Fleece Jazz

Led by guitar legend John Etheridge, the Blue Spirits Trio includes Pete Whittaker (organ) & George Double (drums) and came about through John’s love of the perennially attractive combination of Electric Guitar and Organ. Blue Spirits have a take on this well-known combination in a way that connects with the bluesier, intense side of John’s playing. There are plenty of typical swing elements, augmented by soulful ballads and fiery funk outings all presented with warm humour by John. 

John Etheridge rightly enjoys a glowing reputation throughout the jazz world and beyond and has been described by Pat Metheny as, “One of the best guitarists in the world”. He is a prodigiously gifted and creative player whose approach to music can only be described as eclectic, his range being well illustrated by his years of touring and recording with Stephane Grappelli and the legendary jazz fusion group, Soft Machine.

Organist Pete Whittaker has been with the band from its inception; his musical inspirations include Jimmy Smith, Larry Young and Jack McDuff. Although a big fan of the Hammond B3 organ, Whittaker is more likely to be found on the road with a digital keyboard, the Crumar Mojo, which has been adopted by many keyboardists, due to its ability to faithfully emulate the sound and feel of a tone wheel organ while being easier to lug around gigs than a hefty B3.

Drummer George Double joined the trio around eight years ago and brings his wealth of experience to the Trio, having played with artists such as Dame Shirley Bassey, Grammy Award Winner Jack Jones, Marc Almond, Mica Paris, Chris Ingham, Digby Fairweather and Art Themen.

• John Etheridge - Guitars
• Pete Whittaker - Organ
• George Double - Drums

Fleece Jazz is an independent, non-profit association run by a voluntary committee who have been providing modern and contemporary jazz for 28 years. They book talented musicians and jazz bands from the UK and beyond to perform at Stoke by Nayland Resort, providing the perfect backdrop for these cherished and popular events.

Fleece Jazz events are generally held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month.