This autumn Tim Richards' nine-piece embark on their fourth UK tour 21 October - 4 November, with support from the PRS FOUNDATION for NEW MUSIC, JAZZ SERVICES Ltd and THE MUSICIANS UNION.
"Jazz supergroup whose passion proves inspirational... Contagious rhythmic energy... makes you want to do heroic deeds like climb Everest or swim the Atlantic... Not a dull moment from beginning to end."
Stuart Nicholson - OBSERVER MUSIC MONTHLY
They'll be joined by one of Finland's top jazz musicians, Jari Perkiomaki (alto/soprano sax). Head of the jazz department at Helsinki's prestigious Sibelius Academy, Perkiomaki has performed all over the world with his own trio/quartet. He joined the Pori Big Band in 1977 when only 16, later conducting the band with special US guest Kenny Garrett in 2005. He has previously appeared in the UK with Ed Jones' Anglo-Finnish band, and trumpeter Mika Myllari.
The remaining line-up comprises an impressive selection of London's most dynamic jazz musicians, many of whom are bandleaders in their own right. See the GIGS page for details and tour dates.
GREAT SPIRIT combines the earthiness of blues and funk, the harmonies of contemporary jazz, the rhythms of Africa, and the thrilling combination of structure and freedom provided by Tim's innovative writing - all showcased to fine effect on the band's latest CD on 33 Records, Epistrophy (33Jazz120), released in 2005 to universal acclaim, eg:
"Immediately accessible, wide-ranging album... as infectiously enjoyable as it is carefully constructed and programmed... blues and post-bop jazz, tinged with funk, African and Latin influences... powerful, earthy, dramatic music... a judiciously balanced band in top form." Chris Parker - JAZZ AT RONNIE SCOTTS
More press reviews can be viewed at: http://www.timrichards.ndo.co.uk/EpistrophyCD.html
See also the 5-star review online at:
http://www.24dash.com/content/lifestyle/reviews/viewReview.php?reviewID=165&navID=11
GREAT SPIRIT aims to show that contemporary jazz is vibrantly alive in the C21st, and that it can appeal to a broad cross-section of people of all ages and cultures.
"Richards' arrangements are terrific, and the choice of material just as good... A landmark achievement in a long career." John Fordham - THE GUARDIAN |
