EFG London Jazz Festival 2014

Branford Marsalis, Dee Dee Bridgewater and Snarky Puppy are just some of the performances at the 22nd EFG London Jazz Festival in November

Now in its 22nd year, the EFG London Jazz Festival is comfortable in its reputation as one the finest jazz events in the world, yet it shows no signs of slowing down or resting on its many laurels. 

On the contrary, the latest incarnation gets off to a flying start on the 14th of November with two sets from star saxophonist Branford Marsalis and his quartet. Steeped in jazz tradition, yet always looking to push the boundaries, the group are among the most exciting and versatile in contemporary jazz, as capable of conjuring tender ballads as ferocious swing.

Further highlights include a performance from Kenny Barron, who was spotted by Dizzy Gillespie when just a teenager and has since established himself as a leading voice in modern jazz piano. He shares the stage with bassist Dave Holland, whose list of collaborators includes Miles Davis and Chick Corea.

Jazz-funk fusion outfit Snarky Puppy , riding high on their recent success at the Grammy Awards, are another hot ticket, appearing at the Village Underground on Sunday the 17th. As is guitar great Bill Frisell, know for blending jazz with classical and folk influences to enchanting effect.

Legendary diva Dee Dee Bridgewater, who appears at the Southbank Centre on Saturday 15th, has promised ‘a retrospective journey through her career’, a tantalising prospect given that it stretches as far back as the sixties and features the likes of Sonny Rollins, Max Roach and Dexter Gordon along with award winning stints on Broadway. Like so much of this year’s festival, Bridgewater’s set looks sure to be unmissable.