B
elieve it or not, for years this seminal night was something of a stalwart on the London jazz scene. Every Monday, the upstairs room at The Oxford opened its doors to some of best new contemporary and improvised music around.
Curated and run by saxophonist George Crowley, line-ups typically included some of the capital’s brightest young musicians, mostly showcasing original music and innovative new projects.
And at only a tenner entry, and with plenty of cosy couches to lounge on, there really was no better way to spend a wet (or warm) Monday evening.
The good news is it’s just relaunched, under the aegis of Will Arnold-Forster, with the focus on giving a platform to the capital’s more talented musicians. Better still, it’s two quid cheaper to get in.
So far Soth Sam Braysher and Steve Fishwick, internationally regarded soloists, have performed; head down on the 14th Jan (Monday) and catch Mat Steele playing his vibraharp, the instrument consisting of tuned metal bars.
Meanwhile bright star on the scene Nick Costley-White is up on the 21st, jamming on the guitar, whilst on the 28th there’s acclaimed saxophonist Helena Kay.
It’s definitely worth supporting the rebirth of this local cultural institution. Hell, yeah.
Main image: Secret Artist NW5
