The EFG London Jazz Festival ends soon. We have enjoyed it at the Vortex so far. Such a diversity, within a world where we can offer good value to you all. Stunning gigs by Alice Leggett and Rick Simpson, for example.
But our own festival doesn’t end on Sunday. Ours consists of over 300 gigs year round.
There are always good gigs from our local scene. But then “specials” coming up.
But looking a bit further. There will be Enemy on 26th. A rare chance to hear them in London.
Then there is drummer Ches Smith Clone Row on 3rd December. With a fascinating line up led by one of the most influential NY drummers, including two guitarists (Mary Halvorson, seen here recently with Tomeka Reid, and Liberty Ellman, last heard here with Stephan Crump back in 2014)
And Ethan Iverson on 28th December. Give yourselves a late Christmas present for this special pianist, originally in The Bad Plus and now on Blue Note, but perhaps the most thoughtful writer on jazz around?
And by becoming a member, at just £10 a month, or even less if you are qualified you get reduced price tickets, reserved places and more
21 Gary Crosby’s Africa Space Programme
SOLD OUT
Inspired by the cosmic explorations of John Coltrane and Pharaoh Sanders.
22 Nikki Yeoh’s Infinitum
Always a pleasure to welcome this pianist who has been giving a special energy to the London scene across genres. With the amazing fraternal rhythm section of Mark and Mike Mondesir!
22 (Downstairs late) Hitchcock/Cohen/Heath-Ngugi/McCarthy
Alex Hitchcock splits his time between London and New York, making waves in each. Here he is joined by a high energy band including Rachael Cohen who will between them give us a wonderfully energetic late night.
23 Jam Session with Riley Stone-Lonergan
Possibly the best jam session in London is led by saxophonist Riley, who is also a genial host. Free for members and performing musicians.
25 Midweek Downstairs Jam
Come for a drink, sit back. Or bring your horns to join in for the second set.
26 (Downstairs early) Whirlpool – Olivia Hughes
The latest instalment of our Whirlpool series is an evening dedicated to new music by trombonist Olivia Hughes. All the musicians were specially selected, and it’ll be a night not to miss.
26 Enemy (Downes/Eldh/Maddren)
Back to coincide with the launch of their latest album, this power trio of Kit Downes (piano), Petter Eldh (bass), James Maddren (drums), they are now celebrating their 10th year together. “Enemy have always been mind boggling.” (Marlbank)
27 (Downstairs) Matt Cook Quintet
Award winning tenor sax, described as “boundary pushing” (Camden New Journal). Happy to bypass genre, with flavours ranging from Ravel to Radiohead. True jazz for 2025
27 Orchard
This dynamic 8 piece returns to the Vortex to celebrate their new single. “One of the most happening bands in the country.” (Gordon Wedderburn, One Jazz)
28 Forbes/Allsopp/Edwards
A rare trip beyond the usual jazz world for Shaney Forbes, drummer co-founder of Empirical. He brings his driving style, full of textures and variety in a collaboration with bass master John Edwards and saxophonist/clarinettist James Allsopp
29 Jazz Africa – Basil Hodge
Performing a range of music from Africa, the band sold out the club earlier this year. So get a ticket while you can.
29 Amigos Del Groove
A cosy dance floor, records only, houseparty vibes. Hosted by the amiable host Hector
30 Vortex Jam Session
Possibly the best in London. And free for musicians and members.