Blending the lyricism of folk traditions with the rhythmic drive of contemporary jazz, Tomorrow’s Warriors Emerging Artist Mali Sheard is a saxophonist and composer whose music is both evocative and adventurous.

Already building a reputation as rising force on the UK jazz scene both as a solo artist and as a member of Ankora (who play The Bear Club on 3 October) , fans are eagerly anticipating the release of her debut album, Hay Fever, in September 2026.

Her songs often reflect on personal journeys - discovering new people and places, facing challenges, and returning to the “comfort of the homestead” to reflect and dream of future adventures. This storytelling approach gives her music a sense of warmth, intimacy, and cinematic scope.

Bringing together the energy of contemporary jazz and the lyricism of folk, Mali’s music is an absorbing blend of melodic, groove-driven originals inspired by Brian Blade, Paul Desmond, Antônio Carlos Jobim and Laura Mvula.

This performance is part of our Generation Jazz 2.0 series of gigs, showcasing brilliant young jazz musicians across the summer and autumn of 2026. Discounted ticket pricing applies for those under 25, students, and universal credit beneficiaries.

This performance is part of Tomorrow’s Warriors’ Warriors Rise initiative, which sees the acclaimed jazz talent development organisation support three emerging Warriors’ artists, including Mali, across a seven-date run of UK gigs, providing tour planning and marketing mentoring.

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