A WIRRAL-BORN bassist is preparing to play his first gig on Merseyside for over 25 years.

Shez Raja, has been voted one of the 'hottest bass players in the world' by readers of Bass Player magazine and is renowned for his high energy live shows and unique 'Indojazzfunk' sound.

He has collaborated with the likes of global jazz legends Mike Stern and Randy Brecker and his band have amassed a devoted following after spectacular performances at revered UK venues including Ronnie Scott’s and Jazz Cafe, as well as major international jazz festivals from Europe to New Zealand.

Born and raised in Parkgate to an Asian father and English mother, Raja was hugely active in the local music scene throughout the 1990s, before moving to London where he became a prominent session musician and later starting his own band.

Classically trained on the violin from the age of nine, a few years later he traded the instrument for electric bass and hasn’t looked back since.

He said: “I’m so excited to be performing in Liverpool, where my music career began. I have incredible memories from those early shows, the vibrant music scene and amazing audiences.

"It’s where I developed my passion for music and my unique voice as a musician. It’s where I drew my inspiration. So I can’t wait to return to Liverpool for what will be a truly special and heartfelt performance”.

For his latest release Tales from the Punjab Shez dug deep into his rich South Asian heritage to create his most exquisite and heartfelt album to date, recorded whilst on an adventure to the Punjab to immerse himself in the musical culture of his roots.

Whilst in the vibrant city of Lahore he had a magical and enlightening experience collaborating with some of the most accomplished musicians of the subcontinent.

“For several days we shared a musical and spiritual journey together through ancient ragas, traditional melodies and free improvisations, creating a bridge between cultures with beautiful, exotic and timeless sounds,”

His headline homecoming show - his first in the city since 1997 - is on Saturday, February 25 at The Capstone Theatre, in association with Milap and presented by Liverpool International Jazz Festival.