Brace yourselves, jazz lovers—this is going to be a BIG one! The Geoff Mason Sextet is rolling into Twickenham Jazz Club, bringing an electrifying tribute to Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and the hard-swinging, soul-drenched sound of classic hard bop.
Expect driving rhythms, fiery solos, and that unmistakable Blue Note vibe as this phenomenal band takes us on a journey through the music of Blakey and beyond!
Steve Fishwick – Trumpet
Mike Coates – Tenor Saxophone
Geoff Mason – Trombone
John Horler – Piano
Tim Wells – Double Bass
Winston Clifford – Drums
At the heart of this gig is a celebration of Art Blakey (1919–1990)—the powerhouse drummer and bandleader whose Jazz Messengers became the ultimate proving ground for rising jazz stars. Blakey’s explosive, polyrhythmic drumming and signature press rolls created a propulsive swing that drove the music forward with unstoppable energy. Over the years, his band nurtured future jazz giants like Wayne Shorter, Freddie Hubbard, Lee Morgan, Cedar Walton, and many more.
The Jazz Messengers’ signature sound was all about infectious grooves, blues-infused melodies, and fiery improvisation—a mix of raw energy and deep soul that still resonates with jazz lovers today. Expect to hear some of the quintessential hard bop classics from the Blakey songbook, as well as fresh arrangements that keep the spirit of this music alive and kicking.
Geoff Mason, a North London native and alumnus of the London College of Music, has carved out a dynamic career as a freelance trombonist. His impressive collaborations include performances with the 606 Club Big Band, the Ronnie Scott Big Band, Paul Booth’s Bansangu Orchestra, The Squadronaires, and the Len Philips Big Band. Geoff also co-leads a quintet with tenor saxophonist Mike Coates, producing three CDs and gracing stages at esteemed venues like the EFG London Jazz Festival, Ealing Jazz Festival, and Scarborough Jazz Festival.
Blakey’s Jazz Messengers were all about power, passion, and groove—and with this stellar line-up, you can expect exactly that. From the blazing horn section to the high-energy rhythm team, this is hard bop at its very best!
Join us for a night of red-hot jazz, killer solos, and pure musical joy!
We can’t wait to see you there! ✨
