Our music combines Cuban and other Latin rhythms with distinctive melodies in a thrilling repertoire of original and classic tunes. Heads South features top UK jazz trumpeter Steve Waterman, Cuban percussionist Chino Martell Morgan on congas, bongos, cajon, guiro, Buster Birch on drums, timbale, castanets, frame drum, Venezuelan bassist Adolfredo Pulido, and leader/composer John Harriman on piano and organ.
The Band has released two albums to critical acclaim, it was selected to perform a national tour of Wales sponsored by the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama and Arts Council of Wales, and was chosen from more than 75 bands nationwide as a winner of the UK Jazz Services/National Touring Forum award for 2014/5.
"The compositions and keyboard playing of leader John Harriman and the trumpet of Steve Waterman combine to create a spare, crisp, invigorating set of Latin jazz…Waterman’s mastery of this idiom suits Harriman’s deceptively simple compositions to perfection" Dave Gelly, The Observer.
“Cool, cultured and exhilarating” Keith Ames, The Musician.
"Very talented..dazzling solos....a Band that is well worth seeing" The Jazzmann, Brecon Brycheiniog Theatre.
“Brimming with infectious high-energy grooves" JazzUK
“Superb” Raul da Gama, Latin Jazz Network (USA)
“Heads South is a refreshing cultural mix of players with outstanding jazz credentials..Cuban rhythms dominate, rocking syncopated percussion...well worth seeing” The Gig Guide
Heads South have played at a wide range of leading venues. The music has appeal beyond the pure jazz enthusiast. Amongst other appearances the Band have twice been requested to play for Rod Stewart's A list after show party at London’s 02 Arena, and have played at an 18th birthday party , the 18 yr old boy finding us on You Tube and simply loving the music. For newcomers to this music, think Buena Vista Social Club in a smaller package, add the excitement of Jazz, tuneful melody, and imbibe the warmth of a Latin evening, grooving into the night... premium Latin Jazz Salsa that thrills the keen music listener and the dance lover.