The Lapazoos

A band formed to perform at London’s “Nightjar” cocktail bar soon after the bar opened some 15 years ago. They have featured there every month ever since, playing a mixture of swing, New Orleans, blues, ballads, performed with ‘joie de vivre’, giving fun and life to a broad repertoire of songs that audiences warm to.

The band has been expanded for the Isle of Wight Jazz Festival with the addition of trumpet and drums.

Laurence Corns on guitar and vocals

Graham Hughes on trombone, chromatic harmonica and vocals,

Ben Cummings on trumpet and vocals,

Brett Neville on double bass

Dave Ingamells on drums

Laurence Corns:

He had an early interest in Zimbabwean music, before being immersed in Harlem swing in France with the ‘Lost Wandering Blues and Jazz Band’, featuring Madeleine Peyroux and touring the world. He has also been involved with many theatre productions at the National Theatre, The Globe and elsewhere.

Graham Hughes:

May be seen playing trombone, chromatic harmonica, double bass, sousaphone or singing, in his own bands The Brass Volcanoes, Sunshine Kings, Champagne Swing among others, or with a host of other bands who appreciate his versatile contributions.

Ben Cummings:

Equally at home in vintage, New Orleans a modern jazz, as well as soul, pop and salsa, he has played on stages large and small across the world. A great performer, singer and also whistler!

Brett Nevill:

Playing bass with us, but also plays banjo, harmonica and guitar. His instinctive feel across jazz, swing and roots styles makes him a popular choice for visiting international musicians, and we are delighted to have him with the Lapazoos.

Dave Ingamells:

A popular drummer based in London performing with jazz groups across the spectrum, from early vintage style to contemporary, with everything in-between. He is a regular member of the Kate Williams Trio, in addition to groups led by Tara Minton, Brandon Allen and Scott Stroman.