Next up at the Colchester Arts Centre Jazz Club will be something a little different as We Are Leif bring their very Bristolian sound to the venue.

Led by the songwriting team of vocalist Louise Victoria and drummer Mark Whitlam, the four-piece are currently touring the country to promote their acclaimed debut release, Breathe.

They span the balance of contemporary jazz sensibilities with the groove and sound world more associated with Neo Soul, R 'n' B and downtempo. Musically there are nods in the direction of Erykah Badu, London Grammar and Jill Scott, while retaining a classic Bristol sound, steeped in the history of bands like Portishead and Massive Attack.

Lead from the front by the rich, exquisite and captivating alto vocals of Louise Victoria, Breathe's ten tracks deftly tread that line linking jazz improv with driven, melodic jazz-pop. All four are obviously highly skilled musicians, but crucially, they have allowed themselves to be directed by some very strong songwriting and an obvious desire to create something for a wider audience.

Between them, the band members, which also include Dale Hambridge (Piano/Keyboards) and Chris Jones (Electric Bass) have worked with the likes of Joss Stone, Beverley Knight, Clare Teal, Adrian Utley of Portishead, and Goldfrapp’s Will Gregory.

Providing support on the night will be a rather nice homecoming gig for Colchester music student Will Hobson.

The former Essex Youth Jazz Orchestra pianist has put together a fine ensemble of like-minded musicians to form the Groove Merchants, who, like Will, are all first year jazz students studying at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

They play the Colchester Arts Centre on Sunday, March 17, from 7.30pm. For tickets, priced £14 and £12, call the box office on 01206 500900.