Bobby Watson, Fergus McCreadie and Jim Mullen head to Glasgow Jazz Festival

Glasgow Jazz Festival kicks off today and runs until 23 June, with more than 20 events across the city. Performances include the return of US sax great Bobby Watson, who is back at the festival for the first time in 30 years with his Quartet, while newer names to look out for include spiritual jazzers Mama Terra who salute Herbie Hancock’s jazz-funk classic Head Hunters; vocalist kitti delves into her Caledonian Songbook, paying homage to songs in the Scots tradition; Winner of 2023 BBC Radio Scotland Young Jazz Musician of the Year, pianist Ben Shankland also performs; and the Glasgow Improvisers Orchestra reunite with vibes virtuoso Orphy Robinson.

Further names appearing include Scots guitar hero Jim Mullen and his Trio; former Average White Band guitarist/singer Hamish Stuart; while the Kyoto Jazz Massive blend Japanese and French influences into a harmonious fusion. Acclaimed pianist Fergus McCreadie plays music from his latest album Stream, and there’s a bombastic show BLACKSABBATHMODE that unites nu-jazz duo BIGHEADMODE and singer Plumm for a jazzified take on the songs of Black Sabbath.

Blue Note Records have opened a pop-up store in Glasgow city centre this week, marking the first time the legendary jazz label has opened an official store outside of London and will be stocking the largest physical collection of Blue Note vinyl for sale in the UK, along with exclusive merchandise, books, DVDs, branded clothing and more. Located at high-end audio retailer and record store Loud and Clear.

For the full line up and tickets visit www.jazzfest.co.uk