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Myra Brownbridge: The Voyage Out

Out this weekend is the debut album from double bass player, vocalist and composer Myra Brownbridge. 'The Voyage Out' is a delightful offering from this exceptional talent.

Starting with the opening track (as is my wont), there is something essentially fresh and engaging about Brownbridge's compositional style and playing. The Voyage Out (album and track) take naming from Virginia Woolf's first novel and the composer takes inspiration from this quintessentially British writer, while embracing a jazz style that is creative and delightful.

Brownbridge has selected some fine musicians for her debut album: Tom Ollendorff (guitar), Matthew Holmes (drums), George Garford (alto sax) and a guest appearance from Tony Kofi (alto sax). They perform the compositions with panache and bring their experience to one of the finest debut albums I have heard.

The shortest track on the album - Entangled - is beautifully simple, with little rhythmic variation between the quartet. Musical perfection in little more than a minute.

Of course, the stunning sound of Tony Kofi on As Dreams are Made warms the soul and he does a wonderful job alongside Brownbridge's bass on her own composition as Ollendorff's guitar and Holmes's drums subtly join in. A beautiful track with a fabulous cadenza from Kofi, joined by everyone for the final chord.

Drawing parallels between Woolf's writings, ancient mythologies and personal creativity, Icarus is the crowning glory of this album, with Brownbridge's melodious and poetic vocals melting like the lyrics.

The Voyage Out allows space for these eminent musicians to perform and it's truly a stunning album. Look out for more from Myra Brownbridge.

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