Setting the guitar into centre stage with these incredible guitarists
This year, the EFG London Jazz Festival celebrates the eclecticism of guitar sounds. From the genre-defying and innovative melodies of Kaki King to Gwenifer Raymond's mesmeric rawness, the striking strums of Julian Lage to John Scofield and Dave Holland's swinging rhythms, this year's diversity of guitarists is sure to pique your string senses.
Julian Lage | Friday 12 November | Cadogan Hall
Newly signed to Blue Note records, New York-based guitarist Julian Lage has broken into the major league. His potential was picked up at a very early age when he was hailed by Carlos Santana and mentored by Pat Metheny and Jim Hall.
Watch Julian playing Saint Rose from his new album here
Gwenifer Raymond | Friday 12 November | Kings Hall
Hailing from the Welsh valleys, guitarist Gwenifer Raymond brings her awe-inspiring musicality to Kings Place. Inspired by pre-war blues musicians as well as players of Appalachian folk and the American Primitive genre, Gwenifer has established a personal style. She views her new album as an adventurous embrace of compositional approach to the tradition.
Catch her playing here
Archie Shepp & Jason Moran: 'Let My People Go' + Shirley Tetteh | Friday 12 November | Barbican
Two jazz visionaries, Archie Shepp and Jason Moran, share their intimate duo album at the Barbican for a London premiere. They are supported by high in-demand guitarist Shirley Tetteh, who will play a rare solo opening set.
Listen to Shirley's shredding here
Dave Holland and John Scofield | Sunday 14 November | Cadogan Hall
Performing as a duo, guitarist John Scofield and bassist John Scofield will play original compositions together with a selection of jazz standards added to the mix, bringing their iconic virtuosity and artistic depth to Cadogan Hall.
Enjoy Dave Holland and John Scofield here
Kaki King | Thursday 18 November | Kings Place
Considered one of the world’s greatest and most ground-breaking living guitarists, Kaki King is internationally admired for her technical mastery and constant quest to push the boundaries of her instrument.
Having released nine albums in the past 14 years and toured extensively across the globe, Kaki comes to Kings Place for what will be an unforgettable solo performance.
Catch Kaki King’s unforgettable video for Surface Changes here
Hedvig Mollestad Trio | Thursday 18 November | Café OTO
After releasing a momentous debut solo album, guitarist Hedvig Mollestad returns to the EFG London Jazz Festival stage with her trio, who have become a hit on the Norwegian live scene. Garnering attention from both rock and jazz camps, Hedvig Mollestad’s exceptional guitar talent is perfectly harmonised with the rhythm section: Ellen Brekken on bass, and Ivar Loe Bjørnstad on drums.
Get a taste for the trio’s boundary-bending talent here
