Jazz - Originals - Now

The Project

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Created in spring 2018 by composer, bassist, and bandleader Panos Kotsiopoulos, the band has since carved out its own cosy den in Leeds, UK, and released three albums: Rehearse–Record–Rewind (2019), Midpoint (2021), and Invicta (2025).

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Their sound slips into the unclaimed spaces between Kate Bush’s melodies, Dave Holland’s rhythms and the unruly edge of the Sex Pistols, brought to life through original compositions inspired by Christmas, daydreams, Duke Ellington, and good friends.

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Since its formation, The Project has become an active presence in the northern UK jazz scene, performing widely across Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, and the North East, and contributing to a range of community and charity music events.

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The band maintains strong ties with the Leeds jazz community, collaborating with musicians shaped by the University of Leeds and Leeds College of Music (Leeds Conservatoire). Previous line-ups have included a variety of seasoned contributors from the local jazz scene, reflecting the group’s fluid and collaborative spirit. 

Joshua Smout – drums
Joe Boyes – keys
Panos Kotsiopoulos – bass
Emma Johnson – saxophone
Sam Ehret-Pickett – trumpets