Saxophonist Dave O’Higgins has been a mainstay of the UK jazz scene since the early 1990s when he first emerged as a bandleader, just in the wake of the 80s jazz boom and following in the footsteps of Courtney Pine, Andy Sheppard and Tommy Smith
O’Higgins’ early albums as leader were cutting edge for the time; a convincing band of British post bop, with a focus on original material.
In more recent years O’Higgins’ music has been more firmly rooted in the jazz mainstream. His previously release teamed him with the young, rising star guitarist Rob Luft on a selection of tunes associated with Monk and Coltrane: one of twenty two albums as leader or co-leader.
Dave’s German born wife Judith, studied both medicine and music education and has enjoyed a successful career as a forensic pathologist. As a saxophonist she has worked with the Matthew Herbert Big Band; the Two Minds Big Band, and with the octet and The Sax Section, co-led by Dave and Alan Barnes.
Recorded in March 2020“His ‘n’ Hers” is, in part, a product of the Covid-19 pandemic. The idea of a two tenor set was inspired by the Johnny Griffin/Eddie ‘Lockjaw’ Davies group, which recorded several albums in the format back in the 1960s.
“What we are doing is presenting, side by side, two different styles of playing tenor—a contrast, not a contest”.
This evening’s concert with the music of “His ‘n’ Hers” from Dave & Judith O’Higgins, must be one of the few good things to come out of the Covid crisis. There may be nothing startlingly new here but this is music that fulfils its objectives admirably, an unpretentious, old style two tenor session featuring some fine playing from the entire band.
Judith O’Higgins – tenor saxophone,
Dave O’Higgins- tenor saxophone
Graham Harvey – piano,
Adam King – double bass,
Josh Morrison – drums
Here’s a great trailer for the “His ‘N Hers” Album. Pure musical magic.
Doors 6.45pm
Music 8pm
Tickets £23.50 + £1.50 booking fee
Piano Smithfield, Long Lane, Barbican, London, EC1A 9PN
A wealth of Jazz over Autumn at London's newest Jazz Cabaret Venue.
Audiences say —
"All positives from me. Have been twice now, both times top quality musicians, staff are very welcoming and friendly, table service so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy, atmosphere is great!
Long may it continue because its so important to have these venues, especially after the last two years "
Press Say
"Piano Smithfield is a 5-stars venue I would urge you to visit if you like your jazz in intimate surroundings. It’s cool. Damned cool” – Jeff Prestridge — Daily Mail
Recorded in 
