
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 GLAMOUR & THE BAYBES
6-Piece funk with ripping horns and massive vocals that grab you by the soul and drop you on the dance floor! Featuring the spectacular voice and eclectic madness of Angus Munro. ‘Soulful and outrageous… the largest vocal range I’ve ever heard!’ (Scotsman)
Thu 3
6.15pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm GRAEME MEARNS – Acoustic Swing
A Hat, a Suit, and a Guitar. With a swing/jazz/acoustic style somewhere between Django Reinhardt and Richard Thompson, you’ll hear familiar songs in a way you’ve never imagined
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 BLUE TONE TRIO
A newly formed trio featuring David Series (guitar), Ed Kelly (Bass) and Keith Haldane (drums). They play a mix of songs from the greats of guitar (Wes Montgomery/ Grant Green/ Pat Metheny/ John Scofield) as well as some original compositions and standards from the Great American Songbook.
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 FUTURE HEROES
Superbly creative guitarist Aki Remally fronts this five-piece funk monster. Featuring Jonny White on saxophone, these guys will keep your feet moving all night long with the deep-funk rhythms of Toni McVey (drums), Luke Cunningham (keys) and Tom Wilkinson (bass). Occasional guests ensure a night of heavy funking for all…
Fri 4
6.15pm-8.30pm £6/£5 HALF MOON MEDICINE SHOWCASE
Cera Impala, Edinburgh’s esteemed banjo babe, brings roots, folk, old-time jazz, gospel, rag, and original indie-love to The Jazz Bar as she hosts a one-of-a-kind showcase featuring talent from her eclectic community of artists. The Half Moon Medicine show(case) – the cure for what ails you!
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 PAUL KIRBY QUARTET FEATURING MARTIN KERSHAW
Edinburgh born, Seoul based pianist Paul Kirby returns with his new trio album, One Look. Expect bright melodies, catchy rhythms and good vibes. Featuring Martin Kershaw (alto sax), Paul Kirby (piano), Andy Robb (bass), Minchan Kim (drums).
12.15am-2.30am £8/£5 NICOLE & THE BACKUP CREW
Lively and soulful blues party, paying homage to the most important women in blues history featuring stunning singer, Nicole Smit and her band consisting of some of the finest blues musicians in Scotland!
PLUS DJ
Sat 5
2.30pm-5.30pm Free AFTERNOON JAZZ with THE MELLOTONES TRIO
Hot swinging jazz from Alan Anderson (piano), Jimmy Taylor (bass/vocals) and Dave Swanson (drums).
6.15pm-8.30pm £7/£5 THE SPOTLIGHT SESSIONS
Each week a top-drawer piano trio, led by bassist Ed Kelly, is joined by a special guest spot. Saxophonists, guitarists, trumpeters and singers showcase their talents in a broad range of jazz styles. From swing, blues, bossa, trad and modern, this is a variable early-evening session of intimate and enjoyable jazz. This week’s spotlight: Fraser Urquhart (piano)
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 ‘WORLD PREMIERE’ QUINTET
Every Saturday, a different hand-picked selection of five excellent jazz players meets on stage for the first time (hence the name) – to play with no rehearsal, and no set list! Always a fresh line-up. This week: Martin Kershaw (saxophone), Colin Steele (trumpet), Paul Kirby (piano), Andrew Robb (bass), Minchin Kim (drums).
12.15am-2.30am £8/£5 FUTURE HEROES
PLUS DJ
Sun 6
6pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm HOT TIN ROOF
Stripped-back atmospheric Blues/Soul from Andy Challen (guitar/voc) and Gavin Jack (lead guitar), AND loads of Swing/Blues Dancers on the dancefloor!
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 GEORGIA CECILE’S SUNDAY SERENADE
The first Sunday of the month celebrates the very best in vocals! Hosted by the “sweetheart of the Scottish jazz scene”, Georgia Cécile, and her stellar quartet. The evening pays homage to her greatest influences: Nancy Wilson, Abbey Lincoln, Sarah Vaughan and more. Voted ‘Best Vocalist’ at the 2019 Scottish Jazz Awards and tipped as ‘One to Watch’ by Jamie Cullum (Jazzwise), Cécile is fast becoming one of the UK’s most exciting young vocalists and songwriters.
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 THE SUNDAY SINNERS
Neo-soul, trip-hop grooves and re-edited classics are delivered to your ears, feet and hips by this vocals-fronted band with a rhythm section to die for. Guaranteed to keep your feet moving and your jaw dropped. Featuring hot vocals from Fiona Lynch, funky guitar from Aki Remally, and dope grooves from Jim Drummond (drums) and Dougie Coulter (bass).
Mon 7
8pm-10.45pm £12/£8 THE JAZZ BAR’s 17-Piece BIG BAND
Open Rehearsal 8-9pm, full gig from 9.15-10.45pm
FOUR trumpets, FOUR trombones, FIVE saxes and FOUR rhythm! It’s a variable line-up of top-class pro players, who travel in from around Scotland to participate in this outstanding gig. Nowhere else can you hear this standard of regular Big Band playing. Led by saxophonist Keith Edwards, the personnel changes weekly, as does their selection of fantastic arrangements.
Tue 8
Open 7.30pm – Midnight
8.30pm-11pm £8/Free to play THE GREAT JAZZ JAM SESSION
Open Stage ‘Jazz Jam’ where our excellent House Trio backs all kinds of surprise jazzy guests dropping in to play – and we’ve no idea who’s coming in until tonight! If you want to play, turn up with your instrument and ask for a place on the evening’s list of guest players.
Wed 9
6.15pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm JOHN HUNT’S AFTER WORK BLUES
Acoustic/Electric Blues by singer/guitarist John Hunt – and check out his amazing hand-built guitars! ‘Gritty, Funky Boogie-Woogie from a master of blues slide-guitar’ – Evening News
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 PAUL KIRBY TRIO
Edinburgh born, Seoul based pianist Paul Kirby returns with his new trio album, One Look. Expect bright melodies, catchy rhythms and good vibes. With Ed Kelly, bass and Minchan Kim, drums.
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 AKI & THE LIONS
Classic and new funk from the deepest of pockets from this groove machine… 2 sets of wholesome floor shakin’ to keep EVERYBODY moving. Led by Aki Remally (guitar vocals), aided and abetted by Jonny White (sax), Dougie Coulter (bass), and Jim Drummond (drums), groovin’ YOU hard all night
Thu 10
6.15pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm GRAEME MEARNS – Acoustic Swing
A Hat, a Suit, and a Guitar. With a swing/jazz/acoustic style somewhere between Django Reinhardt and Richard Thompson, you’ll hear familiar songs in a way you’ve never imagined
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 JAZZMAIN
Now into their third decade, and with hundreds of performances under their belt, JazzMain’s sound is as popular and infectious as ever. Fusing an eclectic melting pot of Latin, funk and soul with a broad repertoire drawn from 50s and 60s Blue Note canon. JazzMain features – Nick Gould (tenor), Steve Grossart (keys), Iain Harkness (electric 5-string bass) and Kevin Dorrian (drums).
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 101ST AIRBORNE
Fat grooves, jazzy excursions, soulful vocals and bags of pocket from guitarist Aki Remally’s soul-funk four-piece band… with the baaaadest rhythm section in town supplying ALL of your Tuesday funk with a set covering everything from Funkadelic to Vulfpeck.
Fri 11
6.15pm-8.30pm £6/£5 HALF MOON MEDICINE SHOWCASE
Cera Impala, Edinburgh’s esteemed banjo babe, brings roots, folk, old-time jazz, gospel, rag, and original indie-love to The Jazz Bar as she hosts a one-of-a-kind showcase featuring talent from her eclectic community of artists. The Half Moon Medicine show(case) – the cure for what ails you!
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 BOPTIMISM
Classic ‘Hard Bop’ quintet featuring charts by Keith Edwards (sax) and Donald Corbett (trumpet/flugelhorn) with stellar rhythm section of Steve Moore (piano), Jay Kilbride (bass) and Aldo Morrow (drums). Their sets include original compositions, gems from British Jazz legends Tubby Hayes and Dundee’s own Jimmy Deuchar, as well as hip US jazzers such as Duke Pearson, Harold Mabern and Cedar Walton.
12.15am-2.30am £8/£5 101st AIRBORNE
Fat grooves, jazzy excursions, soulful vocals and bags of pocket from guitarist Aki Remally’s soul-funk four-piece band… with the baaaadest rhythm section in town supplying ALL of your Tuesday funk with a set covering everything from Funkadelic to Vulfpeck.
PLUS DJ
Sat 12
2.30pm-5.30pm Free AFTERNOON JAZZ with THE MELLOTONES TRIO
Hot swinging jazz from Alan Anderson (piano), Jimmy Taylor (bass/vocals) and Dave Swanson (drums).
6.15pm-8.30pm £7/£5 THE ‘BIG EASY’ SESSIONS
Celebrate a relaxed evening in the classic ‘Speakeasy’ style. From Authentic hot-roots Americana, spicy New Orleans trad jazz and gypsy swing to prohibition-era blues… award-winning vocalist Ali Affleck selects both local-legends and out of town guest musicians for highly danceable and fun Saturday sessions.
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 ‘WORLD PREMIERE’ QUINTET
Every Saturday, a different hand-picked selection of five excellent jazz players meets on stage for the first time (hence the name) – to play with no rehearsal, and no set list! Always a fresh line-up. This week: John Burgess (clarinet/saxophone), Colin Steele (trumpet), Brian Kellock (piano), Roy Percy (bass), Max Popp (drums).
12.15am-2.30am £8/£5 JIMI GET YOUR FUNK ON
Taking influence from bands such as Vulfpeck, Tower of Power and the legendary ‘Jimi Hendrix Experience’, the band combines funk with a touch of psychedelia, alternative rock and jazz fusion.
PLUS DJ
Sun 13
6pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm HOT TIN ROOF
Stripped-back atmospheric Blues/Soul from Andy Challen (guitar/voc) and Gavin Jack (lead guitar), AND loads of Swing/Blues Dancers on the dancefloor!
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 ALI AFFLECK’S SPEAKEASY SHOWCASE
A wee ‘one off’ move to mid-month for the Speakeasy – and we have special guests with us this time. Award-winning vocalist Ali Affleck brings a fiery New Orleans passion with heavy doses of old-time pop and deep digs into the rarest of trad and blues. Hot roots, blues, prohibition-era jazz, and cheeky Creole tunes from the finest swing bands around.
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 THE SUNDAY SINNERS
Neo-soul, trip-hop grooves and re-edited classics are delivered to your ears, feet and hips by this vocals-fronted band with a rhythm section to die for. Guaranteed to keep your feet moving and your jaw dropped. Featuring hot vocals from Fiona Lynch, funky guitar from Aki Remally, and dope grooves from Jim Drummond (drums) and Dougie Coulter (bass).
Mon 14
8pm-10.45pm £12/£8 THE JAZZ BAR’s 17-Piece BIG BAND
Open Rehearsal 8-9pm, full gig from 9.15-10.45pm
FOUR trumpets, FOUR trombones, FIVE saxes and FOUR rhythm! It’s a variable line-up of top-class pro players, who travel in from around Scotland to participate in this outstanding gig. Nowhere else can you hear this standard of regular Big Band playing. Led by saxophonist Keith Edwards, the personnel changes weekly, as does their selection of fantastic arrangements.
Tue 15
Open 6pm – Midnight
7pm-9.30pm Free EUJS STUDENT JAM SESSION
Every fortnight, Edinburgh University’s Jazz society is taking over the jazz bar! Our jam is student-focussed yet open to all jazz lovers and enthusiasts, whether you are keen to lay down some tunes or just relax and listen. We establish a comfortable and friendly environment where all are welcome. If you’re looking to meet like-minded musicians passionate about jazz, look no further.
Wed 16
6.15pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm JOHN HUNT’S AFTER WORK BLUES
Acoustic/Electric Blues by singer/guitarist John Hunt – and check out his amazing hand-built guitars! ‘Gritty, Funky Boogie-Woogie from a master of blues slide-guitar’ – Evening News
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 BRIAN MOLLEY QUARTET
Performing music from their brand-new album, Modern Traditions, Brian Molley Quartet bring their own exhilarating blend of jazz and world music, as reflected by their wide and varied travels, back to The Jazz Bar. From straight-ahead high-octane jazz to tender ballads; from driving Indian Raga to Scots traditional folk song, Modern Traditions once again demonstrates BMQ’s versatility and is filled with contemporary jazz by a long-established group at the height off their powers. Featuring Brian Molley (saxes/flute), Tom Gibbs (piano), Brodie Jarvie (double bass), and Stuart Brown (drums). ‘BMQ Never waste a note’ – Mojo Magazine, ‘A Treat’ – Rolling Stone, ‘Mesmerising’ – Huffington Post, ’The Finest in UK Jazz’ – Time Out.
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 GLAMOUR & THE BAYBES
6-Piece funk with ripping horns and massive vocals that grab you by the soul and drop you on the dance floor! Featuring the spectacular voice and eclectic madness of Angus Munro. ‘Soulful and outrageous… the largest vocal range I’ve ever heard!’ (Scotsman)
Thu 17
6.15pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm GRAEME MEARNS – Acoustic Swing
A Hat, a Suit, and a Guitar. With a swing/jazz/acoustic style somewhere between Django Reinhardt and Richard Thompson, you’ll hear familiar songs in a way you’ve never imagined
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 JAZZ BAR QUINTET
An all-star cast exploring the musical heritage of Art Blakey, Wayne Shorter, Horace Silver and soul bop maestro Cannonball Adderley. Featuring Martin Kershaw (sax), Colin Steele (trumpet), Brian Kellock (piano), Andy Mitchell (bass), and Max Popp (drums).
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 FUTURE HEROES
Superbly creative guitarist Aki Remally fronts this five-piece funk monster. Featuring Jonny White on saxophone, these guys will keep your feet moving all night long with the deep-funk rhythms of Toni McVey (drums), Luke Cunningham (keys) and Tom Wilkinson (bass). Occasional guests ensure a night of heavy funking for all…
Fri 18
6.15pm-8.30pm £6/£5 HALF MOON MEDICINE SHOWCASE
Cera Impala, Edinburgh’s esteemed banjo babe, brings roots, folk, old-time jazz, gospel, rag, and original indie-love to The Jazz Bar as she hosts a one-of-a-kind showcase featuring talent from her eclectic community of artists. The Half Moon Medicine show(case) – the cure for what ails you!
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 MARIANA ARROJA FADO TRIO
We are very excited to announce that singer Mariana Arroja (formerly known as Mariana Moreira) will join us for an evening of Portuguese Fado and Brazilian music along with leading Jazz musicians, Kevin MacKenzie (guitar) and Mário Caribé (double-bass). Mariana is an ambassador of the soul of Portuguese music in Scotland and has gained a loyal following for her soulful and captivating performances. She is considered by many as the embodiment of the word “Saudade”. During the pandemic, Mariana returned to Portugal immersing herself in traditional Fado. Now back to Scotland, Mariana will bring you storytelling, Fado and Jazz in a unique musical experience not to be missed!
12.15am-2.30am £8/£5 JAMES BROWN IS ANNIE
After a brief winter hibernation, Edinburgh funk ‘n’ soul outfit, James Brown Is Annie, are back in their natural habitat and back with a new line-up. Featuring Blue Rose Code guitar-slinger, Lyle Watt, and with the return of founding member Isaac Sutherland on bass/ guitar/ vocal duties, the sextet will be getting back to funky, floor-stompin’ ways at everyone’s favourite funk dungeon around the Witching Hour. Get up!
PLUS DJ
Sat 19
2.30pm-5.30pm Free AFTERNOON JAZZ with THE MELLOTONES TRIO
Hot swinging jazz from Alan Anderson (piano), Jimmy Taylor (bass/vocals) and Dave Swanson (drums).
6.15pm-8.30pm £7/£5 THE SPOTLIGHT SESSIONS
Each week a top-drawer piano trio, led by bassist Ed Kelly, is joined by a special guest spot. Saxophonists, guitarists, trumpeters and singers showcase their talents in a broad range of jazz styles. From swing, blues, bossa, trad and modern, this is a variable early-evening session of intimate and enjoyable jazz. This week’s spotlight: John Burgess (sax, clarinet)
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 ‘WORLD PREMIERE’ QUINTET
Every Saturday, a different hand-picked selection of five excellent jazz players meets on stage for the first time (hence the name) – to play with no rehearsal, and no set list! Always a fresh line-up. This week: Konrad Wiszniewski (saxophone), Matthew Gough (trumpet), Paul Harrison (piano), Ed Kelly (bass), Alyn Cosker (drums).
12.15am-2.30am £8/£5 THE FRESH SQUEEZE
Fronted by the high-energy vocals of Kat Brooks, The Fresh Squeeze mix up funk classics and up-tempo R&B ranging from the 70s to the present day. Backed up by Alex James (guitar) and a solid rhythm section made up of Ali Tod (bass), Joe Revell (keys) and Carter Skillicorn (drums), there’s no doubt you won’t be spending the night in your seat.
PLUS DJ
Sun 20
6pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm HOT TIN ROOF
Stripped-back atmospheric Blues/Soul from Andy Challen (guitar/voc) and Gavin Jack (lead guitar), AND loads of Swing/Blues Dancers on the dancefloor!
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 KERSHAW/STEELE QUINTET PLAY BIRD & DIZ
A rare chance to hear the music of two of jazz’s great innovators: Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie. So exciting for listeners, but challenging for musicians, bebop fizzed with lightning fast rhythms and super musical technique. Parker and Gillespie set the musicianship bar as high as they possibly could, and hardly anyone has touched it since. Constant rhythmic and harmonic excitement, and passionate soloing from alto saxophonist, Kershaw, in the Parker seat, and trumpeter, Steele, in Gillespie mode, alongside a crack rhythm section of Dave Milligan (piano), Brian Shiels (bass) and Max Popp (drums).
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 THE SUNDAY SINNERS
CLOSED from midnight due to severe weather
Mon 21
8pm-10.45pm £12/£8 THE JAZZ BAR’s 17-Piece BIG BAND
Open Rehearsal 8-9pm, full gig from 9.15-10.45pm
FOUR trumpets, FOUR trombones, FIVE saxes and FOUR rhythm! It’s a variable line-up of top-class pro players, who travel in from around Scotland to participate in this outstanding gig. Nowhere else can you hear this standard of regular Big Band playing. Led by saxophonist Keith Edwards, the personnel changes weekly, as does their selection of fantastic arrangements.
Tue 22
Open 7.30pm – Midnight
8.30pm-11pm £8/Free to play THE GREAT JAZZ JAM SESSION
Open Stage ‘Jazz Jam’ where our excellent House Trio backs all kinds of surprise jazzy guests dropping in to play – and we’ve no idea who’s coming in until tonight! If you want to play, turn up with your instrument and ask for a place on the evening’s list of guest players.
Wed 23
6.15pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm JOHN HUNT’S AFTER WORK BLUES
Acoustic/Electric Blues by singer/guitarist John Hunt – and check out his amazing hand-built guitars! ‘Gritty, Funky Boogie-Woogie from a master of blues slide-guitar’ – Evening News
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 BOSSA TRIO
Formed in 2018 and led by internationally acclaimed Portuguese singer and guitarist, Sergio Prazeres, Bossa Trio has captivated audiences with its infectious, rhythmic Brazilian music. Rhythmically tight and coupled with a wonderfully strong sense of engagement, you’ll immediately feel the warmth and charm of Bossa Trio – Sergio Prazares (acoustic guitar and voice) Nick Gould (tenor sax) and Kevin Dorrian (drums and percussion) who are joined this evening by special guest Brazilian singer Giulia Drummond
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 GLAMOUR & THE BAYBES
6-Piece funk with ripping horns and massive vocals that grab you by the soul and drop you on the dance floor! Featuring the spectacular voice and eclectic madness of Angus Munro. ‘Soulful and outrageous… the largest vocal range I’ve ever heard!’ (Scotsman)
Thu 24
6.15pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm GRAEME MEARNS – Acoustic Swing
A Hat, a Suit, and a Guitar. With a swing/jazz/acoustic style somewhere between Django Reinhardt and Richard Thompson, you’ll hear familiar songs in a way you’ve never imagined
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 STEWART FORBES FIVE
An exciting evening of explosive hard bop and straight-ahead groove tunes. Stewart Forbes has enjoyed a highly successful career as one of Scotland’s top multi-instrumentalist jazz improvisers, working as lead alto with the likes of Carla Bley, Tim Hagens, Don Weller and Macio Parker. With influences from flautists Roland Kirk & Eric Dolphy to contemporary saxophonists like Sonny Rollins, John Coltrane & Charles Lloyd, Stewart Forbes new group explores the musical heritage of Art Blakey, Wayne Shorter, Horace Silver and soul bop maestro Cannonball Adderley.
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 NICOLE & THE BACKUP CREW
Lively and soulful blues party, paying homage to the most important women in blues history featuring stunning singer, Nicole Smit and her band consisting of some of the finest blues musicians in Scotland!
Fri 25
6.15pm-8.30pm £6/£5 HALF MOON MEDICINE SHOWCASE
Cera Impala, Edinburgh’s esteemed banjo babe, brings roots, folk, old-time jazz, gospel, rag, and original indie-love to The Jazz Bar as she hosts a one-of-a-kind showcase featuring talent from her eclectic community of artists. The Half Moon Medicine show(case) – the cure for what ails you!
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 DOMINIC INGHAM QUINTET – ‘ROLE MODELS’ TOUR
Dominic Ingham is a violinist and composer who seeks to combine violin techniques from his folk and classical background, in order to create a unique way of playing jazz violin. The Quintet features Jonny Mansfield (winner of 2018 Kenny Wheeler Prize) on vibraphone, Miles Mindlin on guitar, Will Sach on bass and Jay Davis on drums. They explore new musical spaces through this unusual line-up, as well as performing ‘modern-day lullabies’.
“Ingham’s music propels him into the ranks, writing an exciting chapter in contemporary UK jazz history” – All About Jazz. “Elegant originals” – BBC Music Magazine. “A rare treat…should be heard live whenever possible” – Kit Downes
12.15am-2.30am £8/£5 DUKE DUNCAN AND THE HURRICANES
Blending swamp blues, funk and indie dance grooves DD&TH have been drawing comparisons with The Doors. Come and see what all the fuss is about. ‘A hedonistic psychedelic melange, like Alice out-hatting the Mad Hatter with Kerouac at The Hacienda.’
PLUS DJ
Sat 26
2.30pm-5.30pm Free AFTERNOON JAZZ with THE MELLOTONES TRIO
Hot swinging jazz from Alan Anderson (piano), Jimmy Taylor (bass/vocals) and Dave Swanson (drums).
6.15pm-8.30pm £7/£5 THE SPOTLIGHT SESSIONS
Each week a top-drawer piano trio, led by bassist Ed Kelly, is joined by a special guest spot. Saxophonists, guitarists, trumpeters and singers showcase their talents in a broad range of jazz styles. From swing, blues, bossa, trad and modern, this is a variable early-evening session of intimate and enjoyable jazz. This week’s spotlight: Gordon Campbell (trombone) and Brian Kellock (piano) – quintet
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 ‘WORLD PREMIERE’ QUINTET
Every Saturday, a different hand-picked selection of five excellent jazz players meets on stage for the first time (hence the name) – to play with no rehearsal, and no set list! Always a fresh line-up. This week: Guido Spannocchi (saxophone), Chris Grieve (trombone), Dave Milligan (piano), Douglas Whates (bass), Stu Brown (drums).
12.15am-2.30am £8/£5 101st AIRBORNE
Fat grooves, jazzy excursions, soulful vocals and bags of pocket from guitarist Aki Remally’s soul-funk four-piece band… with the baaaadest rhythm section in town supplying ALL of your Tuesday funk with a set covering everything from Funkadelic to Vulfpeck.
Sun 27
6pm-8.30pm Free until 7.30pm HOT TIN ROOF
Stripped-back atmospheric Blues/Soul from Andy Challen (guitar/voc) and Gavin Jack (lead guitar), AND loads of Swing/Blues Dancers on the dancefloor!
9.15pm-11.30pm £10/£8 YAATRI
Yaatri is an award winning five-piece art-rock/jazz crossover group formed in Leeds in 2018. Their blend of complex composition and ethereal soundscapes captivates the heart as well as the mind. Influenced by the momentum of the rhythms of India, immersive timbres of electronic music, and energy of rock and roll, their music has a strong sense of purpose and journey. Led by Indian/American guitarist and composer Liam Narain DeTar, Yaatri is Felix Bertulis-Webb on keys, Rosie Miles on vocals, Joe Wilkes on bass and Dom Kilsby on drums.
12.15am-2.30am £5/£3 THE SUNDAY SINNERS
Neo-soul, trip-hop grooves and re-edited classics are delivered to your ears, feet and hips by this vocals-fronted band with a rhythm section to die for. Guaranteed to keep your feet moving and your jaw dropped. Featuring hot vocals from Fiona Lynch, funky guitar from Aki Remally, and dope grooves from Jim Drummond (drums) and Dougie Coulter (bass).
Mon 28
8pm-10.45pm £12/£8 THE JAZZ BAR’s 17-Piece BIG BAND
Open Rehearsal 8-9pm, full gig from 9.15-10.45pm
FOUR trumpets, FOUR trombones, FIVE saxes and FOUR rhythm! It’s a variable line-up of top-class pro players, who travel in from around Scotland to participate in this outstanding gig. Nowhere else can you hear this standard of regular Big Band playing. Led by saxophonist Keith Edwards, the personnel changes weekly, as does their selection of fantastic arrangements.