Tony Kofi & The Organisation celebrate Lou Donaldson
Wednesday 23rd September 2026
The Spin is truly delighted in being able to welcome back the multi-award winning saxophonist, Tony Kofi with his outstanding quartet!
Returning to his first instrument, the alto saxophone, Kofi joins The Organisation for a celebration of the legendary Lou Donaldson, whose roots in bebop evolved into a mastery of the soul jazz movement pioneered by Jimmy Smith and championed by Blue Note founder Alfred Lion.
The band will explore Donaldson's rich catalogue, with a particular focus on his classic recordings featuring Hammond organ greats such as Dr. Lonnie Smith, Charles Earland, and Big John Patton. Audiences can expect to hear favourites including "Hot Dog," "Blues Walk," "Good Gracious," "Rev. Moses," "Alligator Bogaloo," and "Ode to Billie Joe," alongside music associated with Jimmy Smith, Pat Martino, George Benson, and other leading figures of the soul jazz tradition.
Featuring:
Tony Kofi – Alto Saxophone
Pete Whittaker – Organ
Simon Fernsby – Guitar
Pete Cater – Drums
The inspiration for this project dates back to 1993, when Lou Donaldson invited Tony to attend an open rehearsal at the Mount Fuji Jazz Festival in Japan. Witnessing Donaldson’s artistry firsthand left a lasting impression and planted the seeds for a project that now pays tribute to one of the most influential alto saxophonists in jazz history.
“One of today's hottest and most innovative quartets”, BBC Music Magazine album of the month.
“A killer band with real bite”, Mark Youl, Jazzwise.
“Right from the outset, this is a project providing a personal insight into Donaldson and his work…It also very clearly connects with an audience…who responded with enthusiasm and joy”. UK Jazz News.