Jazz nights, blues nights, and everything in between nights…
If you love listening to live music in a world-class jazz and blues bar, you're in the right place. Our eclectic programme covers everything from intimate jazz nights to blues, roots, and alternative music, with plenty in between.
Alongside our live music gigs, enjoy regular comedy nights, dance classes, and drawing sessions in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
FRASER SMITH QUARTET
After a well-earned break, we’re kicking off the new year at The Bear Club with tenor sax maestro Fraser Smith, who joins us with his crack quartet.
With a focus on swing and the straight-ahead, he channels the sound and language of the big tenor men like Dexter Gordon, Wardell Gray, and Illinois Jacquet. His music harks back to the golden ages of jazz, from 1940s Kansas City to 1960s New York, while still feeling bang up to date.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
ERROL LINTON BAND [SOLD OUT]
Ever since John Peel’s legendary producer John Walters declared Errol Linton the "future of British blues" back in 1993, this Brixton-born bluesman has been plying his trade and perfecting his art both at home and across the world.
After thirty years as a singer, songwriter, and one of the world's best harmonica players, Errol and his exceptional band are still amongst the hardest working groups in Britain, performing shows around the capital at least four times a week.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
JAZZ JAM
Led by saxophonist Rob Mach, Jazz Jam welcomes musicians, vocalists, dancers, and music lovers who enjoy spending an afternoon listening to or creating great music, supported by DJ Mr Jazzy Vibes.
Doors 1pm / Music 2pm
SCOTT LAVENE
We loved Scott Lavene’s debut performance here last February and couldn’t wait to have him back. Scott is as English as pork pies and pasties, dunked biscuits in Yorkshire tea. Last year’s album Disneyland in Dagenham was full of Essex, East End poetry, and classic English post-punk.
Following extensive touring, including many sold-out shows, he returns with Cars, Buses, Bedsits and Shops, an album bursting with dark humour, snapshots of squalor and cheek, and more of his unique love songs.
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
DYLAN LEBLANC + SUPPORT (HENRY GRACE)
Dylan LeBlanc is a renowned storyteller, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who plays hauntingly atmospheric Americana.
His nomadic spirit drew him not only to life as a touring musician but also to the subject of his latest record, Coyote, which was released to rave reviews a couple of years ago.
Support is from Henry Grace, who sings finely crafted songs evoking the American landscape in the style of Bon Iver and Ray LaMontagne.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.15pm
THEO TRAVIS’ DOUBLE TALK
Theo Travis has been a member of the classic band Soft Machine for 20 years and has also worked with Robert Fripp, David Gilmour, David Sylvian, Steven Wilson, and John Etheridge. He’s played at Ronnie Scott’s more than 75 times and has released two critically acclaimed albums with Double Talk.
The band is touring in 2026 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Theo’s classic album, Secret Island. Expect an evening of passionate music and haunting instrumental songs from one of Britain’s top saxophonists and flautists.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
DRINK & DRAW
Drink & Draw is a space to share ideas, create art, and enjoy a drink or two! There are no rules, no boundaries—just a full-blown explosion of creative energy.
Hosted by local illustrator, comic book artist, and Bear manager, Karl Brown, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere guaranteed.
Doors 7.30pm
BRIGID MAE POWER + SUPPORT (ELIZABETH & JAMESON)
We are delighted to welcome Brigid Mae Power to The Bear Club. London-born but raised in Galway, she sings dreamy pop with a hauntingly beautiful voice, and her music is a unique marriage of the traditional and the very modern.
Brigid’s gorgeous vocals carry the dream-like quality of Hope Sandoval, Elizabeth Fraser, or even Tracey Thorn, while her influences span traditional Irish music, American country and western, bluegrass, jazz, and vintage pop. Her breathtaking songs are filled with personal tales of the lovelorn and the lost.
Support is from Elizabeth & Jameson, who have become mainstays of the UK acoustic folk-roots scene.
Doors 7pm / Music 7.45pm
MY DARLING CLEMENTINE
My Darling Clementine is one of the leading lights of the UK Americana and alt-country scene. Their timeless country stylings are influenced by the classic duos of the 60s and 70s, like Tammy Wynette and George Jones, or Johnny Cash and June Carter.
What began as a bit of a side project and labour of love for Michael Weston King and Lou Dalgleish has grown and grown, and to some degree, even overtaken the solo careers of its two main protagonists.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
TONY KOFI’S 52ND STREET
Sax master Tony Kofi’s new project explores the beginnings of bebop, when New York’s 52nd Street was buzzing with new music and the first generation of modern jazz musicians turned the music world on its head.
Featuring Andy Davies (trumpet), Alex Webb (piano), and a superb rhythm section, the band resurrects neglected gems by composers like Tadd Dameron, Fats Navarro, and Bud Powell, alongside classic tunes by the movement’s leaders, Charlie Parker, Thelonious Monk, and Dizzy Gillespie.
This will be one hell of a Valentine’s night…
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
IZZIE YARDLEY
We welcome Izzie Yardley back to The Bear Club, almost two years to the day since her stunning debut.
Raised on a musical diet of Miles Davis, Carole King, Van Morrison, Nick Drake, and John Martyn, Izzie’s music is a free-flowing, braided river of classical, folk, and jazz. With vivid guitar figures, rolling drums, and warm basslines forming the landscape beneath her, she sings with studied introspection and melodies that linger into the late-night hours.
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
STEVIE WATTS & THE WHIRLYBIRDS
We’re delighted to welcome Stevie Watts back to The Bear Club with his own band, The Whirlybirds, after previously performing here as part of Connor Selby’s band and with Alice Armstrong.
Stevie was named Instrumentalist of the Year at the UK Blues Awards 2024 and is widely regarded as one of the UK’s finest Hammond organ players. His UK-based trio delivers a powerful blend of vintage funk and deep soul-drenched grooves, driven by the unmistakable sound of the Hammond organ.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
EMMA SMITH
We’re thrilled to welcome Parliamentary Jazz Vocalist of the Year winner Emma Smith to The Bear Club for the first time. With her star very much on the rise and extensive experience performing everywhere from the Royal Albert Hall to the world’s leading jazz clubs, it’s no wonder her shows are fast becoming the hottest ticket in town.
She’s collaborated with the likes of Michael Bublé, The Quincy Jones Orchestra, and Jeff Goldblum, building a formidable reputation as a powerful and expressive artist on the global jazz scene and nurturing a loyal fanbase that returns show after show.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
HAPPY SHARK COMEDY CLUB
Iain Lee and Katherine Boyle are bringing their brand of organised chaos back to The Bear Club for the first time in... oh... ages.
Brace yourself for their brand new Compendium of Games; a night of pure fun, frolics, and purile tomdickery.
Doors 7pm / Start time 8pm
DRINK & DRAW
Drink & Draw is a space to share ideas, create art, and enjoy a drink or two! There are no rules, no boundaries—just a full-blown explosion of creative energy.
Hosted by local illustrator, comic book artist, and Bear manager, Karl Brown, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere guaranteed.
Doors 7.30pm
OWEN SNIDER QUARTET
Owen Snider’s music is a contemporary vision of jazz guitar, lyrical and exploratory, grounded in groove and harmonic colour.
With influences ranging from Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter to Mark Turner and Joe Henderson, his compositions reflect a love of both harmony and storytelling. On stage, his playing balances detail and spontaneity, shaped as much by the moment and his bandmates as by the written material.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
THE GREG COULSON BAND
Greg Coulson is a multi-talented British musician and engaging singer-songwriter whose music spans classic rock, pop, blues, funk, and jazz.
A noted talent on both keyboards and guitar, Greg’s heart lies firmly in songwriting, drawing inspiration from his heroes: Steely Dan, Randy Newman, Little Feat, Ray Charles, Booker T, and Dr. John. He and his band are firm favourites at The Bear, known for unforgettable performances that tug at the heartstrings.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
JAZZ JAM
Led by saxophonist Rob Mach, Jazz Jam welcomes musicians, vocalists, dancers, and music lovers who enjoy spending an afternoon listening to or creating great music, supported by DJ Mr Jazzy Vibes.
Doors 1pm / Music 2pm
KING HAMMOND IS….NICK WELSH
Nick Welsh played his first professional gig in July 1977 at The Roxy club in London the same week he was pictured on the front cover of the Melody Maker !
Nick began writing & recording as King Hammond in 1986 at the same time he was the bassist in Bad Manners and has worked with & produced music for some of the legends of Ska & Reggae music ; Prince Buster, Laurel Aitken, Dave Barker, Rico Rodriguez, Susan Cadogan, Judge Dread & Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry.
Tonight Nick will be sharing some of his many stories from nearly 50 years in the business interspersed with some of his classic tracks. He will be joined by Richard Wayler on percussion and backing vocals.
Doors: 7pm/ Music: 8pm
CLARK TRACEY’S JAZZ CHAMPIONS
Clark Tracey returns to The Bear, having sold the place out on his last visit. Clark has been at the forefront of British jazz for over 40 years since joining his distinguished father Stan Tracey's bands in 1978.
His quintet features award-winning pianist Dave Newton and superb bassist Andrew Cleyndert. They will be joined on saxophone by not just one, but two renowned players—Art Themen and Simon Allen.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
THE HANGING STARS
The Hanging Stars are guitarist/vocalist Richard Olson, drummer Paulie Cobra, guitarist/keyboardist Patrick Ralla and bassist Paul Milne.
They have been making total waves in the cosmic country world ever since they burst on to the London scene with their unique blend of sun-dappled west coast Americana and distinctly British folksy psychedelia - all shimmering twelve string guitars, twangy telecasters and four part vocal harmonies.
They played an awesome set at The Bear Club in November 2023 and we’re thrilled to have them back.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
THE DEADLIANS
The Deadlians are an absolutely phenomenal Dublin-based band with a cult following who play a heady mix of folk and punk rock with a touch of psychedelia tying it all together.
With thumping drums, a humming synth, evocative guitars and bucket loads of inventive vocal ornamentation, The Deadlians started in 2019 as a four piece and are now a fully-fledged Irish trad-psych-punk-rock five-piece.
One of Ireland's best kept secrets and one not to be missed…
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
THE GRAND PARADE: THE SONGS AND STORIES OF MARK HARRISON
Mark Harrison is a multi-award-nominated singer-songwriter, storyteller and guitarist with a reputation for being unlike any other artist out there. He and his band perform all-original songs in his own very individual style, with elements of rock, folk, blues and Americana.
Mark is widely considered one of the UK’s top roots guitarists, with a very distinctive style on resonator, 12-string, slide and electric guitars. His band also comprises fantastic rhythm section Charles Benfield on double/electric bass and harmonies and Ben Welburn on drums and percussion.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
BEDE QUARTET
Led by Michael Bede Dunlop, Bede Quartet play jazz that takes influence from Northumbrian and Scandinavian folk music.
Initially formed as a drum-less trio in 2021, the group has developed a uniquely cohesive voice. These four musicians have grown together first as friends, incidentally as artists, maturing into a sound always evolving with honesty and without ego.
Bede Quartet is proud to showcase their debut album, recorded over a few days in rural Northumberland.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
HAPPY SHARK COMEDY CLUB
Happy Shark are back for another great night of comedy with an incredible line up!
With Marcel Lucont, Glenn Moore, Pete Heat, and Russell Hicks (MC).
Doors 7pm / Start time 8pm
MARTIN HARLEY
Martin Harley blends americana, blues, and folk and for three decades, he’s captivated audiences and recorded acclaimed albums in Texas, Nashville, and Wales, earning praise as one of the UK’s top roots musicians.
His sold-out shows at venues like London’s Union Chapel and appearances at Glastonbury and the Royal Albert Hall highlight his dynamic stage presence. Tonight Martin plays solo in the up close and intimate environment of The Bear Club. One not to be missed…
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
GERRY JABLONSKI BAND
Aberdeen's finest, GJB are an internationally acclaimed blues-rock outfit and they are charging into 2026 with a new weapon in their arsenal-frontman and powerhouse vocalist, Nicky Aiken.
The Gerry Jablonski Band are one of Scotland's must-see live acts, delivering explosive, high-energy shows wrapped in gritty blues power. And they still offer their trademark challenge: If you don't enjoy the show, tell them afterwards - and they'll give you your money back - honest !
Doors 7pm/ Music 8.30pm
JONNY MANSFIELD QUARTET
We’re thrilled to welcome Kenny Wheeler Jazz Prize winner Jonny Mansfield to The Bear Club. Jonny plays vibraphone like no-one else and is critically regarded as one of the UK’s most original jazz voices, having been nominated for an Ivor Novello Award and a Parliamentary Jazz Award, as well as receiving the Tebbut Exhibition Award, Richard Turner Award and the Royal Academy of Music’s Principals Prize.
Mansfield is joined by some killer players for his quartet - Will Barry (piano), Will Sach (bass) and Luke McCarthy (drums). His latest album Light Finds a Way In, was released in November 2025.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
BROOKE LAW
Brooke Law is a new but exciting voice on the British Americana scene and we are delighted to welcome her to The Bear Club for the first time. She plays and sings soulful rock music which is delivered in her distinctive gutsy voice - think Alanis Morissette perhaps...
Brooke is known for bringing energy and power to her live performances and she performs tonight with her full band.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
JIM MULLEN & NIGEL PRICE QUARTET
We welcome not one but two of the finest jazz guitarists in Britain to The Bear Club for what should be a very special night.
We are thrilled to bring these two stalwarts of the British jazz scene together at The Bear Club and they will be joined by the dream team rhythm section of Steve Brown on drums and Jeremy Brown on bass.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
RICHARD CLARKE
We’re excited to bring Richard Clarke to The Bear Club. Richard is a London-based blues artist, known for his intricate guitar work and stirring vocals, with nearly two decades of experience performing across Europe.
Influenced by blues legends John Mayer, Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and BB King, Richard delivers a signature blend of blues, R&B, soul, and pop. His live performances combine melodic guitar work with infectious grooves and we think you’re going to love him.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
ARTIE ZAITZ QUARTET
A true jazz scene veteran barely into his thirties, guitar prodigy Artie Zaitz leads a group of London's most grooving, swinging musicians. This new quartet features Ross Stanley on Hammond organ, Dave Pattman on congas, and Jack Thomas on drums.
This one will involve some serious grooves….
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
JAZZ JAM
Led by saxophonist Rob Mach, Jazz Jam welcomes musicians, vocalists, dancers, and music lovers who enjoy spending an afternoon listening to or creating great music, supported by DJ Mr Jazzy Vibes.
Doors 1pm / Music 2pm
FUZZY LIGHTS
Cambridge's acclaimed psych-folk quintet Fuzzy Lights play The Bear Club for the first time having recently put out their fifth album 'Fen Creatures' to huge acclaim.
Musically, they have pushed deeper into experimental drone territories while maintaining the crystalline folk sensibilities that have become their signature. The result is their most atmospheric and immersive work to date, with vast sonic landscapes that mirror the fenland geography they're documenting.
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
ON IMPULSE ! MARK LOCKHEART & MARVIN MUONEKÉ PLAY COLTRANE & HARTMAN
We’re delighted to welcome this absolutely stellar line-up to The Bear Club to celebrate one of the all-time classic jazz records - the 1963 album “John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman” on which Coltrane teamed up with vocalist Johnny Hartman to explore their favourite romantic standards.
Tenor sax virtuoso Mark Lockheart is joined by vocal sensation Marvin Muoneké, pianist and arranger Alex Webb and the superb rhythm section of Gary Crosby OBE (bass) and Alfonso Vitale (drums).
Doors 7pm/ Music 8.30pm
THE SOUL MUSIC COLLECTIVE
We are delighted to welcome The Soul Music Collective back to The Bear Club for a night of classic soul.
They celebrate the music of artists such as Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, and Stevie Wonder and, with over 40 songs in their repertoire, there will definitely be something for everyone to dance along to.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
BROWN HORSE
Brown Horse make twangy and thoughtful indie rock, delicately arranged, but unafraid of building a yowling wall of guitars, accordion, banjo and pedal steel when the need arises….
Distorted, teary-eyed and country-tinged, this is music for long lonely drives and late, late nights in strange places. Their debut album, Reservoir, was released in January 2024 to overwhelming critical acclaim and the follow up “All The Right Weaknesses” represented a leap forward in their sound. Rockier, more robust and more muscular.
Join us to see and hear where this fine band might be going next…
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
THE MAT DAY BAND
We always love to showcase emerging UK-blues talent and so we’re delighted to welcome Mat Day to the Bear Club for the first time with his own band.
You might have caught Mat play in support of (and with) Will Wilde at his awesome pre-Christmas gig and he has long been the lead guitarist for award-nominated songwriter/producer Greg Coulson. Influences range from Robben Ford and Marcus King to Miles Davis and John Coltrane, resulting in a fresh, soulful crossover sound that still respects blues tradition.
Doors 7pm/ Music 8.30pm
EYAL LOVETT TRIO
Israeli born Eyal Lovett is one of the most Intriguing jazz pianists and band leaders currently active in Europe.
Eyal's music is focused on storytelling, deep and thoughtful compositions, and mesmerising performance and execution. Influenced by the likes of Bill Evans and Brad Mehldau as well as Avishai Cohen, Shai Maestro and Gilad Hekselman, His music has a "classical" architecture and development, rhythmical complexity, and Mediterranean compelling melodies.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
KRIS DREVER + SUPPORT (ANNIE DRESSNER)
Kris Drever is among Scotland’s most acclaimed and distinctive contemporary musicians, celebrated for his warm voice, virtuosically expressive guitar playing, and imaginative, evocative songwriting.
Raised in the Orkney Islands, he has carved out a unique place at the intersection of traditional folk and modern acoustic music—both as a solo artist and as one-third of the award-winning trio Lau.
Support is from fantastic singer-songwriter Annie Dressner.
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
HOLLIE ROGERS
Hollie Rogers is a singer-songwriter from Cornwall whose annual shows at The Bear Club are always a huge hit. Her expressive voice, sharp lyrical instincts and percussive, guitar-led sound have earned her a dedicated and ever-growing following.
Drawing inspiration from artists such as Joni Mitchell, Joan Armatrading and Blondie, she crafts songs that blend emotional depth with an unmistakably playful charm. She joins us with her full band.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
BEA ASURMENDI
Bea Asurmendi is a Basque-born, London-based vocalist and composer whose music blends contemporary jazz with the earthy textures of Basque and Iberian folk roots. Her music weaves rich harmonies, storytelling, and improvisation into an intimate yet expansive live experience.
Drawing from her acclaimed debut album Asteartea—sung in Basque, Spanish, and English—Asurmendi explores shared stories of womanhood inspired by goddess mythology, creating a powerful and atmospheric soundworld that is both personal and universal.
Doors 7pm/ Music 8.30pm
NATASHA WATTS: A SOULFUL JOURNEY THROUGH MUSIC
Natasha Watts, a mesmerising vocalist and songwriter, has captivated audiences worldwide with her enchanting blend of soul, jazz, and R&B. With a career spanning over a decade, Watts has established herself as a true powerhouse in the music industry and we’re thrilled to welcome her back to The Bear Club.
Natasha will be playing with her band as part of our new series of “Soulful Sundays” across Sunday afternoons and early evenings in Spring and Summer ‘26.
Doors 2pm / Music 3.30pm
BASHARAN
Back by popular demand after their storming gigs at The Bear Club last year, Basharan's sound is an eclectic mix of heavy blues, high-energy rock 'n' roll, and psychedelia, with heavy metal, post-punk, and prog influences creeping in.
They recently arrived fully formed on the scene with wild guitar solos, angelic harmonies, and demonic rhythms, and have already developed a devoted following, having performed at venues across London, Essex, Switzerland, and Brazil.
Support is from Aylesbury indie band, Crimson 97, who play a heady combination of post-punk, with grunge and prog high up in the mix.
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
NICOLAS MEIER WORLD GROUP
UK-based guitarist and former mainstay of The Jeff Beck Group, Nicolas Meier has carved a reputation out as one of the world's most original and uniquely talented guitarists. Drawing from a love of Turkish, Eastern & Middle Eastern music, rock, flamenco, tango and more, Meier's versatility and musical fluency knows no bounds.
Doors 7pm/ Music 8.30pm
RAY GELATO
He’s back! Ray Gelato, The Godfather of Swing and multi-talented singer, saxophonist, songwriter, and bandleader, returns for what is always one of the top nights of the year at The Bear Club.
Ray and his band have enjoyed an illustrious and successful career, including a long-established residency at Ronnie Scott’s, where they perform a sell-out event every Christmas. He has also performed twice for the late Queen Elizabeth, opened for Robbie Williams at the Royal Albert Hall, and played at Sir Paul McCartney’s wedding.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
JAZZ JAM
Led by saxophonist Rob Mach, Jazz Jam welcomes musicians, vocalists, dancers, and music lovers who enjoy spending an afternoon listening to or creating great music, supported by DJ Mr Jazzy Vibes.
Doors 1pm / Music 2pm
KANANAYÉ
We are delighted to welcome Kananayé to The Bear Club.
Kananayé is an artistic collaboration between Burkina Faso and France that weaves narrative songs in French, Jula, More, and English, blending the musical heritage of West Africa, blues, improvisation, poetry and organic trance.
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
SORREL NATION + SUPPORT (RACHAEL SAGE)
Kent born singer-songwriter Sorrel Nation returns after a storming show last year with her soulful mix of folk rock and Americana, with powerful vocals and haunting melodies.
She combines emotive, heartfelt lyrics with 70s-inspired style and a gorgeous soulful voice that totally cuts through. Highly recommended.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
JONNY LIEBECK QUINTET
This band produced one of the gigs of the year last year. Join us for an unforgettable evening of exciting original music from London-based jazz pianist and composer Jonny Liebeck. With his band of top young musicians, he will be performing tunes from his latest EP, Influences, featuring compositions inspired by contemporary jazz and electronic dance music genres such as jungle, breakbeat, and deep house.
Expect a fusion of soulful jazz harmony, luscious sound textures, lyrical guitar and sax melodies, groovy basslines, and intricate breakbeats to get you up on your feet.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
EDDY SMITH & THE 507
You might have caught him as part of the ‘Night in the Canyon’ gig last year and now Eddy Smith is back at The Bear Club bringing his own band.
Eddy Smith has been making his mark on the UK’s growing Americana scene and is widely recognised as one of the major male vocalists on the country soul and blues circuit with his vocal style drawing inevitable comparisons to Joe Cocker among others. Backed by his long-time friends, Ricky O’Donnell (bass and backing vocals) and Greg Sheffield (drums and backing vocals), they form the trio version of Eddy Smith & The 507. Their music, engulfed by rich vocal harmonies and gospel-like organ is reminiscent of a sound from way before their time.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
TRISH CLOWES’ MY IRIS QUARTET
Saxophonist and composer Trish Clowes leads her world class quartet MY IRIS, with Chris Montague (guitar), Ross Stanley (piano/Hammond organ), and Joel Barford (drums).
With an international reputation for intricate writing and adventurous improvisation, Clowes provides her bandmates with an abundance of space for exploration, spontaneity, and kinetic provocation. A new album with the quartet is due to be released in Spring 2026, presenting a new set of vibrant compositions.
Doors 7pm/ Music 8.30pm
STEVE WARNER & JULIE SIMPSON
Steve Warner is well known to audiences at The Bear Club. A Hertfordshire-based folk and acoustic singer-songwriter and storyteller, Steve performs his self-penned songs on tenor guitar.
Tonight he is joined by Julie Simpson, a Scottish folk singer songwriter who, although known for her covers of Kate Bush, Simon and Garfunkel, and Tracy Chapman, is an accomplished song writer too.
The gig tonight will see the two players showcase their own material solo and together as a duo.
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
BILLY MARROWS BAND
Billy Marrows is one of the finest guitarists and composers on the London jazz scene today.
The Billy Marrows Band’s vibrantly melodic, groovy and expressive music explores the meeting point between composition and improvisation, creating a fertile playground for these highly inventive musicians. Drawing on grooves from across the globe, they take inspiration from a wide range of styles, including contemporary jazz, funk and progressive jazz.
Their debut album Dancing on Bentwood Chairs is released in February 2026, and this show is part of their album release tour.
Doors 7pm/ Music 8.30pm
MA POLAINE’S GREAT DECLINE
Ma Polaine’s Great Decline are an award-winning band praised by MOJO Magazine for their unique blend of pop, folk, blues, and Americana, embarking on an exciting UK tour following the February release of their fifth studio album, Monster Swan.
Their gigs at The Bear Club are always something special and the new album is a return to the grittier, bluesier side of Ma Polaine which still carries their usual “hard to pigeon-hole” hallmark.
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
SHEZ RAJA ft. GUTHRIE GOVAN & TONY KOFI
Voted one of the 'Hottest Bass Players in the World' by readers of Bass Player magazine, virtuoso British-Asian bass player Shez Raja is renowned for his high-energy live shows, unique Indo-jazz-funk sound, and global star collaborations with Mike Stern, Randy Brecker, Dennis Chambers, and Wayne Krantz.
Shez will be joined by not one but two special guests—the electric guitar sensation, Guthrie Govan and tenor sax maestro Tony Kofi. This will be some night…
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
SEAMUS FOGERTY
Seamus Fogerty is on the verge of great things - having released his debut full-length ‘God Damn You Mountain’ on cult Scottish label Fence Records (King Creosote, Jon Hopkins) in 2012, this was followed by 2017’s The Curious Hand and 2020’s A Bag Of Eyes . The lead single from his most recent EP, ‘They Recognised Him’ received high praise from Oscar-winner Cillian Murphy who singled it out for recommendation on his Limited Edition show on 6Music and his new album Ships is his most expansive and uplifting collection of music to date. Seamus plays tonight both solo on guitar, keyboards and loops and with a drummer.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
JAZZ SABBATH
Jazz Sabbath is a jazz trio that plays new jazz arrangements of Black Sabbath songs (although the band presents itself tongue-in-cheek as a jazz trio founded in 1968 and the original authors of the tracks later made famous by Black Sabbath..).
Helmed by pianist Adam Wakeman (Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne since 2004), Jazz Sabbath explores the boundaries between jazz and the songs that defined heavy metal, revisiting existing jazz riffs and discovering new ones…
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
NEW YEAR’S EVE EVE WITH LUKE SMITH & SPECIAL GUESTS
We have a special New Year’s Eve Eve treat for you this year…
Renowned keyboardist, songwriter, and producer Luke Smith has worked with the greats, from George Michael, Amy Winehouse, and Yusuf / Cat Stevens to Roy Ayers and Chaka Khan.
Expect an unforgettable night of progressive jazz from Luke’s acclaimed album It’s Time, featuring special guests including the powerhouse vocalist Hildia Campbell.
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
XMAS EVE EVE PARTY WITH THE THUMPING TOMMYS [SOLD OUT]
The Thumping Tommys return for their annual Christmas romp at The Bear.
This UK-based bluegrass and folk band always tear the roof off with their heady brew of barn-storming, blues-infused Irish, American, and English folk music. Known for their original compositions, as well as unique cover versions of an eclectic mix of songs from the folk and blues canon, they have made their mark on the club and festival circuit all over Europe.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
BIG MAMA’S DOOR
Recognised by peers and audiences alike, Big Mama’s Door is one of the UK’s most engaging and entertaining rhythm and blues bands. With their distinctive blend of sultry 1950s R'n'B, soul, and a hint of jazz, they bring a rare combination of professionalism, charisma, and pure joy to every performance.
The band’s eclectic mix of originals and vintage covers is delivered with authenticity, soul, and steeped in the traditions of Blue Note, Chess, and Atlantic Records, creating music that feels timeless.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
NEIL ANGILLEY TRIO
A welcome return to The Bear for this awesome trio, whose last show here was a spellbinding, sold-out affair. They incorporate instrumental virtuosity and three-part vocal harmony, which adds a unique dimension to their sound, creating an uplifting take on the infectious rhythms of Brazil and Cuba.
They have released five albums and work regularly in the London jazz scene and across the UK, performing at prestigious venues including Ronnie Scott’s, The Stables, and the 606 Club.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
CODY LEE & HIS RHYTHM KEYS
We're bookending 2025 at The Bear Club with Cody Lee, who, having opened the year back in February, returns with a new show, a new lineup, and even a new name.
Cody is a versatile piano player and vocalist, wise beyond his years of playing. Whether it's jazz, foot-stomping boogie-woogie, down-and-dirty blues, piano-pumping rock 'n' roll, or swing, you can expect a riveting show.
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
HAPPY SHARK COMEDY CLUB [SOLD OUT]
Happy Shark are back for another great night of comedy with an incredible line up!
With Paul Foot, Josh Weller, Wilson Milton and Ben Van Der Velde (MC).
Doors 7pm / Start time 8pm
SULTAN STEVENSON TRIO
Sultan Stevenson is one of the most exciting young jazz musicians in London today, and a firm favourite at The Bear. He played one of his first gigs outside London here back in 2023, the same year he received a Parliamentary Jazz Award for Best Newcomer.
Graduating from The Guildhall School of Music in 2023, he draws inspiration from the greats of jazz piano, including McCoy Tyner, Kennie Kirkland, and Herbie Hancock. Drawing from their legacy, he crafts a modern sound that remains accessible yet deeply personal, incorporating ideas of faith and identity.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
WILL WILDE + SUPPORT (THE MAT DAY BAND) [SOLD OUT]
Will Wilde is back at The Bear! A force to be reckoned with, anyone who caught his sold-out show here back in April will know that he is a phenomenal harmonica player with a voice to match.
Nominated as Instrumentalist of the Year in the UK Blues Awards 2024, Will’s intense harmonica style steals the spotlight from the traditional blues rock guitar, with a sound that owes as much to Gary Moore as it does to Sonny Boy Williamson.
Doors 7pm / Music 7.45pm
DRINK & DRAW
Drink & Draw is a space to share ideas, create art, and enjoy a drink or two! There are no rules, no boundaries—just a full-blown explosion of creative energy.
Hosted by local illustrator, comic book artist, and Bear manager, Karl Brown, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere guaranteed.
Doors 7.30pm
LET’S DANCE!
Our Tuesday evening dance classes are led by locally-based instructors Victoria Celac and Greg Santos. Together, they have over ten years of experience in dance and teaching.
These classes are for people of all levels and abilities, and absolute beginners are welcome too. Come to learn, come to meet friends, but above all, come to have fun!
Free beginners class 6.45pm / Full class 7.15pm
JAZZ JAM
Led by saxophonist Rob Mach, Jazz Jam welcomes musicians, vocalists, dancers, and music lovers who like to spend an afternoon listening to or creating great music, supported by DJ Mr Jazzy Vibes.
Doors 1pm / Music 2pm
JAZZ DYNAMOS [SOLD OUT]
Making a welcome return to The Bear Club, Jazz Dynamos is a five-piece band that plays your favourite guilty pleasures from the 70s and 80s in a way you've never heard before - transformed with a mix of jazz, bossa, and samba.
Their unique set features exuberant, entertaining, and original contemporary jazz arrangements of hits by Dolly Parton, Wham, Human League, Madonna, U2, The Police, A-ha, and many more.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
TIM PENN & THE SECOND LINE
Cooking up a hot gumbo of New Orleans R&B, Tim Penn brings the sounds of the American Deep South to The Bear once again, along with his band, The Second Line.
The band draws on the music of Fats Domino, Professor Longhair, Dr John, and Allen Toussaint, and then stirs it up with a pinch of Ray Charles, Tom Waits, and Tim’s own original compositions—a recipe that has led to a string of sold-out shows in London at venues such as Upstairs at Ronnie’s and Pizza Express.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
RAHSAAN PATTERSON [CANCELLED]
We are really sorry to announce that this performance has been cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control.
A full refund will be issued to all ticket holders - please do bear with us (no pun intended) whilst we make that happen.
RAHSAAN PATTERSON [CANCELLED]
We are really sorry to announce that this performance has been cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control.
A full refund will be issued to all ticket holders - please do bear with us (no pun intended) whilst we make that happen.
DRINK & DRAW
Drink & Draw is a space to share ideas, create art, and enjoy a drink or two! There are no rules, no boundaries—just a full-blown explosion of creative energy.
Hosted by local illustrator, comic book artist, and Bear manager, Karl Brown, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere guaranteed.
Doors 7.30pm
ANT LAW & CHRIS MONTAGUE QUARTET
We are thrilled to welcome two of the most exciting jazz guitarists to have emerged from the UK in recent years - Chris Montague and Ant Law.
These two stellar players have long had huge respect for each other’s work, and they have now composed a set of material to perform together with the incredible rhythm section of Herbie Rees on bass and Jamie Murray on drums.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
MARCO & THE FREEDIVERS
Marco & The Freedivers blend the warm sound of 60s and 70s blues rock with contemporary jazz flavours. Their original songs combine fast swing chords, free improvisations, psychedelic shuffles, and lazy, melancholic 12-bar blues cycles.
They will be playing songs from their new album, together with select blues-based classics. Inspired by Marco’s exploration of the ocean as a freediver, the new songs reflect on the current re-evaluation and understanding of the human condition and a search for the answers that are within us.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
HARPER TRIO [CANCELLED]
We are really sorry to announce that this performance has been cancelled, due to unforeseen circumstances.
A full refund will be issued to all ticket holders - please do bear with us (no pun intended) whilst we make that happen.
HAPPY SHARK COMEDY CLUB [SOLD OUT]
Happy Shark are back for another great night of comedy with an incredible line up!
With Clinton Baptiste + more acts TBA
Doors 7pm / Start time 8pm
LET’S DANCE!
Our Tuesday evening dance classes are led by locally-based instructors Victoria Celac and Greg Santos. Together, they have over ten years of experience in dance and teaching.
These classes are for people of all levels and abilities, and absolute beginners are welcome too. Come to learn, come to meet friends, but above all, come to have fun!
Free beginners class 6.45pm / Full class 7.15pm
SOUL & RNB QUIZMAS SPECIAL
It’s been a minute, but we’re delighted to welcome back Rich Chocolate and the team to kick off the festive season (yeah, we know it gets earlier every year…)
If you love soul and RnB, have been hiding your knowledge about past and present soul and RnB greats under a rock (or think it is just plain under-appreciated), or you simply want to immerse yourself in a fun-loving afternoon of early festive cheer and a few beers, then our quiz is for you.
Doors 2pm / Quiz 3pm / After party 5.30pm
THE FABULOUS RED DIESEL
Since 2016, The Fabulous Red Diesel has been making mischievous jazz, soulful melodies, and outrageous tuba solos. Based in Hastings, they are one of the hardest-working original bands on the circuit today, and their hard work is now starting to bear some very juicy fruit.
Expect red-hot soaring vocals, hooky soulful tunes, groovy piano, funky flute, a totally skin-tight rhythm section… oh, and zog trumpets. Absolutely will contain tuba.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
DEEP SIX BLUES
Deep Six Blues is a five-piece blues and Americana band from Humberside, formed in 2022 by singer-songwriter Si Vix, a blues aficionado. He recruited members of the local jazz and blues scene to play and record what he calls the "Humber Delta blues."
With songs built on spellbinding guitar riffs, driving bass lines, wailing harmonica, and passionate vocals that pay homage to legends like Howlin’ Wolf and Robert Johnson, Deep Six Blues offers a live experience you won't want to miss.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
RACHAEL CALLADINE QUARTET [CANCELLED]
We are really sorry to announce that this performance has been cancelled, due to unforeseen circumstances.
A full refund will be issued to all ticket holders - please do bear with us (no pun intended) whilst we make that happen.
LET’S DANCE!
Our Tuesday evening dance classes are led by locally-based instructors Victoria Celac and Greg Santos. Together, they have over ten years of experience in dance and teaching.
These classes are for people of all levels and abilities, and absolute beginners are welcome too. Come to learn, come to meet friends, but above all, come to have fun!
Free beginners class 6.45pm / Full class 7.15pm
DONOVAN HAFFNER QUINTET
Alto saxophonist Donovan Haffner has been described as one of the best-kept secrets on the London jazz scene, but if you caught his set at The Bear last November, you will already be well aware of his talent.
His debut album, Alleviate, was released earlier this year, and he has just been named Best Newcomer at the Parliamentary Jazz Awards. We are delighted to welcome him back with his quintet.
This performance is part of our Generation Jazz series of gigs, showcasing brilliant young jazz musicians across the summer and autumn of 2025. Discounted ticket pricing applies for those under 25, students, and universal credit beneficiaries.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
UBUNYE
Firm favourites at The Bear, Ubunye is a vibrant Afro jazz band featuring powerful vocalists from South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal region, combined with a dynamic rhythm section from Leeds.
Together, they create a unique blend of contemporary jazz, Afropop, and traditional ‘Isigqui’ Zulu music. Winners of the Parliamentary Jazz Award for Best Ensemble in 2023, they are not to be missed.
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm
DANNY YOUNG & DOIS PADRES
Tonight, in a slight change of plan, Danny Young will play some fierce resonator blues rock from his new album Dang It, followed by a set from local legends Dois Padres with both Danny and George putting the pedal to the metal.
Gonna be fun!
Doors 7pm / Music 8pm
LET’S DANCE!
Our Tuesday evening dance classes are led by locally-based instructors Victoria Celac and Greg Santos. Together, they have over ten years of experience in dance and teaching.
These classes are for people of all levels and abilities, and absolute beginners are welcome too. Come to learn, come to meet friends, but above all, come to have fun!
Free beginners class 6.45pm / Full class 7.15pm