The full programme for this year’s Brecon Jazz Festival, running from 8-10 August, with headliners Grammy-winning jazz vocalist Gregory Porter (pictured), songwriting legend Burt Bacharach and Mobo-award winning singer Laura Mvula topping the bill. There’s a heavy dose of synchronicity at play too as this year’s event also includes an appearance by acclaimed maverick Brit-jazz big band, Loose Tubes, appearing in what is both theirs and the festival’s 30th anniversary year.
Other names announced as part of this year’s programme, which takes place in the picturesque surroundings of the Brecon beacons in South Wales, are Beats & Pieces big band, Dennis Rollins’ Velocity Trio, Jean Toussaint, a special tribute to the late Stan Tracey, gypsy jazz guitar star Fapy Lafertin, Chris Barber, Don Weller and David Newton plus leading contemporary UK jazz bands Polar Bear, Kairos 4Tet, and Troyka.
Acclaimed US trumpeter Warren Vache returns to the event for the first time since his first appearance in 1984, this time with a group featuring top UK multi-reedist Alan Barnes and Welsh jazz veteran Mike Harries also appears with his popular Root Doctors band. The festival made something of a return to form last year after organisers Orchard made the event more inclusive to venues around the town and reinstated the popular street parade. They also tried to broaden the appeal of the festival and reported a 20 percent growth in ticket sales.
– Mike Flynn
For more info go to www.breconjazz.com
