These four incredible musicians define the Bristol Jazz Funk sound. Superb musician’s individually, something happens when they play together that is magic. Be prepared to groove!
Gary Alesbrook joins the Hopkins Hammond trio as a guest – “He has a sublime tone on both trumpet and flugelhorn.” Jazz Journal
Formed in Bristol in 2016. This organ trio knew they were on to a winner after the first tune they played together. There is an undeniable chemistry between the three of them that is evident in everything they play. This could be tunes from the trio’s own growing repertoire of compositions, their arrangements of well known jazz standards, or tunes by the likes of John Scofield, Pat Metheny and Larry Goldings.
Matt Hopkins – guitar
Matt’s inventive and melodic guitar playing has been featured in groups as stylistically diverse as Andy Sheppard’s Hotel Bristol and Emily Wright & The Royals. He also takes the lead role in the “Music of Pat Metheny” project alongside pianist Dave Newton. Matt is also an instructor and educator, specialising in jazz improvisation.
Scott Hammond – drums
Scott is best known for playing rock music with Ian Anderson/Jethro Tull all over the globe since 2010 but he’s not just a rocker. Jazz, especially in the organ trio setting, has always been close to Scott’s heart and this trio shows a more subtle side to his playing.
In the jazz world Scott has worked with Alan Barnes, Tina May, Herb Geller, Bobby Wellins, Jason Rebello, Pee Wee Ellis, Dave Newton, The Nigel Price Trio and many others. Scott is also the founder member of the band Jingu Bang.
Ruth Hammond – organ
Ruth has many strings to her bow as she is equally adept on organ, piano, saxophones, accordion and vocals. After graduating from Leeds College of Music in 1998, she became Runner Up in the Young Jazz Musician of the Year (on tenor saxophone). She has released a solo album “All The Good Things” which features her singing her own songs. Artists Ruth has worked with include The Brass Junkies, The Colman Brothers, Phil King, Ilya, Morcheeba, Elliot Randall (Steely Dan) amongst others.
