An audience with Rosie Frater-Taylor and Nigel Williams

London's Kings Road boasts one of the finest jazz clubs in London and last night The Pheasantry was full of the sound of guitarist and singer-songwriter Rosie Frater-Taylor. With an evening introduced by JazzFM's Nigel Williams, Rosie's engaging singing and highly proficient guitar playing entertained the audience in the Pizza Express Live venue.

Playing a selection of tracks from new album Featherweight, Rosie also included some older tunes and a selection of carefully-curated cover versions, with stripped-down arrangements featuring backing vocals from Verushka and Azz (who also played the beautiful Steinway and keyboard).

Right now, Rosie's voice features heavily on Solid Air, a track from Sean Khan's new album with The Modern Jazz & Folk Ensemble and that track seems to encapsulate the intersection between jazz and folk where Frater-Taylor sits comfortably and creatively.

Chatting with drummer Clark Tracey

Drummer Clark Tracey has a collaborative soul and he has brought his quintet to work with up and coming singer Emily Masser - he explains why in this conversation.

Emily's talent as a singer is clear from the opening bars of Introducing Emily Masser, the new album from the Clark Tracey Quintet. Clark explains how he first became aware of this new voice and how the album was conceived.

Thank you to Clark for sharing tracks from the album alongside our conversation.

Don't forget the Quincy Jones quote that sums up why I do this: "Imagine what a harmonious world it would be if every single person, both young and old, shared a little of what he is good at doing."

Support the Show.

Sunday brunch delights with Ruth Fisher and Imogen Ryall

Great jazz and a lazy Sunday brunch - what’s not to like? Ruth Fisher presented the opening show of this year’s Watford Jazz Festival, introducing Imogen Ryall and her tribute to the musical relationship between Joni Mitchell and Charles Mingus.

Photo credit @ Hilary Seabrook

Imogen’s 2023 album Imogen Ryall Sings the Charles Mingus/Joni Mitchell Songbook is a delight and her quintet brought the album to life, with a few other tunes, all alongside a chat with Jazz FM’s Ruth Fisher,

The album and gig present a personal interpretation of the classic Mingus album released by Joni Mitchell in 1979. Based on song ideas sent to her by the great bassist Charles Mingus in the months before his death at the age of 56, the tracks encapsulate beautifully the musicians’ styles. Mitchell is rightly regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, embracing as she does the best of folk, pop and jazz. What Imogen does with this project is take one of the finest collaboration albums and bring a touch of British 21st century sensibilities.

The quintet on stage in Watford was Imogen Ryall (voice), Julian Nicholas (tenor and soprano sax and penny whistle), David Beebee (piano), Nigel Aubrey Thomas (bass) and Eric Ford (drums). Introduced by Ruth Fisher, this was just about the perfect accompaniment  to a sunny Sunday brunch at the start of what promises to be an exciting festival n Watford.

For some of these tunes, the lyrics were Joni Mitchell’s but some of them have been added by Imogen Ryall, with arrangements by Julian Nicholas. The final product is an nspired interpretation of Joni Mitchell’s  version of Charles Mingus’s compositions. One of the most beautiful themes across the jazz world is that of collaboration and this project is one of the most inspired versions of a collaborative reality.

Ruth Fisher and Hilary

The Darius Brubeck Quartet live at Jazz Cafe Posk

My first visit to Jazz Cafe Posk in London's Hammersmith coincided with the 60th anniversary of Posk - The Polish Social and Cultural Association - and the first performance in the club by pianist and composer Darius Brubeck.

Photo credit: H Seabrook

Darius was 10 when he joined his father on a historic tour of Poland. The Dave Brubeck Quartet toured Poland from 6 to 18 March 1958, just three years after the communist regime's ban on jazz was lifted. Without a doubt, this was the biggest jazz event in post-war Poland, with the archetypal and hugely successful outfit of Dave Brubeck (piano), Paul Desmond (alto sax), Eugene Wright (bass) and Joe Morello (drums).

Sixty years later, in  2018, Darius took his own quartet - the same one he brought to Posk in May 2024 - to Poland for a significant tour, recorded and released as the Live in Poland album. Several of the tracks from this album were in the set at Posk and this quartet displayed in depth the benefits of playing together for years - 16 in their case. There was a freedom in the improvisations but the structure of each track was clear and slick in its execution.

When I interviewed Darius for Harmonious World, he was self-deprecating about his skills as a pianist but without justification. He leads this quartet beautifully and together their ensemble playing and individual improvisations are flawless.

Joining Darius Brubeck (piano) was this established and utterly professional quartet of creative musicians: Dave O'Higgins (sax), Matt Ridley (bass) and Wesley Gibbens (drums). They each allowed their instrument to be an extension of them in quite extraordinary ways and each brought collaboration and creativity to their performance. You sense that they always do.

Find out more about the forthcoming book (co-authored with Catherine Brubeck) and film - Playing the Changes.

The 60th anniversary of Posk gave an opportunity for Dr Marek Laskiewicz to speak about the importance of this place. My first visit to Jazz Cafe Posk was a huge success and I will definitely be back in coming weeks. It was an honour to be present for the 60th anniversary of this incredible organisation. The jazz club may be new, but it's entrancing and relaxed, with some of the nicest people behind the scenes as well as on stage.

An interview with the inspirational Darius Brubeck

It was a real pleasure to interview the inspirational Darius Brubeck for the latest episode of Harmonious World.

I was excited when I was granted an interview with Darius Brubeck but it rapidly became clear that there was so much more to talk about than his talented father, probably one of the most famous jazz musicians in the world.

A new film, coming to a screen near you soon, Playing the Changes - Tracking Darius Brubeck shows Dave Brubeck's eldest son as he transforms jazz education in South Africa and the global social impact of jazz.

Alongside the film is Darius's autobiography - co-written with his wife Catherine - Playing the Changes: Jazz at an African University and on the Road. The book is a fascinating read for anyone with a passing interest in the history of jazz in our times, and how South Africa has dealt with its cultural significance and incredible musicians.

Apart from anything else, the book and the film together tell an incredible story of people sharing what they are good at and it was a real honour to talk to Darius.

Thank you to Darius for also sharing tracks from the newly re-mastered and re-issued album by The Jazzanians We Have Waited Too Long and I hope you enjoy listening to some clips from tracks from this fabulous 1988 sample of South African jazz, as encouraged and promoted by Darius and Catherine Brubeck.

When your parents are embarrassing you by keeping old photos and press cuttings about you, just remember Darius and Catherine's story - made a lot easier by their own collection of memorabilia, but also by Darius's mother, Iola Brubeck, who kept all their correspondence from the day they left for South Africa. Darius says: "She often reminded us to write a book one day. I told you my parents and family in general were supportive but this fact directly related to the genesis of the book somehow got lost."

Our conversation was genuinely an inspiration and I had to confess to Darius that my first intention was to talk about his famous father, Dave, who is really one of the most important figures in jazz. As I prepared for the interview, I was honoured to be given a sneak preview of both the film and the book, as well as a copy of the Jazzanians' album. Darius has made a difference in the lives and music of so many people.

Exciting news ahead! LIVE podcast booking soon

At the end of 2023, I began chatting with my guests in person - where that was possible. I've had some amazing live chats with Christian McBride, Lucy-Anne Daniels, Jeff Atmajian, Mark Lockheart, Didier Recloux, an International Women's Day special with China Moses, Tim Boniface, Mark Wade, and a special for International Jazz Day with Elina Bzhezhinska.

On 1 July 2024, I will be presenting my first live podcast episode in front of an audience in my home town, Hitchin. The guest is booked and I'll reveal more soon. For now, the excitement is palpable!

Keep on learning

 On what would have been my father's 92nd birthday, I thought I'd post a picture of him I found in our local library. This was taken not long before he died in 2022 - he was fascinated by local history and was learning almost up to the last days.

At his funeral, I read 'Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night' by Dylan Thomas. He really did "rage" until the end.

'Culture Today' from Edy Forey

The exciting and innovative new album from Edinburgh duo Edy Forey brings Edy Szewy (voice) and Guilhem Forey (keyboards) reimagine some classic tracks and originals with a contemporary edge. Listen to the whole album for a tingling, infectious musical boost that can only inspire.

Culture Today allows Edy Forey to collaborate with a whole host of musical pioneers, including Femi Koleoso (Ezra Collective), Michael League and Bob Reynolds (GRAMMY winners with Snarky Puppy) Sharay Reed (Cory Henry & The Funk Apostles, Aretha Franklin, Rachelle Ferrell, Chaka Khan)Alex Hahn(GRAMMY winning saxophonist) Sarpay Ozcagatay (GRAMMY nominated flutist) and percussion from Brazilians Isac Jamba and Carlinhos Percussao.

This is an exciting album that has definitely made it to my list of best albums of 2024 and I'm looking forward to hearing Edy Forey live at some point. The single version of Nature Boy is a modern electronic take on a track that demonstrates a little of what you can hear in more detail across the whole collection of tracks.

The album is mixed and mastered by the GRAMMY award winning producer Bob Power, the engineer behind D’Angelo, Erykah Badu and A Tribe Called Quest, who remarks: “In my 35+ years in the upper echelons of the professional music business, I have seldom met a duo with more talent and drive. They combine a unique and compelling blend of pop music sensibility with a deep foundation of advanced musicianship.”

Gig listing number 5 - May

Spring is definitely in the air here in the UK and I hope it finds you well, wherever you are. Let me know if you make it along to any of these gigs.

Wednesday 1 to Monday 6 May 2024: Cheltenham Jazz Festival
Guests just announced include: Lucy-Anne Daniels, Dionne Warwick; Robert Plant; Sophie Ellis-Bextor; Jack Savoretti; UB40; Dee Dee Bridgewater; Morcheeba; Courtney Pine; Clare Teal; Huey Morgan; Snarky Puppy; Brand New Heavies Orchestra; Brad Mehldau Trio; Jordan Rakei; Bettye Lavette; Ladysmith Black Mambazo; Theo Croker; Lakecia Benjamin; Nubiyan Twist; Norma Winstone; Fatoumata Diawara; Zara McFarlane and many more. Find out more


Thursday 2 May: 'The Eight Words', Newcastle Cathedral with Malcolm Guite
Renowned poet-priest Malcolm Guite joins Tim Boniface (sax) in the amazing setting of Newcastle Cathedral. Malcom and I will also be giving a joint lecture on Theology, Poetry and Jazz in the afternoon. Details here if you find yourselves towards the North East: https://newcastlecathedral.org.uk/event/the-eight-words/


Sunday 12 May 2024: Nikki Iles, Pizza Express, Dean Street, London W1
The marvellous Nikki Iles (hopefully a future guest) brings her big band to the regular Sunday big band session in Soho. Find out more


Sunday 12 to 19 May 2024: Watford Jazz Festival

A range of outstanding events. Find out more


Tuesday 14 May: 'Big Ben' at Watermill Jazz, Betchworth Park Golf Club, Reigate Road, Dorking RH4 1NZ

‘Big Ben: Celebrating saxophonist Ben Webster’, which premiered at the EFG London Jazz Festival in November 2023., comes to this delightful jazz venue. A narrated show curated by pianist/arranger Alex Webb and saxophonist Tony Kofi, it includes Webster’s acclaimed years with Duke Ellington, his work with Billie Holiday, his visits to Ronnie Scott’s in London, his later years in Copenhagen and his remarkable work with strings. The band includes Alan Barnes on reeds, Ben Cummings on trumpet, David Lalljee on trombone and a rhythm section of bassist Dave Green (who played and recorded with Ben Webster in the 1960s) and Clark Tracey, whose legendary father also accompanied Webster on his 1960s UK dates. Strings are supplied by the J.A.M. String Collective, formed from Tomorrow’s Warriors musicians. For tickets & info: Watermill Jazz event tickets from TicketSource.

Saturday 18 May: Ineza and 'Women's Words, Sisters' Stories' at Brasserie Toulouse Lautrec, 140 Newington Butts, Kennington, London SE11 4RN

The Belgian/Rwandan vocalist returns to south London’s most important jazz venue with her ongoing celebration of the repertoire written or co-written by the great jazz divas themselves, with the Alex Webb Trio. For tickets & info: Lulu Pierre with The Alex Webb Quintet - Toulouse Lautrec

Thursday 23 May: Lulu Pierre, Tony Kofi and Alex Webb at Cambridge Modern Jazz Club, Hidden Rooms, 7b Jesus Lane CB5 8BA

Vocalist Lulu Pierre makes her debut at Cambridge’s atmospheric jazz outpost, with special guest, tenor sax maestro Tony Kofi and the Alex Webb Trio. For tickets & info: cambridgejazz.org/event/lulu-pierre-quartet-with-special-guest-tony-kofi/

Saturday 1 June: Jazz Cafe POSK, 238-246 King Street London W6 0RF: Ineza and ‘Women’s Words, Sisters’ Stories’

The Belgian/Rwandan vocalist makes her debut at this superb jazz room with her ongoing celebration of the repertoire written or co-written by the great jazz divas themselves, with the Alex Webb Trio (Charlie Pyne, bass & Katie Patterson, drums). For tickets & info: https://www.jazzcafeposk.org/

27 June to 6 July: Montreal Jazz Festival
André 3000, Norah Jones, Hiatus Kaiyote, Laufey, Robert Glasper (L'Événement spécial Rio Tinto), and Orville Peck (Le Grand Événement TD) are among the headliners of the 44th Festival International de Jazz de Montréal (FIJM), presented by TD Bank Group in collaboration with Rio Tinto. From June 27 to July 6, over 350 shows will rock the heart of the city, and two-thirds will be free of charge. With this year’s modern, all-encompassing and diverse program, the FIJM proves once again that jazz knows no boundaries. Find out more

Friday 5 to Sunday 7 July 2024, Love Supreme Festival, Glynde Place
I'll be there! Lots of past and future guests appearing, including Christian McBride. Find out more


Friday 12 to Sunday 14 July 2024, NN North Sea Jazz Festival, Rotterdam Ahoy
Billed as the world’s largest indoor music festival, this has some great names announced, including:Sting, Joshua Redman, Jamie Cullum, Cécile McLorin Salvant, John Scofield & Dave Holland, Chucho Valdés, Lizz Wright, Shai Maestro, Laura Misch, Myra Melford, Reuben James, Walter Smith III, Ibrahim Maalouf, a new quartet featuring Chris Potter, Brad Mehldau, John Patitucci and Johnathan Blake and much more. Find out more


Friday 15 to Sunday 24 November 2024, EFG London Jazz Festival

There are some incredible gigs coming in already for this year's London Jazz Festival, including a raft of great options at Cadogan Hall.

Ongoing

* My newest discovery this month is Jazz Cafe Posk in Hammersmith. In the course of the next few weeks, several of my past guests are appearing there. It's a great, relaxed venue.

* Check out one of my favourite venues - London's marvellous 606 Club

* In Milton Keynes, there's also the Stables Theatre, which often features live music

* Different venues, plus lots of music on offer at Boisdale in Belgravia and Canary Wharf.

‘Memory in Motion’ with The Jazz Defenders

A packed Pizza Express in London’s Soho was blasted by The Jazz Defenders as they unleashed their new album on the world - celebrating International Jazz Day 2024 in style.

The Jazz Defenders

Memory in Motion is a great album, out now on Haggis Records, with touches of Horace Silver and tinges of Herbie Hancock.

There was something slightly disconcerting about an electronic keyboard sitting on top of the wonderful Dean Street Steinway and George Cooper handled them both with a dexterity and panache that made it all make sense.

A talented bunch, The Jazz Defenders take their influences from wherever they choose, including some of the other ensembles in which they strut their stuff. 

Horns are courtesy of Jake McMurchie (tenor sax) and Nick Malcolm (trumpet) and they are as much at ease on stabbing and intricate lines as they are on solos through the tracks.

A solid rhythm and added excitement comes from Ian Matthews (drums) and Will Harris (double bass and bass guitar). Matthews in particular wowed the crowd with his energetic and frankly explosive solos.

Alongside the obvious influences, there's a modernity about this group, particularly when they were joined for one number by actor, rapper, singer and overall performer Doc Brown. Defying genres and the boxes that jazz sometimes is forced into, this was a night of musical surprises and an energy that only comes with talent and a deep musical understanding.

Celebrating International Jazz Day with Alina Bzhezhinska

For International Jazz Day 2024, I am joined in conversation for Harmonious World by harpist Alina Bzezhinska. Her home is wherever she finds herself and she is inspirational in her jazz and in her attitude to life.

Altera Vita is out now, and it's a wonderful album featuring Alina's harp with co-musical-conspirator Tony Kofi.

Thank you to Alina for allowing me to share tracks from Altera Vita alongside our conversation, and I hope you enjoy listening to them.

To help Alina in raising funds for the people of Ukraine, visit her Bandcamp page.

Thank you for listening to Harmonious World. Please rate, review and share: click on the link and subscribe to support the show.

Don't forget the Quincy Jones quote that sums up why I do this: "Imagine what a harmonious world it would be if every single person, both young and old, shared a little of what he is good at doing."

Thanks for listening to Harmonious World. You can support the show by becoming a subscriber.

An introduction to Croatia and the pierrot ensemble

The latest episode of Harmonious World takes me (virtually) to Croatia for the first time. Thanks to an introduction from previous guest William Susman, I chatted with Iva Ljubicic Lukic from the band Glazbene staze.

The band's new album is Pierrot Project Op 1 and brings a real introduction to the rare pierrot ensemble. Please take some time to listen to this music from Croatia that crosses all bounds of genre.

Thanks to Iva for sharing tracks from the album.

‘Opera in ecclesiastical dress’ from Verdi

A wonderful evening spent with friends in London’s Royal Albert Hall, listening to what the music critic Hans Van Bulow described as “opera in ecclesiastical dress”. It’s a fabulous composition, performed perfectly by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

With maestro Michael Shapiro

This is an intense musical work of genius, with four soloist and a huge chorus alongside the mighty RPO. As critics discuss the value of Verdi’s interpretation of the Requiem Mass, it’s impossible to dispel the impression of greatness and human emotion.

For me, the RPO represents culture after the Second World War (it was founded in 1946 by he great conductor Sir Thomas Beecham) and as we all move further into the 21st century, this production is part of their ‘Icons Rediscovered’ series which is well worth exploring, whether you know some of the works to be performed or not.