The Jazz Defenders

The Jazz Defenders are a powerhouse of hard bop soul, led by one of the UK’s most formidable jazz pianists and composers, George Cooper. Taking inspiration from the golden era of Blue Note, they channel the spirit of Horace Silver, Art Blakey, and Lee Morgan - though not through imitation, but through a bold catalogue of entirely original compositions that capture the style’s timeless groove and flair while forging a sound that’s unmistakably their own.

 

Built on deep grooves, tight horn lines, and a vibrant sense of swing, their music is a compelling blend of soul jazz, hip hop, funk, and cinematic soundtrack influences. It’s jazz with grit, groove, and swagger; music that’s as infectious on the dance-floor as it is thrilling in a listening room.

 

The Jazz Defenders have lit up stages at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club and other top venues across the UK and Europe, earning a reputation for electrifying live shows and world-class musicianship. Their growing international profile includes two albums that reached the top ten in the USA jazz charts, plus radio support from Jamie Cullum (BBC Radio 2), Lauren Laverne (BBC 6 Music), Craig Charles (BBC Radio 2 & 6 Music), Jazz FM and hundreds of other radio stations worldwide.

 

Founder George Cooper brings a rich musical résumé to the group, having worked with icons across genres including Hans Zimmer, Nigel Kennedy, U2, Omar, Slum Village, MF DOOM, Abstract Orchestra, The Brand New Heavies and many more.

 

 

The all-star lineup features:

 

Jake McMurchie – tenor sax

Quentin Collins – trumpet

Will Harris – double/electric bass

Ian Matthews – drums

George Cooper – piano/keyboards

 

Together, The Jazz Defenders don’t just pay homage to the past - they redefine it.

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“Absolutely storming!”

Jamie Cullum

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“The most exciting British jazz group out there right now”

Music Republic Magazine