2025 Love Supreme Jazz Festival

Love Supreme, a three-day open-air jazz festival, is held on the unique grounds of Glynde Place, East Sussex, UK. Now in its 13th year, the festival returns annually, typically during the first week of July, often blessed with summer sunshine. A beloved event for jazz and music enthusiasts, it offers a diverse lineup spanning jazz, soul, funk, R&B, and experimental sounds. Legendary jazz musicians perform alongside new and emerging talent, creating a dynamic blend of experience and raw energy that makes Love Supreme a must-attend for both jazz aficionados and newcomers to the genre. This year was no exception.

Saturday, July 5

Tomorrow's Warriors Junior Band

Tomorrow's Warriors Junior Band, performing on the New Generation Jazz stage, drew a sizable crowd with their cohesive and vibrant energy. This ensemble of talented 14-to 18-year-old jazz musicians delivered a rich, confident, and promising set to a diverse audience. Clearly, they are a talented group to watch in the future.

Liana Flores

London-based singer-songwriter Liana Flores blends jazz-pop, folk, and Brazilian musical traditions. Appearing on the Supreme Standard Stage, her clear, soft, subtle vocals and rhythmic cello resonated with the audience, brightening an overcast afternoon.

Brian Jackson

Brian Jackson delivered an unforgettable soul-jazz performance, including an impromptu soundcheck for a fully packed audience waiting in anticipation. Positioned front and center at the edge of the stage with his keyboard, his set featured solo performances on piano, flute, and percussion. Covering hits such as works by John Coltrane and "It's Your World," as well as a tribute to Gil Scott-Heron, he held the audience's attention from beginning to end.

Stanley Clarke

Stanley Clarke delivered an impactful jazz experience on the South Downs Stage, showcasing true musicality across a variety of instruments. His outstanding performance drew an audience that spilled beyond the stage tent. Clarke actively supported and highlighted his band's individual creativity and skills throughout. Their vibrant and authentic set included solos, notably from his saxophonist and drummer, the latter of whom dramatically crashed a cymbal from its stand.

The Roots

Though some jazz purists might consider them outliers, The Roots' celebrated fusion of spoken word, instrumentally rich jazz influences, and sampled beats has been undeniable since their inception. Performing on the Supreme North Stage, their energy captivated the festival audience, engaging both young fans and seasoned jazz devotees alike.

Sunday, July 6

Corto.alto

Led by Liam Shortall, the young Scottish band Corto.alto is making a name for itself in the British jazz scene as an innovator. Their energetic and vibrant performance featured broken-beat rhythms and electronic production. As Shortall switched between instruments, the band captivated the audience with waves of hybrid jazz.

Jose James

José James performed to a packed audience, delivering soulful, smooth vocals and showcasing his versatility in blending jazz, soul, and funk. Supported by his band, including the rising and respected saxophonist Ebban Dorsey, whose musicality and mature understanding of jazz shone effortlessly.

Branford Marsalis Quartet

Branford Marsalis delivered a thrilling performance on the final day. The audience warmly engaged with his rich, spontaneous, and expressive arrangements, blending traditional and innovative jazz. Marsalis and his talented band performed with effortless harmony, creating a truly memorable close to the festival.

Comments