Theo Jackson / "Trio": Critchinson, Cliff, Dankworth

Singer-pianist Theo Jackson is rapidly gaining a reputation on the scene as a composer of strikingly original songs with a captivating stage presence. He has recently been picked up by publisher Splash Point, (the home of Liane Carroll and Ian Shaw) which demonstrates just how talented he is. Theo recently set lyrics to the late bassist Scott Lafaro’s composition, “Gloria’s Step,” which attracted the attention of the American label Concord Jazz, and has performed at several prime festivals this year including Cheltenham and Rye Jazz. Tonight, Theo is playing with a great band featuring terrific saxophonist (and MOBO award-winner) Nathaniel Facey, best known for his work with the Award Winning “Empirical”.

"Vocalist Theo Jackson leads his band from the piano, with a confidence and assurance that comes from being a true musician” LondonJazz
"One firecracker of a vocalist! Theo has a unique but incredibly engaging vocal style swapping between hard-bop, edgy crooner, heart rending ballard and foot-tapping swing.” The Oxford Jazz Festival Review
"Soulful, earthy vocal-led jazz from this impressive young singer with a powerful yet subtle voice, Jackson also has a knack of penning Stevie Wonder-esque originals that avoid the usual crooner clichés . . . Jackson's one to watch out for." Time Out

10:15pm
John Critchinson was Ronnie Scott’s pianist for more than 12 years, and his strong, swinging, hard-bop piano playing has graced many a fine gig. One of the most established and highly regarded pianists on the scene, John’s high energy, driving, jazz trio playing is legendary… and his jokes are great too! Dave Cliff is generally considered to be one of the finest straight ahead guitarists in Europe. He has accompanied many visiting artists, the great American tenor player Scott Hamilton going on record saying that Dave was one of the finest jazz guitarists he had ever worked with. Alec Dankworth is a terrific musician who first came to prominence with his father, John, but has since gone on to become one of the most respected acoustic bass players on the scene today, including a lengthy stint with the band of Jazz icon Dave Brubeck.

“John Critchinson...one of Britain's finest jazz pianists” Guardian
“Dave Cliff…..superb guitarist” Jazzsteps
“Alec Dankworth, the paragon of bass uprightness” Observer