Jules Hallam

Film taste: Gangster Films. Goodfellas, Blow, Casino, The Departed, Rock n' Rolla, Layer Cake, Snatch, Blood Diamond, The Bourne series. And Love Actually.

Music taste: Underground, hip hop, soul, dubstep, latin, beats.

Hangout: London Jazz Cafe, in my spats.

Most likes (about London): Playing music, listening to music, going to music events.

Least likes: Oil companies, people who carry wheel-along suitcases on the tube.

Me in 10 words: Music.Music.Sleep.More Music.

Reviews

venue 10 Downing Street Wednesday, 03 December
Is this a life-size photo?
artist Worldservice Project Wednesday, 12 November
Individual talent is evanescent throughout this band.

The drummer doesn't appear to be paying attention but he’s laying down a cymbal-heavy beat that complements funk-orientated bass lines masterfully. The trombonist and sax player are battling at the front of the stage with great rhythmic hooks and intertwining lead work that creates a sumptuous aura about the group. And the pianist jumps from subtle chord changes to heavy stabs and full-on solos that at times sound as if he's whacking the piano keys with a big hammer.

Exciting and fresh jazz talent. I am hoping to see The Worldservice Project all over London in the near future.
venue Worlds End Thursday, 16 October
Literally massive, this pub is quite frankly wicked on a Friday evening with all of Camden's alternative scene mustering here before dispersing at last orders to unsuspecting local clubs (Underworld).

From what I remember, a great venue.
artist Natalia Wednesday, 17 September
I’m not a big fan of pop music. In fact, when someone mentions Girls Aloud to me I agree with them. But then, whilst trawling the airwaves for something that interested me, I stumbled across the single 'Perfect Day.' With a soulful melody and R&B flair, I immediately assumed it was Rihanna's new single. I was soon corrected, however, as it turned out to be Girls Aloud support act Natalia.

Inspired by "perspective and positivity," the song is full of catchy rhythms and simplistic beats, complemented by beautiful vocals. Sitting at my computer I was able to discover her debut single 'Thanx for Nothin' and a third track 'Cookie Jar' that comes with registering for her newsletter.

Her debut album's released at the beginning of January. In amongst an overblown jazz collection, I may have to make room for one Welsh diva.
event Dover Jazz friday Monday, 15 September
My main issue with the event is the title. Allow me to elaborate. Located right in the heat of Mayfair below ground, the Dover Street setup incorporates a modest stage, cool mood lighting and great acoustics. The credentials to make a great jazz venue. You arrive to the aural delight of a trio of seasoned jazz musicians kicking back in the dining area and a mood of excitement and casual charm. A good start.

Just as you're finishing your jazz ice cream, the tables are whisked off the dance floor and an ensemble of musicians amble up to the stage and begin to tweak and strum instruments. They start and the dance floor is immediately filled with the wealthy and prosperous. But they're not playing jazz. They're playing crowd-pleasing covers.

Admittedly, they are being played with particular panache and everyone appears to be loving it. A great night out, but not for real jazz lovers.
event Covarrubias Son Friday, 12 September
When you see six sun-kissed women strut on to a stage sporting velvet shirts and red trilbys, you certainly expect something special. Then you realise that they're here to play a blend of soft Latin charm with upbeat Cuban stylings. All very talented musicians, they create a great vibe to complement your Mojito or tapas dish. Playing intermittently throughout the evening you're sure to enjoy a little latino heat.
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