JamBox is a unique project that allows musicians of all levels to play alongside established professionals who normally provide backing for some of the top names in the business.
Launching on 5 September in the BoxBar at BoxPark, Croydon, JamBox’s house band will be led by Emile Sande’s musical director, Gavin Powell.
It features James Bay’s, guitarist Andy Cortes, Rita Ora’s drummer, Dexter Hercules, and Calum Scott’s bassist, Steve Solomon – meaning audiences are assured of an electrifying, spontaneous display of top entertainment.
The sessions are supported through a grant from Croydon Council and are run by Jupiter Management, a music management company co-founded by Emili Sande.
She said: “I love getting together and having a jam with other musicians. It’s not often you get to express yourself spontaneously and authentically. My favourite part of music is the creation and when you jam. It’s an honest expression of everyone’s mood and energy that day – including the audience.”
Anyone wanting to join in and show off their skills can sign up to play between 7pm and 7.30pm on the night. The event is free, and anyone is welcome to come along and listen in.
Jupiter Management founder and organiser of JamBox, Ruth Titmarsh, said: “It’s rare to see musicians play like this, speaking their own language and expressing their characters. Through JamBox, I want to bring this experience to the people who don’t get to see this raw side of music.”
Councillor Timothy Godfrey, cabinent member for culture, leisure, and sport, said: “Having the chance to play with musicians of this calibre will be a dream come true for many local performers and will also provide a brilliant night’s entertainment for audiences. I’m delighted the council is able to support projects like this as they are hugely important in changing people’s perceptions of what Croydon is all about.”
JamBox is a collaboration with OffShoot, NOWHERENEAR and Small Green Shoots and is also supported by Arts Council England and BoxPark. The nights will be hosted by Capital XTra’s Rio Attoh-Wood.
