A varied line-up of Australian and New Zealand musicians features in this year's EFG London Jazz Festival, with performances spanning jazz, soul, funk, electronic music and contemporary improvisation at venues across the capital.
Among the New Zealand artists taking part is acclaimed saxophonist and producer Nathan Haines, who returns to Ronnie Scott's on 16 November with his band and vocalist Vanessa Freeman. Haines has spent more than three decades exploring the connections between jazz, soul and electronic music, collaborating with artists including Phil Asher, Goldie and fellow New Zealander group Chaos in the CBD.
Tasmanian-born, London-based pianist and composer Finn Rees performs at 93 Feet East on 19 November, drawing on influences ranging from spiritual jazz to psychedelic soul. Australian saxophonist Brandon Allen (pictured), originally from Perth, joins British singer and pianist Natalie Duncan for Soul Exchange! at Jazz Café POSK on 21 November.
The Melbourne International Jazz Festival also returns to the Barbican's FreeStage on 22 November, presenting two Australian artists: violinist and composer Xani Kolac, whose new work KOŁACZ explores family history and identity, and multi-instrumentalist Don Glori, whose music blends jazz, funk, soul and Brazilian influences. The afternoon showcase is free to attend.
Elsewhere, Australian jazz vocalist Lily Dior joins Rachel Sutton and Vimala Rowe for The Divas at 606 Club, while electronic producer Skeler brings his atmospheric, bass-driven sound to Hootananny Brixton.
Australian and New Zealand festival performances:
16 November — Nathan Haines with Vanessa Freeman, Ronnie Scott's, Soho — 6.40pm
19 November — Finn Rees, 93 Feet East, Brick Lane — 8.30pm
21 November — Natalie Duncan & Brandon Allen: Soul Exchange!, Jazz Café POSK, Hammersmith — 8pm
21 November — Skeler, Hootananny Brixton — from 10pm
22 November — The Divas: Rachel Sutton, Lily Dior & Vimala Rowe, 606 Club, Chelsea — 1.30pm
22 November — Melbourne International Jazz Festival presents Xani Kolac & Don Glori, Barbican FreeStage — 4–7pm, free admission
Part of the EFG London Jazz Festival's wider programme, these concerts offer UK audiences opportunities to hear established and emerging musicians from Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand across a range of jazz-related styles.