24 February 2023: Xhosa Cole

Xhosa Cole ‘Rhythm-a-Ting’ Quartet

Xhosa Cole – Tenor Sax,

Steve Saunders – Guitar,

Josh Vadiveloo – Double Bass,

Nathan England-Jones – Drums

On his return to Calstock, Xhosa Cole presents his new ensemble ‘Rhythm-a-Ting’, performing an exploration and re-imagining of the music of Thelonious Monk, taking those original timeless melodies and adding a contemporary touch with new arrangements and new rhythmic interpretations.

Since winning the 2018 BBC Young Jazz Musician of the year award, Xhosa has headlined London’s prestigious venues such as Cadogan Hall and Ronnie Scott’s jazz club, performed twice at the BBC Proms, collected further accolades (Parliamentary Jazz Award for ‘Best Newcomer’; Jazz FM ‘Breakthrough Act of the Year’) and released his debut album (‘K(no)w Them, K(no)w Us’) to critical acclaim. Growing up in Handsworth, Xhosa rose through community arts programmes in Birmingham and is among a long legacy of celebrated Birmingham saxophonists such as Soweto Kinch and Shabaka Hutchings. Having been the recipient of some of the UKs best music education and mentorship, he has gone on to become a passionate educator himself.

Xhosa’s deep and authentic connection to the lineage of jazz music has helped to establish him among the most exciting young talents in the country. At this stage in his career he is continually learning, developing and growing. He embraces players from different traditions and outlooks related to his African heritage. This, and a grounding in his inner-city community, has created a fiercely unique and independent voice.

“He’s got technique, talent, artistry and a burning desire that shows throughout the set.” Downbeat 2021

“A young player with formidable technique and a solid grasp of the post-John Coltrane African American tradition” Chris May All about Jazz

Listen here:  https://youtu.be/J_3f9W-u7lM