Shifting Sands from Avishai Cohen *****

 My latest review for Kind of Jazz is out now, with the outstanding Shifting Sands from Avishai Cohen.

Quiet Rhythms

This episode of Harmonious World was a total delight - not only did I get to interview the pianist Nicolas Horvath, who is a Steinway Artist and a fascinating musician, but we were also discussing the compositions of William Susman. Bill and I chatted for episodes 16 and 31 of Harmonious World and he was generous enough to introduce me to Nicolas (virtually, at least).

    These compositions on Quiet Rhythms Book 1 are stunning and Nicolas plays them with panache. Listen to the album if you can, but I hope you enjoy listening to the extracts you can hear before and after our conversation.

'Quadrillion' bringing fine Danish jazz fusion

Harmonica player Mathias Heise has brought his Quadrillion project back with an amazing album that is just so full of joy. It was great to talk to him about the album, lockdown and the delight in getting back to playing in front of a real audience.

    Quadrillion is Danish jazz fusion at its finest, with fascinating harmonies that cheat the ear, alongside complex melodies and hard-hitting grooves.

    Thanks to Mathias for a great chat and for allowing me to use clips from Quadrillion alongside our conversation.

Discussing The Primavera Project with Matt Haimovitz

When I organised my interview with cellist Matt Haimovitz, Primavera II the rabbits had just been released. Now there's also Primavera III the vessels to add to the original Primavera I  the wind.

    This is all just part of the massive Primavera Project, which will eventually include 81 world premieres for solo cello. Our conversation covers the inspiration behind the compositions, the recording process and what's coming next for the project. There are some remarkable videos to watch, too.

    Thanks to Matt for a fascinating conversation and for allowing me to use clips from Primavera II the rabbits alongside our conversation.

'Vermillion' - a conversation with Kit Downes

Acclaimed British jazz pianist Kit Downes joins me for the latest episode of Harmonious World. He's representing fellow trio members Petter Eldh and James Maddren to discuss their latest album, Vermillion.

    Thanks to Kit for a fascinating conversation and for allowing me to use clips from Vermillion alongside our conversation.