A fantastically exciting, playful and inventive saxophonist, Art Themen has been a beloved character of the British jazz scene for over 60 years, famously combining his role as a consultant orthopaedic surgeon with saxophone duties in the bands of Alexis Korner and Stan Tracey among many others.
Described by The Observer as "One of the tiny handful of undeniably perfect jazz musicians”, he remains as brilliant and inimitable as ever.
Themen’s trio Thane & The Villeins features organist Pete Whittaker, formerly of The Nigel Price Organ Trio, and drummer George Double – a Dean Street regular, who has worked as sideman to Shirley Bassey and Jack Jones.
The band’s groove-led re-imaginings of quirky curiosities from the jazz canon, act as a perfect vehicle for the twinkly mischief of this genuine grandee of British jazz and have delighted crowds at Ronnie Scott’s, The Royal Albert Hall’s Elgar Room, here at Pizza Express Dean St and across the UK.
Here’s two examples of the great music in store for this concert
Art on Soprano Saxophone
And try this elegant “Willow Weep For Me”
"A first-rate trio..an excellent set..Themen is one of the very few totally original, utterly engaging jazz musicians around" **** — Dave Gelly – Observer
"Just once in a while one chances upon a new album that is just perfect, and love at first listen. Thane & The Villeins is one of those rare gems." - James Henry – Bebop Spoken Here
"Boisterous and inventive as ever..funky and swinging" – Hi FinNews & Record Review.
Doors 6.30pm
Music 8pm
Tickets £20