FRIDAY JUNE 20th, 8.45pm : SHAKATAK

SHAKATAK WEBSITE

Rarely has a group enjoyed so much success in a jazz field but tonight we were given insight into why they are held in such high regard. They are consummate professionals with seemingly unlimited stamina and an instinctive ability to hold an audience…tonight they proved they are timeless”. BUZZ Magazine (UK)

“This music still glows as brightly as that first hearing…Shakatak aren’t just a band, they were the soundtrack to our lives” RONNIE SCOTT’S House Magazine (UK)

”A wild diversity seldom found anymore… tons of rhythmic and stylistic variety…slamming” JAZZIZ Magazine (USA)

“Weaving a potent dose of perfect pop into their unmistakable brand of jazz-funk…..producing a string of timeless classics. Funkier than a mosquito’s tweeter, they’re still firing on all cylinders”. Boisdale

Throughout their long career Shakatak have released over 50 CDs plus several DVDs and most of the band’s extensive back catalogue is available world-wide on Secret Records or JVC Records plus iTunes and the usual outlets.

For live performances the band consists of original members Bill Sharpe (keys), Jill Saward (lead voc, perc & flt), Roger Odell (drs), George Anderson (bs gtr) and Keith Winter (gtr & bvs) augmented with Jacqui Hicks (bvs & sax) or Debby Bracknell (bvs & flute) producing a musically dynamic and entertaining show from the 6 piece line-up.
 
Shakatak have enjoyed a level of success and career longevity rarely paralleled in contemporary music but then Shakatak is a particularly unusual group. Because of the nature of their music their fan base is one that is far reaching while always retaining an “underground” element. This paradox sees the band, who are known primarily for their musicality, enjoying both high “cult” status and instant recognition as a household name due to their numerous hit recordings.

Shakatak’s sound has evolved over the years, incorporating elements of dance, soul, and smooth jazz into their music. They have released numerous albums and singles, maintained a dedicated fan base and continuing to perform live shows worldwide. Their longevity in the music industry, along with their ability to blend various genres into a distinctive style, has solidified Shakatak as influential figures in the jazz-funk and pop music scenes.
 
In 2020 Shakatak planned to celebrate their 40th Anniversary with the release of a new single, a 3 CD/1 DVD Box Set and a limited edition book containing the band’s personal photos from their tours worldwide. Unfortunately, Covid delayed this release until 2022. The band are delighted that the original member guitarist Keith Winter is performing again with Shakatak which now completes the original line up. Keith was forced by illness to cease playing but he has made an amazing recovery after 18 years of inactivity!