The New Cut Collective + Special Guest DJ Tom Westwood
2026-03-22 19:30 - 22:30 UTC | Hen & Chicken Studio
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).

Music: Gabriel Moreno & El Hall
2026-03-25 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Masters of their crafts, Moreno (Spain) and Hall (UK) are songwriter-poets born two weeks apart, hermanos you might say. Gabriel Moreno (cultural ambassador for Gibraltar, Spain) and El Hall (founder of mental health and music organisation Mind Your Music, Bristol, UK) are both outstanding songwriters and entertainers, each with one foot in Spain and one here in the UK.
With countless published books of poetry under his belt along with multiple album releases, charismatic and larger-than-life Moreno – currently living in London – is selling out shows all over the country. Often accompanied by friends on violin or clarinet, he woos the audience with tales of ‘bohemia’, foot stomping and hip shaking, and it is impossible not to get swept up and sing along.

‘An offshoot of Leonard Cohen and Neil Dimaond. I love it!’ Cerys Matthews Radio 6
Famously making the leap ‘from psychiatric ward to the concert hall’ Hall spent many younger years battling significant demons. He now runs mental health and music organisation Mind Your Music, helping others to do the same. Although born and bred in the UK, Hall – often touted to be ‘UK’s answer to Bob Dylan’ – is a self-taught Spanish speaker interested in flamenco music and, like Moreno, the poetry of Lorca, and this shows in his music. Powerful, romantic, beautiful and shocking, his words and melodies will stay with you long after the show.
‘Congratulations, this is the best set of songs I’ve ever been asked to review.’ Alex Lee Thompson, NME journalist

Jazz: Dave Jones Quintet - 2 Down and 1 Across
2026-03-26 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Following the quintet’s previous projects ‘A Hole in One’ and ‘A Hole in Two’, they now have a new project for 2026 – ‘2 Down and 1 Across’ featuring new interpretations of tunes from Songbook, arguably the finest album by Kenny Garrett, alongside new and not so new tunes by pianist/composer Dave Jones.
The opening tune of Garrett’s Songbook album, ‘2 Down and 1 Across’, gives a dramatic start to arguably his finest album, bringing together a particularly strong set of compositions and one of his finest line-ups featuring the late great pianist Kenny Kirkland and Jeff ‘Tain’ Watts on the drums. The Dave Jones Quintet will be interpreting a handful of Garrett tunes from Songbook (plus an additional one by Kirkland), alongside compositions new and old from Jones.
Dave also composes music for TV, and has had numerous placements of tracks in productions in the US (‘The Big Bang Theory’, ‘The Today Show’, The US Open Golf Tournament), in Japan (NHK news and current affairs), and the UK (‘University Challenge’, ‘Location, Location, Location’, ‘Alan Carr’s Adventures with Agatha Christie’, and many others).
“Scintillating horn interplay that mixed fire with subtlety, qualities that Jones also brought to a sparkling piano solo” (JazzMann, live review 2023). “Solid and deep-delving swing, especially when the band switched straight into fifth gear, as on ‘Chief Blackwater’ “ (Jazz Journal, live review 2023).
Saxophonist Ben Waghorn is one of Bristol’s finest players with a national reputation – he has worked in London’s West End and on many pop, TV and film recordings. He has been involved in a range of projects with Keith Tippett, including ‘Tapestry’, a piece written by Keith for two saxophone quartets and the BBC singers, the quartet ‘Work in Progress’ and The Keith Tippett Octet. He can also be heard on recordings with Geoff Eales and Dave Stapleton [Slowly Rolling Camera]. Ben has also recently performed with the BBC Big Band and played in Singapore with the London Concert Orchestra.
Trumpeter Andy Hague is well known as leader of his own quintet, Double Standards quartet and Horace Silver tribute Silverado. He also frequently appears at the club on drums.
Bassist Ashley John Long is revered for his astonishing technique, and alongside his jazz career has a growing reputation as a contemporary classical composer.
Drummer Ryan Thrupp graduated with a First from the Royal Welsh College jazz degree course a few years back, and besides his jazz activities plays with funky festival favourites Cut Capers and appeared on live BBC TV from Glastonbury 2023 with afro-beat balafon player N’famady Kouyaté.

Music: Digsby
2026-03-27 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Bristol’s Digsby bring their Americana tinged ‘sophisticated retro-pop’ to the Chicken Shed to mark the release of their debut album, ‘Death of the Party’. Digsby combine big guitars and killer choruses with Laurel Canyon-esque harmonies.
Since the release of their debut EP in 2019, Digsby have earned international airplay and growing acclaim, becoming finalists for EP of the Year at the Unsigned Music Awards 2025. Their singles have been championed by BBC Introducing, featured on BBC 6 Music’s Tom Robinson’s Fresh on the Net, and named the ‘Big New Sound’ on BBC Bristol.
Support from Tom Corneill (Young Martyrs): A special acoustic set from Tom Corneill, the front man from one of Bristol’s biggest bands, Young Martyrs. Tom’s classic songwriting blends rock and Americana to create anthemic songs with big hooks. Not to be missed.
Tickets: £8 (incl 65p booking fee)
Entry requirements: 18+

Jazz: Nye Banfield Quartet
2026-04-02 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Hailing from rural Leicestershire with Welsh roots, Nye Banfield is a distinctly creative saxophonist and composer. Now based in Birmingham after a 9 year stint in South London, Nye is embracing the challenge of forming the next part of his artistic career in a new scene.
A graduate of Trinity Laban, Nye combines influences from jazz icons Wayne Shorter, Ambrose Akinmusire, and mentor Mark Lockheart, as well as wider sources of inspiration from the pastoral works of Vaughan Williams to song writing of the likes of Thom Yorke, Damon Albarn and Paul McCartney.
Nye’s tenor sound, a focus of his over the last 10 years, is earthy, broad and incredibly expressive, providing a focal point to his band’s combined timbre. Described by Jazzwise as ‘an important emerging voice’, with a ‘big sound’, Nye takes you on a vivid journey of richly textured composition and lyrical improvisation.
‘Trails and Traces’, the title of Nye’s debut album, released on vinyl in 2024 received critical acclaim from Jazzwise Magazine – “a long awaited and richly rewarding debut.” Featuring Banger Factory leader Mark Kavuma on trumpet, the performances from the sextet are richly diverse in influences. An infusion of flavours from 60s Blue Note records, 90s Radiohead, 20th century classical music and contemporary New York Jazz combine to create an intensely gripping sound.
This will be Nye’s first appearance at The Be-Bop Club. For this outing, the band features a young and incredibly exciting talent Nick Manz on piano – a recent graduate of Birmingham Conservatoire; Charlie Hutchinson on drums – an undeniably musical and organic drummer who came through the Trinity Laban course alongside Nye; and Shiv Singh on double bass – an ever-present on the Birmingham Jazz scene, and an other product of Birmingham Conservatoire. Together, this group creates a gripping and intense experience that rips up the rule books and speaks from a combined beating heart.
The set will feature a selection of Nye’s compositions from ‘Trails and Traces’, as well as brand new work in preparation for the recording of his second album, and some arrangements of classic standards, folk songs and pop songs.

Jazz: Nick Malcolm's Organ Quartet
2026-04-09 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Trumpeter Nick Malcolm should be well known to Bristol audiences and has a growing national reputation. A fearless and inventive soloist, he moves effortlessly between completely free improvisation and blistering hard-bop. He is known for his work with Out Front, Dee Byrne’s Outlines, Rebecca Nash and has recently ended a long tenure with the Jazz Defenders.
Nick Malcolm’s new quartet assembles three great musicians who he’s wanted to play with for ages, playing music they love! Digging into the treasures of Blue Note composers Joe Henderson, Wayne Shorter and Herbie Hancock, this is an unashamed celebration of the music’s golden era in the 1960s and 70s, where swing and funk began to blend. This will be an extremely fun and groovy gig featuring four fantastic players of sonic depth, personality and passion.

Jazz: Matt Stockham-Brown Quartet
2026-04-16 20:30 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Matt Stockham Brown is a drummer/composer born and living in Bristol, England. His approach is firmly rooted in groove whilst also being open to the exploration of texture, melody, freedom, energy and angles behind the kit. He is well known for his work with Run Logan Run, Dakhla Brass and most recent project 6161. Matt has put together this new line-up especially for tonight’s performance.
Saxophonist Jake McMurchie is one of Bristol’s best known musicians having played for many years with Get The Blessing, who have performed at festivals across Europe. Jake’s other projects have included the ambient electronica of Michelson Morley, and for the past few years he has held the saxophone chair with the Jazz Defenders, pianist George Cooper’s supergroup who again have played throughout the UK and have ventured across to European cities and festivals.
Dan Messore is a jazz guitarist, composer and co-founder of Unearthed Festival. Having spent years living between the UK and Costa Rica, Dan’s music is shaped by travel, surf culture and a deep connection to place, and he has previously performed at the club alongside Jake in Michelson Morley.
Riaan Vosloo is one of Bristol’s busiest bass players, who also composes and runs his own projects such as Uphill Game. Riaan has for many years been a member of London based saxophonist Ed Jones’ quartet, and lectures for the post-grad programme at BIMM music college.

Live Music: BEN DE LA COUR
2026-04-17 20:00 - 23:00 | Chicken Shed
A natural storyteller, Ben de la Cour’s visceral songwriting grabs you by the heart and doesn’t let go. Weaving evocative stories of desperate characters with his signature “Americanoir” sound, de la Cour shines a glaring light on the human condition.

His latest release, New Roses, received “★★★★” from MOJO and was named Album of the Month. While Ben’s previous album Sweet Anhedonia felt like ”the American heartland witnessed through the window of a car going 80mph” (American Songwriter), New Roses feels like being stuffed into the trunk and driven into an imploding star. The record is a singular and personal vision, with de la Cour playing nearly every instrument and delivering his strongest vocal performance yet. The result is a razor-sharp album full of what he calls “night songs”— haunting, impactful songs that feel like the witching hour. In a collection of songs filled with juxtaposition and duality, de la Cour balances doom and optimism, seeking out kernels of hope in the darkness.

While much has been written of the darkness that permeates de la Cour’s music, he finds this emphasis exaggerated: “It is an optimistic record,” he says of New Roses. “You can’t be hopeful if you’re not willing to acknowledge the spectrum of the human condition. You can be overwhelmed by beauty and you can be overwhelmed by the horrors and you can be overwhelmed by both.” De la Cour remains an optimist, hopeful that his tales can help the lost, the lonely, the doomed. New Roses finds this balance and acceptance in the dualities of life, ringing true for anyone who has ever felt the need for both light and darkness—for anyone who has learned the hard way that one cannot exist without the other.

Raised in Brooklyn, de la Cour lived in London, Cuba and across the United States before making his home in the American south over a decade and a half ago. Drawing on inspiration from writers and musicians alike—Townes Van Zandt, Jimi Hendrix, Nick Cave, Nina Simone, Leonard Cohen, James Baldwin and Carson McCullers among them—de la Cour’s gothic folk songs are as heartbreaking as they are beautiful.
De la Cour’s solo tour of Ireland and UK in 2024 was met with high praise, and included sold out performances in Kilkenny and London. He will be returning to Ireland and UK in January/February 2026 as direct support for Lucinda Williams, who personally invited Ben to join the tour. This will be followed in Spring by a headlining tour of the UK in April 2026, which is certain to be Ben de la Cour’s grandest UK headline tour yet.

“A friend took me to see Ben de la Cour at a little hole-in-the-wall in Nashville. It didn’t take long to realize I was in the presence of greatness. He has much to say, and knows how to say it as only a true poet can. You owe it to yourself to check him out. He is important. You need this bright young talent now more than ever. We all need Ben de la Cour.” – Lucinda Williams

New Roses by Ben de la Cour

Jazz: Jim Blomfield's Saoco Collective
2026-04-23 20:30 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Recognised as one of the UK’s ﬁnest latin jazz and salsa pianists, Jim Blomﬁeld has worked with such legends of the genre as Roberto Pla, Henry Fiol and Asere as well as a host of UK names from the world of jazz.
Alongside Jim in the rhythm section is the brilliantly dynamic percussion section of Lisa Cherian and Jon Clark, their rhythmic chemistry having evolved from their collective experiences as being much in demand players in ensembles such as Bristol Salsa Orchestra, Dockside Latin Orchestra, Baila La Cumbia and Buena Bristol Social Club.
The rhythm section is completed by the ever inventive bass playing of ‘Tosh’ Wijetunge who worked with Jim for several years in a piano trio that released two albums of original contemporary jazz compositions. Alongside Jonny Bruce’s ﬁery latin trumpet virtuosity is the brilliant and soulful Swiss born saxophonist Martin Kern who worked and recorded extensively in both Berlin and Vienna before moving to the UK in 2018.

Music: Arthur Coates & Kerran Cotterell.
2026-04-24 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Traditional Celtic / Americana acoustic folk duo.
Arthur Coates & Kerran Cotterell are a two-man trad tornado tearing through the folk world with fiddle, guitar, foot percussion, vocals, and groove to spare.
Mixing Scottish and English roots with modern flair, they deliver foot-stomping tunes, rich harmonies, and cheek and charm. Whether in a village hall or a festival field, their shows radiate connection and joy.
Winners of the Robinson Emerging Artist Showcase at Canada’s Goderich Celtic Roots Festival, they’re fast becoming one of the scene’s most talked-about acts. Their upcoming album turns tradition sideways – storytelling with soul, and grooves that smoulder, spark, and occasionally catch fire.

Music: MARGINAL GAINS - 90s and 00s band night
2026-04-25 20:00 - 23:30 | Chicken Shed
Hen & Chicken house band Marginal Gains are back for another night of pure nostalgia!
Playing a selection of 90s and early 00s rock and indie, including Ash, Arctic Monkeys, Blur, Green Day, Nirvana, Oasis, Pulp, Rage Against the Machine, Radiohead, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, The Killers, and many more.
Turbocharge your weekend with a night of 90s and 00s grunge and Britpop BANGERS.

Jazz: Nils Kavanagh Trio
2026-04-30 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Award-winning Irish/Danish pianist Nils Kavanagh launches his highly anticipated debut album, “No Expectations”. Winner of the Young Irish Jazz Musician of the Year Award 2022-2024 and finalist in the BBC Young Jazz Musician 2024, Nils is already making his mark on contemporary improvised music. Audiences will journey through Nils’ unique upbringing, rooted in the north-west of Ireland’s mystic landscapes and joyous fellowship, while also inviting listeners to explore the sense of unity and introspection present in Denmark and broader Scandinavia. Home, joy, family, mythology, folk music, loss and longing are all key to the music, with an overarching focus on warm melody and musical storytelling.
The trio has an energetic and explorative sound, with a taste for strong melodies, bright harmonies and explosive rhythms influenced by Kavanagh’s Irish and Danish roots. With Ursula Harrison (BBC Young Jazz Musician winner 2024) on bass and Sam Green on drums, the group brings a new flavour to the classic piano trio format, presenting a diverse mix of music ranging from compositions inspired by Celtic traditional music and contemporary jazz from Scandinavia and the UK, to modern interpretations of jazz repertoire and other popular music.
“There is beauty, there is communication, there is space, and there is energy” – Daniel Rorke, Jazz Ireland album review
“A strikingly mature debut. Kavanagh and his colleagues give the compositions room to breathe and grow and the interplay between the three instruments is highly developed and richly detailed” – The JazzMann

Live Music: Juliet Lloyd
2026-05-01 20:00 - 23:00 | Chicken Shed
We are thrilled to welcome back singer-songwriter Juliet Lloyd for an intimate performance in The Chicken Shed.

After a decade-long hiatus, Juliet Lloyd returned to music in 2020 and Carnival (2024) was her fouth album – it reflects her folk-rooted storytelling with pop sensibilities and melodies.
Juliet Lloyd is an acclaimed singer/songwriter who splits her time between the DC region and Nashville and has garnered comparisons to Brandi Carlile, Aimee Mann, and Tori Amos for her signature blend of soulful, roots-infused folk/pop. Across her 20-year career as a writer and artist, Juliet has released four studio albums, garnering placements on television shows on MTV and VH1 and airplay on more than 175 radio stations across the country. Her 2024 full-length album Carnival has been hailed by reviewers for its “evocative storytelling and raw honesty” and “powerfully emotive performance from start to finish.” It features nine songs that “movingly and poetically tell of broken hearts and loneliness yet finds brightness in its melodies and in the luster of Lloyd’s voice.” Juliet’s songwriting and performance chops have earned her top honors in the 2022 Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards and Mid-Atlantic Song Contest, four “Wammie” finalist nods, and multiple prestigious national songwriter awards across the past several years. Both solo and with her band, Juliet has performed 150+ shows a year since 2020, including festivals and listening rooms across the US and UK.
Her shows are described by audiences as being both intimate and electrifying.

Music: Never The Bride
2026-05-02 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
At the heart of Never The Bride are two trailblazing women: powerhouse vocalist Nikki Lamborn — hailed by Roger Daltrey as “the best female rock voice since Janis Joplin” — and Catherine “Been” Feeney, the band’s primary composer, keyboardist, and occasional guitarist. Together, they craft music with grit, grace, and passion, supported by a world-class lineup of musicians.
Their career reads like a rock and roll hall of fame — sharing stages with legends such as The Who, Robert Plant, Elton John, Paul Rodgers, Eric Clapton, and Beth Hart. Their unforgettable rendition of Going to California on Encomium: A Tribute to Led Zeppelin earned them a gold disc, further cementing their place in music history.
BBC’s Bob Harris, a long-time supporter, introduced their live album Long Live Live with these words: “I was absolutely struck by their brilliant musicianship, their passion, their commitment — they really, mean it. They are one of the best live bands in Britain today.

Music: Open Mic Night
2026-05-06 20:00 - 23:30 | Chicken Shed
Our monthly open mic night is hosted by Larkham & Hall in our friendly, welcoming, intimate music space, The Chicken Shed.
If you wish to play, please get in touch via our dedicated Facebook page The Hen & Chicken Open Mic. (linked in the ‘Book Now’ button)
Come and join the fun, soak up the vibes, and enjoy the music. Free entry.

Jazz: Walrws - 60s Pop Classics with a Jazz Twist
2026-05-07 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
The band consists of 4 musicians with many accolades and performances throughout Britain and abroad.
With a recording soon to be released the band are performing with their new Welsh spelling name, and will play a selection of their pad which will take you through tunes by artists ranging from The Beach Boys, The Monkees, Bob Dylan, Simon and Garfunkel and of course The Beatles. The essence of the originals is maintained but the quartet have added in the spontaneous and care free approach which is also attached to this great era.
Pembrokeshire Online live review by Nigel Summerley from Aber Jazz Festival:
Guitarist James Chadwick led the band through a series of inspired improvisations on tunes familiar to those of a certain age, but taking them into unfamiliar territory. Bob Dylan’s Mr Tambourine Man, Paul Simon’s Sound Of Silence, the Beatles’ Blackbird and the Brian Wilson’s God Only Knows were revealed as fertile ground for jazz – perhaps not surprising, given the genius of their composers. But even the Monkees’ Daydream Believer became a fascinating musical exploration.
Mark Sambell on piano and Aidan Thorne on bass proved to be masters of invention, but it was the fierce and focused drumming of Liz Exell that kept the musical fire burning throughout and made this a very special gig.
[Nigel Summerley retired from The Oldie magazine to return to freelance journalism. He previously held executive staff jobs at the London Evening Standard amongst others.]

Jazz: Ray D'Inverno's Quintessential Groove
2026-05-14 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
We’re pleased to welcome back veteran pianist Ray D’Inverno who last visited in Oct 2024. The previous year 2023 was a milestone for Ray as he reached 80 years of age, and celebrated his birthday with a sell-out gala concert at Southampton’s Turner Sims concert hall featuring Quintessential Groove with special guests including his son Mark D’Inverno [also a pianist] and tenor sax star Ed Jones.
Quintessential Groove has been booked for Swanage Jazz Festival in July 26, so this is something of a warm-up gig for that prestigious event.
Ray is based near Dorchester, but for many years ran Southampton Jazz Club alongside his career as a Professor of Mathematics and General Relativity at Southampton University. Ray has performed alongside many of the UK’s greatest players, and has released recordings featuring Jim Mullen, Stan Sulzmann, Tony Roberts and many more. He has been leading his current band Quintessential Groove for the past decade. Tonight they will be playing music from their recent CD release All In The Same Boat, which features eleven of Ray’s melodic but rhythmically varied compositions.
The band consists of highly rated Canadian saxophonist Terry Quinney [Sound of BlueNote], Andy Hague – trumpet, Ray D’Inverno – piano, with Bristol’s Will Harris stepping in on bass. We’re also very pleased to have local legend Tony Orrell guesting on drums, who whilst a regular fixture up at Bristol Music Club in Clifton has not played at the Be-Bop for many years.
You can listen to Ray’s extensive back catalogue on Bandcamp.

Live Music: Robert Vincent.
2026-05-14 20:00 - 23:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
We are excited to welcome Robert Vincent to the Hen & Chicken for an intimate performance, as a trio.
Announced as winner of the 2025 UK Song Of The Year – UK Americana Association Awards for his song, Follow What You Love & Love Will Follow. There is considerable excitement surrounding Robert Vincent – his captivating live performances and his recent album, Barriers.
Music critics have declared that this album removes the constraints of category.
It is Vincent’s powerful and soulful voice that has continually attracted acolytes such as Bob Harris, Paul Carrack, Robert Plant and Mary Chapin Carpenter.
Announced as winner of UK Song of The Year at the UK Americana Music Association Awards 2025 for his track ‘Follow What You Love & Love Will Follow’ alongside a highly coveted nomination for UK Artist of The Year, Robert Vincent continues to enthral audiences and critics alike, showing his versatility as both a solo performer and with a full band.
Most recently receiving the invitation to support Robert Plant & band Saving Grace across their UK and European Tour dates, there is an ever-growing excitement surrounding Robert Vincent, his captivating live performances and his new album.
The Liverpool singer/songwriter released his fourth studio album ‘Barriers’ in June 2024 to critical acclaim spending multiple weeks in the Country Music Charts nestled between Beyonce and Taylor Swift – but it was reaching the top 10 of both the Independent Album Chart and Record Store Chart that really gave Vincent reason to celebrate, with critics removing the constraints of category, declaring:
“Barriers’ is a masterful album that blends introspection with musical sophistication, cementing Robert Vincent’s place as one of the UK’s finest songwriters. His music, deeply rooted in personal and social narratives, continues to resonate widely, securing his place in the pantheon of great Liverpudlian artists” Entertainment Focus

Music: Xpress Fest Grand Finale
2026-05-17 14:00 - 23:00 | Chicken Shed
Seven days… Seven events giving back… It was all building up to this. Come join Xpress Fest for our grand finale of exceptional local music talent, all to raise funds for vital mental health charities, one of which is Mind Your Music whose founders you may also know as Sarah and Elliott, hosts of our open mic night.
Express Fest is Bristol’s newest grassroots music and comedy festival running from 11 May to 17 May. The line-up at the Hen is:
Paul Antony Brookshaw AKA Tall Paul
The man who puts himself into self-expression.
Watch Paul on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWzGYqMDN6p/
Feud
This funky, fun 5-piece is part of the Bristol Youth Studios project created by Bristol Beacon for 13 – 18-year-old singers and musicians.Watch Feud on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWtGNYniCbt/
Band of Buggers
A chaotic affair of silliness, slapstick and singing accompanied by a uniquely bluesy whisky sound.
Watch Band of Buggers on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DEHp5NquZzU/
Pilot Scheme
Earworms and mind treats from the Bristol story-song guy and a nice line in audience participation.
Listen on Bandcamp: https://thebighowever.bandcamp.com/track/static-caravan-single
Odessa Steps
The West Country’s observant tunesmiths that blend catchy folk with other flavours.
Watch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reel/4362095210672714
Bethany Jane
Bethany is Bethany: a singer-songwriter of immense emotional power with a gorgeous voice.
Watch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reel/3989176168037509
The Open Mic Surgeons
Pilot Scheme and buddies become The Open Mic Surgeons in a brassy voiced romp from New Orleans of the 30s to the Talking Heads era of New York.
Sam Elliott
We’re privileged to host the debut performance by very talented Bristol songwriter Sam Elliott. Expect beautifully melodic, poetic song in the mould of Waterboys, Doves and Prefab Sprouts.

Jazz: Emile Hinton Trio
2026-05-21 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Emile Hinton is an award-winning jazz pianist and composer emerging from the heart of the London jazz scene. A mentee of renowned UK pianist Julian Joseph, he graduated with first-class honours from Trinity Laban Conservatoire and recently spent three months at the Tribeca Jazz Institute in NYC, studying with some of New York’s top musicians. In 2023, Emile was honoured with the Tina May Musician’s Company Young Jazz Musician of the Year.
As the pianist for jazz legends Ricky Ford (Charles Mingus, Ellington Orchestra) and Jazz Messenger Jean Toussaint (Art Blakey, McCoy Tyner), Emile has performed at top venues across the UK and Europe, including Ronnie Scott’s, The Jazz Café, The Barbican and Pizza Express, working with their ensembles and leading his own diverse projects across multiple genres. He has just released his debut album which features contemporary and swinging original compositions.
Bassist Toby Yapp was a student at Bristol Cathedral School and attended Bristol Pre-Conservatoire before gaining a place on the Royal Academy jazz course. Having graduated a few years back he is now a regular fixture on the London scene, so lovely to welcome him back to Bristol as an established professional.
Kai MacRae is one of London’s leading young drummers who has performed with Joe Webb, Rachel Cohen, Sultan Stevenson and many more.

Music: Dirk Powell, Amelia Powell and Cedric Watson.
2026-05-26 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Infectious mountain music and Zydeco rhythms where Appalachia meets the Louisiana bayou …
Dirk Powell, renowned fiddle, banjo and cajun accordion player, with his daughter, Amelia Powell – guitar and vocals, have teamed up with Cedric Watson – creole fiddle, accordion and francophone vocals.
This promises to be an evening when the mountains of Kentucky meet the Louisiana bayous.

Theatre: MIDNIGHT JOANNA – THE ‘PIANO BAR MUSICAL’
2026-05-27 20:30 - 22:30, 2026-05-28 20:30 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
The original, immersive, ‘piano bar musical’ making its UK DEBUT at Hen & Chicken, Bristol, over two special nights!
Hot on the heels of a sold-out opening run, Jerseyman songwriter & piano-vocalist, Ant Noel, brings his swingin’ new production Midnight Joanna to the mainland.
Featuring a 14-strong company of professional musicians & actors, Midnight Joanna is a thrilling night of rollicking rock ‘n’ roll, jivin’ jazz, blistering blues & colourful cabaret.
Come & soak up the atmosphere as we bring to life the neon characters of our late-night piano bar!
It’s open mic at The Dive, a bustling piano bar.
The Host sits at a tune-worn Joanna, ready to play into the night.
Starry-eyed singers and weary waitresses,
Best-friend bartenders and lairy locals,
Troubled troubadours and a life-of-the-party landlord.
Reputations are made… or ruined
Dreams are realised… or forgotten
By midnight, they will all be in for the ride!
Dates: 27th & 28th May 2026
Time: Doors open 7:30pm, show starts at 8:30pm
Tickets £20 in adv / £24 otd (cash only)
(Under 18s permitted with a responsible adult. Some mild pub-related adult humour)
A professional songwriter & performer of over 20 years, Jerseyman Ant Noel forged his career in the creative heartlands of Bristol & Somerset, before returning to his home island in 2019.
Between 2010 – 2018, Ant released four solo albums – with backing band The Peabody Drakes – performing perform at festivals & venues across the South West, including several appearances for the BBC. In 2014, Musician Magazine picked Ant’s third album The Water’s Line as one of their “stand out” releases.
In 2019, Ant began writing Midnight Joanna, an immersive show inspired by experiences hosting open mics and playing in pubs & piano bars (including the fondly-remembered Illusions Magic Bar where Ant held residency for over 5 years). With a large ensemble of professional musicians & actors – supported by arts organisations ArtHouse Jersey & Creative Island Partnership – Midnight Joanna premiered to three sell-out audiences in October 2024. Ant is excited to bring his show to the UK for the first time, especially his beloved second home of Bristol, where it will be performed by Ant & fantastic Bristolian talent!

www.facebook.com/midnightjoannajersey

Jazz: John Donegan Quartet
2026-05-28 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Pianist John Donegan has visited annually to promote his series of sextet albums, but this year has returned to quartet format for his latest CD Interfuse, recorded in Dublin, May 2025. The recording features the cream of Ireland’s jazz scene including former Van Morrison saxophonist Richie Buckley, but as on previous occasions tonight we present John’s music with a specially formed Bristol version.
For the first time John will be joined by Dan Newberry on sax duties – Dan is a firebrand player whose musical maturity belies his relative youth and his playing never fails to impress. The rock solid rhythm team of Chris Jones and Ryan Thrupp have played for John’s previous sextet visits.
Originally from Cork in Ireland, John Donegan lived in Bristol during the 90s and was a mainstay of the jazz scene here before work took him to London. Now retired from his day job, over the past few years John has been able to dedicate his time exclusively to music and has released several recordings demonstrating his compositional skills including his three sextet albums Shadows Linger [2022], Light Streams [2023] and We Will Meet Again, Sometime [2024].
Once again John has gained a hard to achieve four star review in Jazzwise Magazine “In short, superb music; and brilliant production” alongside other excellent reviews you will find in Jazz Journal, UK Jazz News and All About Jazz.

Music: Joe H. Henry - Cancelled
2026-06-04 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
CRH Music regrets to announce Joe H. Henry’s performance, due for Thursday 4th June, 2026 has been cancelled for reasons beyond our control. Ticket purchasers will be contacted.

Jazz: Steve Banks Quintet
2026-06-04 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Guitarist Steve Banks released his critically acclaimed debut album Emboldened in May 2023 on Stoney Lane Records followed by a UK tour. Emboldened presents a compelling, distinctive, and personal sound, immediately recognisable as the guitarist and composer’s own work. Powerful modern jazz, deep contemporary grooves, lush harmonies, and memorable melodies amongst expressive, rich, and dynamic improvisation from a quintet comprising celebrated UK musicians and bandleaders.
“All the compositions are heartfelt and honest, as are the performances. A chronicle of hard-won optimism and hope. An elegant response to troubled times” ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Jazz album of the month, BBC Music Magazine
Rebecca Nash – piano. Highly respected and in-demand UK pianist and composer Rebecca’s recent album ‘Peaceful King’ on Whirlwind records was received with enthusiastic acclaim in both UK and US. “One of the freshest most creative talents in the UK at this present time” UK Vibe

Sam Crockatt – saxophone. Royal Academy graduate, Whirlwind recording artist including three critically acclaimed albums as leader and Parliamentary Jazz Award winner. “’Mells Bells’ further burnishes Crockatt’s substantial reputation” John Fordham, The Guardian
Henrik Jensen – bass. Royal Academy graduate, Babel recording artist including three critically acclaimed albums as leader. “Jensen is thoughtful, richly chordal and attractively Charlie Haden-like on the bass” John Fordham, The Guardian
Jonathan Silk – drums. Originally from Scotland, Jonathan is a drummer, composer and bandleader based in Birmingham. He has released two albums with his own big band and string orchestra to critical acclaim and worked with world-renowned composers Vince Mendoza and Maria Schneider as well as a host of other nationally and internationally renowned musicians. Awards include BBC Young Scottish Jazz Musician of the Year in 2014 and the Yamaha Jazz Scholar Award 2011. Jonathan has been collaborating with Steve to arrange the music from Emboldened for full jazz orchestra.

Music: Marginal Gains
2026-06-05 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen and Chicken, 210 North Street, Southville,, Bristol, BS3 1JF, United Kingdom
Kicking off a weekend of live music along North Street with a FREE 90’s & 00’s Band Night in the main bar.
Marginal Gains are back for another night of pure nostalgia!
Playing a selection of 90s and early 00s rock and indie, including Ash, Arctic Monkeys, Blur, Green Day, Nirvana, Oasis, Pulp, Rage Against the Machine, Radiohead, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, The Killers, and many more.
Turbocharge your weekend with a night of 90s and 00s grunge and Britpop BANGERS.

Music: North Street Sounds
2026-06-06 15:00 - 21:00 | Hen and Chicken, 210 North Street, Southville,, Bristol, BS3 1JF, United Kingdom
A brand new music event for North Street this Summer.
North Street venues have joined together to organise a one-of-a-kind walking music festival.
All day, live music, bands, DJs, and good vibes!

The Hen & Chicken Show Case
Saturday 6th June from 3 pm | Free Live Music
Join us as Bristol’s brilliant grassroots performers take to the stage, performing in the main bar.

Jazz: Liam Brennan's Abacus
2026-06-11 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Composer Liam Brennan last presented Abacus at the club in 2023, and returns as part of a short tour to promote their new album, which was recorded live in the same year. The band features some of the finest players from the Birmingham and London scenes, and on this occasion includes our own Nick Malcolm on trumpet, standing in for regular trumpeter James Borland.
Formed in 2022, the project concept was heavily influenced by Omer Avital’s Asking No Permission which featured a 4-horn frontline. The music aims to combine concepts from both the jazz small group tradition as well as the big band lineage
Liam draws influences from composers John Hollenbeck and John Taylor, as well as Charles Mingus and Oliver Nelson. He is currently studying a masters in composition and improvisation in Gothenburg, Sweden with an Erasmus project in Oslo, Norway.

Jazz: Andy Hague Quintet
2026-06-18 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Trumpeter Andy Hague returns with his quintet to close off the club’s 25/26 season. The music will be a mixture of tunes from quintet album Coming of Age [2018], Andy’s 2021 quartet album Release and a few tunes from other current jazz composers.
“So impressed with this record, wow, it’s current, it’s hip” – Linley Hamilton, BBC Radio Ulster’s Jazz World. “it’s the variety of the musical structures deployed, as well as the sheer spirit and fire in these performances that makes this a significant milestone for Hague and his chums” – Peter Vacher, four star review in Jazzwise March 2019.
Well known in Bristol’s jazz scene, in 2019 Andy Hague played for the first time with legendary UK jazz composer Mike Westbrook as part of his Uncommon Orchestra, and post-Covid the band has appeared at Cheltenham and Cambridge Jazz Festivals, the Rossini Festival in Lugo, Italy and Ronnie Scott’s 2022 and 2023.
Long term associate saxophonist Ben Waghorn is a versatile musician who has worked in London’s West End and on many pop, TV and film recordings. He has been involved in a range of projects with Keith Tippett, including ‘Tapestry’, a piece written by Keith for two saxophone quartets and the BBC singers, the quartet ‘Work in Progress’ and The Keith Tippett Octet. He can also be heard on recordings with Geoff Eales and Dave Stapleton [Slowly Rolling Camera]. Ben has also recently performed with the BBC Big Band and played in Singapore with the London Concert Orchestra. Pianist Jim Blomfield has been a vital part of Bristol’s jazz scene for many years and has accompanied many of the UK’s best known players. He has released two trio CDs of his own compositions. “Jim Blomfield is the best British pianist you’ve never heard of and is an absolute marvel” – Independent on Sunday. Bassist Riaan Vosloo works regularly with saxophonist Ed Jones and runs the post-grad programme at BIMM Bristol music college. Drummer Mark Whitlam is head of the drum department at BIMM college and has played with big names such as Andy Sheppard and Iain Ballamy besides composing for his own projects.
