‘You just knew that together the music and the atmosphere were going to make this gig something special. And that’s exactly what it was.’
When the line up for Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2026 came out a couple of months back, I instantly knew that getting a ticket for Kim Cypher was an absolute must. And wow was I right to do just that. Having seen her perform live once before – at Isbourne Arts in Winchcombe last year – I, like many others filling the Deya Arena were high on anticipation of what was about to unfold. Why? Because even if you have seen her only once, you know the music and atmosphere are going to be something special.
Constantly bridging that gap between performer and audience, the warmth Kim felt towards her current and soon to be fans was immediately clear. She paid homage to those who were regular attendees of her gigs, highlighted those special to her, gave pre-arranged birthday wishes, and created an environment where everyone was invited to have the best time.
Throughout the set, the energy was as high as that aforementioned anticipation with countless moments for casting self-conciousness aside and dancing the night away. For many, it was a chance groove out to the most superb soundtrack. But for a few, this was chance to dress and dance to impress. What was abundantly clear though, was everyone was truly loving the night. Something that was the case on stage too.
Taking us on a range of cross-genre influenced tracks, it was clear that from the back line of Mike Cypher (Drums), Rob Rickenberg (Double Bass and Bass Guitar), to Alex Steele (Keys and Additional Percussion), Chris Cobbson (Guitar), to guest trombonist Fayyaz Virji, each musician was truly in the moment. Making light of its title, Kim’s intro to new release ‘Blues for David Freeman’ dedicated to the Jazz FM host, caused visible smiles and audible laughter all round.
Equally, explosive interplaying solos, a serene moment courtesy of Groove Armada classic ‘At the River’, and a reworking of Brubeck’s ‘Take 5’, made even the most familiar seem brand new. I’m actually not sure I can listen to anything but a 4/4 reggae infused version of the latter now!
With the night, and indeed the festival coming to a close, it was of course time for the customary thank you’s from the band. But in what was perhaps the most honest use of this moment, Kim took this time to highlight what the festival does as whole, encouraged everyone to support new musicians, and openly reflected on the 18 year journey it had taken to get to where she was right then.
Could there have been a better way to end my time at Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2026? I really don’t think so.
Photography courtesy of Ron Milsom.
Additional video footage from the gig can be found on Listen to Discover’s Instagram here.