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Claire Martin & Laurence Cottle: Bass to Face

Friday 4 September, 5.30pm

Ocean Room, National Waterfront Museum

Two of Britain’s most celebrated jazz musicians, Claire Martin OBE and Laurence Cottle, join forces at the Swansea International Jazz Festival to present their exciting new project, Bass to Face.

This unique duo showcases songs they have written together over the years, but also classics from Monk to Ellington, Strayhorn and Porter, they’re also adding some Carpenter’s and Randy Crawford tunes for good measure.

Claire Martin, a multi‑award‑winning vocalist and one of the UK’s most loved jazz singers, brings warmth, soul and impeccable phrasing to every performance. She is joined by world‑renowned bassist Laurence Cottle, whose extraordinary electric bass virtuosity has placed him at the top tier of international players.

Come to experience the remarkable interplay between Claire’s expressive vocals and Laurence’s richly melodic bass lines, with the added surprise of Laurence also stepping forward on trombone.

Close friends and collaborators for over three decades, Claire and Laurence have appeared together in settings ranging from small jazz groups to orchestras on stages around the world. Bass to Face is a long‑imagined project finally brought to life, distilling their musical chemistry into a duo bursting with creativity, energy and freedom.

Expect world‑class musicianship, playful spontaneity, and a duo sound unlike anything else on today’s jazz scene.

Praise for Claire Martin & Laurence Cottle:

“World‑class.” – Clive Davis, The Times

“If there’s jazz royalty in Britain, Claire Martin is definitely ermine‑clad.” – Andrew Cartmel, UK Jazz News

A must‑see highlight of this year’s Swansea International Jazz Festival.

Book your tickets now! 

 

 

This performance is part of the 2026 Swansea International Jazz Festival. See the full programme at www.visitswanseabay.com/swansea-international-jazz-festival/

 

Swansea International Jazz Festival Wristband - Book for all 10 ticketed shows for the one-off price of £175 with our multi-ticket discount (a saving of £48 compared to individual tickets). Limited availability. Find out more information and how to book here!