Sunday Jazz Matinee at James Bay United Church presents Cold Cut Combo!
Featuring guitarist and musette-style accordionist Aaron Watson, virtuoso gypsy jazz guitarist Chris Sartisohn, and special guest bassist Joey Smith, this group is a powerhouse of Django Reinhardt-inspired jazz and traditional swing.
Sunday, August 23
1:30 pm — Everyone is welcome to our swing dance lesson!
2:00 pm — Show
The Cold Cut Combo is a Victoria-based gypsy jazz duo that has been enchanting audiences for over two decades with their virtuosic Jazz Manouche guitars, soulful accordion, and sweet vocals. Formed in 2001, the duo consists of Christopher Sartisohn on lead guitar and Aaron Watson on rhythm guitar, accordion, and vocals.
With a repertoire featuring jazz standards from some of the greatest composers of the 20th century, including Duke Ellington, Fats Waller, Cole Porter, Carlos Jobim, George & Ira Gershwin, Django Reinhardt, and Stéphane Grappelli, the Cold Cut Combo has become a go-to band for community festivals, citywide events, celebrations, and fundraisers in Victoria and across the South Island.
They’ve provided music for Jazz Vespers, weddings, galas, and fundraising events at some of the region’s most prestigious clubs and venues, and have made regular appearances at the Victoria Jazz Society’s JazzFest, Victoria’s Francophone Festival, the Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park, Centennial Square, and Market Square.
The duo’s improvisational approach ensures that each performance is a unique experience, with the group bringing their own expressive je ne sais quoi to every show. Their talent and distinctive sound have earned them accolades such as the Victoria Times Colonist’s “Best of the City” award for Best Jazz Band and runner-up for Monday Magazine’s “M” Award for Best Jazz/Blues Act.
Performance highlights include opening for Madeleine Peyroux to a sold-out crowd at the Royal Theatre and serving as the house band at Vista 18 for more than a decade. Whether playing in small venues or large theatres, the Cold Cut Combo continues to captivate audiences with their original sound, humour, and charm.
Join us this Sunday and discover the magic of the Cold Cut Combo!
Admission by donation ($20 suggested donation), but ALL are welcome, regardless of funds.