PizzaExpress Jazz Club (Soho)

Award-winning trumpeter James Copus brings an exciting quartet featuring some of the finest musicians on the London scene; Shane Forbes (Empirical, Courtney Pine, Soweto Kinch), Ferg Ireland (Ashley Henry, Kansas Smitty’s, Gregory Porter) Will Barry (Jasper Hoiby, Kansas Smitty’s, Alex Hitchcock). The group will play some of the music from Copus’ debut album ‘Dusk’, along with some brand new material.

“Think of all the qualities that make a great trumpeter: a full brassy tone, dazzling runs and immaculate articulation, a range that sends the high notes soaring into the stratosphere, imagination and sensitivity … James has all these and more”

The Jazzman

Copus’ music combines his love for the energy of the Blue Note era combined with his search for more contemporary sounds. His sophisticated compositions manipulate a wide-ranging spectrum of emotion and whilst it is intricate music, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

"‘Straight Ahead’ burns with rhythmic poise while providing a boisterous unabated counterpoint with Copus’ virtuosic trumpet. Meanwhile, this is offset with subtle melodic lyricism on ‘Yearning’, and precise ensemble dexterity on ‘The Line’. Listening to ‘Dusk’, it is soon made apparent Copus has exceeded a fine debut. It is a compelling and searching statement of intent. Following the example of gifted predecessors Kenny Wheeler and Gerard Presencer, Copus has fuelled his ambitions earning experience as a session musician and sideman (Jorja Smith, Jacob Collier…). Copus' unique abilities ensure his renown as a highly sought-after collaborator, however his deep-seated humility guarantees he is always working conscientiously at his craft. While Copus' artistry retains firm roots in the accomplishments of his forerunners, the voice is very much his own; powerful and indicative of a vision transcending its influences. " Reuben Fowler

Band Line Up

James Copus (trumpet)

Will Barry (piano)

Ferg Ireland (bass)

Shane Forbes (drums)