Matt Carter is a good friend of the club, having played for us over many years when growing up in Devon. Last year his powerful, tight septet simply blew us away – a youtube video from another date on their tour can be seen by clicking here if you need convincing. This year they are back as an octet!

Matt’s unrivalled pianistic skills are matched by his arranging and composing which are on show in this all star band, formed during his first year at the Academy. He packed out the club in 2019, 2021 and 2022, and we fully expect the same this time as they pass us on their tour. They have previously performed at many of the country’s leading jazz venues, and will be premiering the album they recorded last year, Read between the Lines. The line-up features some of the country’s best young jazz musicians, playing a dynamic array of Matt’s original compositions and arrangements of Great American Songbook standards.

Matt’s writing has been compared to Marty Paich, and he is heavily influenced by West coast jazz from the 50’s and 60’s. Expect swinging soli sections, and dynamic solos from this extremely talented line-up.

“Exuberant, energetic playing from multi-talented musicians – the shape of British jazz to come!” – Jazz Jurasica

“Carter’s own piano is as Tasteful and neatly phrased as you could wish.. ultra-hip, finger clicking arrangments”  ★★★★ – Jazzwise

More about Mr Carter:

Matt himself has performed at Teignmouth Jazz club on numerous occasions, both with his own band and as a sideman. One of his first ever gigs was a solo performance as part of Teignmouth Jazz Festival. He cut his teeth as a player in and around his home in Devon before leaving for the Royal Academy of Music in London. There, he met many of his current band members.
He’s spent his time working as a pianist, but also as a composer and writer, with many arrangements and compositions to his credit.

He studied jazz piano at The Royal Academy of Music with Nikki Iles. He also was fortunate to perform with Hamish Stuart (Average White Band) and Mike Lovett. He also played alongside Dave Holland and Chris Potter.
But many know Matt for some of his more soulful collaborations with artists such as Joss Stone, Mica Paris, Beverley Knight, Ashton Jones and Leigh Coleman.

Line-up:
Piano – Matt Carter
Bass – Joe Lee
Drums – Luke Tomlinson
Trumpet – George Jefford
Alto sax – Tom Smith
Tenor sax – Jonny Ford
Baritone sax – Harry Greene
Trombone – Harry Maund