Blue Harlem

• From the ballrooms of Buckingham Palace to the stage of Ronnie Scott’s—the UK’s premier jump-blues outfit arrives in Bristol.

• See the band that launched Imelda May and performed for Hollywood royalty.
  This isn't just a gig; it's a piece of jazz history."

• The "Mood": "As Sir Michael Parkinson put it: 'Happy music that makes you want to dance.'
  Don’t just listen—experience the wattage of seven Olympian musicians."

Jump, Jive, and Wail with Blue Harlem

Experience the glamour and grit of the mid-century jazz scene right here in Bristol. Blue Harlem doesn't just play music; they throw a party.

From the Savoy Ballroom sounds of the 40s to the gritty jump-blues of the 50s, their repertoire is designed to keep your toes tapping and the dance floor full. Whether you’re a die-hard swing dancer or a lover of world-class musicianship, this is the "must-attend" event of the season.

• Experience: Professional 7-piece big band sound.

• Atmosphere: Vintage, energetic, and welcoming.

• Bar: Full bar service available throughout the night.

1. The "Star-Maker" Reputation

Blue Harlem are more than just a band; they are a launchpad for icons.

They famously launched the career of the Grammy-nominated Imelda May, who was their lead vocalist before her
solo superstardom.

Sophie Shaw now carries that torch alongside such an elite lineup which adds massive prestige to the ticket.

2. Royal and Hollywood Pedigree

If they are good enough for the King and the A-listers, they are good enough for Bristol!

• Royal Approval: They have performed by personal invitation at Highgrove House on three separate occasions for charity balls hosted by the (then) Prince of Wales. They’ve also played the ballroom at Buckingham Palace.

• The Baz Luhrmann Connection: When Hollywood director Baz Luhrmann launched his 1940s epic Australia, he personally invited Blue Harlem to provide the soundtrack for the London premiere.

3. The "Olympian" Musicianship

The lineup you have is essentially a "Supergroup" of the UK jazz scene:

• Al Nicholls (Tenor Sax): The architect of the band, Al cut his teeth with the legendary Big Town Playboys and Ray Gelato’s Giants. He’s widely considered one of the most authentic arrangers of 40s/50s jump-blues in the country.

• Sandy Burnett (Double Bass): Beyond being a world-class bassist, many punters will recognize his name and voice from his

       years as a beloved presenter on BBC Radio 3.

• Sophie Shaw: She isn't just a singer; she’s a professional West End actress. This explains why her stage presence is so magnetic - she doesn't just sing the songs; she performs them with the theatrical flair of a golden-age starlet.

4. The "Parkinson" Seal of Approval

The late, great Sir Michael Parkinson was one of their loudest champions, famously stating:

"The group I’m currently raving about—it’s happy music that makes you want to dance!"

• Address: Nibley Road, Shirehampton , Bristol, BS11 9XW, uk