My old friend Chris Marshall [not as old as me] has written his first novel – a pirate adventure aimed at young adults. Shadow of a Pirate, written under his pen name Kit Swift, has received great reviews and was even shortlisted for the Firefly Fiction Competition Wales 2022. Not bad for a first attempt! … Continue reading
The much-missed Swansea International Jazz Festival is back this summer. The city’s celebration of jazz has had two years off because of the pandemic, and had already switched to a more low-key autumn event because of budget uncertainties in 2019. But now, thanks to a partnership between the city council and Swansea Jazz Club, it’s … Continue reading
I was delighted to learn that Swansea Jazz Club is back in action! Artistic director Dave Cottle has revived the club after the COVID-19 hiatus, with a busy autumn (2021) programme, featuring many top UK jazz artists. Dave has been presenting live jazz in the city for 25 years, including the Swansea International Jazz Festival … Continue reading
Swansea International Jazz Festival is back! It returns for the sixth consecutive year (October 2 – 6), but with a slightly different look. The event has grown to replace Brecon as Wales’s premier jazz festival, thanks in part to support from the Arts Council of Wales and Swansea City Council. But due to budget uncertainties … Continue reading
Around this time of year, I’m usually looking forward to the announcement of the line-up for the Swansea International Jazz Festival, but not this year. Sadly, the festival isn’t going ahead in 2019. Continue reading
When James Taylor introduced his Quartet’s version of the theme from Blow-Up at Swansea International Jazz Festival last night [Sunday June 17, 2018], he told the audience it was written by Herbie Hancock. “And,” he announced, gesturing to the wings, “he’s here tonight!” For a split second, you sensed some people believed it – because … Continue reading
Whether you’re a fan of the big band sound, acid jazz, funk or soul, you’re in for a treat at the fifth annual Swansea international Jazz Festival, which takes place in the city’s maritime quarter, 14 – 17 June. With ticketed shows, free events and workshops, the festival takes place at 15 venues. Festival organiser, … Continue reading
Friday night performances from Shakatak and the Hamish Stuart Band are among the highlights of the new year [2018] calendar announced by Swansea Jazzland. Continue reading
Hot weather and cool sounds combined to make the 2017 Swansea International Jazz Festival the biggest and best yet. The temperature soared in South Wales for the fourth annual festival, again based in the city’s maritime quarter. Continue reading
Swansea International Jazz Festival gets all fired up this summer with the music of Earth Wind and Fire, soul star Ruby Turner, and the jazz of Dudley Moore among the highlights. Continue reading
PieceOf Pink Pie 