#MoreThanJustABand
A high energy performance, inter-generational samba band – BJamba brings beats to the streets across Cumbria and beyond. From lantern-lit processions to summer festivals, our rhythms are rooted in community, and designed to move every generation. Whether you’re dancing in the parade or cheering from the sidelines, BJamba’s infectious samba grooves are the heartbeat of their home town of Penrith.
BJamba doesn’t hibernate – we bring the beat all year round, through every season and in all weathers!
In autumn, we light up the streets with lantern parades…
In winter, we bring warmth to festive celebrations…
In spring, we burst into life at MayDay events…
And in summer, we bring the sunshine (and yes, sometimes the rain!) to festivals and parades across Cumbria and beyond.
BlueJam’s samba journey started in 2003, with our very first band making its debut at the Kendal Torchlight Festival. Picture this: djembe drums strapped on, small percussion in hand, and white headbands proudly emblazoned with BlueJam. It was energetic, joyful… and just a little too quiet!
We quickly realised we needed more volume and more impact — so we started building our collection of samba drums: surdos, repiniques, snares, tamborims… the works. Over time, our sound grew bigger, bolder, and more captivating. We then became BJamba!
Throughout the years, we’ve been lucky to have a long line of amazing young leaders, each bringing their own flair and energy to the band.
BJamba has been led by the Josh Jackson since 2013 – and believe it or not, he first took the reins at just 14 years old! From the very beginning, Josh brought passion, rhythm, and a natural flair for leadership to the band.
His journey as a young leader was supercharged by the Future Leaders residential course, run by Global Grooves, a renowned carnival arts organisation based in Manchester. It was here that Josh met master drummer Sidiki Dembele, who invited him to the Ivory Coast for an unforgettable two-week drum study into West African percussion.
During that trip, Josh played at weddings and community events, drumming for 6–8 hours a day, soaking up rhythms, culture, and experience that would shape his musical style forever.
Eden Dance & BJamba – Partnering for Performance
The collaboration between BJamba and Eden Dance brings together the powerful energy of samba drumming with the expressive movement of contemporary and commercial dance. This dynamic partnership has become a vibrant force in Cumbrian events and festivals.
Together, we’ve lit up the streets of Kendal Torchlight, brought rhythm and spectacle to The Winter Droving, energised crowds at Kendal Calling, and added dramatic flair to the Carlisle Fireshow, Keswick LED Parade and Greenside Music Festival. Whether parading through town centres, or performing on festival stages, our joint performances are a celebration of creativity, community and families who dance and drum together!
We love performing at events, parades, festivals and celebrations, and all kinds of community events -big or small. Whether it’s a lively parade, a static show, or an interactive workshop, BJamba brings energy, rhythm, and inclusivity.
Our rates vary depending on the size of your event and how many drummers and dancers we bring along. We’re flexible and happy to tailor what we do to your needs – from full-on carnival vibes to relaxed rhythm sessions.
Please email our fabulous bookings manager Jo, to chat about fees, availability, and what kind of performance would suit your event best.
BJamba is BlueJam’s high-energy samba band that rehearses every Tuesday from 6:00–7:30pm. If you love rhythm, movement, and making music with others, this is the place to be! As of Sept 2025, we have a few spaces open for new players, so if you’ve been thinking about joining, now’s your chance!
Prefer something a little more mellow? Check out our sister band, BlueJam Street Beats, rehearsing Tuesdays from 5:30–7:00pm at BlueJam Arts Space. This group is quieter, includes melody instruments, and is perfect for those who enjoy a more relaxed vibe, no parading involved!
🎶 Interested in joining BJamba or Street Beats?
Get in touch to join the waiting list or find out more. We’d love to hear from you!
