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Bex Burch gyil / Ruth Goller bass / Dave Smith drums

​Forward-thinking UK trio Vula Viel released their second album, ‘Do Not Be Afraid’ earlier in 2019, continuing their singular musical journey centred around the gyil (Ghanaian xylophone).

The band’s set confidently weaves sparse polyrhythms and intricate rhythm structures around bandleader Bex Burch’s gyil lines and take the instrument’s sound into new territory. The gyil and occasional vocal textures are underpinned by the powerful and insistent bass of Ruth Goller (Acoustic Ladyland, Melt Yourself Down, Let Spin) and drummer Dave Smith, introducing a rough, post-punk edge to the band’s sound.
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Described as “Ghanaian minimalism”, with the unassuming ability to blur the lines between atmospheres – Vula Viel’s sound may nod to Steve Reichian jazz, but influences don’t stop there: one can hear echoes of Bill Laswell and the irresistible energy of Arthur Russell.
We are very pleased to have this band performing in the intimacy of the Round at the Dukes, this will be one not to miss.
"Dance to it, make love to it, consume it, listen to it, stare at the clouds to it!" Iggy Pop
Where
The Round, The Dukes
When
Sat 14 Sep, 7.30pm doors
8pm performance
Duration
1hr 30mins, no interval
Access
Full access info
The Round, The Dukes
A 200 seat Round Theatre split over 2 levels at The Dukes. Our Headline space.
Step free access available to the ground floor.
Getting to The Round, The Dukes
  • The nearest designated disabled parking bay is at Moor Mills Car Park, 60 meters away. Although a car park space can be reserved (subject to availability) round the back of The Dukes by calling The Dukes Box Office in advance, 01524 598500.
  • Please note that the entrance to The Round is separate from The Dukes main entrance – it is approximately 40 meters up the road towards the Golden Lion pub.
  • Taxis can pick-up/drop-off immediately in front of The Dukes main entrance. There is a dropped kerb to the left of the main entrance off the cobbled side street.
  • The nearest taxi rank is at Dalton Square, 130 meters away.
Into The Round, The Dukes
  • The Round entrance is completely step free.
  • People with disabilities can access the venue early, just mention to Box Office staff when purchasing your ticket or speak to Festival Volunteers outside of the venue.
Inside The Round, The Dukes
  • The entire ground floor level is completely step free. The balcony level seating/standing area is only accessible by a flight of stairs, followed by a further 4 steps up and 2 down.
  • All front room seats in The Round offer great views of the stage and can be reserved for those who require viewing areas.
Smoking
  • Smoking is permitted outside The Round entrance.
Accessibility for performers
  • The performance area is on the same level as the rest of the venue. There are good accessible backstage facilities including an accessible toilet.
 
Services and facilities
Accessible toilet
  • Accessible toilets are available on the same level of the venue. Available for all to use.
Accessible bar
  • The bar is step free with lowered section to the right hand side.
Personal assistants
  • Essential companions, personal assistants, support workers and carers of people with disabilities get in free to every Lancaster Jazz Festival event. If the event is ticketed, please mention that you require a PA ticket.
Assistance dogs
  • Assistance dogs are welcome and fresh drinking water will be available on request.
Strobe lighting
  • No strobe lighting will be used at any Lancaster Jazz Festival event.
Medicines
  • If you need to bring medicines, food and drink to manage a medical condition, or medical equipment you are welcome to do so. We don’t have any medical equipment at our venues.
Contact details for all access enquires
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