*** Presented by Jazz Jurassica – bringing live jazz to Bridport Electric Palace-***

Simon Spillett is an award-winning saxophonist with fire in his belly. Known for his electrifying live performances, he bristles with high octane energy, often at breakneck speed.

With his repertoire rooted in the 50s and 60s, his sharp suit and narrow tie, coupled with droll one-liners, and multiple appearances at a certain Soho jazz club, it’s a show in the best Ronnie Scott tradition.

If you’ve seen him before, you’ll know what’s coming. If you haven’t… you’re in for a treat.

He doesn’t do polite background jazz. This is a “sit up and take notice” performance. Big tone. Fast runs. Proper energy.  One minute it’s full throttle, the next something more thoughtful… then off it goes again.

The music takes inspiration from Tubby Hayes, the legendary British jazzer from that golden era where everything would swing hard.

And it works for all comers – whether you’re a serious jazz nut or just want a really good afternoon out. The tunes are strong. The band is tight. And there’s always that lift when a solo takes off and the whole room feels it.

Critic Dave Gelly once said Simon left audiences “blinking in disbelief.” That sounds about right.

Behind him, the Ronnie Jones Trio does exactly what you want. They listen. They push. They give the music space, then bring it right back in.

This is the final show in their South West tour. The last stop. And the only one in Dorset. And because it’s the last date of the tour, you get that extra edge. Bands always dig a bit deeper on the final show.

So… what do you reckon?

A quiet Saturday afternoon in front of the telly …… or something you’ll still be talking about on Monday morning?

Line-up:

Sax – Simon Spillett 

Piano – Will Butterworth

Bass – Nic Pini

Drums – Ronnie Jones