Sunny day for jazz at Clearwell Castle

After several weeks of cold weather the sunshine came out in force - just at the right time for a beautiful day (26th May) in the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire on the terrace at Clearwell Castle.  The Hipcats (www.TheHipcats.co.uk) had been chosen by the bride and groom to provide a suitably summery set with a mix of latin and swing instrumentals on piano, double bass and guitar - just right for drinks in the sunshine after a service at the nearby church.

The band very much appreciated all the kind comments they had from the guests (who, it has to be said, were displaying an excellent selection of smart suits and pretty dresses and so clearly had very good taste!) and the music provided a nice sonic backdrop for the bride and groom as they had photographs taken in the grounds.

A perfect summer's day.

Stunning views for jazz in Newquay

The Cool Nachos were invited down from Bristol to the Glendorgal Hotel in Newquay on 29th April 2012 for the wedding of Natalie and Chris.  With stunning views the hotel was a brilliant choice and even the driving rain didn't dampen down the celebrations as the views were so dramatic.

The band played a laid-back set after the ceremony as people settled down to some drinks and nibbles.  In the evening the volume was turned up so that the guests could enjoy a mix of jazz, latin, swing and funk from the top band (www.TheCoolNachos.co.uk).  The happy couple had chosen the classic 'I've got you under my skin' for their first dance and had choreographed some smooth moves to accompany it.  A great choice of location and a brilliant day. 

Wedmore Wedding Jazz and Swing

The George Inn at Wedmore (Somerset) hosted a lovely wedding on 28th April and the bride and groom booked The Nick Langston Trio (www.NLA.me.uk) to entertain them in the evening.  The band consisted of vocals, keyboards and double bass which made for an interesting descent into the cellar bar through the throngs of celebrating guests!

However, once the band were set up they went into a collection of jazz standards and upbeat swing which got everyone tapping their feet and singing along.  As the band went into 'It had to be you' the bride and groom decided to pick this as their first dance - a brilliant choice.
A great venue and a great evening.

More bands available at www.hotandcoolmusic.co.uk

Valentine's Evening Jazz at Harvey Nichols

The fabulous restaurant on the second floor at Harvey Nichols in Bristol celebrated Valentine's Evening with wonderful food and flowers on every table. 

Singer, Nick Langston, provided laid-back vocals on a collection of classic jazz tunes accompanied on piano by classically-trained jazz wizard John Lambert.  Neither of them could resist a request for 'My Funny Valentine'  though were not sure how many of the men in the room could get away with saying the lines:  "is your figure less than Greek, is your mouth a little weak, when you open it to speak are you smart?".  However, the sentiment of the final lines would probably do the trick.  "Don't change a hair for me, not if you care for me, stay little Valentine, stay." 

A lovely evening enjoyed by all.  Information on Nick Langston at www.NickLangston.com

Welcome to a jazzy and swinging blog!

There's nothing like a bit of jazz, swing, latin or funk to jazz up your event or have your wedding go with a swing.  Whether its some classy and sophisticated sounds of a jazz duo or trio at a reception or a bit of slinky latin, upbeat swing or cool funk for a great party in the evening.  There's nothing better than some top live music.

There are some fabulous bands around who have played at some brilliant events and this blog picks out some of the highlights.  For those that were there it should bring back fantastic memories and for those of you who are thinking about your own event it might give you a few ideas.

All the bands mentioned are based in and around Bristol, Bath, Wiltshire, Somerset, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire.  The events and weddings are both small and large but all of them feature a great atmosphere and great music.

If you'd like your wedding or event to be jazzy or swinging then get in touch with one of the great bands mentioned in the blog.