Gigspot: George Duke | Jazz Cafe

Last night we had the pleasure of seeing legendary jazz-funk act George Duke at the Jazz Cafe. It was our first time seeing Mr Duke and we thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a night of masterful music that got very funky at times, especially towards the end - which suited us down to the ground! Happily, George & his band even threw in a short rendition of one of our favourite tracks of his called 'Shine On', which he explained wasn't usual for him these days as he "can't do that falsetto stuff anymore!"

George Duke is a class act and funny guy. His tour bassist, Michael Manson, deserves a mention because he was superb. Bass, just the way we like it. Check out our video from the night below and head over to our YouTube channel for two more videos. Long live the Duke!

Gigspot: Maceo Parker | Jazz Cafe 2

Last night we took in Maceo Parker at the Jazz Cafe, London, for the first time since we last saw him there back in 2008 - far too long to wait!

If VibeRide could have a spokesman or a person to represent what we're all about, then Maceo Parker would be my number one choice, without a doubt. I just love everything about this guy. His passion, his presence, his humour, and most of all his musical ability with that alto-sax. For a 68 year old, this guy has some serious stamina and in fact was still funking it hard when we (very reluctantly) had to leave to get our train! If I get to 68 and I've got anything like his energy I will be delighted.

I'm not going to wax lyrical about the gig and get into an in-depth review because, really, I don't think it's necessary. Except to say that Dennis Rollins was especially awesome on the night, as was Maceo's nephew, Corey Parker on drums - this young man has some serious skills.

Check out the video below and wallow in it. You'll find the rest here. No one does "funk" like Maceo. Everyone, music lover or not, should see Maceo Parker live at least once in their lifetime. It's one of those things in life that is just good for you. You come out feeling alive. Long live Maceo!

Gigspot: Serpentine Fire | Jazz Cafe

Last night we checked out Earth, Wind & Fire tribute band, Serpentine Fire, at the Jazz Cafe. Now, it's not a simple task to reproduce EWF's music because of the complexity and richness of it, but these guys do it extremely well. 

They've got a big set up, the percussion and horns going on, and some great vocalists who can reach those dizzying falsetto highs that Philip Bailey is famed for. If you never get to see Earth, Wind & Fire, then Serpentine Fire really are the next best thing. They're top musicians in their own right and EWF's music is a great way for them to show this. Be sure to check them out next time!

Check out their renditions of 'Getaway' and 'September'...

Gigspot: Earth, Wind & Fire | London

Last week we had the enormous priviledge of seeing Earth, Wind & Fire perform live. Although I lived in hope, I never really believed I'd get to see Earth, Wind & Fire because it seemed their touring days were over. Naturally then, when I heard they were playing London I felt like a kid with a new toy.

Gigspot: Roy Ayers | New Years Eve '09

Seeing as VibeRide spent New Years Eve at the Jazz Cafe in London with none other than the legendary Roy Ayers, we thought you might like to hear about it. So here goes.

GigSpot: Ronnie Scott's | Jazz FM's Funky Sensation

Last month Jazz FM announced they would be hosting a regular saturday night event in the upstairs bar at the world-famous jazz venue, Ronnie Scott's.

This weekend VibeRide was asked to go along as guests of Jazz FM to check it out and we were, of course, very happy to do so.

GigSpot: Chic | Kentish Town Forum

We went along to catch a rare performance by Chic at the Kentish Town forum in London and were treated to a great night of funktitude.

GigSpot: Tribute To MJ | Jazz Cafe

We're just back from a highly enjoyable night at the Jazz Cafe in Camden, London and I'd like to tell you about it if I may. Tonight was the second, and final, night of the Jazz Cafe's 'A Tribute To Michael Jackson' show.

GigSpot: Incognito 30th Anniversary | O2 Indigo

Ever since it was announced that Incognito would be performing with Jocelyn Brown at the Indigo to celebrate their 30th Anniversary we had been anticipating a great night and that's exactly what we got. The Indigo was a far better stage for Incognito than the Camden Centre - where we had seen them perform in April - and the O2 arena's venue within a venue allowed their musical and vocal brilliance to burst forth.

GigSpot: recommendations

Dates for your diary

Vibe Ride recommends the following gigs (we've put our money where our mouth is and already have our tickets!).

GigSpot: Maceo Parker | Jazz Cafe

An absolute legend. The Jazz Cafe ended up adding a date that I made my sister go to because I knew she would love it (and she did). Aged 66 Maceo Parker is a performer who just didn't seem to tire. A saxophonist who cut his teeth playing with James Brown in the 60s (who, it is alleged, would fine people for a wrong note!). Maceo appears to have learnt a few dance moves from James Brown too!

GigSpot: Incognito | Kings Cross

Incognito are a British band who are celebrating their thirtieth anniversary with a concert at IndigO2 at the O2 in London this August. We saw them in April at the Camden Centre and although the vibe was excellent the sound in that venue was not the best. Nevertheless we enjoyed the gig immensely. There were fifteen musicians and singers on that small stage by the end! Guitarist Jim Mullen, who toured with the Average White Band, had a guest spot. The musicians and vocals were excellent and we're looking forward to seeing what Bluey's got planned for IndigO2. Anna

GigSpot: Roy Ayers | Jazz cafe

On new years eve 2008 we ventured out into cold to the Jazz Cafe in Camden to see the ubiquitous Roy Ayers. It is something I have always loved about jazz; it is the only place a man can play the xylophone and be cool! But cool he most certainly is.

GigSpot: Stevie Wonder | 2008 tour

The last twelve months has, in my opinion, been an unprecedented year for live music in London with a number of bands and artists visiting the capital. Music with a funk vibe has been no exception with Stevie Wonder visiting the UK for the first time in many years; Roy Ayers taking up residence in the Jazz Cafe for a week; the brilliant Incognito celebrating thirty years and outstanding performances by the effervescent Maceo Parker.