October 15, 2026
Doors at 7.15pm
We are delighted to welcome the legendary Grammy-award winning American tenor and soprano saxophonist, Jean Toussaint, to Smokey Joe’s Jazz Club.
Originally from St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands, Jean Toussaint left Berklee College of Music, Boston, in 1982 to join Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers. It was the beginning of an inspired five years spent with musicians including Terence Blanchard, Mulgrew Miller and others. While in New York, Jean also worked with Gil Evans, McCoy Tyner and Wynton Marsalis. An incredible beginning to an amazing career which has continued to grow and establish Jean as a renowned international jazz artist. Jean moved to London in the late 1980’s, where he established himself on the European scene, leading his own bands, releasing a host of albums, collaborating with Bheki Mseleku, Julian Joseph, Jason Rebello, Courtney Pine, Cleveland Watkiss and many others. He has continued to tour with US artists, including Cedar Walton, Donald Brown, Eddie Henderson and Jeff ‘Tain’ Watts. Joining Jean tonight, we have the awesome house band, with the barefoot energy, flying socks and passion of Alex Steele on piano; the insuperable groove merchant, Mike ‘Buddy’ Cypher on drums; and the beautifully melodic, lyrical, eloquent and effervescent, Mike ‘Moyk’ Green on double bass.
Word has it too that there may be a special guest in the house tonight, the incredible Paris-based pianist, Cheltenham’s own, Tommy Scott. It’s a surprise, so don’t tell Jean! It’s going to be a night of unbridled jazz beauty and innovation! Come to Smokey Joe’s on Thursday 15th October, as we welcome one of our biggest jazz legends yet to Cheltenham town and the awesome Smokey Joe’s Jazz Club. We’re looking forward to seeing you there!
If you would like to dine at the gig, please contact Smokey Joe’s directly to reserve a table. Tel: 01242 513744 or 01242232102www.smokeyjoescheltenham.co.uk
