SOAK up some authentic Americana when Back to the Shack enliven Bridport Arts Centre's jazz café.

The group play a heady brew of foot-stomping blues and classic Americana, all performed in their own distinct style.

With Izi Onslow on vocals and percussion, Axel Keim on dobro and guitar, Brett Nevill on double bass, and Julian Phillips on vocals and accordion, they are quickly establishing themselves as one of the most entertaining bands on the scene, and will be bringing their unique style to the Bridport Arts Centre Jazz Café on Friday December 8.

Julian Phillips began playing at the age of ten but he was 14 before he became aware of boogie woogie. He began to teach himself how to play, listening to and interpreting the music of Jimmy Yancey, Montana Taylor, Leroy Carr, “Cripple” Clarence Lofton and Clarence “Pinetop” Smith.

Julian is well known for playing his accordion, an instrument that blends seamlessly with the swing and rhythm of the music. His love and knowledge of the music is infectious and whether playing solo or performing with other musicians, his enjoyment of the music shines through.

Julian has played in concerts and festivals in Europe and America and is highly esteemed by his fellow players. As a teacher, Julian has inspired many young people to follow his example (many of them playing at the UK Boogie Woogie Festival, held annually on the first weekend in July), which is a real tribute to his talent, enthusiasm and love of boogie woogie.

Izi Onslow has been performing boogie and blues for the past two years. During that time she has appeared at numerous events and festivals both in the UK and abroad, and has performed with some of the top musicians on the international blues scene including Big John Carter, Carl ‘Sonny’ Leyland, Jo Schumacher, David Giorcelli and Ster Wax.

Izi is a frequent collaborator with Julian, and her education in boogie and blues continues to expand. Drawing influences from a broad range of artists from Memphis Minnie to Big Mama Thornton, she is swiftly developing a style that is entirely her own.

The band play an intoxicating mix of blues and Americana, and are not to be missed.

*Back to the Shack, Bridport Arts Centre Jazz Café, Friday, December 8, 8pm. Call the box office for tickets. See bridport-arts.com/event/back-to-the-shack/ for more information.