MOBO Best Jazz Act 2016 nominations announced

This year’s MOBO Awards return on Friday November 4th at Glasgow’s SSE Hydro. This year marks the Awards’ 21st anniversary. All nominations have now been announced and the Best Jazz Act 2016 features five Jazz FM regulars.

Bassist and vocalist Esperanza Spalding, star of this year’s Love Supreme Festival, is nominated off the back of her theatrical ‘Emily’s D+Evolution’ album and World tour. Snark Puppy founder member and keyboardist Bill Laurance makes the shortlist too, as does his fellow Pup Cory Henry who amazed live and TV audiences with his organ wizardry at The Quincy Jones BBC Prom at the Royal Albert Hall just weeks ago. 

The prodigious young Quincy Jones-mentored Jacob Collier makes the list following the release of his self-produced album debut ‘In My Room,’ recognition for his use of technology and mesmerising visuals at live shows that have received huge acclaim. 

Also nominated is London-based American bassist Michael Janisch, who’s Whirlwind Recordings record label relentlessly provides a platform for young musicians to present their work. Michael was recently honoured at the Parliamentary Jazz Awards.