Shez Raja

Voted one of the hottest bass players in the world by readers of Bass Player magazine, virtuoso British-Asian bass player Shez Raja is renowned for his high-energy live shows, unique Indo-jazz-funk sound, and global star collaborations with Mike Stern, Randy Brecker, Trilok Gurtu, and Wayne Krantz. Shez leads a stunning lineup that features sax sensation Vasilis Xenopoulos, Chris Jerome (Courtney Pine) on keys, and rising star Jamie ‘Drumcat’ Murray on drums. Following spectacular performances at top UK venues, including the Royal Festival Hall, Islington Assembly Hall, and the Jazz Café, as well as major international jazz festivals from Europe to New Zealand, Shez and his band have amassed a devoted following and forged a reputation as one of the most entertaining live acts on the scene today. Inspired by travels with his father to the Punjab region of the Indian subcontinent, Raja immersed himself in the musical culture of his South Asian roots. He now merges his rich musical heritage with a hugely diverse playing experience to create dynamic and passionate music that blends East with West. Expect exciting music that’s full of surprises – a sonic kaleidoscope of euphoric jazz, thundering funk, tuneful ragas, and intoxicating grooves. “Shez Raja personifies the modernisation of jazz... he is fearless as a musician” — All That Jazz ★★★★★ “Mahavishnu Orchestra with Jaco Pastorius in charge” — The Guardian