We've asked a few of our staff members who they are looking forward to see this festival season. From newly discovered discographies to replaying old favourites.
Original Pinettes Brass Band
From honouring musicians to raising money for hurricane Katrina EJBF has a special relationship with New Orleans, widely regarded as the birthplace of jazz. I'm proud that we celebrate that bond in 2023 by presenting the first ever Scottish performance by the worlds one and only all-female marching band – the Original Pinettes Brass Band.
So if you are looking for the super authentic, New Orleans mix of Jazz, Pop, R&B, and Funk delivered by a tough, gritty marching musical band – or just some slamming music – I suggest that you check them out. You won't be disappointed.
Theon Cross
If you have been lucky enough to experience the brilliant Sons of Kemet then you will know what an incredible musician Theon Cross is. Everyone talks about how he is ‘making the tuba cool’ but what’s so impressive is his skill in playing it and you can only fully experience that live. Check him out - I guarantee you won't be disappointed.
Ibibio Sound Machine
Ibibio Sound Machine are a force to recognise! Hearing about them for the first time from friends and then watching their performances, I can guarantee their energetic mix of African and electronic music will get you up and dancing in no time. Eno Williams voice and performance style echos that of Angelic Kidjo and if you love her then you’re sure to love this. For those new to the world of electronic music or Afrobeat, this performance is a great starting point.
Elephant 9
Ever since hearing their debut album, Dodovoodoo, I’ve been hooked on their music and am really excited to finally get a chance to see them live! From prog-rock to psychedelia these three Norwegians create the biggest sound I’ve ever heard! I think they are the most original organ trio in the world and am expecting a night of relentless energy and groove
corto.alto
It blows my mind to think about how far Liam Shortall and corto.alto have travelled musically since 2019. We’re lucky that Liam has such a ridiculously good band that can take all of the music that pours out of him. For those of you that have never heard corto.alto, they are a groove-based nu-jazz band, but corto.alto stand apart as a group that seamlessly blend their influences into the music, from afrobeat to soul. It’s just a band that demands to be heard, every time.
Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band
What’s up tempo, full-blooded, and glorious and swaggers from dirty blues to backwoods rockabilly and is delivered with impeccable arrangement and virtuoso musicianship and cracking sense of fun? it’s Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band. Featuring the Rev’s incredible guitar alongside his wife – Breezy’s – washboard, they are sure to get you singing and dancing along to their infectious sounds and sheer joy of performing. If you’re missing Blind Boy Paxton or Davina & the Vagabonds – they why not try them out – I can’t recommend them enough.
