Liam Byrne Quartet
Thursday 31st March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-8pm
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Liam Byrne Quartet consists of Liam on Tenor Saxophone, Tom Kincaid on Piano, Ken Marley on Double Bass, and Jack Cotterill on Drums. This fresh and exciting quartet have a vast range of experience in different styles of music and have come together to play their own mix of New Orleans street beat, swing & reggae.
The band are heavily influenced by the likes of Harry Connick Jr, Leroy Jones, Clark Terry, Oscar Peterson & Christian McBride, to name only a few. From the original New Orleans Street Beat tunes such as “The Happy Feet Blues” through to our own compositions you can hear the roots of the music we listen to.
Expect a night of Jazz standards and songs from the Great American Songbook, all given the band’s unique spin.
Note, this isn’t the exact line up for tonight - this is to reflect Liam Byrne (on lead saxophone here) and the music to expect..
Note, this isn’t the exact line up for tonight - this is to reflect Liam Byrne (on lead saxophone here) and the music to expect..
Neil C. Young Trio
Wednesday 30th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-8pm
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
The Neil C. Young Trio are "full of soul and energy" which "touches your heart and sets your hair on fire!" so says, Critical Jazz.com and Just Jazz Guitar Magazine. Neil C. Young has gained long listed Grammy nominations over the recent years with previous album releases and this year will see the latest release of original material.
This evening, the trio will be playing tracks from their 'Reworks' project, reworking hits of yesteryear, such as Madonna's 'Crazy For You', Cole Porters' 'Night and Day' and Alice in Chains 'Them Bones'. Pt. 1 was released in December 2021 and Pt. 2 is set for a summer release with both, the aim is to maintain the soul of the original but uncover new hooks that allow new energy and life to breathe from these classic, and sometimes, unlikely bangers...'
Line Up:
Neil C. Young - Guitar
Ben McCabe - Drums
Jonathon Towers - Bass
The Nightcreatures Duo
Tuesday 29th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6pm-12am
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
The Nightcreatures duo is a stripped down version of New Orleans R&B band The Nightcreatures, specialising in Swamp Funk, Voodoo Blues and Mardi Gras street beats.
They'll be serving up a spicy gumbo of classic New Orleans material, old time blues and rock/pop covers given the Nightcreatures treatment.
In the true spirit of the city they bring together songs sourced from such diverse artists as Prince, Black Sabbath, ZZ Top, The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Tom Waits and Ian Drury, as well as from New Orleans greats like Allen Toussaint, Dr John, Professor Longhair and James Booker. In addition to this they have reworked songs that were originally recorded by classic bluesmen Blind Willie Johnson, Leadbelly, Screaming Jay Hawkins and Jelly Roll Morton.
Plus, it’s HAPPY HOUR ALL NIGHT - that means buy 2 drinks and get a whole FREE PIZZA or get 2 house cocktails for just £10!
All Star Jam
Monday 28th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6pm-8pm
Jam: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Making it feel like it’s the weekend again already, the All Star Jam is sure to get each and every one in the club moving. Every 4th Monday of the month, House band Dreamer take to the stage to invite musicians to join them in filling M&P’s with the very best Funk, Soul, and Disco from across the decades.
Dreamer are a hugely talented collection of Manchester-based musicians who have earned a fantastic reputation on the live music scene by their own right. This is an opportunity for all musicians to come along and get on the stage to join Dreamer in getting the party started.
The All Star Jam is the night you want to be at if you love the all-time classics of the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s. We encourage all musicians, singers, and MC’s to come along and give performing in front of the M&P audience a go. Whether there’s a particular musician you just love to sing the music of, or if there’s a bass line that you’ve finally mastered and now want to give it a go with a full band, or whatever else takes your fancy on the night, instrument in hand… Anything goes! As long as you love music and can keep up with the excellent house band, get yourself on stage!
You of course don’t have to be a musician to come to a M&P Jam Night! Come and enjoy the wondrous spectacle of music appear out of nowhere, and make sure you bring your dancing shoes. One tip, get down early to guarantee a good spot on the dance floor!
The Jake Leg Jug Band
Saturday 26th March 2022
Doors: 5pm
Happy Hour: 5-6:30pm
Gig: 9:30pm-12:30am
£7 on the door
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
The Jake Leg Jug Band bring you the authentic sounds of 1920's and 30's America - Jazz, Blues, Gospel, Ragtime - and put their own twist on it. Songs of murder, betrayal, gambling, liquor and redemption.
With a lineup of guitar, double bass, banjo, harmonica, clarinet, sax, washboard and jug and with 5-part harmonies, they have released 6 albums over 10 years (including 3 with iconic jazz label Lake Records). Hailing from London, Birmingham, Warwick, Stroud & Stoke and featuring two award winning soloists in Alex Clarke and Liam Ward.
Signing to one of the UK's most prestigious Jazz labels ‘Lake Records’ they recorded albums as part of the 'Vintage Recording Project' essentially recording all live around ribbon microphones, as it would have been back in the 1930’s. Four albums released in five years; ‘Cotton Mouth’, ‘Next Stop!’ ‘Everythin's Jake’ and ‘Break a Leg’ all met with rave reviews;
"A masterpiece of nostalgic music. The band display real virtuosity and create a wonderful sound that will be hard for any other band to repeat" Folk North West
"Expert musicianship and great arrangements....highly recommended" Just Jazz
"Instrumental virtuosity. Very enjoyable, very listenable" Blues & Rhythm
"A wonderful album. Expert musicianship and superb arrangements" Fatea
"Good time music from a good-time group" The Jazz Rag
"Pick any track at random and prepare to be entertained " RnR
"Swinging like a barn door in a Texas breeze, the album shows the tightness of a band that have spent many years on the road" Fatea
"A fine feast of good-timing jug band music, blues, vintage jazz and hokum with a nicely humorous attitude " Blues News (Norway)
Line Up:
Duncan Wilcox // Vocals & Double Bass
Neil Hulse // Vocals & Guitar
Liam Ward // Vocals, Harmonica, Jug & Stomp Box
Bryony-Rose // Vocals & Washboard
Jack Tasker // Vocals, Banjo & Mandolin
Alex Clarke // Clarinet & Saxophone
Jeremy Sassoon - *Free Early Evening Gig*
Saturday 26th March 2022
Doors: 5pm
Happy Hour: 5-6:30pm
Gig: 5:30pm-6:30am
Free Entry
We don’t take advance table reservations for early-evening gigs, so make sure you’re at the club when the doors open to guarantee the best seats!
Plus it’s HAPPY HOUR 5-6:30pm
-> 2 drinks = FREE PIZZA
-> 2 house cocktails = £10
Manchester based Jazz & Blues singer & pianist Jeremy Sassoon is one of the UK’s most in-demand singer/pianists. His gigs see him captivating audiences with his natural, soulful voice, and a repertoire of his arrangements of Jazz, Blues, Groove, Fusion and Soul classics.
Jeremy’s solo piano set will see him spanning genres of Jazz, Blues and Soul. Jazz standards through the music of Ray Charles, Mose Allison and Sam Cooke. Arrangements of Joni Mitchell, Bob Marley, Glen Campbell and Jimi Hendrix and Amos Milburn will feature throughout this gig.
“A charming and witty front-man, one of his skills being that he can make the audience feel immediately at ease.” - Ronnie Scott’s
“It’s a mark of true showmanship when a performer knows when to change the speed or the vibe, taking the audience on an emotional journey, and that is exactly what Jeremy Sassoon did at his sold-out show!” - London Jazz Review
Arun Ghosh
Photo credit: Emile Holba
Friday 25th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-7:30pm
Gig: 9:30pm-12:30am
£7 on the door
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Indojazz sensation Arun Ghosh returns to Matt & Phred’s. It’s a homecoming, album-launch concert for the award-winning clarinettist, as he celebrates the release of brand new record, Seclused in Light.
A leading light in British jazz, Arun and his band deliver a passionate sound driven by soaring melodies, hypnotic rhythms and transcendental textures.
Arun grew up in Bolton, and cut his teeth within Manchester’s vibrant jazz scene. Since then he has released four acclaimed albums, and toured nationally and internationally. Tonight’s show reunites him with fantastic musicians from Manchester and Leeds scenes: Dave Walsh (drums) Gavin Barras (double bass) and Jamil Sheriff (piano), and introduces rising star, Marcus Joseph on alto saxophone.
Twice awarded Jazz Instrumentalist of the Year at the Parliamentary Jazz Awards, Arun’s musical style takes a multi-era / multi-genre approach; where numerous strands of jazz join forces with a myriad of musical influences: from jungle to punk, blues to Bollywood…and beyond.
This open-eared aesthetic and musical philosophy, and his bringing together of South-Asian raags (melodies) and taals (rhythms) with jazz culture and instrumentation, has led him to be considered a renowned innovator of modern IndoJazz.
A charismatic and communicative performer, Arun Ghosh’s shows are always special, spontaneous and moving events - especially here in Manchester ; this is a gig not to be missed!
“…uproarious and irresistible” - Daily Telegraph
“Life-affirming music that transcends cultural barriers.” - Manchester Evening News
“…an upfront mix of South Asian melodies and western street-grooves…” - The Guardian
“...extraordinary charisma and musicianship and a consistently riveting compositional skill” - Jazzwise
What is this fiery music and where does it come from? - Metro
Line-up
Arun Ghosh - clarinet
Marcus Joseph - alto saxophone
Jamil Sheriff - keys
Gavin Barras - double bass
Dave Walsh - drums
Honey Bee Jazz
Thursday 24th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-8pm
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Honey Bee Jazz is a collective of Jazz musicians from around the world that met in Manchester to study music, and created a session jazz band. Since then, the up and coming 4-piece band has gone from strength to strength, continually arranging songs to showcase around the MCR jazz scene.
For this extra special gig, HBJ will play popular jazz, in styles such as Swing, Ballad, and Bossa Nova, from the likes of Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and Antonio Carlos Jobim, as well as jazz rearrangements of music from pop genres from the 1980’s til the 2020’s… Yep, this band has it all.
The Line Up:
Katerina Kaifa - Vocals
Nikolas Kallithrakas - Drums
Tom Miles - Piano
David Grundy - Bass
Nonunonu
Wednesday 23rd March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-8pm
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Groove based jazz loaf fresh out the oven, NONUNONU are a newfound Guitar trio, heavily influenced by Black American music.
They bring together elements of jazz, hip-hop and funk to create their own original sound. The band have already been making waves, playing gigs around the North west including Manchester International Festival and Lancaster Jazz Festival. Expect Blistering drum solos, steaming bass lines and groovy tunes, Nonunonu are ones to watch! On this occasion the band will be performing mostly original material alongside arranged versions of compositions from the likes of Herbie Hancock, Alan Holdsworth and many more.
The Line Up:
Bim Williams - Guitar
Andy Patterson - Bass
Ruben Sheridan - Drums
The Derrick Harris Organ Trio
Tuesday 22nd March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6pm-12am
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Re-creating the wonderful sound of the jazz organ trio with a repertoire ranging from the bluesy tunes of Wes Montgomery, to the more contemporary sounds of Larry Goldings, Derrick Harris on guitar is accompanied by Dean Stockdale on organ and Paul Smith on drums.
The band's well crafted arrangements give these tunes a light, airy and spacious outing with some tasteful soloing which allows the jazz and pop listener to appreciate them afresh.
Plus, it’s HAPPY HOUR ALL NIGHT - that means buy 2 drinks and get a whole FREE PIZZA or get 2 house cocktails for just £10!
New Orleans Jam
Monday 21st March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6pm-8pm
Jam: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
The big sounds of New Orleans come to M&P’s for the New Orleans Jam, held every 3rd Monday of the month and hosted by mighty house band The Nightcreatures. With a strong emphasis on the involvement of brass, these monthly Jam sessions are sure to make you feel like you’ve travelled over the Atlantic to Louisiana.
The New Orleans Jam sees our little jazz club filled with the blaring brass, Rhythm and Blues, Second Line Grooves, Street Beats, Funk, Rock’n’Roll, and Rhumba of New Orleans, where the round-the-clock atmosphere sees never ending music filling the streets… This is the music of Dr. John, Fats Domino, Jelly Roll Morton, and Professor Longhair, to name but a few, and those who come by to play at the jams follow in their footsteps tremendously.
NOLA tunes really are in a class of their own, being seen by many as the true origin of traditional jazz. The bringing together of musicians in New Orleans, to all be united by music, is all about the atmosphere of a live performance. Horns aplenty, thundering drums, heavy guitar riffs, and whatever other instrument might appear would come together to create a sound to celebrate life and ensure the party never stops. The M&P New Orleans Jam sees musicians from any background brought together by this same attitude to live music. So long as it’s played in a New Orleans style… Anything goes.
Come down and experience the wonders of the Jam happening in front of your eyes, and don’t be surprised if you’re persuaded to have a good old dance too.
Gypsies of Bohemia - St Pat's Weekender
Saturday 19th March 2022
Doors: 5pm
Happy Hour: 5-6:30pm
Gig: 9:30pm-12:30am
£7 on the door
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
As the UKs leading original covers band Gypsies of Bohemia pride themselves on having written at least half of their complete catalogue of original cover versions. Something of a paradox? Well that sums these guys up. These 5 musically literate, well groomed individuals can bring a party like no other to the bandstand and turn the most sophisticated of settings into an all-out guitar style rave with their inventive and superbly crafted renditions of popular contemporary songs from the modern era - whoever said you can't polish a turd was wrong.
Fronted by the phenomenal vocalist Martin Connor, expect all your all-time guilty pleasure bangers given the gypsy treatment… If you’ve not come across these guys before, you’re going to want to see this. If you have, you know they’re worth seeing again…
Solis - *Free Early Evening Gig*
Saturday 19th March 2022
Doors: 5pm
Happy Hour: 5-6:30pm
Gig: 5:30pm-6:30am
Free Entry
We don’t take advance table reservations for early-evening gigs, so make sure you’re at the club when the doors open to guarantee the best seats!
Plus it’s HAPPY HOUR 5-6:30pm
-> 2 drinks = FREE PIZZA
-> 2 house cocktails = £10
Solis is an Irish songstress based in Manchester who is captivating audiences with her alluring, harmony-soaked melodies. Influenced by Kate Bush and Jeff Buckley from a very young age, Solis has placed her original touch on folk/ pop music. Solis’ ethereal vocals carry a profound, elegant charm and her upcoming debut album is sure to raise the hairs on the back of your neck.
This evening, Solis will be playing piano and singing songs by Billie Holiday, Joni Mitchell, Carole King, Aretha Franklin and many more, including some of her original songs.
Loud Noises - St Pat's Weekender
Friday 18th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-7:30pm
Gig: 9:30pm-12:30am
£7 on the door
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Our St Pat’s Weekender is upon us, and it’s only right that we celebrate properly with the dance of our lives. So, we’ve lined up one of our favourite bands, boasting a mighty line up with a sound like no other, all wrapped up in some of the most immense showmanship you'll come across live.
Loud Noises are a feisty four-piece brass outfit conceived on the streets of Leeds in 2016 who unfailingly showcase a powerful combination of gutsy brass playing and daring repertoire. The combination of trumpet, trombone, bass saxophone, and drums come together to create a sound which can be described as classic New Orleans musicianship meets your absolute favourite cult classic tunes from across the decades.
Equally at home playing traditional NOLA jazz tunes or busting out their distinctive arrangements of pop anthems, these highly competent musicians are sure to make your Saturday night everything you could hope for. Loud Noises provide one of the most engaging and satisfying live music experiences you could hope to find.
With stunning showmanship and crowd engagement from the offset, expect a night of tunes ranging from the likes of Michael Jackson, to The Spice Girls, to Lady Gaga, to the Back Street Boys, and so very far beyond. Loud Noises have raised the roof of Matt & Phred’s each and every time they have played at the club, and it’s always a pleasure to invite them back to our little jazz club. This band is one of a kind, and any audience is sure to be left in pure admiration of how a 4-piece band so full of passion for what they do can create one of the richest and most powerful sounds you’ll hear.
The line up: Tim Hurst (trombone), Tom Sharp (trumpet), Anna Chandler (bass saxophone), Sam Foster (drums).
Andy Lawrenson Trio - St Pat's Special
Thursday 17th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-8pm
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
We love St Patrick’s Day at M&P’s, and nothing could be more fitting than a Gypsy Jazz trio, featuring violin, guitar, and double bass. Come and join us, there will be Guinness, Jameson, and Jigging a-plenty!
Andy Lawrenson Trio bring a stylish, humorous and very entertaining portrayal of a style of music originally pioneered by Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli in 1930’s Paris. The distinctive style of Gypsy Jazz is instantly recognisable - acoustic, up-tempo, alternately joyous, exotic, passionate and full of pathos.
The Andy Lawrenson Trio mix the instrumental style with songs from the great American Songbook, blending style, flair, astonishing dexterity and plenty of interaction to produce a show to warm the hearts and entertain any audience.
Collectively, the band have worked with a diverse range of musicians such as Albert Lee, Elvis Costello, Les Dawson, Richard Thomson, and Tim Garland - a must-see act for any fans of acoustic roots music.
Stuart McCallum Trio
Wednesday 16th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-8pm
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
From jazz beginnings to alt-folk and electronica, Stuart McCallum is one of the most vital and creative musicians of his generation. An in-demand guitarist, composer, producer and educator, Stuart’s current projects include: The Breath, Solitude, Music for Imaginary Film, co-writing with Richard Spaven, as well as performance, composition, and production research and education; Stuart being Deputy Head of Popular Music at the Royal Northern College of Music.
Tonight, Stuart is joined by two highly acclaimed musicians who have all built a fantastic reputation and prowess in the North’s music scene by their own right. The line up of Stuart, Jeff Guntrum (bass) and Luke Flowers (drums) means that this performance is set to be incredibly special and a unique opportunity to see these musicians freely and expertly perform the most beautiful instrumental music in a highly intimate setting.
The Bytheways
Tuesday 15th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6pm-12am
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
The Bytheways consist of Helen and Paul Bytheway who front both covers band The Retrosettes and original indie folk band The Horse Puppets (both of whom have played at Matt & Phred’s many times). The married couple have had an eventful musical career so far including an appearance in a film in Switzerland with Michael Caine and Harvey Keitel, a stadium tour of Europe with Simply Red and Lindsey Stirling, private parties all over the world and an album released through Universal records in Germany.
During lockdown 2020 they played a live stream from their home studio in Manchester every Friday for a whole year, as well as taking on a challenge of filming and sharing 100 songs in 100 days on YouTube. This all helped to grow a fanbase for the quirky acoustic duo. At Matt & Phred’s expect songs from their back catalogue, including artists such as Bowie, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Kinks, Blondie, Fleetwood Mac etc etc.
Plus, it’s HAPPY HOUR ALL NIGHT - that means buy 2 drinks and get a whole FREE PIZZA or get 2 house cocktails for just £10!
Jazz Jam
Monday 14th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6pm-8pm
Jam: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Every 2nd Monday of the month sees M&P’s become an unmatched nucleus of all things Jazz for both local musicians and visitors to musically express themselves in a way nowhere else can offer.
Led by Johnny Hunter and his band, musicians of any level, brought together by their love of Jazz, are welcomed to the M&P stage to jam the night away alongside some of the finest musicians in the North. This is a unique experience to perform an improvised piece, a Jazz standard, or even a Jazzy twist on a pop tune, accompanied by a stellar line up and in front of a full audience. Whilst the Jazz Jam can very much go anywhere, we are passionate about keeping things true to Jazz. These jams are all about recreating the atmosphere and excitement of 1940's venues Minton's Playhouse and Monroe's where this music was created, and musicians like Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, Thelonious Monk, Mary Lou Williams learned their craft and developed the Bebop language.
Come along and watch the evening unfold. Anything can happen. Over the years, our famous Jazz Jam has attracted the likes of Chuck Perkins, Lonnie Liston Smith, Benn Clatworth, as well as members of Riot Jazz Brass Band, GoGo Penguin, and the Beats & Pieces Big Band. Who knows who might make an appearance tonight…
Soul Grenades
Saturday 12th March 2022
Doors: 5pm
Happy Hour: 5-6:30pm
Gig: 9:30pm-12:30am
£7 on the door
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Based in London, Hailing from Montenegro, Moscow, New Cross, Sydney, and beyond… Soul Grenades have established themselves as one of the most exciting acts on the live music scene.
A veritable tornado of funk, the band boasts a super-tight rhythm section, a wall of brass, and a burgeoning song book of original music. Fusing their many influences, encompassing crate-digging raring to contemporary dance floor fillers, Soul Grenades deliver no-nonsense hard-hitting funk and soul music.
The band have supported several Internationally renowned recording artists including Sister Sledge, The Craig Charles Funk & Soul, Brooklyn Funk Essentials, The Filthy Six.. to name but a few.
It’s fair to say if you love a good time and an even better dance, you’ll adore Soul Grenades.
Victor Brox - Autobiography Reading & Live Music Session
Saturday 12th March 2022
Doors: 4:30pm
Happy Hour: 4:30-6:30pm
Reading: 5-5:30pm
Gig: 5:30pm-6:30am
Free Entry
We don’t take advance table reservations for early-evening gigs, so make sure you’re at the club when the doors open to guarantee the best seats!
Matt & Phred’s presents an exclusive autobiography reading and live music performance from Manchester-born Blues legend, Victor Brox.
Join us from 5pm on Saturday 12th March 2022 in enjoying the one and only Victor Brox, live on stage, telling some stunning stories from his forthcoming life story before performing some awe-inspiring music.
Victor has earned a stellar reputation in The North, with audiences instantly falling in love with his music and style. Now’s your chance, and the first ever chance, to hear just a snippet of this incredible man’s story.
Brox Tells All, Only Brox Knows…
Why Jimmy Hendrix took his shoes off.
USA Superstar directs his band at gunpoint.
The Pastor & The Ape.
———
Manchester born blues legend Victor Brox is probably one of the most underrated champions of the British Blues scene and its unsung hero.
This may well have been because he has refused to be pigeon-holed into any single category and has produced an eclectic style which often defied analysis.
What cannot be disputed is his excellent singing voice, musical virtuosity and total eccentricity. He was described by Jimi Hendrix and Tina Turner as their favourite white blues singer. He is without doubt a national treasure.
Plus it’s HAPPY HOUR 5-6:30pm
-> 2 drinks = FREE PIZZA
-> 2 house cocktails = £10
The Big Easy
Friday 11th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-7:30pm
Gig: 9:30pm-12:30am
£7 on the door
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
The Big Easy are an energetic swing band from Leeds, consisting of vocals, trumpet, saxophone, double bass and drums. Their repertoire is carefully chosen to give a lively and varied performance of the best swing from throughout the 20th century; covering repertoire from the early days of jazz, classic New Orleans tunes and lively jump-jive.
Since its birth in the 1920s, swing has been music for celebration. The Big Easy have taken some of the greatest tunes by the giants of swing; Louis Armstrong, Louis Prima, Nina Simone and many more household names, added their own interesting arrangements to bring you a set of the finest swing tunes. The Big Easy has been busy since 2014, playing at some of the UK’s top venues, festivals and touring throughout the UK.
Their dynamic, energetic and often virtuosic performances make them great to watch; their high-energy swing interspersed with moments of soulful-melancholy are sure to make your Saturday night entertainment something truly special.
Mr. Green's Jazz-Funk Revival
Thursday 10th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-8pm
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Mr. Green’s Jazz-Funk Revival
Mr. Green is a band of professional musicians from Manchester who came together over their love of jazz-funk. The band started as a homage to the legendary Blue Note Records guitarist Grant Green. As the band grew they encompassed music from other great jazz-funk artists ranging from the sixties up to the present day. Their repertoire mixes funky beats, hectic solos and cool melodies with just a hint of fusion. Expect music from The Meters, George Benson, Grant Green, Cory Wong, The New Mastersounds and more.
Tonight the band will feature two special guests: the accomplished funkster Stephen Wilcock on saxophone and flute, and the amazing vocal talents of Martin Connor singing classics from artists like Sly and The Family Stone and The Isley Brothers.
Nico Widdowson Trio
Wednesday 9th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-8pm
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
The Nico Widdowson Trio likes to get people’s feet moving. This young piano trio draw influence from blues, bop and New Orleans to bring a fiery energy to their compositions leaving you wonder why you ever thought Jazz was boring.
Since forming, The Nico Widdowson Trio have played across Leeds city centre’s hottest jazz venues including The Domino Club, Northern Guitars and Sela Bar as well as supporting John Toussaint for Jazz Leeds. Huge influences have been from Christian McBride, Benny Green, Oscar Peterson and Art Blakey.
Paul Farr Trio
Tuesday 8th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6pm-12am
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
The Paul Farr Band is back at Matt and Phreds. Appearing regularly at Matt and Phreds for over ten years, band leader and composer Paul is more often than not seen playing with award winning blues sensation Kyla Brox. When he’s not playing around Europe with Kyla he can be seen here playing his own mix of jazz, blues and funk with influences of Schofield, Frisell and Metheny all wrapped up in original tunes.
Tonight, Paul is joined by The Cinematic Orchestra‘s very own Luke Flowers on drums, and Manchester stalwart Huw Jacob on bass.
Plus, it’s HAPPY HOUR ALL NIGHT - that means buy 2 drinks and get a whole FREE PIZZA or get 2 house cocktails for just £10!
Blues Jam
Monday 7th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6pm-8pm
Jam: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Every 1st Monday of the month sees our resident Blues band, fronted by the fantastic Franny Eubank, take to the stage for a night of music like no other.
The band will jam the night away with players of any standard, staying true to what Blues is all about. This is the music of John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters, Etta James, Little Walter, Leadbelly, Aretha Franklin, and all those greats who defined Blues properly since the early 20th Century.
Come equipped with your steel guitars, basses, mouth organs, sticks, vocal cords, or whatever other instrument you play, and join this mighty house band to either play one of the classics or see where the beat takes you… That’s the joy of the Blues. Oh, and don’t be surprised if Franny asks you to join in on a song mid-way through it!
More of a listener than a player? No problem. Kick back in our candle-lit club in the company of gritty lyricism, 12-bar riff-led tunes, and the all-round powerful performances that the M&P Blues Jam has to offer. This is one of those nights that you simply won’t want to end.
New York Brass Band
Saturday 5th March 2022
Doors: 5pm
Happy Hour: 5-6:30pm
Gig: 9:30pm-12:30am
£7 Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
For the big Saturday of our Mardi Gras Weekend, we really couldn’t hope for a much more perfect band. Trumpets, trombones, saxophone, sousaphone, percussion, and drums - i.e. the perfect recipe for dancing the night away in true Mardi Gras style. Classics and moderns given the NYBB treatment… It’s a night like no other.
New York Brass band were one of the first contemporary Brass Bands to play at M&P's. With a full-on 8-piece New Orleans inspired gig, these guys certainly set the bar for a night of cool Brass sounds!
New York Brass Band are North Yorkshire’s only contemporary New Orleans inspired Brass Band. Hailing from the ancient streets of York the band are at the forefront of a funky brass revolution that is sweeping the UK.
Inspired by Rebirth Brass Band, Soul Rebels, Hot 8, Youngblood and Brassroots, NYBB pack a powerful punch of relentless drums, rumbling tuba and wailing horns… nothing kicks a party into gear like the sound of a smokin’ New Orleans Mardi Gras Jazz Band.
Bring your dancing shoes!
Henry Botham - *Free Early Evening Gig*
Saturday 5th March 2022
Doors: 5pm
Happy Hour: 5-6:30pm
Gig: 5:30pm-6:30am
Free Entry
We don’t take advance table reservations for early-evening gigs, so make sure you’re at the club when the doors open to guarantee the best seats!
Plus it’s HAPPY HOUR 5-6:30pm
-> 2 drinks = FREE PIZZA
-> 2 house cocktails = £10
Henry Botham’s Piano Gumbo is sure to get you appreciating all that New Orleans music has to offer. With many years of experience, Henry has earned a stellar reputation as a New Orleans and Harlem Stride pianist. Come by, get in the Mardi Gras mood with some free pizza and cocktails, and enjoy both classic and more modern material given the NOLA piano treatment…
Henry Botham is one of the UK’s leading Harlem Stride, Blues and New Orleans pianists, most noted for his work with 52 Skidoo, The Nightcreatures, and Mr. Wilson’s Second Liners. With Henry’s hugely diverse musical ability being clear, it’s fair to say that his solo performances are something truly special.
Henry has a huge passion for and appreciation of New Orleans piano, which draws from a wide range of influences including Blues, Jazz, Funk, R&B, Rhumba, Ragtime and even Classical music and Rock. This is the music of and inspired by Dr John, Jelly Roll Morton, James Booker, and Jon Cleary.
Audiences will not only enjoy Henry’s playing, but also his both witty and interesting introductions to both the style at large and the songs he will play.
Having his musical roots in traditional New Orleans music certainly doesn’t stop Henry being a pioneer of bringing this distinct style into the modern age, you can expect some surprises from Henry along the way, from Prince, to The Beatles, to The Prodigy and beyond, all remaining true to the New Orleans style.
The Nightcreatures
Friday 4th March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-7:30pm
Gig: 9:30pm-12:30am
£7 Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Our Mardi Gras Weekend begins! And who better to get us in the foot-stomping New Orleans mood than the mighty Nightcreatures. With a fantastic repertoire of New Orleans material, a stunning vocalist, and a blaring horn section… It really couldn’t be better.
Weather allowing… The band will be parading around the Northern Quarter from 9pm - if that’s not New Orleans-y, what is?!
The Nightcreatures are a mighty line up of powerful vocals, electric guitar, trumpet, trombone, sousaphone, piano, and drums. Together, The Nightcreatures boast a rich and well-defined sound sure to leave you in pure admiration whilst dancing the night away to their hugely catchy repertoire.
The Nightcreatures play New Orleans R&B inspired by the all-time NOLA greats: the recordings of Dr John, James Booker, Professor Longhair, and Tom Waits to name but a few. They draw repertoire from a varied mixture of New Orleans classics, old time Blues, traditional Spirituals, Mardi Gras, and old-school Rock, whilst also giving The Nightcreatures treatment to some more modern numbers.
This is set to be a night starting with kicking back in admiration of these hugely talented musicians brilliantly recreating and twisting NOLA sounds, and ending the night dancing to some bangers like you’ve never heard before.
The Line Up:
Tom Davies – Vocal/Guitar
Henry Botham – Piano
Hugh Lawrence – Drums
Pete Robinson – Sousaphone
Chris Bridges – Trombone
Paul Brickles - Trumpet
Graham Costello's STRATA
Thursday 3rd March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-8pm
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Hypnotising and powerful minimal music.
Scottish drummer and composer Graham Costello creates minimalist-inspired music that ranges from ambient and post-rock, to jazz improvisation and noise rock. Primarily with his band STRATA, he has been nominated for Scottish Album of the Year, as well as seven Scottish Jazz Awards.
Costello formed STRATA in 2016 to blend stylistic elements of minimalism, jazz and noise bands together with a strong DIY ethic. This ethic came from Costello’s involvement in the DIY/indie scene, growing up touring all over Europe with noise rock and electro-psych bands. It was his formal studies in jazz that then led to the formation of STRATA - a band that would bring the two worlds together and become a crucial band at the forefront of new Scottish jazz artists surging into the UK scene and beyond.
This energy of noise rock, the organic improvisation of jazz, and the hypnotising patterns and feel of minimalism has been described as “a meteorite on the scene in Scotland and beyond.” (The National)
After his widely-praised debut album OBELISK in 2019, Costello signed to Gearbox Records (Binker and Moses, Abduallah Ibrahim, Theon Cross, Sarathy Korwar). In May 2021, he released his follow-up album with STRATA: Second Lives, to critical acclaim, with top UK jazz publication Jazzwise naming it one of the “Best Jazz Albums of 2021”.
“Raw-noise excursions with ambient hums, infectious minimalist loops, lyrically meditative short interludes and chord-punching rock, thrilling drumming from the leader...and the word on the pre-pandemic wires suggests their live show is even better.” - Jazzwise (Editor’s Choice)
The Jazz Defenders
Wednesday 2nd March 2022
Doors: 6pm
Happy Hour: 6-8pm
Gig: 9pm-12am
Free Entry
Table bookings:
- Latest booking: 8:45pm
- Tables held no later than 9pm
To book a table, call:
- 0161 273 5495, 10am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 0161 831 7002, after 5pm Monday-Saturday
- Or leave a message outside of these times and we’ll get back to you.
Led by one of the UK's most formidable Jazz pianists, George Cooper, The Jazz Defenders are a group born from a deep love of Blue Note Jazz, drawing on a wealth of inspiration to craft their own raw and vibrant compositions.
The hard bop recordings of Horace Silver, Hank Mobley, Lee Morgan and Art Blakey were highly regarded for a reason - catchy horn lines and incredible musicianship combined with Rudy Van Gelder's engineering skills mean they will forever be regarded as classics of the genre. The Jazz Defenders are a group that 'defend' the legacy of those recordings whilst creating its own original identity and distinction. The music they produce together is a modern soul jazz slant on this classic Hard Bop, effortlessly channelling the spirit of the golden Blue Note era of Jazz.
The group's brainchild, pianist and composer George Cooper, has at a young age already amassed a comprehensive repertoire of musical credits including Hans Zimmer, Nigel Kennedy, U2, Omar, Slum Village, MF Doom, Brand New Heavies, The Haggis Horns, Abstract Orchestra and Lack of Afro.
“Absolutely storming!” - Jamie Cullum
“Wonderfully put together” - Craig Charles
“Every track a winner - amazing!” - Snowboy
Line Up:
George Cooper // Piano
Ian Matthews // Drums
Will Harris // Bass
Nick Malcolm // Trumpet
Jake McMurchie // Sax