THE LAPAZOOS ARE A BAND THAT FORMED ALMOST BY ACCIDENT AND HAVE PROVED SO POPULAR THAT THEY HAVE BECOME A REGULAR FIXTURE HERE AT NIGHTJAR. THEY PLAY EARLY NEW ORLEANS-INSPIRED BLUES AND SWING MUSIC FROM THE 1920S AND 30S. EXPECT LOTS OF VOCALS, EXCELLENT JAZZ AND LIGHT-HEARTED FUN.

FEATURES VARIOUSLY: GRAHAM HUGHES, "SLIPPY SLIDER" HIMSELF, WITH CLASSIC SONGS, HARMONICA BALLADS AND CHEEKY QUIPS. LAURENCE CORNS, SINGING AND SWINGING AWAY ON THE GUITAR AS NOBODY ELSE CAN. DOMINIC PIPKIN, MASTER OF NEW ORLEANS R&B, AND GENERAL PIANO WHIZZ. BEN HAZLETON, A BASS PLAYER WHO'D GIVE SLIM GAILLARD HIMSELF A RUN FOR HIS MONEY. PLUS OTHER SPECIAL GUESTS ON OCCASION.

COVER CHARGE: £6
+ Free Thursday Throwdown set from 23:30 - 1:15

So that is Thursday Throwdown exactly? Each Thursday after 11pm, we’re switching it up at Nightjar. Firstly there will be a free, late set of live music from 11.30 pm. But, better than that, thanks to Don Julio, we’re going to drink like it’s 2010! Our special late-night menu is a nod to the days (and prices!) of when Nightjar first opened, fifteen years ago.

Nightjar comes alive with the sound of New Orleans funk, jazz and rhythm ’n’ blues as drummer and bandleader Roy Pfeffer takes the stage. Recognised as one of London’s foremost ambassadors of New Orleans music, Pfeffer is celebrated for his high-energy performances that capture the true spirit of the Crescent City.

Pfeffer is the driving force behind The Big Smoke Family, an acclaimed funk collective that has become a staple of London’s live music scene. Regulars at Ronnie Scott’s and Pizza Express Soho, the band has built an international following and earned the rare honour of being featured on New Orleans’ iconic radio station WWOZ. Their shows are a carnival of groove, rhythm and soul, bringing audiences straight to the streets of New Orleans.

In addition to his funk credentials, Pfeffer co-founded the Cosimo Matassa Project, a group dedicated to celebrating 1950s New Orleans rhythm ’n’ blues. The band brings to life the timeless music of legends such as Fats Domino, Smiley Lewis and Dr John, keeping the roots of R&B alive for new generations of listeners.

Pfeffer also leads his own Roy Pfeffer Trio, a soulful ensemble that blends Mardi Gras street beats, jazz tradition and funky grooves. Their repertoire draws from artists including Grant Green, Horace Silver and Idris Muhammad, offering an irresistible mix of swing, soul and modern groove.

With a reputation for authenticity, passion and unstoppable rhythm, Pfeffer has become one of the most in-demand drummers in the UK. His performances are not just concerts but celebrations — nights filled with infectious energy and the unmistakable joy of New Orleans music. Don’t miss the chance to experience Roy Pfeffer live at Nightjar Shoreditch for a show that promises to get your feet tapping from the first beat.

“THIS BAND IS THE BOMB”

~ BOOKER T JONES

“KEEPING FUNK ALIVE”

~ GALACTIC NEW ORLEANS

“NOLA-TASTIC”

~ THE NEW MASTERSOUNDS

“ALWAYS BRILLIANT”

~ RONNIE SCOTT’S JAZZ CLUB