A stellar list of international blues and jazz stars are set to descend on London for a major new blues, jazz and soul festival set to take place this summer between 27 June to 3 July, timed to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the first National Jazz And Blues Festival. BB King, Dr John, Booker T, and The Blind Boys Of Alabama lead the pack of high calibre artists taking part that also includes a swathe of acclaimed mainstream jazz names Scott Hamilton, Harry Allen, and ebullient and entertaining Jamaican jazz pianist Monty Alexander as well as UK artists Tommy Smith, Claire Martin and Martin Taylor.

The idea of an international celebration of blues and jazz originated from the Marquee Club’s enterprising young promoter Harold Pendleton, who played a key role in developing jazz and rock scenes in London, the original festival became a forerunner of today’s Reading Festival. Joining the dots between these formative days and this summer’s event celebrated UK bandleader and trombonist Chris Barber, who performed at the original National Jazz And Blues Festival half a century ago, will be appearing at this summer’s event at the legendary 100 Club.

 Promoted by Full Circle Live further international names so far confirmed include Buddy Greco, Max Weinburg, and Trombone Shorty alongside British stars Georgie Fame, Jon Cleary, James Hunter, Incognito, Sandi Thom, The Unfortunate Sons and Annie Ross. All of whom will be appearing at venues across the capital including Royal Albert Hall, 100 Club, Jazz Café and The Union Chapel, Bush Hall, Under The Bridge, and Soho’s Pizza Express Jazz Club.

For more see www.bluesfestlondon.com

- Mike Flynn