Rye Arts Festival servesup jazz and blues menuthroughout September

For those who got an appetite for jazz and blues over the bank holiday weekend there is plenty more top quality fayre at this year’s Rye Arts Festival between September 12 and 28.
By The Newsroom
Published 31st Aug 2014, 05:54 BST

Major British modern jazz saxophonists don’t come with bigger reputations than Alan Skidmore and Peter King. Both their careers span over 50 years and they will be joined in a special concert on September 23 by drummer Miles Levin, Steve Melling on piano and a bassist in a tribute to legendary John Coltrane drummer, Elvin Jones.

After Coltrane’s death in 1967, Jones led a series of highly-acclaimed bands. On his visits to the UK, he regularly performed with Skidmore, King and Melling, so they bring to this event a very personal connection with one of the big names of American modern jazz.

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Doors open 7.30pm at Rye Community centre for an 8.00pm start.

For blues, why not check out West Weston’s Bluesonics on Friday September 19, also at Rye Community Centre.

Fronted by Steve Weston, who recently toured and recorded with Roger Daltrey and Wilko Johnson, this is one of Britain’s finest electric blues bands.

Widely regarded as one of our best amplified harmonica players and in great demand as a session player, Weston also sings and plays keyboards. Paul Garner provides guitar, Orlando Shearer upright bass and Mike Thorne drums.

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Andy Stuart, from the Festival Committee, said: “They are guaranteed to rock the house and satisfy blues connoisseurs with their authentic sound.”

He added: “The Festival also has a series of free gigs and if you’re looking for the Blues, why not check out the George at 4pm on Sunday September 21. You would have to travel a long way to find two better blues guitarists, perhaps even the Mississippi Delta.

“Two local legends, both fine vocalists, combine to offer a lesson in exceptional Blues guitar playing and it’s a free event. However, to avoid disappointment come early for a seat.

The Box Office for in-person bookings opens at Phillips and Stubbs in Cinque Ports Street, from 9.30am to 1pm on Mondays to Saturdays until the end of the Festival or people can book online at www.ryeartsfestival.co.uk where you can find information on all Festival events.