I grew up in London, living very happily with my mum. It was a close and intense relationship. We’d both get worked up about things quickly but were always open with each other, and I think that has influenced me in terms of how I approach both people and music now. I was lucky […]
Yuriy Galkin For Its Beauty Alone (self-release) Russian bassist and composer Yuriy Galkin shows us his extreme diversity as both composer and arranger. Usually working with his nine-piece ensemble Symbiosis Orchestra, who have been present on the scene for awhile now, his latest release sees him exchange his usual nonet for a more modest quartet. […]
Snarky Puppy Immigrance (GroundUP Music) The eagerly waited, much touted follow-up to 2016’s Culcha Vulcha, sees Michael League at the head of his “pop band that improvises a lot, without vocals” deploying a host of musicians in a typically wide-ranging, ambitious but accessible melange of contemporary fusion. There’s no Cory Henry this time, but Bobby […]
Maxine Sullivan with the Scott Hamilton Quintet Uptown [Concord CD CCD4188] A few weeks ago I rang a friend to confirm a meeting. It was quite late and he told me that he was at the Verdict, where it was the interval. “Who’s on?” I asked. “Scott Hamilton, absolutely terrific,” he replied. That conversation led […]
Charlie Anderson rounds up the latest Jazz News. Sun Ra Arkestra Under the direction of veteran saxophonist Marshall Allen, Sun Ra Arkestra return for their annual performance at the Con Club in Lewes on Sunday 21st and Monday 22nd April. The Comet Is Coming Influenced by Sun Ra and with an acclaimed new […]
I try to ensure that all the big band gigs in the county are included in the gig lists each month. Unfortunately, some slip through the net. Having heard about it only the evening before, I was able to attend one such gig recently, which had been confirmed only three days before. The Downsbeat Swing […]