Soundhouse: SWF Spotlight

Soundhouse returns to the Traverse with its third annual jazz showcase, shining a spotlight on some of the most exciting emerging talent in Scotland. This year, three brilliant acts take to the stage, each bringing their own distinctive sound and style. Meet the artists below...

NOR

Nor (Eleanor Colee) is a Glasgow-based saxophonist and composer.

Originally from the North West of England, nor's music is shaped by the vibrant and diverse sounds of both Manchester and Glasgow, blending contemporary jazz with folk-inspired elements. Having won the Development Award delivered through the Peter Whittingham Jazz Award through Help Musicians this year, nor has recently released their debut single Solace, with plans to release more later this year.

Nor is joined by Ewan Johnston on keyboards, Masha Zhuravlova on violin, Ashwari Panesar on bass and Finlay Morgan on drums.

LAURA OSA

Laura Osa, winner of the 2024 Rising Star Award at the Scottith Jazz Awards is a dynamic singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist whose sweet and ethereal vocals blend seamlessly with her powerful songwriting. Recognised for her ability to infuse emotion into every note, Laura's sound offers a stunning fusion of R&B, Gospel, and Jazz, creating a unique and soulful experience for her listeners.

Laura will be accompanied by Ewan Johnston on keyboards, Chris Quinn on bass and Kenny Lyons on drums.

ZOE DOWNS BAND

Zoe Downs is a Scottish tenor saxophonist who grew up in Aberdeen. She is now living in Glasgow and studying in her final year at the RCS. Zoe's music is inspired by the vibrant music scene in Glasgow, blending contemporary jazz with traditional Scottish music influences, whilst also capturing the sounds of her love for Scandinavian jazz.

Earlier in the year, Zoe and her band played their debut sold out gig at the Jazz Bar in Edinburgh, and performed at Aberdeen Jazz Festival. Zoe also made an appearance at the Edinburgh International Festival this summer.

Zoe takes influence from artists such as Walter Smith III, Laura Jurd, and Joshua Redman and combines them into her own unique sound that she will be showcasing at the Soundhouse Winter Festival.

Zoe’s band consists of Ashwari Panesar on double bass, Alex Handyside on guitar, Ruby Smith on fiddle and Finlay Morgan on drums.

Explore more Music At The Traverse here