Articles by Alex J Watson
Robert Mitchell's Panacea: The Cusp
by Alex J Watson
Robert Mitchell's Panacea presents The Cusp, its third album, and debut release for Edition Records. This collection of ten highly arranged original compositions by Mitchell, combines complex rhythmic writing with contemporary vocal jazz. The recording is delivered with a squeaky-clean production sound that can only be a reflection of the leader's attention to detail, and a personal involvement at every level. Mitchell was certainly wearing his heart on his sleeve when writing this record--from his ensemble writing ...
Continue ReadingPhil Meadows' Standard: Leeds, UK, April 24, 2010
by Alex J Watson
Phil Meadows' StandardToast BarLeeds, UKApril 24, 2010Saxophonist Phil Meadows is a rising star of the UK jazz scene. Benchmark performances such as his appearance at Manchester Jazz festival last year, along with various accolades, including winner of LIMA Bands Competition 2008, have helped kick start the career of the young Chethams School of Music graduate. Unveiling his new group Standard, at Toast bar in Leeds, Meadows--who is best know for leading groups playing his own ...
Continue ReadingPhronesis: Green Delay
by Alex J Watson
Following the success of Organic Warfare (Loop, 2007), Copenhagen-born bassist and Loop Collective member Jasper Høiby presents his second album as leader--Green Delay--with his London based trio Phronesis. Høiby is joined on this set of original compositions by drummer Anton Eger and pianist Ivo Neame, who replaces Organic Warfare's Magnus Hjorth. Characterized by intense, bass-driven grooves in odd time signatures, lyrical melodies, and fantastic interplay, this album shows Høiby's flair as a composer, whilst framing the pure strength ...
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