Jay Phelps Band (EFG London Jazz Festival)

Born in Canada but based in London since he was 17, trumpeter and DJ Jay Phelps has performed with some of the world’s top artists such as Wynton Marsalis, Shabaka Hutchings, Amy Winehouse and Wizkid. After arriving in the UK and while studying jazz at Trinity College, Jay was one of the original members of Empirical, the hugely successful, award-winning group indelibly associated with the contemporary UK new jazz scene. Subsequently, in a career spanning over 20 years, Phelps is still in the vanguard, expanding the definition of jazz in its many intriguing styles, variations and atmospheres.

With a parallel career as a DJ, radio presenter and YouTube creator, his work is internationally recognised, with top listeners in Japan, USA, UK and China. His seventh album as leader, ‘The Now’ was released through Apple Music subsidiary label Platoon in 2023. For this 606/ EFG London Jazz Festival show, Jay will perform music from the record, bringing it to life with three inspired musicians with a like-minded point of view: Nicola Guida-Keys, Menelik Claffey-bass & Sascha Create-drums.

“a prominent and distinguished figure on the international Jazz circuit…precocious talent” UK Vibe; “full-throttle, genre-fluid contemporary jazz of a kind that can ignite almost any venue.” Guardian; “…a supremely talented player… Phelps’ music is rooted in the bebop tradition but he also brings a touch of soul jazz to the table” The Jazz Mann