London's much-mythologised jazz resurgence is busy making global headlines, with each day seeming to bring a fresh landmark.
On the ground, though, there's just a bunch of kids making music, trying to get their creativity heard by as big an audience as possible.
The latest instalment of EFG London Jazz Festival couldn't have come at a better time, uniting homegrown talent from across the jazz spectrum with internationally renowned artists.
Opening tonight – November 15th – it spans the capital, and the line up is positively exploding with seismic artists.
Ezra Collective keys player Joe Armon-Jones is also a band leader in his own right, as well as a prolific collaborator.
Here, he picks out a few essential shows from the EFG Jazz Festival 2019 calendar…
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Gary Bartz – Royal Festival Hall (November 16th)
This gig will be incredible: Maisha alone are a force to be reckoned with, Gary Bartz is a true legend, plus Zara and Dwight on top of that will make for an awesome night.
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Tomorrow’s Warriors / Bustin Outacube / Nihilism – Pizza Express Soho (November 15th)
Nihilism are a wicked band. I’ve had the good fortune to work with Deji in my own band and know that he is a powerful saxophonist. Benji on drums as well you gonna have a very good time indeed.
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Chiminyo – The Grace (November 15th)
You will have never seen anything like this in your life I’m being fully honest, Tim has put so much time and effort into creating a unique sound , it’s actually mind blowing to watch.
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Fatback Band – Jazz Cafe (November 15th)
What do I need to say. These lot are legends and everybody needs funk in their life.
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Peter Edwards Trio – Poplar Union (November 16th)
Peter is an incredible musician, lovely person and a great educator, I learnt a lot watching him play growing up and was very inspired by his approach to writing and playing. Not to be missed.
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EFG London Jazz Festival runs between November 15th – 24th – full ticket details.
Photo Credit: Denisha Anderson
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