Noel will be performing with his quartet showcasing a mix of “Groove” based originals and some classic Groove standards delivered in his own, inimitable, way.

The two sets feature a vibrant mix of classic covers and original songs, with Noel effortlessly transitioning from a soft croon to a powerful, funk-driven howl. He delivers classics from Curtis Mayfield, Al Jarreau, Al Green, and Marvin Gaye with ease. A standout moment is his jazzy reimagining of Sting’s “Fragile”. Among his original tracks, “Sleepless,” “Prove It,” and “The Real Thing” shine brightly.

In true jazz tradition, the gig has a playful, improvisational edge. The new song “Boy Toy, Gun Fun, Gun Bust, Boy Dust” is jammed out, inspired by a tragic news story, while “Grandma’s Hands” is a heartfelt celebration of his family life.

“a confident, graceful and dynamic singer” – Independent on Sunday

“glowing set from soul artist Noel McCalla who gave his band a spring in its step, and a performance of spine tingling falsetto and careering funk” – The Guardian

Line Up:

Tim Cansfield (guitar)

Henry Thomas (bass)

Nic France (drums)

Noel (Vocals)

Noel masterfully blends classic covers and original songs, moving from soft croons to funk-infused howls. He performs tracks by Curtis Mayfield, Al Green, and Marvin Gaye, with a standout jazzy rework of Sting’s “Fragile.” Originals like “Sleepless” and “The Real Thing” add to his dynamic set.

Starting in the 1970s with the band Moon, Noel later launched a solo career with Night Time Emotion and toured with Sniff and the Tears, contributing to “Driver’s Seat.” He formed McCalla and gained recognition as a soul singer with the Morrissey-Mullen Band. He spent over 19 years with Manfred Mann’s Earth Band and released his latest album Count All Your Blessings in 2022.

Tim Cansfield (Guitar)

Tim Cansfield, born in Trinidad, is a self-taught guitarist who has worked with top artists like the Bee Gees, Elton John, Chaka Khan, and Annie Lennox. He currently performs with Swing Out Sister, Barry Gibb, and others, and contributed to the music for both Paddington films.

Henry Thomas (Bass)

Henry “King Thumb” Thomas is a renowned bassist who has performed with countless international artists and recorded for numerous hit records, TV shows, and films. He is also a co-founder of the BBC TV series Rockschool.

Nic France (Drums)

Nic France, one of the UK’s top drummers, has performed with leading artists since moving to London in 1980. He has played with Ian Carr, Bill Withers, Tanita Tikaram, and David Gilmour, and was a founding member of Loose Tubes. Nic currently performs with Soft Machine and teaches at Goldsmiths College London.