Chris Ingham's 'Steely Jazz'

As popular songwriters Walter Becker and Donald Fagen combined cryptic, pungent lyrics with great musical sophistication.

As Steely Dan they created a catalogue of songs whose harmonies, storytelling and impeccable craftsmanship drew deeply from "the best jazz players of the 50s and 60s". From chart favourites such as Rikki Don't Lose That Number, Josie and Reelin' in the Years to lesser-known gems from across their remarkable career, their music continues to fascinate and entertain more than fifty years on.

In Steely Jazz, acclaimed pianist, singer and broadcaster Chris Ingham and his outstanding quintet explore the jazz heart of the Becker-Fagen songbook. Rather than simply reproducing familiar recordings, the group reimagines these celebrated songs through fresh arrangements that illuminate their beautiful melodies, depth and ingenuity. The result is a show that feels both faithful and revelatory — recognisably Steely Dan, yet heard from a completely new perspective.

Whether you're a lifelong Steely Dan devotee, a jazz enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates exceptional songwriting, Steely Jazz offers a compelling and entertaining celebration of two of popular music's most distinctive creative voices.

Chris Ingham – vocal, piano, guitar

Harry Greene – saxophone, guitar

Paul Higgs – trumpet, piano

Geoff Gascoyne – double bass

George Double – drums, vocal

(expected line-up)

Reviews

"Ingham brings it off... Wonderful songs carefully turned." — The Blue Moment

"Excellent interpretations, full of riches." — Jazz Journal

"This quintet is a cut above." ★★★★ — Mojo

"Compelling — the same, but different, magnetism of the originals." — Bebop Spoken Here

"Brings the songs to life in a jazz group context in a remarkable way." — UK Jazz News

Audience Information

Doors open from 7.15pm and the show starts at 8pm.

The 2-hour show runs with 2 x 50 minute sets, starting at 8pm and at 9.20pm. We expect to finish by about 10.15pm including a full interval of around 30 minutes.

Full bar available from 7.15pm and during the interval. NB - card only no cash.

Free parking is available on site, and nearby in Century Retail Park (please check conditions of parking on arrival - usually 4 hours for free). The Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre is 4-minute walk from Watford High Street Overground Station.

Access

For disability access, please contact us at jazz@watfordjazzjunction.com to confirm a seat. We have 2 wheelchair friendly spaces available, each at the general admission rate of £27.50 with a single additional carer's seat for free where needed.