Babel Brass Band
PizzaExpress Live Soho

Babel Brass Band

calendar_todayTHU · Nov 12, 2026 · 20:00

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About the Event

Hold onto your hats and prepare to have your socks knocked off because the Babel Brass Band, also known as the Brass Bad Boys. These cheeky fellas have taken it upon themselves to prove that jazz isn’t just for dimly lit lounges and snooty hat-wearers; it’s for anyone who has ever tapped their feet under the table (or secretly dreamt of leading a second-line parade).

Imagine a funky cocktail that mixes New Orleans jazz with pop hooks and hip-hop swagger, served with a side of positivity that would make even your grumpiest relative crack a smile. Expect extra spice and maybe a few surprises from these notorious Brass Bad Boys!

With the power of a tuba that sounds like a party on two legs and trumpet riffs that are sharper than a pizza cutter, Babel Brass is here to get you grooving like nobody's watching—though we can’t promise your dance moves won’t end up on social media! So get ready to abandon your best table manners and let loose, because this night of joyful musical mayhem is bound to leave you grinning from ear to ear (and probably craving pizza, too). Just a heads-up: when the beat drops, it’s officially impossible to resist the urge to dance, so bring your best moves, a celebratory slice of pizza, and maybe a spare pair of socks; you’ll need them after all that celebration on the dance floor!

Jaco Pastorius' iconic quote, "We are the party," perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Babel Brass Band. We are dedicated to entertaining people and spreading happiness through our music. With every performance, we bring a vibrant party atmosphere that leaves everyone wanting more!

The story of Babel Brass Band started just before the global pandemic in 2020. A diverse group of musicians from the London music scene came together, bonding over a pint of craft beer and shared appreciation for the vibrant rhythms of contemporary New Orleans brass bands. Although each member had an extensive background in different areas - big band ensembles, symphony orchestras, jazz groups, British traditional bands, and session work - they united in this singular love for a more eclectic contemporary brass band sound. Their journey as a performing band started in 2021, immediately after the challenging standstill of the COVID-19 pandemic. With a backlog of rehearsed performances and a drive to make up for the lost time, Babel Brass hit the ground running.

A couple of years forward, the band has performed more than 100 shows, impressing the UK and European audiences with their unique and vibrant sound. They have showcased their energetic and dynamic performances at many UK festivals, including Boardmasters, Brighton Fringe, Camp Bestival, All Points East, London Remixed, Meatopia, Rhythm Tree Festival, and Sundown Session, among others. Babel Brass Band is now widely recognized as one of the UK's most energetic, award-winning brass bands, doesn't confine itself to just one genre. Their sound is a lively mix of pop covers, Drum & Bass (D&B), funk, hip-hop, and jazz. Despite having their roots firmly grounded in the spirit of New Orleans brass bands, they bring a contemporary spin to their performances, allowing them to appeal to a wide variety of audiences.

They bring life, energy, and, most importantly, the heart and soul of music into each performance. Their success and popularity reflect not just their talent but their shared love for making great music.

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Sam Gouldsaxophone

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