LONDON: Boisdale of Canary Wharf

Wednesday 23rd July, 2025

6:00pm

Event information

The Pocket Ellington is proof that you don’t need a 15-piece orchestra to capture the rich, sophisticated swing of the Duke’s golden era - just the right players and a little musical mischief.

Brought together by acclaimed pianist and arranger Alex Webb, this razor-sharp ensemble distills the unmistakable Ellington sound into a lean, seven-piece powerhouse. With jazz heavyweights like Robert Fowler (tenor sax), Alan Barnes (reeds), Andy Davies (trumpet) and David Lalljee (trombone) at the front line, they punch well above their weight, weaving through the Duke’s iconic catalogue with flair and invention. Anchoring the groove are veteran bassist Dave Green, a mainstay of the UK jazz scene since his days with Humphrey Lyttelton, and the dynamic Winston Clifford on drums.

And then there’s Marvin Muoneké, “The Young Man with the Old Soul”, whose velvet baritone draws easy comparisons to Nat King Cole and Billy Eckstine, but with a smooth, modern confidence all his own. His rise on the UK jazz circuit has been turning heads, earning him airplay on Jazz FM and praise for bringing the classic male jazz vocal back into the spotlight.

Expect a set rich with Ellington’s finest: “Main Stem”, “Rain Check”, “Cotton Tail”, “Chelsea Bridge”, “Such Sweet Thunder" alongside clever nods to those the Duke inspired, fromCharles Mingus to Thelonious Monk and Gil Evans. It’s a slick, swinging celebration of jazz history, full of character, warmth and top-tier musicianship.

As Jazz FM put it - “one of the hardest swinging bands in the UK.”

Visit our Hine Bar and Heated Garden Terrace located on the 1st floor for pre & post-show drinks!

BOISDALE OF CANARY WHARF

Best Spirits List in the World 2022 at The World Of Fine Wine
Top Ten restaurant wine lists in London 2022 at The World Of Fine Wine

Perched elegantly above Cabot Square, Boisdale of Canary Wharf offers a multi-dimensional experience across two floors with DJ Nights on weekends at the vibrant first-floor Bar & Garden Terrace, while daily live music sets the perfect ambiance on the second-floor restaurant. Featuring a refined restaurant, four exclusive private dining rooms, the distinguished Hine Bar, extensive whisky and wine selection, a sophisticated Cigar Lounge, and an inviting Heated Garden Terrace, it's a haven for discerning patrons.

"London's number one jazz venue" Tatler
"Best Whisky Bar in the World" Whisky Magazine
"A carnivore's dream" Evening Standard
"Aged steaks are deemed incredible" Square Meal
"The world's most individualistic style bar & restaurant" Hot Tickets