Led by one of the UK’s most formidable jazz pianists, George Cooper, The Jazz Defenders are a group born from a deep love for Blue Note Jazz. Drawing on a wealth of inspiration to craft their own raw and vibrant compositions. The Bristol Jazz Festival are so proud to present these compelling local musicians.
The hard bop recordings of Horace Silver, Hank Mobley, Lee Morgan and Art Blakey were highly regarded for a reason. Catchy horn lines and incredible musicianship combined with Rudy Van Gelder’s engineering skills mean they will forever be regarded as classics of the genre. The Jazz Defenders are a group that defend the legacy of those recordings. Whilst creating its own original identity and distinction. The music they produce together is a modern soul jazz slant on this classic hard bop. Effortlessly channelling the spirit of the golden Blue Note era of jazz.
Line Up:
George Cooper – Piano/Keyboards
Will Harris – Bass
Ian Matthews – Drums
Nick Malcolm – Trumpet
Jake McMurchie – Tenor Sax
“Absolutely storming!” Jamie Cullum
“The most exciting British jazz group out there right now” Music Republic Magazine
“This Bristol, England outfit understands what made hard bop a force in jazz back in the ’50s and ’60s, and it has unlocked the key to bringing that excitement and style to the 21st century with new original material, and it delivers in a big way. If you dig Horace Silver and Cannonball Adderley, you’ll be thrilled to discover this group.” Musoscribe, Asheville USA
“The energy deployed by this quintet is phenomenal don’t miss it!” Litzic Magazine FRANCE