THE legendary jazz trumpeter Leroy Jones, known to music lovers as the "keeper of the flame" for traditional New Orleans jazz, has embarked on his first major solo UK tour.

Launching with a London residency, he visits The Concorde Club on Wednesday.

Recreating the authentic sounds of New Orleans, Leroy will delight jazz fans all over the UK.

A New Orleans native and a featured performer in the Harry Connick Orchestra, Leroy Jones started his career at the tender age of 12 when he was leader of the seminal Fairview Band, a brass band whose alumni have included some of the best known musicians in New Orleans.

Jones’s distinctive playing style, described as a blend of Louis Armstrong and bebop virtuoso Clifford Brown, along with his unique way of putting a modern stamp on authentic jazz has made him a critical figure in the history of New Orleans music.

Now a member of the New Orleans Jazz Hall of Fame, and having performed on every continent and in every US city, from prestigious theatres and festivals to the coolest jazz clubs, Leroy Jones also regularly performs on shows such as Late Night with David Letterman, Oprah Winfrey and The Tonight Show.

The Leroy Jones Quintet will be joined on tour by two of the most exciting names in British jazz. The highly acclaimed Ian Shaw, described by Time Out as 'our finest jazz singer' and often cited as the world's finest male jazz vocalist, will feature on the bill alongside Joe Stilgoe, the internationally celebrated singer, pianist and songwriter currently starring in High Society at The Old Vic.

Call 023 8061 3989 or visit theconcordeclub.com