This week is Independent Venues Week, celebration of independent music & arts venues and the people that own, run and work in them. Of course, nobody actually “owns” the Vortex, as it’s a not for profit venture, we are run by a volunteer board, and, apart from a couple of staff, we mainly have volunteers keeping the venue going. And, at a rough guess, over 3000 performers a year. So, we’re a very vibrant part of our community and proud that we were one of the first, when we arrived here 20 years ago from Stoke Newington, that put Dalston on the international music map, with other major venues such as Cafe Oto and EartH following on. So, this week in particular, come to the club, enjoy the music, and perhaps buy an extra drink to toast the fact that we exist as a leading jazz venue. Or think about helping through becoming a member or volunteer, both which are essential elements to keep the club moving.
The coming week at the Vortex has a few curveballs worth making the effort for. It includes some of the greatest of British jazz such as Spike Wells in QOW Trio tonight and Henry Lowther bringing his group Still Waters. But then there is going to be, inter alia, the fascinating solo keyboard night by ever imaginative Tom Cawley with his project Oktopus (6), or the celebration of the iconic Leeds saxophonist Xero Slingsby by Fergus Quill (5). Downstairs continues to be where you can get to the many of the stars of the future, such as saxophonist Jack Wilson (4), vibraphonist Gloria Yehilevsky (5) or vocalist Emma Taylor (6). These early evening gigs allow one then to go upstairs to the main show.
31 QOW Trio
Balancing three generations of musicians anchored by Eddie Myer on bass, with the relatively youthful Riley Stone-Lonergan on saxophone and ever youthful drummer Spike Wells, now celebrating his 65th year as a professional drummer. “A simply phenomenal live band.” (Jazzwise)
31 Henry Lowther’s Still Waters
Trumpeter Henry Lowther and bassist Dave Green have been playing together for over 40 years. The band includes drummer Paul Clarvis, pianist Barry Green and saxophonist Pete Hurt. “Still Waters is like listening to a chilled conversation between the best of friends.” (Jazzwise)
1 February London Jazz Orchestra Vortex Sessions
At the Vortex for over 30 years, the LJO always features music by band members, this month including MD Scott Stroman, guitarist Nick Costley-White, pianist Alcyona Mick and more.
1 (Evening) Jam with Nick Costley-White
Guitarist Nick stays to run our weekly jam session, possibly the best in London. Free for musicians and members.
3 Midweek Downstairs Jam
Welcome and relaxed, come for a drink, sit back to enjoy the music. Or bring your instrument to join in for the second set.
4 (Downstairs early) Jack Wilson
Saxophonist Jack Wilson leads an open-minded quartet, where his melodism draws one in.
4 Sam Leak’s Aquarium: A New Chapter
The re-forming of a leading band, highlighting the pianism of Sam Leak, including the redoubtable James Allsopp on saxophone and Calum Gourlay on bass. “Leak is a subtle storyteller who keeps the grooves and colours changing.” (John Fordham, Guardian)
5 (Downstairs early) Gloria Yehilevsky’s G M?R
Award-winning vibraphonist Yehilevsky has had her music played worldwide between California and Italy. Today’s line up is intriguing in being with trumpet and tuba.
5 Fergus Quill plays Xero Slingsby
Bassist Quill takes the music of one of the most iconic musicians out of the 80s Leeds scene, to bring his music to the forefront where it belongs. Features tenorist Alan Wilkinson who was part of Xero’s band as special guest, and a key member of the scene himself in the group Hession/Wilkinson/Fell.
6 (Early) Downstairs Living Room Presents Emma Taylor
Self-deprecating singer-saxophonist Matthew Herd presents his monthly series. This month with singer-songwriter Emma Taylor. She is influenced by a range of musicians from Shirley Horn to Norma Winstone via Shirley Horn and James Taylor, to create material wholly her own.
6 Tom Cawley – Oktopus
Tom Cawley delves into the world of synths. A lifelong love of his being given the full solo treatment. This is the premiere of his new album Oktopus Vol. 2. The premiere of Vol. 1 at the Vortex last summer was described as a “remarkable evening” (artmuselondon.com)
7 (Downstairs afternoon) Vortex Collective present: Future Standards and Downstairs Jam
“The sound of the future is today.” That expresses the philosophy behind this jam session. Looking at the best tunes of the past decade. Come and join in for the jam as the afternoon developes
7 Tony Kofi & 52nd Street
Alto saxophonist, ably supported by the band of Alex Webb, explores the early roots of bebop which started on the iconic 52nd Street in Manhattan. “Kofi is a wonderful story, as well as musician.” (The Arts Desk)
(Downstairs Late) Amigos del Groove
A record based late night party vibe, with space to boogie and savour the joys of the weekend