Soundhouse: Swf Spotlight

About this event

Join us for our third annual jazz showcase event, featuring some of the very best talent coming to the fore in Scotland. As usual we are throwing a spotlight on three fabulous new acts. Scroll down to meet them ... NOR nor (Eleanor Colee) is a Glasgow-based saxophonist and composer. Originally from the North West of England, nor's music is shaped by the vibrant and diverse sounds of both Manchester and Glasgow, blending contemporary jazz with folk-inspired elements. Having won the Development Award delivered through the Peter Whittingham Jazz Award through Help Musicians this year, nor has recently released their debut single Solace, with plans to release more later this year. LAURA OSA Laura Osa, winner of the 2024 Rising Star Award at the Scottith Jazz Awards is a dynamic singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist whose sweet and ethereal vocals blend seamlessly with her powerful songwriting. Recognised for her ability to infuse emotion into every note, Laura's sound offers a stunning fusion of R&B, Gospel, and Jazz, creating a unique and soulful experience for her listeners. Laura will be accompanied by Ewan Johnston on keyboards, Chris Quinn on bass and Kenny Lyons on drums. ZOE DOWNS BAND Zoe Downs is a Scottish tenor saxophonist who grew up in Aberdeen. She is now living in Glasgow and studying in her final year at the RCS. Zoe's music is inspired by the vibrant music scene in Glasgow, blending contemporary jazz with traditional Scottish music influences, whilst also capturing the sounds of her love for Scandinavian jazz. Earlier in the year, Zoe and her band played their debut sold out gig at the Jazz Bar in Edinburgh, and performed at Aberdeen Jazz Festival. Zoe also made an appearance at the Edinburgh International Festival this summer. Zoe takes influence from artists such as Walter Smith III, Laura Jurd, and Joshua Redman and combines them into her own unique sound that she will be showcasing at the Soundhouse Winter Festival." Zoe’s band consists of Ashwari Panesar on double bass, Alex Handyside on guitar, Ruby Smith on fiddle and Finlay Morgan on drums.