Band Of Bands

Mike Westbrook

Regular: £12.99

Sale
Regular: £12.99

Unavailable

Unit Price: per

Cat No: WR014

Release Date: 28 June 2024

Label: Westbrook Records

Packaging Type: Digipak

No of Units: 1

Barcode: 053517203136

Genres: Jazz Contemporary

Description

'Band of Bands' brings together key musicians from legendary British jazz pianist and composer Mike Westbrook's many small-scale projects. Joining the trio of vocalist/songwriter Kate Westbrook, Mike and saxophonist Chris Biscoe, are four long-time alumni- accordionist Karen Street, saxophonist/clarinettist Pete Whyman, Marcus Vergette on bass and Coach York on drums.

The mix of composition, song and improvisation has been at the heart of many Westbrook projects, from the seminal Brass Band of the '70s to the Westbrook Trio and the Uncommon Orchestra. In 'Band of Bands' there are re-creations of Westbrook classics alongside new compositions, and arrangements of some lesser-known standards, all interpreted by some of the UK's most original and distinctive soloists.

'Band of Bands' was recorded live by Matthew North at Ashburton Arts Centre, Devon in November 2023. It was mixed and produced by Jay Auborn with dBs Pro Bristol.
Kate Westbrook: voice
Chris Biscoe: alto and soprano saxophones
Pete Whyman: alto and soprano saxophones, clarinet
Karen Street: accordion
Mike Westbrook: piano
Marcus Vergette: bass
Coach York: drums
"Whether he is writing for a trio or a 20 piece orchestra, Westbrook's style is unmistakable. He combines instruments in unique ways, twists conventional jazz forms into surprising new shapes and seasons it all with delicate touches of humour and irony." - The Observer

Press:

"There are virtues too numerous to mention herein, but the band's spirit is summed up in the closing 'What I Like', a Kate Westbrook lyric celebrating life's treasure of pleasure. A band for all seasons from composers with a gift for conjuring up the gladness of hearts. Here's to life." - **** (Editor's Choice) Jazzwise

"As fine a set of performances as any in Westbrook's long career...Band of Bands explodes with a joy and energy which is captivating from the opening notes of "Glad Day" to Coach York's solo on "What I Like." Band of bands and band of friends." - **** All About Jazz

"English jazz icon pianist, composer and bandleader Mike Westbrook rewards jazz fans' continuing interest with one of his best albums in many years...Band of Bands represents a good sprinkling of some of the key aspects of his musical personality and is a great place to dip in to begin a journey into the mind and music of a total one-off." - *** 1/2 Marlbank

"The combination of saxophones and accordion creates a wonderous sound...much credit must be given to Mike Westbrook's ingenious arrangements and Karen Street's adaptability and virtuosity on the accordion...Westbrook's writing for ensembles of any size is still as potent and satisfying as ever." - Jazz Views
Tracklisting