Hailing from rural Leicestershire with Welsh roots, Nye Banfield is a profoundly creative saxophonist and composer, bringing a fresh perspective to the South East London jazz scene. Nye paints visceral scenes from his life and the people around him through his music.
A graduate of Trinity Laban, he combines influences from jazz icons Wayne Shorter, Ambrose Akinmusire, and mentor Mark Lockheart, as well as wider sources of inspiration from the pastoral works of Vaughan Williams to the songwriting of Damon Albarn.
His debut album Trails and Traces was released on vinyl in January 2024. The album features Mark Kavuma, leader of The Banger Factory, on trumpet (who will also be appearing soon at The Bear). The performances on the album are richly diverse in influences, creating an intensely gripping sound that combines flavors from 60s Blue Note records, 90s Radiohead, 20th-century classical music, and contemporary New York jazz.
Following powerful performances at Love Supreme Festival, Pizza Express, and The 606, among others, Nye is taking his music on the road in 2024 and we look forward to welcoming him to The Bear.
Featuring Nye Banfield (tenor saxophone), Robbie Moore (piano), Ewan Moore (drums) and Hamish Nockles-Moore (double bass).
“A smart and original composer who knows both the roots of modern jazz and where he intends to take his own music”
“A warm and intimate album... Trails and Traces serves as a resounding triumph for Nye Banfield”
“A superb debut album by any standards, and one that features a fine sextet and a confident leader showing a maturity beyond his years”
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm / Tickets £16 / Free for members
All seating/tables are first come first served.