Derek Nash Funk Experience, Noel McCalla

Led by acclaimed saxophonist Derek Nash and with a band featuring the outstanding vocalist Noel McCalla, the Funk Experience bring you the sounds of Grover Washington Jnr, David Sanborn, Herbie Hancock, Bill Withers and many more, as they dig deep into the beat and groove-laden world that has inspired their journey as musicians.

At the forefront of the British jazz movement and an experienced musician of many years' standing, Derek is regarded as one of the most versatile saxophonists in the UK today. A member of the Jools Holland Rhythm and Blues Orchestra and Ronnie Scott's Blues Explosion, he's MD of jazz fusion octet Sax Appeal, the funk/fusion band Protect the Beat and his Acoustic Quartet. He's also performed with Don and Dave Grusin, Bob Dorough, Russell Ferrante and Nelson Rangell.

Renowned for his energetic, vibrant, passionate and charismatic performances on all four saxophones and a recipient of several jazz awards, Derek is also highly regarded as a recording engineer, producer and arranger, with a client list that includes Jamie Cullum, Georgie Fame, Annie Lennox, Dave Edmunds, Alison Moyet, Lulu, Kylie Minogue, David Sanborn, Martha Reeves, Mavis Staples and many more.

Noel McCalla rose to fame as the featured vocalist with the classic 80s UK jazz funk band Morrisey-Mullen. He then spent 17 years fronting Manfred Mann’s Earth Band, notching up albums with Genesis star Mike Rutherford and also performed with jazz funk outfit Mezzoforte. His remarkably supple voice retains the feel, range and power of old, and he effortlessly shifts from whispered croon to that oh-so-funksome howl.

With Neil Angilley (Piano/Keyboards), Orefo Orakwue (Electric Bass) and Nic France (Drums).