We’re all looking forward to a night of sublime jazz from Julian Nicholas this Friday.  The Times’s Chris Parker says “Nicholas has an affectingly human, breathy yet confident tenor and an agile soprano sound – not to mention an intriguingly multi-textured approach to bass clarinet – and his overall approach, beguilingly persuasive… ” Thoroughly original in his playing and composing, Julian Nicholas continues to develop a reputation for his lyrical ‘european’ playing. He was part of the seminal big band Loose Tubes (1988-1992) and then went on to work in the 1990’s as sideman with many of the great names eg, Harry ‘Sweets’ Edison, Eddie Henderson, Jimmy Witherspoon, Kirk Lightsey and Brotherhood of Breath.Based in Brighton for the last decade, he has twice won the ZAP award for ‘ Best Gig’ at the Brighton Arts Festival. Recent appearances include Ronnie Scotts in London with ‘Brotherhood of Breath’, tours with Claire Martin, Chelthenham Festival’s Best of British with Don Weller, Bobby Wellins and Dave O’Higgins.

The action’s happening at Doug Ellingford’s popular jazz venue, Brighton blue note, 63 Church rd Hove, 10.30pm with other bands from 8pm from Brighton Jazz School, it’s tucked away underneath the Greenhouse effect and easy to miss , just keep your eyes peeled for the steps next to Topolino duo Italian where the Jazz graffiti is n follow the steps down to this snug, jazzy hangout.  Rythm section is Loz Thomas on drums, Terry Pack on bass  and I’ll be on guitar…