Gwilym Simcock's Jaco Pastorius Tribute, 606 Jazz Club

Following a highly successful first outing at the Pizza Express Jazz Club in August 2013, Gwilym Simcock brings his tribute to legendary bass player Jaco Pastorius to the 606. Pastorius was just 35 when he died in 1987 but in that short time he changed the way jazz musicians though about the electric bass, earning himself a reputation as one of the greatest players in the instrument’s history. His incredible technical facility, lyricism and inventiveness fueled a meteoric rise which led him to play first with guitarist Pat Metheny and later with pioneering fusion outfit Weather Report, in addition to working as a sideman with the likes of Joni Mitchell. Though known first and foremost for his playing, Pastorius was also a gifted composer and this tribute set will feature arrangements of many of his most celebrated compositions, including Three Views Of A Secret and Liberty City, along with seminal tracks on which he performed, such as Joni Mitchell’s Jericho.

Simcock’s rise to fame has been similarly dizzying. A multi award-winning pianist and composer, he is one of the most exciting musicians to emerge in the last decade and has quickly established himself as a leading light on the British jazz scene. His classical training has equipped him with formidable technique, while his contemporary approach to jazz harmony and groove has already spawned numerous imitators. He’ll be joined by veteran bassist Laurence Cottle, leader of the “Portrait of Jaco” Big Band, and young drummer James Maddren. Both major names in their own right, they complete a lineup sure to do justice to the