The New Cut Collective + Special Guest DJ Tom Westwood

Back by popular demand following last year’s sell-out gig,  these Bristol-based funk meisters return to the Hen & Chicken.

They’ll be playing the finest cuts of Funky Soul-Jazz and upbeat Latin grooves to keep you dancing all night long. Primed to entertain, with fresh arrangements of tunes by the likes of Ramsey Lewis, Herbie Hancock, Sergio Mendes, Gil Scott-Heron, Mongo Santamaria and Jimmy Smith, this tight collective will leave your weekend on a high.

Cranking up the tremolo for those Hammond stings and going full Ramsey on the Piano, but also stripping it back to some of that mellow, funky Rhodes: Murray Benjamin, a long time musician on the local scene – MC of Fromage En Feu, and former band member of several Bristol Institutions (Mo-Funk, Orquestra Montpelier & K’Chevere).

Warming up to the full New Cut Collective horn section, we give you the silky slide jazz/funk trombonist: Savio Pacini, the go-to on the Bristol live and session scene; currently also gigging with Gee Baby and The Regz.

James Brown had Bootsy Collins, Herbie Hancock had Freddie Washington, but neither of these were available so we settled for the funkiest (and nicest) bassman in town: Mike Rogers, at the back giving the band that solid groove foundation (Kid Sinister, Stick of Rock & Gee Baby).

From New Orleans, Louisiana, laying down those funky beats to set it all ablaze, introducing the essential: Chris Courville (of Grammy-nominated band Lost Bayou Ramblers).

Expanding our sound with sought after percussion skills, the amazingly versatile: Brendan Hockey adds further groove to the band sound with his arsenal of bongos, congas, güiro and a bag full of extras. Previously and currently gigging around the UK and beyond with Baila La Cumbia, Mo Funk & The Fantasy Orchestra.

From sunny Napoli and raised on espresso, pizza and funky vibes, we introduce the newest member of the band: Antonio Moraca. Fast fingered, a master of the wah-wah and an aficionado of jazz soul, Antonio has toured Italy with many bands including Antipodia, Radio Pulp & Radiokiller.

In between sets, Dj Tom Westwood (of Bar57 fame) will be spinning the vinyl to keep those feet on the dance floor (bring spare shoes!).  Bigger venue this year but book early to enjoy special ticket prices. Early Bird tickets on sale now! (if you’re quick enough).