Over his twenty-five year career, Simon Spillett has worn almost as many hats as it's possible to wear within jazz; multi-award-winning instrumentalist, quartet and big band leader, recording artist, author, historian, record producer, archivist, magazine columnist, social media commentator and latterly blogger.
However, for all these varied skills, he identifies most strongly as a powerfully swinging, straight-ahead tenor saxophonist - one capable of taking the audiences who hear him on a rollercoaster ride encompassing everything from energetic bebop to heartfelt balladry.
It’s in this guise that he’s become a solid fixture on the UK jazz landscape, regularly playing sold-out gigs at major festivals and world-famous club venues.
A charismatic performer, gifted with a dry observational wit, he’s never lost sight of the fact that jazz is entertainment as much as self-expression and whether playing, writing or articulately holding forth on his favourite subject (UK jazz history), he’s an infectiously passionate communicator.
His quartet features pianist Rob Barron, bassist Alec Dankworth and drummer Pete Cater, and draws unashamedly on the classic sounds of British modern jazz from the 1950s and 60s - in particular the repertoire of the iconic UK saxophone legend, Tubby Hayes.
Their dedication to the hard-bop sounds of jazz's golden age has made them a popular attraction at both internationally-renowned jazz clubs like Ronnie Scott's and grassroots venues alike.
“Straight-ahead, high energy jazz is his line and he does it with aplomb”
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm / Tickets £15 / Free for members
All seating/tables are first come first served.