The name Kaboozle has no meaning and was selected after rejecting a large list of other ideas.

The band was founded in 2018 by Tom Stickland who had played in several percussion bands in the Gloucester and Bristol area. The vision was a small group who could enjoy playing a varied and entertaining set. There was no desire to be faithful to any particular style, although most members have come from the local samba related bands. We have developed a set of mainly original arrangements inspired by popular rhythms and claves. We intend to keep developing new pieces as an experimental and creative activity for our members.
Current members:
Name | Other bands |
Anneka Mourinho – snare | Batala Bristol and Bloco B |
Emma White – surdos | The Sambistas and LHVG Bandoeke |
Ha Tong- surdos | Bloco B and Ilu Axe |
Jacqui Tanner – agogo castanha (Brazil nut shells) | Simbora and The Stroud Red Band |
Sarah Pepworth – surdos | Bloco B |
Sharon Dainton – shaker and graphic design | Simbora and Styx of Stroud |
Simon Lewis – surdos | Ola Samba and Simbora |
Tom Stickland – repinique and directing | Simbora and occasionally Bloco B |
Tom White – snare | The Sambistas and LHVG Bandoeke |
Maternity leave:
Deborah Conte – surdos. |
Past members:
Andrew Fudge – djembe, tom toms, cymbals |
Ruth Keyes – surdos |
Alun Person – snare |
Tom’s band history:
- Ola Samba (2014 – 2018)
- The Sambistas (2014 – 2024)
- Afon Sistema (2014-2018)
- Ziriguidum / Carnaval Transatlantico (2016-2019)
- Bloco B (2019 – 2024, now occasional member)
- Simbora (2022 – present)