London gigs this weekend: The best live music and DJ sets

Back in action: Camden's beloved The Jazz Cafe returns for another weekend of socially-distanced gigs
Siobhan Bradshaw
Jochan Embley7 October 2020

With many of London's venues still in the midst of financial uncertainty thanks to the pandemic, it's important to get out and support live music in every way you can.

A lot of gig spots are still closed, but some have reopened post-lockdown and are back doing what they do best.

Here, we've rounded up the gigs and DJ sets you need to know about this weekend, from a Cuban extravaganza to jazzy voyages.

Be sure to check each venue's Covid guidelines before you head out, but most importantly, enjoy the music and know that you're aiding a vital scene as you do it.

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Havana Música at The Jazz Cafe

Celebrate Cuban Independence Day up in Camden with what promises to be a vibrant, high-energy tribute to the country’s music. Led by percussionist Sombroso Noda, the musicians will play two sets on the day, first at 3pm and then again at 6.30pm.

Saturday, 5 Parkway, NW1 7PG, thejazzcafelondon.com

Reuben James at Ronnie Scott’s

A master on the keys and with a voice to match, Reuben James arrives at the Soho jazz club this weekend to play through his own tracks, as well as a smattering of classics.

Saturday, 47 Frith Street, W1D 4HT, ronniescotts.co.uk

Dave Lewis Quartet at 606 Club

Good times are a guarantee when Dave Lewis rolls into town. The saxophonist, whose list of collaborators spans from John Martyn to Bryan Ferry, is joined by his quartet for this show at the west London jazz haunt.

Friday, 90 Lots Road, SW10 0QD, 606club.co.uk

More Hyped Than I Look at Costa Del Tottenham

Party-starting crew More Hyped Than I Look take over one of the Cause nightclub’s new outdoor spaces for this six-hour session. Elsewhere, the Syzygy party will welcome the likes of Manalou, Laumee and more.

Friday, The Cause, Ashley Road, N17 9LZ, costa-del-tottenham.eventcube.io

Craig Charles at Brixton Courtyard

Craig Charles will be serving up some delicious tunes to match the food at this Funk and Soul BBQ down in south London. The night before, Nathan Fake, Donna Leake and Nick Castle get behind the decks for what looks to be a great night of eclectic sounds.

Saturday, 261 Brixton Road, SW9 6LH, thebrixtoncourtyard.co.uk

Erland Cooper at Barbican

Many of us have escaped somewhere rural during the pandemic, and this gig will take you there through the power of music, as composer Erland Cooper explores the Orkney Islands, backed by a cluster of musicians from the London Contemporary Orchestra.

Saturday, Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS, barbican.org.uk

Dan Lyons at Windmill Brixton

This South London spot is one of the capital’s very best grassroots venues, and always a good place to catch up-and-coming talent. This matinee show is headlined by Dan Lyons, best known for his drumming as part of Fat White Family.

Saturday, 22 Blenheim Gardens, SW2 5BZ, windmillbrixton.co.uk

Leon Vynehall at Night Tales

Hackney hangout Night Tales welcomes one of the best DJs and producers in the game, Leon Vynehall, for this socially distanced shindig.

Saturday, 14 Bohemia Place, E8 1DU, nighttales.co.uk

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