Shireen Francis & The Small Island Project's Caribbean Xmas Party
Entry Requirements: Under 18s to be accompanied by an appropriate adult
This exciting new group was put together and fronted by the multi-talented singer Shireen Francis. The band is unique in combining jazz harmonies with world influences including the Afro-Caribbean & Brazilian rhythms of Reggae, Calypso & Samba, creating an unusual but highly accessible hybrid. Shireen Francis’ Jamaican and Goan heritage and distinctive vocals have led her to perform with top artists such as Billy Ocean, Roberto Pla, Cy Grant, Jim Mullen and the late Mark Murphy. Guitarist Dominic Grant’s singular style of playing has seen him work alongside Harry Belafonte, Courtney Pine and Ronnie Laws among many others. Mark Cherrie is unique in that he fronts the UK’s only steel pan jazz quartet, whilst bassist Neville Malcolm has performed and recorded with just about everyone including Gregory Porter and China Moses. The line-up is completed by percussionist Sam Alexander, band leader of Baque de Axe, an important name in both the UK and Brazil.