On 4 November 2025 at 8pm the Pete Allen Jazz Band returns to London’s Pizza Express Live Soho to launch their latest album, ‘New Orleans Wiggle – Jazz Magic’. It’s a welcome moment for a group that has long championed classic jazz with warmth and flair.

Chris Hodgkins writes: I first played with Pete back in the early 1980s, recording my debut album Sacramento Lift Off with the band ahead of our visit to the Sacramento Jazz Festival in California. That was a formative time, full of energy and optimism, and though I later stepped away to study business and eventually became Director of Jazz Services Ltd — retiring in 2014 — I rejoined the band in 2023 after a 40-year hiatus,. It’s been great; to reconnect, musically and personally, with old friends and familiar tunes.

Pete Allen, clarinettist and saxophonist, has led his band for over 47 years. His career includes more than 100 recordings, appearances at the Sacramento Dixieland Jazz Jubilee, and leadership of the Worldwide All Stars alongside Louis Armstrong alumni Barrett Deems and Jack Lesberg. He was even made an Honorary Citizen of New Orleans for his contribution to British jazz and tourism. But Pete’s real strength lies in his consistency — his belief that classic jazz, played with conviction and joy, still speaks to audiences today.

The band’s latest album, New Orleans Wiggle – Jazz Magic‘ released on Upbeat Jazz, is a testament to that ethos. It’s already drawn praise for its eclectic repertoire and ensemble cohesion. Barry Clare of Just Jazz called it “the very definition of eclectic,” while Alan Musson in Jazz Rag noted, “The joy in this music is palpable.” These aren’t just throwaway compliments — they reflect the band’s ability to breathe new life into familiar forms while staying true to the spirit of the music.

The current line-up is a testament to that ethos. Guitarist Max Brittain, whose credits include Humphrey Lyttelton, Ronnie Scott, and American greats like Herb Ellis and Barney Kessel, brings finesse and flair. His playing is inventive and sensitive, with a rhythmic clarity that lifts the ensemble. Jim Newton, a stalwart on drums, anchors the rhythm section with subtle interplay and inventive solos are a highlight of every performance.

Trombonist Roger Marks, described as “a fine, sophisticated player with a beautiful tone,” adds warmth and lyricism. Roger’s approach is graceful and expressive, rooted in tradition but never constrained by it. His solos are thoughtful; his ensemble work seamless — a player who understands the value of space and phrasing.

Trevor Whiting, inspired early on by Sidney Bechet, is a clarinettist and saxophonist of distinction. He led his own group, the Swingtet, which featured regularly on BBC Jazz Club, and has worked with Ken Colyer, Al Casey, Art Hodes, and Clare Teal. His tenure with the Big Chris Barber Band further cemented his reputation as a versatile and expressive reedman. Trevor’s interplay with Pete is always a highlight — two voices in dialogue, trading phrases and ideas with wit and warmth.

I’m back on trumpet, and joining us are Andrew Clancy on piano – Andrew brings warmth and flair to the group, his playing rooted in Classic jazz and swing traditions but always responsive to the moment and Andy Crowdy on double bass, whose versatility and melodic drive are well known across the UK jazz circuit. Andy currently tours with Joe Brown and brings a rhythmic vitality that lifts the whole ensemble.

Together, this line-up offers a rich palette of sound. It’s not just about solos — though there will be plenty of those — but about the ensemble, the collective voice that emerges when musicians listen and respond to one another. That’s the essence of jazz, and it’s what the Pete Allen Jazz Band continues to deliver, year after year.

Pete’s approach has always been rooted in the history of jazz and ensemble spirit — qualities that continue to shape the band’s sound today. After over 47 years of continuous bandleading, Pete Allen remains a central figure in the UK jazz scene. His clarinet, with his signature sound of fiery improvisations and his soprano sax and occasional banjo playing add further colour to the mix.

The band’s repertoire spans the classic New Orleans canon, swing era favourites, and a few surprises. Expect music, that in Humphrey Lyttelton’s memorable phrase “appeals to the head, the heart and the feet” with spirited vocals, and the kind of musical storytelling that draws audiences in and keeps them engaged. Whether performing in concert halls, jazz clubs, or festival stages, the Pete Allen Jazz Band continues to offer audiences an engaging experience — full of history, humour, and heart.

This launch in Dean Street promises an evening to savour and remember. The venue, with its intimate setting and rich jazz heritage, is the perfect backdrop for a band that thrives on connection — with each other and with the audience. It’s not just a gig, it’s a gathering, a celebration of music that endures and evolves.

Tickets are £20 and available via Pizza Express Live. The venue: 10 Dean Street, Soho, London, W1D 3RW. Doors open 6:30pm. Showtime is 8pm.