Span Arts presents:

SpanJazz: Jim Mullen & Zoe Francis with John Gibbon Trio

Plas Hyfryd Hotel, Narberth

Thursday 19 July, 2018

SpanJazz brings multi award-winning Guitar supremo Jim Mullen and dazzling vocalist Zoe Francis to Narberth next month. With Jim's unique, seductive soft-edged sound, alongside Zoe’s classy poise, sultry tones and stunning voice that commands attention, the audience will be in for a real treat.

Glasgow-born Jim Mullen is a guitarist whose career spans five decades. He has worked with US stars including Mose Allison, Gene Harris, Jimmy Smith, Teddy Edwards and Jimmy Withersppon. In the UK he has worked with Brian Auger, Georgie Fame and Claire Martin and had a fifteen year association with saxophonist Dick Morrissey in the Morrisey Mullen Band. He has recorded many CDs under his own name and currently works with his organ trio and wife, Zoe Francis.

“Jim Mullen's guitar … is endlessly attractive…that unique soft-edged sound, the result of plucking the stings with his thumb, rather than a plectrum, and his way of turning a tune – any tune – this way and that to reveal unexpected beauties” The Guardian

Zoe Francis began singing while living in New York and attending weekly jazz workshops with pianist Barry Harris and performing in jam sessions around Manhattan with top US players like Harry Allen and Joe Cohn. Returning to the UK she began working with pianist Dave Newton and recorded her first CD with him. Her second CD saw her collaborate with Jim Mullen and an all-star UK band, featuring saxophonist Stan Sulzmann and pianist Gareth Williams. Zoe's childhood was spent in Ireland surrounded with art created by her father John and grand-father Colin Middleton.

“Zoe Francis … communicates a love and understanding of classic songs with an irresistable swing,” The Observer.

“Zoe is a classy poised singer who commands attention throughout.” London Jazz News.

Span Arts' long-running jazz monthly takes place in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere at the wonderful Plas Hyfryd Hotel, Narberth. With real ales, a meal available and great foot-tapping music, this venue is the perfect environment for this exceptional event. This extraordinary evening of glorious Jazz is one that is not to be missed.

Tickets: Advance: £11/£10/£10 Door: £12/£11/£11 (Full/Span Members/Concessions) Starts 8pm