On the 23-27 May, the place to be for Jazz, Blues, Soul, Funk and Acid Jazz is the Sidmouth International Jazz and Blues Festival. Now in its third year this popular festival is a true gem in a beautiful setting. Home Farm Hotel Bed and Breakfast is an ideal base to stay, as this countryside retreat is around 20-25 minutes drive from Sidmouth, in the village of Wilmington (book here).
We went to the festival last year and saw the Brand New Heavies perform in the well-organised and greatly situated Blackmore Gardens in Sidmouth. The band were excellent and the atmosphere around the whole town was vibrant and enticing, with many smaller venues holding events, performances, workshops and masterclasses. There are plenty of pubs and street food vendors within a short walk from the main venue, selling food from all around the world to satisfy any palate. Sidmouth beachfront itself is also a short walk away from the main venue and the town, for when you need a breather during the day.
The line up this year is incredible, with the smooth, powerful and ‘Gold’ voice of Tony Hadley (from the band Spandau Ballet who have provided soundtracks to 80’s disco’s and every wedding ever since (!) with their hits such as ‘Gold’ and ‘True’). Tony brings a bit of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, and some of the Spandau Ballet hits to this beautiful part of Devon.
If Soul, R and B and Acid Jazz are your thing, then on the 24th May the main acts are Roachford and MF Robots. Andrew Roachford is a prolific singer and songwriter with hits such as ‘Cuddly Toy’ and singing with Terence Trent D’Arby and Beverly Knight as well as being a member of Mike and the Mechanics. MF Robots was founded by Jan Kincaid (founder member and formerly of the band ‘Brand New Heavies’) and Dawn Joseph (backing vocalist for Rick Astley).
Other amazing acts appearing at the festival include Roberto Fonseca, the award-winning artist straight from Havana, and the legendary Ruby Turner (amongst her hits are also almost yearly appearances on Jools Holland’s Hootenanny show each New Year!).
If you are interested in attending this fabulous event , see the Sidmouth International Jazz and Blues Festival 2024 website for full line up and events, and to book tickets.