UK Release Date: 2 December 2013
Label: Impossible Ark
Launch Gig: 23 November 2013, Purcell Room as part of the EFG London Jazz Festival
Strap yourselves in as UK jazz powerhouse Troyka combine with an incredible big band under the direction of Nick Smart to form Troykestra. The result is a compelling expansion of the trio’s music from their first two albums. Expect textural guitar loops, abstract electronica, dance derived beats, and big band brass.
The band originally formed as part of a commission from Jazzwise magazine to perform for their Birthday Gig at Ronnie Scott’s in London (the “Power of 15" festival). They then went on to perform at the Cheltenham Festival in 2013, where this extraordinary live album was recorded. The album includes existing Troyka pieces rearranged for the big band (and now given new titles) as well as some new pieces specifically commissioned for Cheltenham Festival.
This music continues Troyka’s celebrated unpredictable rhythms and sudden bursts of volume, whilst also further developing other facets of their music. Improvisation is a prominent feature here, with many fluent and articulate solos from members of the larger ensemble. The big band also provides a great opportunity for thicker textures, dramatic horn stabs and expanded harmony.
Label: Impossible Ark
Launch Gig: 23 November 2013, Purcell Room as part of the EFG London Jazz Festival
Strap yourselves in as UK jazz powerhouse Troyka combine with an incredible big band under the direction of Nick Smart to form Troykestra. The result is a compelling expansion of the trio’s music from their first two albums. Expect textural guitar loops, abstract electronica, dance derived beats, and big band brass.
The band originally formed as part of a commission from Jazzwise magazine to perform for their Birthday Gig at Ronnie Scott’s in London (the “Power of 15" festival). They then went on to perform at the Cheltenham Festival in 2013, where this extraordinary live album was recorded. The album includes existing Troyka pieces rearranged for the big band (and now given new titles) as well as some new pieces specifically commissioned for Cheltenham Festival.
This music continues Troyka’s celebrated unpredictable rhythms and sudden bursts of volume, whilst also further developing other facets of their music. Improvisation is a prominent feature here, with many fluent and articulate solos from members of the larger ensemble. The big band also provides a great opportunity for thicker textures, dramatic horn stabs and expanded harmony.
