Copyright © 2024 Discover. All rights reserved

All views, information or opinions expressed in Discover Brighton are solely those of individuals involved and do not represent the opinions of any entity whatsoever, including the businesses mentioned within this publication and those to which are affected.

Jazz in the City

30 Jan, 2025

Jazz is everywhere in our city, home to artistry galore against the backdrop of a postcard seafront. Whether it’s the drumbeat of a tight-knit community, the crash of creativity, or the coastal landscape that wraps you in a romantic spell, it’s not just heard; it’s felt.

With events such as Love Supreme, Europe’s largest greenfield jazz festival (July 4th–July 6th, 2025), conquering the summer in the South Downs, hard grooves and rhythms resonate all year round. From the streets of Kemptown, where you can scurry into the snug corners of the Hand in Hand pub to bask in soul-soothing swing, to the feverish improvisations that ignite The Brunswick’s Jazz Jam in Hove, the city’s soundtrack is alive and kicking.

There’s the blustery energy of Casablanca and The Bootlegger, where waves of finely tuned musicians take to the stage just a minute’s walk from the seaside, as well as the classic intimacy of venues like The Paris House and The Bees Mouth. Not to mention The Verdict, Brighton’s only purpose-built jazz club offering an exclusive metropolitan feel, and a blazing hot-spot for players breaking out of the London jazz circuit. Or, venture further along the coast to experience the renowned Mike Hatchard’s Jazz Breakfast at The Harbour Club in Shoreham, showcasing that the allure of jazz reaches well beyond the city’s confines.

To uncover more of the sweetest notes Brighton has to offer, I turned to Paul Richards, jazz patron and founder of The Brunswick Jazz Jam, for his expert recommendations.

What are your top 3 venues in the city where you can enjoy jazz?

“The Brunswick: It’s a platform for aspiring and acclaimed musicians to jam out amidst the charm of a cosy candle-lit club. Every instrument you can think of has been played onstage as different genres are experimented with: blues, funk, Latin, hip-hop, soul, even drum and bass.

The Stirling Arms: Locals and jazz lovers blend together at this proper community-based pub. You can enjoy a Sunday roast alongside a different jazz duo each week.

The Black Lion: All the lindy hoppers and swing dancers come down for this lively favourite. It’s a spectacle in itself to see the room taken over by dancing as the audience inevitably joins in.”

With Brighton’s jazz scene making such a compelling case, there’s no better reason to escape the chill for a melodic thrill this winter. So, to borrow the words of the Godfather of Soul: “Get on up,” get out, and trade the dreary winter blues for the ravishingly warm rhythm and blues.

Photo by: Lisa Wormsley

Steven Graham
Author: Steven Graham

Related Articles

Royal palace set to show its true colours

Discover the colours that made history this spring at the Royal Pavilion's immersive COLOUR exhibition in Brighton. The Royal Pavilion, managed by Brighton &Hove Museums, is set to show its true colours this spring as the Regency palace opens a vibrant new...

Ben Sherman SS25 Signature Collection

Ben Sherman SS25 Signature Collection: Brighton to Amalfi Step into the vibrant journey of Ben Sherman’s SS25 Signature Collection, "Brighton to Amalfi," where the essence of Brighton Beach seamlessly blends with the timeless charm of the Italian Riviera. Drawing...

Mounjaro – A Kickstart For Those Who Need It Most?

Brighton is a hub for health and fitness, but for some, the journey to wellness feels like an impossible uphill climb. For those dealing with severe health issues, addictive tendencies, or physical limitations, even starting can feel overwhelming, Trust me, I know...

Picture You Dead / Cast Interview

Peter James’ latest novel Picture You Dead has become a play which is coming to Theatre Royal in March. Kairen Kemp chatted to two of the cast members: Peter Ash and Fiona Wade. Peter, you’re playing David Hegarty. Now I know that Peter James based him, on David...

Hempwell / The UKs Most Trusted CBD Shop

Situated in the heart of the North Laine in Kensington Gardens, Brighton, you will find Hempwell, your one-stop-shop for all things CBD related.  Founded in 2017, the flagship store is located in York and what sets Hempwell apart from other CBD outlets, is the fact...

Valentine’s / Gifts & Unique Date Ideas

Bored of doing the same things on Valentine’s Day? We’ve scoured the city and the internet to find you some unique date and gift ideas to help make this one memorable for all the right reasons. Needle Felting at Circles Store. Join Stephanie, an expert felt maker,...

What’s On / One Garden Brighton February 2025

February is full of exciting activities at One Garden Brighton, with something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a keen gardener, looking for family fun, or just want to pop by for some great food, there’s plenty happening this month. Gardeners’ Q&A Series....

Join BPO’s Centenary Celebrations

Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra has been delighting local audiences for the last one hundred years, and their bold, colourful concerts – from classical masterpieces to cutting-edge music – are for everyone.  Pioneering pianist, conductor, curator and composer...

The Pour House

Our editor was invited to new venue ‘The Pour House’ in Hove for a private dining experience ahead of the launch party. I arrived at new venue The Pour House on a chilly evening in February and was honoured to be one of the first to try the food and cocktails. New...

Japanese Head Spa Benefits

Most of us crave long, lustrous locks and many women opt for hair extensions to achieve this. Although extensions remain a popular beauty trend, they can be expensive, difficult to upkeep and sometimes cause damage to weak or fine hair. 2024 gave way to a ‘natural...