ACOUSTIC Alchemy will be working their magic at Churchill’s Cafe Bar on Sunday afternoon.

The jazz group’s funky smooth grooves bring the curtain down on the lunchtime season at the Southend venue, which opens up again for business in September.

Acoustic Alchemy are fronted by British acoustic guitar duo Greg Carmichael and Miles Gilderdale.

The band has enjoyed two remarkable decades since releasing their debut album Red Dust in 1987. During this time they have constantly topped the US jazz charts, been nominated for Grammy Awards and toured the world, selling out prestigious venues in the process.

The road to instrumental stardom began when founder member Nick Webb, who passed away in 1998, and Greg provided the in-flight entertainment for a Virgin Airlines flight from England to America.

In search of an elusive recording contract, they often liked to say they played their way to America, with the MCA Master Series eventually snapping them up. Greg says: “The band has been through a lot of changes over the years, but the concept of two acoustic guitars has always been the emotional centrepiece which draws people close.

“I love all the musicians in the band and it’s great touring with them and playing live on stage. The positive spirit behind our music comes from the wonderful relationship we have always had with them.”

Admission is £10 and doors open at midday. For more information, call 01702 468646.