Events

Janette Mason Nu Jazz Trio: Red Alert

One of UK jazz's best-kept secrets, bandleader Janette’s a consummate musician who has worked with pop artists such as Seal, Pulp, Oasis, kd lang, David McAlmont and Suzanne Vega, plus outstanding jazz vocalists like Claire Martin and Ian Shaw.

An artist whose music has been described as similar to E.S.T. and The Bad Plus, Janette’s powerful and rhythmic approach to the piano is subtly fused with funky synths to create a musical journey that is as engaging as it is thought-provoking. 

Red Alert is inspired by Janette’s passionate belief that jazz needs to constantly evolve to attract a younger, more diverse audience. Her unique contemporary compositions, drawing on her diverse influences - from Dave Brubeck and Herbie Hancock, to David Bowie and Goldfrapp - combine interesting timescapes and modern beats with a cinematic texture, all underpinned by a mature and inventive jazz vocabulary.

Janette's vision is brought to life by the explosive combination of Chris Morris on drums and Tom Mason on bass, and is a direct musical response to the political and social challenges now facing us all – hence the title, Red Alert.

Alongside Janette's compositions, the trio take on arrangements of pop classics by artists such as the Eurythmics, Gary Numan, The Beatles and David Bowie.

Currently Musical Director at the Hideaway in London, Janette's debut album, Din and Tonic, was shortlisted by Guardian jazz critic John Fordham as a contender for Jazz Album of the Year. This was followed in 2009 with the release of Alien Left Hand, which garnered a Parliamentary Jazz nomination. She also reached the Grammy ballot for The Live Smoke Sessions with Lea DeLaria, for which she took on the dual roles of arranger and producer.

Janette Mason (Piano/Synth), Tom Mason (Acoustic/Electric Bass), Chris Morris (Drums).

"This is another fine album from Janette Mason . . . and for this listener reaffirms what a fine jazz trio pianist she is." - Jazz Views, on Red Alert

"A band leader of pugnacious flair and genuine unpredictability.” - The Guardian

“Mason's arrangement skills are exemplary. Nothing here is over-egged, and all solos economically underline the players' talents.” - BBC Music

WATCH JANETTE

Tickets £15 / £13 Concessions. Students £6
Jazz Express Offer: Book for any three gigs and get tickets for just £10 each!
Doors open 7.00pm, starts 7.30pm