Fleece Jazz

Just East of Jazz have arrived at an extraordinary synthesis of sound, colour, light and imagery — the apotheosis of a musical idea whose roots go back to 1993. Back then the band gained a reputation as one of the first and best groups to explore the connections between jazz and klezmer, but quickly developed a sound and approach all their own, and over time took in a much wider range of influences. Their writing embodies their personal and idiosyncratic concept and compositional style, a collective voice which fans recognise and love.

Joining the core line-up of saxophonist Jeremy Shoham, percussionist Rick Finlay and bassist Phil Scragg, in their latest incarnation the band welcome keyboard wizard Danny Manners. Danny’s musical background includes eight years with award-winning prog rock band Big Big Train, a longstanding collaboration as bassist, keyboardist and arranger with French singer-songwriter Louis Philippe, and work with 80s alternative big band The Happy End.

The band has a uniquely off-beam take on contemporary music, incorporating world, folk, prog and classical influences in their impressionistic style. Composition and improvisation are seamlessly linked, an approach that has led to favourable comparisons with fusion pioneers Weather Report and prog rock innovators Gong.

• Jeremy Shoham - Saxophones
• Danny Manners - Keys
• Phil Scragg - Bass
• Rick Finlay - Drums

Fleece Jazz is an independent, non-profit association run by a voluntary committee who have been providing modern and contemporary jazz for 28 years. They book talented musicians and jazz bands from the UK and beyond to perform at Stoke by Nayland Resort, providing the perfect backdrop for these cherished and popular events.

Fleece Jazz events are generally held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month.