The Transatlantic Hot Club is a unique musical ensemble that blends the rich traditions of swing jazz with a contemporary flair. Formed in 2013 by harpist Ben Creighton Griffiths and violinist Adrien Chevalier, the group originated during their performances at the ‘Journées de la Harpe’ festival in the French Caribbean islands. Their collaboration quickly evolved into an annual tradition of performances in Cardiff, eventually expanding into full tours and adopting the name "The Transatlantic Hot Club" in 2019. The ensemble's lineup also features Ashley John Long on bass and Jeremy Lohier on accordion. Over the years, they have performed extensively across the UK, including appearances at Brecon Jazz Club Django in the Bay and Aberjazz. The Transatlantic Hot Club's music is characterized by its vibrant energy and intricate interplay between instruments, creating a captivating experience for audiences. Their performances celebrate the timeless appeal of swing jazz while incorporating innovative elements that resonate with modern listeners
Wednesday 25th June
Elijah Jeffery & Eddie Gripper
Album Launch Tour
8pm in Peppers - tickets £15
Join Elijah and Eddie for the home launch of their “eagerly awaited” (The Jazz Mann) collaboration Written and recorded within 8 weeks this self-entitled album is the culmination of both musician’s fruitful working relationship and individual passion for songwriting. With seven original songs and one never-before heard adaptation of a 17th century Aria, Elijah Jeffery & Eddie Gripper offer up an “straddling the genres of progressive pop, indie folk and alternative jazz. Whilst both trained in jazz, their influences are wide-ranging. The original compositions on this album reflect the natural fusion of Elijah and Eddie’s individual musical styles from the folk-inspired “Shifting Seasons” to the introspective jazz ballad “Because of You”, the art-pop of “Close Your Eyes”, and a modern take on the Baroque aria “Dido’s Lament”. They believe this album embodies a growing desire for trans-genre collaboration, progressive songwriting, and storytelling in today’s streaming age.
Friday 27th June 2025
Tootinskamoon
8pm in Ffwrn - tickets £15
The mighty Tootinskamoon are a well-regarded 6-piece ska punk band that hail from the wilds of west Wales. Fronted by the legendary Steve “Sparx” on guitar and Mr “dangerous bass” Evans on double bass, backed up by a banging brass section, keyboard and drums. The band have been at the core of the free party and festival live music scene since the late 80’s. They’ve played with a wide eclectic range of performers from Nik turner, silver bullet, Prince buster and many more. Despite several hiatuses over the years, they keep coming back due to fierce popular demand and regularly fill venues across south Wales. Their distinctive, defiant and wholly original high energy sound is a homage to free spirits everywhere. Guaranteed to get you bouncing, dancing shoes always required, born to party!
This is not a very good YouTube video but it might give you an idea of the sort of atmosphere they create
The Härva Trio are Swiss/Swedish violinist Viljo Busch, British ‘talented, nimble fingered and soulful’ [The Guardian UK] accordionist Faith Elliott-Ristic and Swiss-Chilean guitarist Lucien Caceres. Recent performances include: Joely Richardson and Vanessa Regrave’s Birthday, Westminster, London (Jan 2025); Kulturhuset, Falun, Sweden (Dec 2024); Culture Nomade Concert Series, Neuchatel, Switzerland (Jan 2025) and Unearthed Festival, Pembrokeshire, UK (2024).
"One of the most respected performers of Serbian Roma accordion music .... a spellbinding sweet sound" - BBC Radio 3
Saturday 16th August
Pre-festival Party - double bill in Ffwrn
8pm - tickets £15
Nookee
Founded and fronted by identical twins Gemma and Violet Hunt-Humphries, with Ruben Kingman, Matthew Lee, Stefan Dale and Bryn Morris backing them up, Nookee are a Cardiff-based band known for their soulful, story-driven music that blends funky grooves, ethereal harmonies, and genre-defying sounds. The band features identical twin sisters as frontwomen, whose harmonies are complemented by their bandmates' eclectic musical styles. Their performances are more than just music, they incorporate outfits, props, narratives, and theatrics to create a unique experience
"With appearances at Green Man, Llais and Sŵn, identical twin-fronted groove-fusers Nookee have been a name on the lips of many music fans in Cardiff this year" - Buzz magazine 2024
Blue Evolution
Blue Evolution are one of Wales’s best kept secrets The 5 piece electric blues band were formed in late 2017 by guitarist Chris Davey and bassist Dave Mac. Together with rhythm guitarist Alessandro Abet, drummer Gary Phillips and keyboard player Dan Johnson they have pushed new boundaries with their fast paced live shows whilst constantly evolving their quite distinctive sound.
Their current album Skin and Bones was recorded in Doors legend Robbie Kreigers Horse Latitude studios in Los Angeles during 2017.Blue Evolution are based in South Wales but their fan base is reaching out into cities and towns worldwide If you like your music live and exciting then the Blue Evolution boys are most definitely worth watching.
22nd Fishguard Jazz & Blues Festival
Five Days from 21st to 25th August
Thursday 21st August
Blues double bill in Ffwrn
Dave Speight then the Brian Rawson Band
Thursday 21st at 1pm - Tickets £15
Dave Speight is a seasoned blues musician with over 50 years of experience in performing and singing acoustic blues. His music is deeply rooted in the traditions of legendary artists like Big Bill Broonzy, Robert Johnson, and Blind Willie McTell. Dave's performances are characterized by heartfelt storytelling and masterful guitar work, earning him recognition as a National Treasure by Blues in Britain in 2021 and induction into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2017.
Dave has graced stages at clubs, bars, concerts, and festivals, captivating audiences with his authentic blues style. He continues to share his passion for the genre, keeping the spirit of traditional blues alive.
The Brian Rawson Band is a Glasgow-based blues-rock group led by guitarist and vocalist Brian Rawson. Known for their energetic performances and "blues with attitude," the band delivers a mix of original songs and classic covers. Brian Rawson, originally from Belfast, has a rich musical history, having toured with Thin Lizzy and collaborated with artists like Jimmy Bain and Brian Connolly. The band has released an EP titled Fall from Grace, featuring tracks like "Your Heart's Not Your Own." The lineup includes Mick O'Hare on vocals, Doug Heede on bass, and Pete Dunlop on drums, Lisa Jayne Rattray and Natelie Masterton on backing vocals, each bringing their unique talents and influences to the band's sound. Together, they create a powerful and engaging musical experience that resonates with blues enthusiasts.
First time appearance at Aberjazz for the Glasgow based Brian Rawson Band.
Baires Connection
Thursday 21st at 4pm in Peppers - tickets £15
The Baires Connection, an Argentinian jazz trio, led by classically trained pianist Julietta Iglesias. This piano, flute and percussion trio specialise in the music of Astor Piazzolla who introduced the concept of nueva tango, a fusion of tango, classical and jazz. They last appeared in Aberjazz in 2023.
Julieta Iglesias - Piano, Ianina Pietrantonio - Flute, Camila de la Vega - Percussion
Blues double bill
Gary Cain followed by Alice Armstrong
Thursday 21st at 8pm in Ffwrn - tickets £15
Canadian born Uk based guitarist Gary Cain
Drawing on a wide range of influences from Albert King to AC/DC, Cain’s incendiary fret-work earned him an opening slot with blues-rocker George Thorogood, a Semi-Finalist finish at the International Blues Challenge, and main-stage appearances at major festivals across North America, Europe, and the UK.
"ridiculously talented, genre-bending guitarist...a jaw-dropper.” - Blues Matters Magazine
The Alice Armstrong Band is led by award-winning Rhythm and Blues singer-songwriter and entertainer, Alice Armstrong, from Surrey. There is much to love for those who enjoy Soul, Funk, Blues, and those with an eclectic taste. In 2024, Armstrong was voted Contemporary Artist of the Year at the UK Blues Awards, won the UK Blues Challenge, toured and played sold-out shows across Europe, been a guest on BBC Radio 2 with Cerys Matthews, performed on the iconic Beale St. in Memphis and is a common addition to Joe Bonamassa’s personal Spotify playlists. Her second EP, ‘Live at Area 88’ came out on the 14th June to critical acclaim.
“A thing of wonder” — Cerys Matthews, BBC Radio 2
Thursday Evening of Jazz in Peppers with J4
9:30pm with J4 - Tickets £15
J4 - The 60's with a Jazz Twist
James Chadwick’s Band will take you through some of the hits from the 60s all with that Jazz Twist. Guitarist James Chadwick, who was described as "Fresh and Quirky", has reimagined these classic tunes while keeping them true to the original. Be prepared for some tunes from The Beatles, Beach Boys, Bob Dylan and The Monkees to name a few.
James Chadwick, guitarist and composer, Mark Sambell on piano, Liz Exell on drums and Aiden Thorne on double bass.
Friday 22nd August
The Vic Partridge Hot five
followed by Trunk of Funk
1pm - Tickets £15
The Vic Partirdge Hot Five is a Dixieland jazz band celebrated for their joyful and lively performances. Known for their authentic New Orleans-style sound, the band features a lineup of talented musicians who bring the spirit of early jazz to life. Their music is characterized by collective improvisation, where each instrument plays a distinct role while contributing to the overall harmony.
The band has performed at various events, including a memorable show at the Plas Hotel in Narberth, where they delighted audiences with their vibrant and uplifting tunes. Their repertoire often includes classic jazz standards and traditional pieces that evoke the golden age of jazz.
Trunk of Funk is a dynamic jazz fusion band led by the talented keyboardist Dave Jones. This five-piece ensemble delivers an electrifying mix of jazz, funk, and fusion, performing both original compositions and covers of iconic artists like Herbie Hancock, Joe Zawinul, and Freddie Hubbard. The band features an impressive lineup, including Paul Carr on guitar, Ben Waghorn on saxophone, Jon Goode on bass, and Elliot Bennett on drums. Known for their high-energy performances, Trunk of Funk has captivated audiences at venues like Narberth Jazz, where their groove-driven sound and improvisational flair leave a lasting impression.
Sharon Clancy in St Mary's Church
Friday 22nd at 4pm - tickets £10
Sharon Clancy is a well-known performer on the Irish jazz scene. Though raised in Wexford, she spent many years both acting and performing in London’s West End. She recently finished a four weekend residency at Kelly’s Hotel, Rosslare, and is a frequent performer at the Left Bank in Kilkenny. She is most celebrated in Ireland for her headlining concerts with the Chris Colloton Trio and other combos at Jazz at Johnstown.
Sponsored by Culture Ireland
Dale Storr in Peppers
Thursday at 4pm - Tickets £15
Dale Storr, described by Paul Jones as "A very, very fine piano player indeed" Is one of the UK's leading exponents of New Orleans style piano. Dale will keep your foot tapping to the music of the likes of James Booker and Dr John. This celebrated pianist from the UK, renowned for his mastery of New Orleans-style piano. Inspired by legends like Dr. John, James Booker, and Fats Domino, Dale has dedicated his career to capturing the spirit of New Orleans music. His performances are a blend of authentic barrelhouse piano and storytelling, where he shares the rich history and often cheeky tales of his musical heroes. Dale has been recognized as one of the UK's leading exponents of this genre, earning accolades such as reaching the finals of the British Blues Awards multiple times and winning the Best Musical Performance award at the Buxton Fringe Festival in 2015. His "Sounds of New Orleans" show has captivated audiences across the UK and Europe, making him a true ambassador of this vibrant musical tradition
Ma Bessie's Speakeasy
Theatr Gwaun at 6pm - tickets £20
Ma Bessie's Speakeasy play the music of Bessie Smith, one of the most popular female blues singers in the 1920's and 30's.
This is a narrated show, featuring music from the era, and showcasing many of Bessie’s songs. The show chronicles her life, from a one-room shack in Blue Goose Hollow, to becoming the highest paid black entertainer of that time, to the tragic accident on Route 61 that ended her life, aged just 43 years.
Julia Titus / Ma Bessie on Vocals
Clare Hirst on Sax/Clarinet
Claude Deppa on Trumpet
George Webster on Piano
Luke Trenwith on drums
Dominic Geraghty On Bass
Friday Night in Ffwrn blues extravaganza
The Cinelli Brothers supported by Nothing in Rambling
Friday 22nd at 8pm - tickets £20
First up are Sister Suzie and Andy Twyman appearing as Nothing in Rambling, nominated for two Blues Federation awards, Best Emerging Act and Acoustic Act of the Year. Andy Twyman has appeared as a solo artist at Aberjazz on many occasions, and this years he is joined by Sister Suzie, playing the the music of early US blues pioneers such as Memphis Minnie and Blind Boy Fuller.
2024 saw the release of their highly acclaimed debut album ‘Live at Bush Hall’, which received airplay on the Cerys Matthews BBC Radio 2 Blues Show. In 2024 they played as Nothing in Rambling at Red Rooster Festival, Upton Blues Festival as well as Glastonbury.
"[Suzie's] vocals wash over the listener raw, naked, and soulful, like the voice of body in anguish, looking for the answers to the questions of the soul...Twyman’s virtuosity on guitar shines...his fingers dancing along the fretboard, creating a wild, bluesy atmosphere." Blues Magazine.
The Cinelli Brothers are a dynamic blues and soul band formed by Marco Cinelli (guitarist and lead vocalist) and Alessandro Cinelli (drummer). Inspired by the electric Chicago and Texas blues of the 1960s and 1970s, they bring a fresh and passionate approach to the genre. Their music is influenced by legends like Chess, Stax, and Motown, and they perform both original compositions and classic covers. The band also features Tom Julian-Jones on harmonica, guitar, and vocals, and Stephen Giry on bass, guitar, and vocals. Their debut album, Babe Please Set Your Alarm, released in 2018, received critical acclaim and showcased their authentic blues sound. Over the years, they have gained recognition, including nominations for the UK Blues Awards and a strong following in the UK, Europe, and beyond.
Cluster Funk
in Peppers 9:30pm - tickets £15
Cluster Funk - Wexford, drummer and educator Kevin Lawlor revisits a one-off fusion project from 2016 with a new line-up of musicians. Cluster Funk will perform jazz and groove music by artists including Thundercat, Jamiroquai, Mark Guliana, Joshua Redman and Terrace Blanchard. The band will also use well-known Hip-Hop grooves with jazz standards played over them as an alternative take on jazz fusion. Expect everything from Organ driven Funk to Ambient Jazz
Kevin Lawlor - drums Chris Colloton - guitar Kaelan Zipoli - keys / piano Meg Lowney - bass Vocalist - Sophia Zipoli
Saturday 23rd August
Double bill withBella, Jane and Gareth
followed by
"Joni & Me" with Joanna Eden
1pm in Ffwrn - tickets £15
The Saturday afternoon session in Ffwrn starts with Bella Jane and Gareth playing together for the first time in a specal one-off performance. They are well known at Aberjazz appearing as solo performers, in varous bands, as solo artists and as duos. . This is however the first time all three of these accomplished musicians have appeared together; you can expect an fusion of blues and jazz standards and some interesting improvisation.
"Joni and Me" with Joanna Eden & Andrés Lafone
Singer/songwriter Joanna Eden presents a breathtaking show in celebration of her hero Joni Mitchell. Playing in a duo with Andrés Lafone on bass/guitar, she lovingly recreates Joni's masterpieces; taking the audience on a journey through the myriad of ideas, textures, themes, voices and emotions of Mitchell's canon, tracing Joni's influences in some of her own songs. Joni & Me Shows are featured on Joni Mitchell's website www.jonimitchell.com. "I feel so honoured that my shows are being supported by Joni Mitchell's own team!" Joanna Eden
The Jay Azzolina Quartet Saturday 23rd
4pm in Peppers - tickets £15
The Jay Azzonlina Quartet is led by Grammy nominated composer jazz fusion guitarist who has been part of the New York Jazz scene for the past three decades. After leaving the “Berklee College Of Music,” where Jay studied with Pat Metheny, Mick Goodrick and Charlie Banacos the guitarist began working and recording in New York with a variety of artist’s. Beginning in a more electric setting and later transitioning to acoustic jazz, Jay’s associations include Michael Urbaniak, Jaco Pastorius, Harvie S, Dave Samuels, Kenny Werner, Ron McClure, John Abercrombie, Randy Brecker, Jerry Bergonzi, The Westchester Jazz Orchestra and John Patitucci.
Best known for his work with Spyro Gyra, he has also performed and recorded with Carly Simon, Donna Summer, The Manhattan Transfer, Herbie Mann, Rickie Lee Jones, and Chuck Mangione.
Jay's band includes Matthew Skeaping on drums who has been a presence on the UK Jazz scene for over 40 years. Riley Stone Lonergan, on saxophone, nominated for the Rising Star Award at the London Music Awards 2015. Oli Hayhurst on bass who graduated from the Royal Academy of Music in 2000.
In 2006 he featured on Zoe Rahman's Mercury nominated album, 'Melting Pot'. he has worked with artists as diverse as Melanie C, Dionne Warwick, Maureen Lipman, Kit Downes, Sheridan Smith, Bob Monkhouse and Jacqui Dankworth to name a few.
The Lowri Evans Trio
Saturday 23rd at 4pm
St Mary's Church - tickets £10
Lowri Evans has been described by Bob Harris as ‘One of his absolute favourite artists’, she is blessed with a voice capable of wide emotional power, her songs taking their musical colours from a broad palette that includes Americana, Folk, Country and Blues, all beautifully knitted together through her innate musicality and heartfelt delivery.
Lee Mason’s beautifully judged guitar playing and subtle harmonies have been integral to Lowri’s music from the outset. Together they have toured the USA, performed sessions for Bob Harris on BBC Radio 2, been playlisted on BBC Radio and regularly perform in venues across the UK and in festivals such as Cambridge Folk, Festival Interceltique de Lorient, Underneath the Stars, Wychwood Festival, Greenman Festival and Hay Festival.
The trio is made up Jake Newman on bass guitar and vocals, providing the subtle harmonies that have been integral to Lowri’s music throughout her career. .
Seven Steps - the Music of Miles Davis
Saturday 23rd in Theatr Gwaun
7:30pm - tickets £15
"Seven Steps - the Music of Miles Davis" is a project led by Tomos Williams, a prominent figure in the Welsh jazz scene. This ensemble pays tribute to the legendary Miles Davis, exploring his iconic compositions and innovative style. Tomos Williams, heavily influenced by Davis' music, brings together talented musicians to reinterpret and celebrate Davis' legacy.
Tomos Williams (trumpet) will be joined by leading Welsh jazz pianist, Dave Jones, Joe Northwood on tenor sax, Mark O'Conner on drums and Aidan Thorne on double bass performing the music of this iconic jazz genius from the 60's
Double Bill in Ffwrn
Trwbadwr & Almost Modern Jukebox
8pm - tickets £20
Trwbadwr
Trwbadwr
is a 7-piece Latin jazz and blues band, playing music from Europe and South
America guaranteed to get audiences up and dancing! Formed by Sarah Couch in
2024 with some of west Wales’ finest musicians, each brings their own musical
heritage to Trwbadwr and together, they create a great sound and an
unforgettable evening! Sarah Couch on vocals, John Rodge on double bass, Jack
Beddis on drums, Nick Hislam on saxophone/percussion, Jason Osborne on trumpet,
David Pepper on piano/keys and Paul Carr on guitar.
Almost Modern Modern Jukebox
Almost Modern Jukebox put the Charleston into chart music! AMJ are a 1920’s band based in the Southwest of England performing modern songs in a vintage, swing style. A Gatsby band guaranteed to have you dancing the night away with the songs you know and love but not how you’ve heard them before! Songs from Dua Lipa, Bruno Mars and even Rhianna will have your toes-a-tapping, in true Roaring Twenties style! You will leave 2025 far in the distance and be transported back to 1925! Almost Modern Jukebox include the highest calibre of musicians in the industry, combined with their lead vocalist, who performs with passion & high energy every time, makes for a live band not to be missed! Don your feathers and sequins, braces and bow ties folks…Almost Modern Jukebox are coming to town!
Michael and Sadie Roach
Saturday 23rd Aug in Peppers 9:30pm
Michael and Sadie Roach are a talented father-daughter duo who bring a unique blend of blues and jazz to their performances. Michael Roach, an accomplished blues guitarist and vocalist, is known for his authentic style rooted in traditional American blues. Sadie Roach complements this with her soulful vocals and piano skills, creating a rich and dynamic musical experience. Their performances often feature a mix of classic blues, jazz standards, and original compositions, showcasing their deep connection to the music and each other. Together, they have performed at various venues and festivals, captivating audiences with their heartfelt and engaging shows.
Sunday 24th August - Double Bill
Kevin Brown
The James Oliver Band
in Ffwrn at 1pm - tickets £15
Kevin Brown
Kevin Brown is an English blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter, from Preston. His music primarily revolves around blues, but he also incorporates elements of country, folk, Americana, and world music. Over his career spanning nearly four decades, he has released 14 albums and performed at venues ranging from the Glastonbury Festival to Texas bars. Brown's journey into blues began at the age of 14 when he was inspired by performances of Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Muddy Waters. He later met Son House, a legendary blues musician, who mentored him and taught him the emotional depth of blues music. Brown's guitar skills include acoustic, lap steel, slide guitar, and weissenborn. He has collaborated with notable artists like Moussa Kouyate and Gary Rudd, and his music has earned praise from figures such as Mark Knopfler and Martin Simpson2. Brown's repertoire is celebrated for its soulful and beautifully produced music.
The James Oliver Band
James Oliver is one of the UK’s busiest acts playing over 300 gigs a year all over the UK, Europe, and the USA! He has performed over 3000 gigs and shared the stage with many acts including Albert Lee, Bill Kirchen, Deke Leonard, Greg Koch, Walter Trout, Steve Gibbons, Billy Bremner, Geraint Watkins, and many others. In 2020 James won the UK Blues Awards Emerging Artist of the Year and has since been nominated 3 additional times. James Oliver released 2 studio albums 3 live albums and his album Twang was #1 on Amazon Blues Charts for 3 weeks. James is currently working on a new record with legendary producer, John Leckie.
Sunday 24th Aug
Omega Two
TS Skirmisher at 1pm - tickets £10
Omega Two is a talented musical duo featuring Jane Williams and Pete Mathison. Jane Williams is known for her captivating vocals and ukulele skills, while Pete Mathison brings his expertise as a guitarist and vocalist. Together, they create a unique blend of acoustic music, often performing jazz standards and original compositions. The duo has performed at various venues and events, including the Brecon Jazz Festival, where their engaging performances have been well-received. Their music showcases stunning harmonies and a warm, intimate sound that resonates with audiences.
Sunday 24th Aug
Around About Dusk
TS Skirmisher at 6pm - tickets £10
Around About Dusk are an adventurous musical conception playing original music with influences ranging from musette, New Orleans jazz, old time, and European folk traditions with eclectic instrumentation and rich vocal harmonies.
Rachel Lawrence on vocals and accordion, Bill Frampton on double bass, Gus Dolding on guitar and clarinet
Sunday 24th August Double Bill
The Numbers Racket
Mr Wilson's Second Liners
8pm in Ffwrn - tickets £20
The Numbers Racket
The Numbers Racket is a lively six-piece swing and jump jive band based in Pembroke. They specialize in delivering energetic performances that blend swing music from the 1940s to the present day. Known for their ability to get audiences on their feet, they create a visual and musical spectacle that leaves a lasting impression
Elaina Hoss on vocals, Sam May on guitar, Graham Batchelor on bass Nino Consolo on drums Dominic Norcross on Sax and Jason Osborne on trumpet.
MR WILSON'S SECOND LINERS
also leading the Aberjazz Parade at 4pm on Sunday
New Orleans meets 90s club classics…a rave funeral without the body.
In New Orleans, funerals are celebrated in style, with noisy brass bands processing through the streets. The main purpose of a funeral parade and main section lead the way, but the real fun starts with the Second Line, those who follow the band to enjoy the music, marching with the musicians and twirling parasols or waving handkerchiefs.
Welcome to Second Lining.
A rabble of mischievous northerners, Mr Wilson’s Second Liners form a traditional New Orleans Second Line. However, this is no sombre occasion: Mr Wilson’s expend their collective musical talent paying homage to the diehard days of the Hacienda, 90s club culture and its greatest hero, Mr Tony Wilson.
These revolutionary genre bashers knock the First Line sideways, opting for upbeat dance tracks over traditional slow hymns. Proudly stepping out in uniformed style, they channel the spirit of the 24 hour party people and get audiences dancing wherever they play.
The vision is an anarchic, street extravaganza, bursting with colour and sound, rallying impromptu raves on street corners and rousing audiences young and old into a joyful frenzy.
Sunday 24th Aug
Yetii
Peppers at 9:30pm - tickets £10
Yetii is an acoustic jazz trio led by pianist and composer Alex Veitch, alongside Ashley John Long (double bass) and Alex Goodyear (drums). Based in Bristol, the trio is celebrated for their intricate harmonies and improvisational style. Their debut album, Live at The Greenbank, released in 2022, received critical acclaim for its evocative compositions and live energy
ALEX VEITCH (composer and pianist), ASHLEY JOHN LONG (bass), ALEX GOODYEAR (drums)
Monday 25th August
Jazz double bill
No Mean Biscuit and Fabulous Red Diesel
in Ffwrn at 1pm - tickets £15
No Mean Biscuit blends pop, Latin, swing, and jazz styles with a unique flair. Formed over by alto and tenor sax player Barry Wade, the band is known for its engaging performances and diverse repertoire, including classics and non-classics presented in their distinctive style. The band features talented members, each bringing their own personality and musical expertise to the ensemble. Barry Wade, the founder, is inspired by Stan Getz and is known for his mellow tones and love of hiking and sailing. James, the pianist, showcases effortless skill and a flair for creativity, while Rob, the rhythm guitarist, anchors the group with his steadfast playing. Ian, the double bassist, adds a laid-back charm and original compositions, Nick Hislam on drums plus introducing Dan Stockton on vocals.
This is a clip recorded in the Aberjazz live streaming in 2022 (with Louise Weldon on vocals who is unable to appear this year).
Fabulous Red Diesel is a vibrant and eclectic jazz band hailing from Hastings, UK. Known for their quirky, flamboyant style and high-energy performances, the band has carved out a unique space in the jazz scene. Their music blends soulful melodies, Latin rhythms, funk grooves, swing, and even hints of gypsy punk, creating an unforgettable experience for audiences. Fronted by the charismatic Ms. Kitty, whose voice has been described as a mix of Eartha Kitt and Tina Turner, the band delivers powerful and emotive performances. Their lineup includes talented musicians who bring tuba solos, zog-trumpet sounds, and a super-tight rhythm section to life. Fans often become friends, with the band fostering a close-knit community that sometimes travels together to gigs. Fabulous Red Diesel has released several albums, including their latest, "Goddess The Seahorse," which features 14 original tracks. Their music has been featured on Jazz FM, with tracks like "Dear Number 5" and "Joe Cool" gaining recognition. They have performed at prestigious venues such as Ronnie Scott's and festivals like Brecon Jazz and Aberjazz. The band is celebrated for their originality, musicianship, and infectious grooves that leave audiences demanding more. Their performances are a force of nature, and their music continues to captivate listeners across the UK and beyond.
Monday 25th August
The Dan Messore Jazz Trio
in TS Skirmisher at 4pm - tickets £10
The Dan Messore Trio is a jazz ensemble known for its diverse influences and innovative sound. Their music blends elements of swing with modern jazz interpretations, drawing inspiration from artists like Pat Metheny, Donny McCaslin, Mogwai, and Tortoise. The trio features Dan Messore on guitar, Aidan Thorne on bass, and rising star Matthew Holmes on drums. They have performed at various venues, including Swansea Jazz Club, where their dynamic and engaging performances captivate audiences.
Monday 25th August
Groovemerchant
in Peppers at 8pm - tickets £15
Groovemerchant is a jazz band led by DIck Hamer, Swansea based saxophonist and flautist and much loved figure on the Welsh Music scene. He is a talented saxophonist, clarinetist, and flautist who leads the Jazz Passengers, a seven-piece jazz ensemble that appeared at Aberjazz in 2023.
Dick Hamer has had a distinguished career as a performer and teacher, collaborating with renowned UK and US jazz artists like Bobby Shew and Stan Tracey. He has also served as the musical director of the Welsh Jazz Orchestra and founded the South Glamorgan Youth Jazz in the 1980s
Monday 25th August
The Aberjazz Party
The Connections + DJ
in Ffwrn at 8pm - tickets £15
The Aberjazz Party with the Connections plus DJs
The Aberjazz Party marks the grand finale of the Aberjazz Festival, held annually in Fishguard, Wales. This celebration is known for its vibrant atmosphere so our final band will be a perfect way to end the 2025 Fishguard Jazz & Blues Festival.
The Connections is a vibrant 9-piece band based in Pembrokeshire, specializing in soul, funk, and Motown music. Known for their high-energy performances, they deliver a diverse repertoire of classic hits from legendary artists like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Diana Ross. Their shows are designed to get audiences dancing and singing along, making them a popular choice for weddings, corporate events, and community celebrations. The band features exceptionally talented musicians, including vocalists, brass players, and a rhythm section, all of whom bring passion and unmatched musicianship to the stage. Whether performing at intimate venues or large festivals, The Connections create an unforgettable atmosphere filled with joy and energy
