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Neil Maya
In 2001, Neil moved to Devon, UK where he founded the NEIL MAYA QUARTET with pianist Tom Unwin.
The NEIL MAYA QUARTET is one of the Southwest’s most exciting and talented bands, whose aim is to find fresh, new sounds within the wide scope of jazz whilst staying accessible to the public at large.
The NEIL MAYA QUARTET is often rooted in the sounds of the cool jazz movement of the 50’s and 60’s, but loves playing other styles such as funk, samba, African and even folk rock. The quartet is always striving to find different ways to deliver jazz and although the soloing aspect is central to its approach, in a similar way to classical compositions, its music often tells a story which takes you on a journey across a wide and rich emotional landscape. As well as playing innovative re-workings of jazz standards and material by other composers, the band also plays its own compositions. The quartet’s music is crisp, colourful, sassy, smooth, atmospheric, intricate, cool, very imaginative and always highly entertaining!
As well as playing with the quartet and taking freelance work, Neil now plays in a number of function bands. He also teaches instrumental music, runs a big band, and runs jazz workshops.
Tags
JohnPaul Hedge, The Herald Express "Hugely talent band of brothers...you'd be hard pushed to find a better sounding quartet in this neck of the woods - or any other for that matter"
Mary Yendall, The St Austell Voice "Neil Maya on sax and clarinet fronted the foursome with the ease of a true professional. His sax playing was second to none as he smoothly made his way through the repertoire which ranged from his own compositions to contemporary jazz classics.... Tom Unwin on Keyboards brought a passion for his music seemingly equalled only by the high winds sweeping through the county... His performance was faultless and much appreciated by the audience. Marcus Vergette on double bass.. enthralled the audience with his energetic playing as he virtually tangoed with his bass, his footwork a sight to behold. Finally drummer (Gary Evans) held the ensemble together impeccably."
Music
Recordings: As Leader | As Sideperson
