In the heart of summer, the renowned Kingsbridge Jazz Club transforms its venue, moving to a captivating garden in the picturesque village of Bigbury. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the English countryside, the setting provides a breathtaking backdrop for an unforgettable musical experience.In the heart of summer, the renowned Kingsbridge Jazz Club transforms its venue, moving to a captivating garden in the picturesque village of Bigbury. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the English countryside, the setting provides a breathtaking backdrop for an unforgettable musical experience. As the sun gently casts its golden rays, visitors are transported into a tranquil oasis, where the gentle whispers of leaves harmonize with the vibrant sounds of jazz. The garden’s upper terrace, a spacious canvas, becomes Adam Moran’s stage, the charismatic vocalist captivating the audience with his infectious energy. Neil Maya’s saxophone melodies soar through the air, intertwined with the rhythmic pulse of Tom Unwin’s keys, Gary Evans’ driving drums, and Kevin Sanders’ steady bass guitar. The band’s seamless ensemble creates an enchanting symphony, filling the air with a vibrant blend of jazz, swing, and popular classics. The dance floor becomes a whirlwind of motion as Duncan and Louise, renowned dancers from Mad About Swing, ignite the crowd with their graceful swing and lindy hop steps. Their flawless footwork and infectious passion inspire couples to join them in carefree revelry. Unforgettable tunes echo through the garden, including Cole Porter’s “Pennies From Heaven,” Frank Sinatra’s “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” and Nina Simone’s soulful rendition of “Feeling Good.” The atmosphere crackles with energy as the audience sways and sings along to the timeless melodies. The second half of the performance brings more swinging classics, with “Route 66,” “Hit The Road Jack,” and the iconic “Minnie The Moocher” by Cab Calloway. The garden reverberates with the cheerful sounds of jazz, creating a joyous and unforgettable afternoon. As the sun begins its descent, casting a warm glow over the garden, the final notes of the Carlton Big Band and singer Andy Youngs will fill the air on Sunday, August 4th. This enchanting musical event promises to be another unforgettable chapter in the rich history of Kingsbridge Jazz Club.
During the summer months the popular Kingsbridge Jazz Club moves outdoors to a beautiful garden in Bigbury with stunning views over the rolling hills of the countryside.
It was a calm and quiet afternoon as they walked through a flower meadow and heard the blissful sounds of The Drat Pack warming up.
Led by saxophonist Neil Maya and fronted by vocalist Adam Moran, the tight and talented ensemble of Tom Unwin, keys, Gary Evans, drums and Kevin Sanders, bass guitar, was great fun.
Walking around and making full use of the large space on the upper garden terrace was Adam’s comfortable space and the sun-drenched crowd clearly loved him.
The band raced through a set list consisting of jazz, swing and even some popular songs from more recent times.
They were joined by dance couple Duncan and Louise who started Plymouth-based dance school Mad About Swing in 2007 and are regularly seen on the dance floor at various locations.
The set opened with some well-known classics: Pennies From Heaven by Cole Porter, I’ve Got You Under My Skin by Frank Sinatra and then Feeling Good, memorably sung by the great Nina Simone.
It was a masterclass in swing and lindy hop from Duncan and Louise.
There was flawless footwork and their infectious love for dancing inspired some couples to join them on the dance floor.
Classic jazz dance numbers, including Love Is The Tender Trap, Autumn Leaves, Mr Bojangles, It Don’t Mean A Thing and Paper Moon, all covered at various times by Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington, as the first set had come to an end.
Duncan and Louise (Kingsbridge Jazz Club)
More classic swing followed in the second half, with songs like Route 66, Hit The Road Jack and Minnie The Moocher, that noisy memorable song by Cab Calloway.
There was also time for the audience to sing along to some of the choruses as a joyful afternoon drew to a close.
The next outdoor event is at the same venue on Sunday 4 August with the Carlton Big Band and singer Andy Youngs.
