SAM LEAK TRIO
Taking a look back at some of the amazing shows that we had at the beginning of the year; Sam Leak Trio joined us on March 4th as the launching pad for their “The Craft of Sound” UK Tour. The Arts Council England funded tour only managed a few of their 13 dates before the lockdown intervened, but we had one incredible gig showcasing this fascinating trio.
The trio perform contemporary jazz with a gospel-tinged, folk-inspired freedom and abandon, conjuring up the joy and emotion typified by Paul Bley, Ahmad Jamal and Abdullah Ibrahim. The ensemble maintains a sense of the tradition whilst exploring a modern-day soundscape permeated by the buzz of the UK Jazz Renaissance. Drawing on Leak’s background in music psychology, the original compositions are poetic and adventurous, creating story with soundscapes.
His latest feature “Adrift” is a unique composition for two pianos that explores the range of colours and possibilities offered by the unconventional lineup. Sometimes densely complex, at others eerily sparse; the writing is engaging and melodic. Check out the Sam’s impressive discography on his website here, all available via Apple Music and listings his recordings as sideman as well as leader.
“This is assured and sophisticated acoustic jazz with deep roots in the tradition, that knows exactly what it’s trying to do – and succeeds”
Daniel Spicer, BBC Music Magazine
“The Royal Academy of Music’s jazz programme has produced a remarkable crop of newcomers in recent times: notably the Mercury-nominated pianists Gwilym Simcock and Kit Downes. Now comes Sam Leak, an artist of comparable promise…Leak is a subtle storyteller who keeps the grooves and colours changing.”
John Fordham, The Guardian
JOHN HUNT’S BLUES KITCHEN – WEEK 4!
John Hunt’s quarantine blues, direct from his kitchen. Week 4! This week featuring a rather deep-voiced Dame Vera Lynn.
Send John a virtual tip to keep him in wine at paypal.me/mrjohnhunt
DONATE
You can continue to support us and the professional musicians who are struggling right now, by donating what you might usually spend on an entry fee or a drink, or any other amount that you wish. Professional musicians and all hospitality/event staff are facing an incredibly difficult time, having seen months of steady work disappear over-night. Any donations would be extremely appreciated to help us to continue to pay our staff through our closure and support our local event staff community in any way that we can.