Ubuntu Music Signs Composer/Arranger/Saxophonist Josephine Davies for Album Release

Josephine Davies & The Ensō Ensemble

 The Celtic Wheel of the Year Suite

Release Date: 28th February 2025

CD & Digital Formats / UBU0180

Josephine Davies (Photographer: Greg Heath)

Ubuntu Music is delighted to announce the signing of award-winning composer/arranger/saxophonist Josephine Davies for the release of The Celtic Wheel of the Year Suite, her next project, on 28th February 2025.

Josephine explains: “This project began 10 years ago when I wrote my first piece for the London Jazz Orchestra during a period of extreme early rising. Inspired by the sun rise, I named it for Eos, the Goddess of the Dawn. Fast forward a decade, a number of jazz orchestra pieces under my belt, and a move during lockdown out of the city, I instinctively felt drawn to deepen my relationship with the earth and the wildness around me, whilst simultaneously wanting to expand upon this first piece. The result is the eight part suite, each movement inspired by a particular time of year and what it holds for me emotionally and spiritually.”

Josephine Davies (Photographer: Kate Butts)

Josephine describes the music for The Celtic Wheel of the Year Suite: “An eclectic listener, I love the spirit of improvisation and spontaneity inherent in jazz, as well as the subtly considered precision of orchestral writing. I am on a continuous quest to blend these elements in a way that is both surprising and inevitable, challenging yet richly satisfying. Ultimately the album is a hymn to the beauty, power, and grace (if I may use such an old-fashioned word) of this magnificent earth.”

Two album launch shows will be hosted by The Vortex in London on Friday, 20th December. Ticket links are below:

First Show (7:30PM): BOOK HERE

Second Show (9:30PM): BOOK HERE

Josephine Davies (Photographer: @Sundrugs)

Josephine further comments on her new relationship with Ubuntu Music: “I am delighted to partner with Martin Hummel and Ubuntu Music for my debut jazz orchestra release. This Suite is the culmination of a good few years of experimentation, learning, writing, and finally rehearsing and recording. It has been an immensely rewarding endeavour that I can’t wait to share with the world, and I can’t think of a better record label to do it with.”

Martin Hummel, Director of Ubuntu Music, concludes: “I’ve been an admirer of Josephine and her endless talent for years – as a composer, bandleader and as a saxophonist. ‘The Celtic Wheel of the Year Suite’ perhaps represents her greatest challenge as a professional, with 16 stellar musicians in her orchestra, culminating in her eight-part suite. The end result is sublime, with each movement celebrating a specific time of the year and expressed through her personal spirit. We are so happy to welcome Josephine and her exceptional musicians to the Ubuntu Music Family.”

BIOGRAPHY:

Winner of the 2019 Parliamentary Award ‘Jazz Instrumentalist of the Year’, Josephine Davies is a saxophonist, composer and bandleader at the forefront of the UK contemporary music scene. She has four album releases on Whirlwind Recordings with her trio Satori, and is known for her melodic focus, versatility and unique style as an instrumentalist. 

Now becoming equally known as a composer, her unique voice is a blend of classical, jazz and folk music, creating an intensely dynamic sound infused with the Nordic quality of her Shetland roots. Josephine was resident composer and tenor player for the London Jazz Orchestra from 2012-2018, leaving at that time to form her own large ensemble.

Josephine subsequently decided on the name ‘The Ensō Ensemble’, which is inspired by the Zen Buddhist practice of a circle drawn in a single, unedited brushstroke, celebrating the beauty of incompletion and imperfection, and the polarity of movement and stillness. It is an inspirational tool for Josephine as she continues to play with the ever-shifting balance of written music and space for improvisation.

Enso Ensemble Orchestra (Photographer: Greg Heath)

ORCHESTRA PERSONNEL:

Josephine Davies                    Composer, conductor, tenor saxophone

Michael Chillingworth          Alto & soprano saxophone

Rachael Cohen                        Alto saxophone

Helena Kay                             Tenor saxophone

Adam Bishop                          Tenor saxophone, clarinet, alto flute

Tamar Osborn                         Baritone saxophone, bass clarinet

Noel Langley                          Trumpet, flugelhorn

Reuben Fowler                       Trumpet, flugelhorn

Nick Smart                              Trumpet, flugelhorn

Robbie Robson                       Trumpet, flugelhorn

Anna Drysdale                        French horn

Olli Martin                              Trombone

Maddie Dowdeswell             Trombone

Eddie Curtis                            Bass Trombone

Alcyona Mick                         Piano

Dave Whitford                       Double bass

Shaney Forbes                       Drums

Ubuntu Music Signs Gifted Bassist Misha Mullov-Abbado for Album Release

Misha Mullov-Abbado / Effra

Release Date: 31st January 2025

CD, Digital & Vinyl Formats / UBU0185

Misha Mullov-Abbado (Photographer: Monika S Jakubowska)

Ubuntu Music is delighted to announce the signing of award-winning London-based jazz bass player, composer and arranger Misha Mullov-Abbado for the release of Effra, his next project, on 31st January 2025.

Effra is Misha’s fourth album as a bandleader and is a collection of all the music he has written in the last four years for his band of over a decade now. The word is often associated with the area of Brixton in South London which has been his home almost as long as the band has existed. It began as the name of a now-underground river that runs through the area and has more recently been used as the name of a main road and two rival pubs, as well as a smaller road which one of his tracks is named after. The album is an expression of Misha’s love for both his home and for playing jazz after a difficult period in previous years, and these pieces reflect all the personal journeys in that time.

Sam Rapley, Liam Dunachie, Misha Mullov-Abbado, Matthew Herd, Scott Chapman, James Davison (Photographer: Matthew Johnson)

Misha’s quintet consists of an exceptional array of musicians, who happen to be based in London: award-winning trumpet/flugelhorn ace James Davison, alto/tenor sax man Matthew Herd, tenor saxophone & bass clarinet player Sam Rapley, pianist Liam Dunachie and drummer Scott Chapman.

Misha further explains the project: “The album contains eight original pieces written for my regular jazz sextet. The record goes on a musical journey combining many different influences from traditional jazz to swing to Brazilian samba to classical music to minimalism to modern and obscure. It is unified by the sound of the group playing together with an incredible horn section which often sounds about three times bigger, as well as inventive improvising from all members of the band. This is dedicated to Brixton, the diverse melting pot of all the sights and sounds of the exciting and vibrant city of London, where I have lived all my life.”

Liam Dunachie, Matthew Herd, Misha Mullov-Abbado, Scott Chapman, James Davison, Sam Rapley (Photographer: Matthew Johnson)

Misha comments on his new relationship with Ubuntu Music: “I am super happy to be working with Martin (Hummel) and everyone at Ubuntu Music. Martin has been extremely supportive of all my music-making in the past five years and already very helpful with all things to do with this project since we first discussed shortly after recording it. I am lucky to have appeared on several Ubuntu releases in recent years and so have witnessed for myself the practical ease and good-natured exchanges that take place in a successful album release for a touring band.”

Martin Hummel, Director of Ubuntu Music, concludes: “I’ve been seriously impressed with Misha’s compositional and performance skills for a number of years now. He’s developed his own voice, while giving breathing space to his distinguished partners to express themselves seamlessly within an exceptional quintet framework. Misha’s music takes us on a multi-cultural journey, while always reassuring us that home is just around the corner. It’s a delight to bring ‘Effra’ to the world stage for all to enjoy. We’re honoured to be a part of the journey as we welcome Misha and his musicians to the Ubuntu Music Family.”

For further information, please contact:

Misha Mullov-Abbado/Artist:  misha.ma@hotmail.co.uk

Emma Perry/Emma Perry PR (UK PR):  emmasarahperry@gmail.com

Martin Hummel/Ubuntu Music (Worldwide): martin@ubuntumanagementgroup.com

BIOGRAPHIES:

“An unfailing inventive, artfully produced, and delightfully sunny debut”

The Telegraph on New Ansonia (UK)

“It will not be many years before Misha becomes one of the world’s leading

figures in music”

La Jornada (Mexico)

“Both his composing talents and his propulsive bass-playing are currently such

hot UK jazz news”

The Guardian (UK)

“Soul-enhancing jazz”

BBC Radio 3 on the Misha Mullov-Abbado Group

“A mouthwatering prospect”

Jazzwise on the Misha Mullov-Abbado Group

The Misha-Mullov-Abbado Group (Photographer: Matthew Johnson)

The Misha Mullov-Abbado Group is made up of some of the finest, multi-award-winning musicians in London and, under Misha’s direction, the group performs his original compositions and arrangements with a broad variety of influences. The band has performed at a broad range of prestigious jazz and classical festivals across the UK, as well as undertaking overseas ventures to France, Switzerland, Italy, Belgium and Mexico. London highlights include the Southbank Centre, King’s Place, Vortex and Barbican Centre.

Having been signed to Edition Records since 2014, the group released Dream Circus, produced by fellow Edition Records bass player and bandleader Jasper Høiby. The band previously released Cross-Platform Interchange (2017) and New Ansonia, the latter of which was included in “Best Jazz Albums 2015” by both The Telegraph and BBC Radio 3. All of the band’s releases have received an overwhelming amount of praise, and the group appears regularly on Radio 3 and Jazz FM.

The band’s repertoire is influenced by a broad spectrum of music in the classical, jazz and pop genres as well folk traditions from around the world, particularly from South America. Misha’s music contains chorale-based and contemporary styles that are influenced by classical giants from Bach to Bartok and beyond, and also pays tribute to jazz and groove-based music including swing, samba, funk and fusion. As a bass-led band, Avishai Cohen, Ray Brown and Charles Mingus are all important role models for this exciting sextet.

Having originally met while studying together this ensemble of old friends has a lot of history of working together in many different combinations and bands. Many of them have their own projects performing their own incredible and unique music and all play in variety of successful groups such as the Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra, Seafarers, and Alfa Mist.

Misha Mullov-Abbado (double bass)

Award-winning, London-based jazz bass player, composer and arranger Misha Mullov-Abbado is a musician who combines great imagination with raw talent and a clear vision. A BBC New Generation Artist and with three critically acclaimed albums on Edition Records under his name, his most recent offering, Dream Circus, showcases his ‘melodic gift’ (John Fordham, The Guardian) and ability to masterfully combine beautifully crafted compositions with free-spirited improvisation. Written over a three-year period, the album (produced by fellow Edition Records bassist and bandleader Jasper Høiby of Phronesis) marks the arrival of an artist who has been on a voyage of self-discovery.

His aforementioned collective features some of the most exhilarating and sought-after young musicians in London and was formed during Misha’s final year at Royal Academy of Music. An experienced bandleader and versatile sideman, Misha regularly performs all over the UK and around the world, including at top London venues such as Ronnie Scott’s, the Vortex, King’s Place and Royal Albert Hall. His vast musical travels have led him to work alongside inspiring musicians such as Alice Zawadzki, Dave O’Higgins, Fred Thomas, Tim Garland, Viktoria Mullova, Enzo Zirilli, Sam Lee, Rob Luft, Paul Clarvis, Stan Sulzmann and Nessi Gomes. In 2024 he was part of Za Górami, a release on ECM Records in a trio with Alice Zawadzki and Fred Thomas which was The Guardian's Jazz album of the month.

A prolific composer and arranger in his own right, Misha embraces his jazz, classical, pop and folk influences and writes for a variety of jazz groups, as well as various classical soloists and ensembles. Commissions include work with the Hermes Experiment, Norfolk & Norwich Festival, LSSO, Hill Quartet, Pelleas Ensemble, NW Live Arts and BBC Radio 3, the latter of which commissioned his cello concerto which was premiered at London’s Southbank Centre by Matthew Barley and the BBC Concert Orchestra.

It’s only a matter of time before Misha seals his place on the international scene at the forefront of a new generation of European creative jazz musicians.

James Davison (trumpet)

Winner of the Worshipful Company of Musicians Young Jazz Musician of the year (2018) and the Smith-Watkins Trumpet Award (Royal Academy of Music, 2016) James Davison is now pursuing a busy and varied freelance career. He is currently Lead Trumpet with the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra and performs regularly with the BBC Big Band, Pete Long’s Echoes of Ellington Orchestra, the Louis Dowdeswell Big Band and the Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra. James’ classical and orchestral career highlights include performances as Guest Principal Trumpet with the London Symphony Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, English National Opera and the Hallé Orchestra, as well as tours and recordings with the Sinfonia of London and London Brass. James is also a member of the award-winning Misha Mullov-Abbado Group as well as his own bands -  “Quintet-a-tete” co-led with Grammy nominated arranger and trombone player Callum Au, and "The Davison/Hemstock Quintet" with Australian clarinet and saxophonist Duncan Hemstock.

Matthew Herd (alto saxophone)

Matthew Herd is a Scottish songwriter, composer, and saxophonist living in east London. He

writes for and performs with Seafarers, a band that unites some of the most prominent voices in folk and improvised music. Their debut album, Orlando, was released in 2020 to international acclaim, and was followed by the much lauded II in 2022. Matthew can be found performing with the Misha Mullov-Abbado Group. Also, in trio with Will Glaser and Liam Noble, and in duo with pianist Tom Taylor. From time to time, he plays with DJ Yoda, and the Patchwork Jazz Orchestra. Matthew is Musician in Residence at Habs Boys’ School and co-directs the Habs Jazz Summer School.

Sam Rapley (tenor saxophone)

Sam Rapley is a composer and saxophonist living and working in the UK. He writes distinctive, unique and ear-catching music for film, television and games, and is at the forefront of the UK jazz scene as a saxophonist and clarinettist, having studied jazz performance and composition at the Royal Academy of Music. His band ‘Fabled' released their debut album Short Stories to critical acclaim in 2018 and subsequently performed across the UK as part of an Arts Council funded tour, including performances at London’s Wigmore Hall, Pizza Express Jazz Club and Manchester’s Band on the Wall. The album was featured in Jazzwise magazine and has been played regularly on BBC Radio 3. As a sideman, Rapley performs regularly with Alfa Mist, Waaju, Misha Mullov-Abbado and Maria Chiara Argirò, and with these bands has played extensively throughout the UK at venues such as The Barbican, Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Maida Vale Studios and The Jazz Cafe, as well as touring across Europe and further afield to Australia, Mexico and Thailand.

Liam Dunachie (piano)

Originally from Shropshire, Liam Dunachie began his musical training as a treble chorister in Hereford Cathedral Choir and later studied music at Trinity College, Cambridge where he was a choral scholar in its world-renowned choir under Stephen Layton. After graduating from Cambridge, Liam won a scholarship to study jazz piano and arranging at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama where he studied with Malcolm Edmonstone, Nikki Iles and Scott Stroman among others. He has since gone on to play piano and Hammond organ in groups led by Jim Mullen, Dennis Rollins, Derek Nash, Nigel Price and Postmodern Jukebox's vocalist Aubrey Logan among others. He has performed at all of London's major jazz and commercial venues and many others across the UK, including Ronnie Scott's, Pizza Express Dean St, Royal Albert Hall, Glastonbury Festival's Pyramid Stage, Wembley Arena, The Royal Festival Hall, The Palladium and many more.

Scott Chapman (drums)

Scott Chapman is a professional freelance and session drummer based in London whose versatility behind the kit has forged him a varied career and reputation of being able to cover many musical situations. He gained a strong musical grounding playing classic big band repertoire with ex-professionals every week in his younger years. Aged only sixteen, he became the principal drummer for the National Youth Jazz Orchestra and later was given a place at the prestigious Royal Academy of Music in London to study on the undergraduate jazz course. Shortly after graduating in 2014 with a First-Class honours degree and a Yamaha Jazz Scholarship Award, Scott was picked up to join the tour of major hit musical Wicked and since then he has performed as a deputy for the London production and a handful of other major West End shows, as well as for the London Musical Theatre Orchestra. He is also involved in notable projects at the forefront of the UK jazz scene such as the Misha Mullov-Abbado Group and the Patchwork Jazz Orchestra, and as an able percussionist he has performed as an onstage actor/musician in the West End production of Close to You: Bacharach Reimagined in 2015-16, and toured with Sheridan Smith in 2018.

Ubuntu Music Signs Swiss Artist Fabienne Ambuehl for Album Release

Fabienne Ambuehl / Thrive

Release Date: 17th January 2025

CD & Digital Formats / UBU0166

Fabienne Ambuehl (Photographer: Kirill Kuletski)

Ubuntu Music is delighted to announce the signing of Swiss vocalist/pianist/composer Fabienne Ambuehl for the release of her next project, Thrive, on 17th January 2025.

Fabienne shares her thoughts about her latest venture: “One summer during the Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland, I got to know Yuri Goloubev (bassist) and Asaf Sirkis (percussionist), as we were all playing in the band of Swiss guitarist Marco Cortesi. The piano trio had been the instrumentation of my choice since my final recitals at Hochschule Lucerne Switzerland. The new line-up with Yuri on bass and Asaf on drums toured and recorded ‘Glitterwoods’, which was released on Traumton Records Berlin in 2015 and highly rated by the jazz press. Playing trio feels right for my slightly dense compositional language, which projects clearly through the transparency of this format.

“After having moved to London, which was as a huge change for me, I formed a new band. With Matt Ridley on bass and Jon Scott on drums, I am thrilled to have two of my favourite musicians on the UK scene in my band. I am really looking forward to playing the music live in the UK, after mainly having performed with them in Switzerland, so far.”

Jon Scott, Fabienne Ambuehl, Matt Ridley (Photographer: Greg De Wode)

Fabienne continues, concerning the new album: “’Thrive’ is the result of introspection, questions of belonging, moving country just before lockdown was announced, and sometimes not knowing what place to call home. Many songs are inspired by nature, which I believe is a healing power. ‘New Ones’ features Ant Law on guitar, whose strong solo captures the thought of the song perfectly: alien life arriving on earth and supplanting humanity. ‘Thrive’, the title track, with words by D.H. Lawrence, describes ‘a small bird who will drop frozen dead from a bough, without ever having felt sorry for itself.’  Tom Ollendorff’s expressive guitar sound is such a luminous addition to the trio as, for example, on ‘Immaculate Rain’, where I am singing about feeling renewed after venturing into pouring rain.

“One of the great lessons I learned while writing this album, is to multitask less, in general. ‘Thrive’ is an invitation to be more present within the little moments in life, undistracted. Although the music is rooted in jazz, influenced by folk, and plays with the lyrical aspects of Romantic music, I hope that it can speak for itself.”

Fabienne Ambuehl, Matt Ridley, Jon Scott (Photographer: Rolf Fassbind)

Fabienne goes on to describe her new relationship with Ubuntu Music: “I am really excited to be releasing ‘Thrive’ as my debut with Ubuntu Music. Many musicians whom I admire are on its roster. Martin’s unique work, passion for, and dedication to (jazz) music is contagious and a true asset for us musicians and the UK jazz scene. I feel privileged and proud to become a part of this musical family and would like to thank the Ubuntu team for the outstanding support in the process, and their faith in my music.”

Martin Hummel, Director of Ubuntu Music, concludes: “It’s a pleasure for us to be working with Fabienne on ‘Thrive’, her upcomoing project. The compositions, along with the performances behind each, are exceptional and a joy for the ears to absorb. Her superb trio – Matt Ridley (bass) and Jon Scott (drums) – along with guttarists Ant Law and Tom Ollendorff, are all previous Ubuntu recording musicians which makes this a particularly special release. We are so happy to have them in the Ubuntu Family.”

Jon Scott, Fabienne Ambuehl, Matt Ridley (Photographer: Greg De Wode)

For further information, please contact:

Fabienne Ambuehl/Artist:  info@fabienneambuehl.com

Rupert Burley/Dynamic Agency (International PR):  rupert@dynamicagency.co.uk

Martina Weinmar/MaWeMarketing (Europe): mweinmar@email.de

Martin Hummel/Ubuntu Music (Worldwide): martin@ubuntumanagementgroup.com

FABIENNE AMBUEHL BIOGRAPHY:

Fabienne Ambuehl is a Swiss pianist, singer and composer, living in London. With her trio she released her debut album, Glitterwoods (Traumton Berlin), which was well-received in the European jazz press. Thrive, her upcoming release, features Jon Scott on drums, Matt Ridley on bass, with Tom Ollendorff and also Ant Law on guitar.

As well as performing with her trio and solo, in the recent past Fabienne has performed with the Noga Ritter band and worked and toured in Senegal for a musical residency, supported by Arts Council England. With Neele & the Soundvoyage she released an EP and the album Visions (QFTF Berlin 2018) and toured Switzerland and Germany. As a singer and soloist of the Jazz Choir Freiburg, Fabienne toured Germany and Austria. In July 2017 she was their soloist at the Eurovision Song Contest for choirs in Riga, Latvia.

Fabienne completed her masters degree at Lucerne School of Music. She studied with Hans Feigenwinter and Chris Wiesendanger alongside vocal studies with Bruno Amstad and Lauren Newton. Fabienne continued her studies with Jean Paul Brodbeck, Christoph Stiefel, Asaf Sirkis and Gwilym Simcock.

Fabienne won a scholarship from Friedl Wald Stiftung and studied at the Complete Vocal institute in Copenhagen. She is the winner of a Förderpreis of the Kanton Zug and with Harmonie Greber was selected for Suisse Diagonales Jazz.

Ubuntu Music Signs Pianist John-Paul Muir for Album Release

John-Paul Muir / Home Now

Release Date: 8th November 2024

CD & Digital Formats / UBU0178

John-Paul Muir (Photographer: Pedro Velasco)

Ubuntu Music is delighted to announce the signing of pianist John-Paul Muir, for the release of his album, Home Now, on 8th November 2024.

John-Paul is an award-winning New Zealand pianist and composer who currently resides in London. His landmark new album, Home Now, features Brigitte Beraha, “one of the most creative vocalists on the UK scene” (BBC Radio 3). The line-up consists of George Crowley (Yazz Ahmed) on bass clarinet and tenor saxophone, and a rhythm section of Jakub Cywiński (Ola Onabule, Partikel) on double-bass and Eric Ford (Imogen Ryall, Partikel) on drums. The album was beautifully recorded by Stefano Civetta at School Farm Studios (England), mixed and mastered by Bobby Williams, with videography and photography by Pedro Velasco (Freeze Productions, London).

Jakub Cywinski, Brigitte Beraha, Eric Ford, George Crowley, John-Paul Muir, Stefano Civetta (Photographer: Pedro Velasco)

Home Now showcases Muir’s lyrical compositional style in a set of five pieces with expressive playing of both delicate beauty and overflowing ecstasy. The first three tracks feature a collaboration with lyricist Anjali Bhat, with Muir’s classical heritage coming to the fore in the impressionistic opener Sunlight, a captivating portrayal of a romantic encounter, whilst the title track explores the experience of finding a sense of home in a new place.

John-Paul describes the album in his own words: “The compositions that make up ‘Home Now’ are often imbued with warmth and highlight some of the experiences of being human that are hard to describe. They came about naturally over a period of several years, reflecting both my collaboration with Anjali and my writing, finding its voice in a sort of ‘chamber jazz’ that encompasses my classical roots alongside improvisation and a movement towards a European jazz sound. I’ve always loved Brigitte’s musicianship, and her sound and intuitive approach to the songs is everything and more than I could have dreamt. George, Jakub, and Eric are all incredibly versatile musicians who instinctively feel this music and it is truly a joy for me to bring this music to life with them.”

Brigitte Beraha, George Crowley (Photographer: Pedro Velasco)

Lyricist Anjali Bhat continues: “In all of these songs, I wanted to find expression for feelings and relationships that are not usually spoken or captured in lyrics of musical compositions: the ones that fall outside the boxes in which we carefully pack our experiences. This was a playful collaboration in which we experimented with starting with words and seeing these come to life musically (for ‘Sunlight’ and ‘Silent Acknowledgement’), as well as for ‘Home Now’, taking inspiration from the images and atmosphere that John-Paul’s music painted in my mind.”

John-Paul touches on his new relationship with Ubuntu Music: “I’m thrilled to be partnering with Ubuntu for the release of ‘Home Now’, my most substantial artistic statement to date, as a composer and pianist. This album means a lot to me personally, and I’m grateful to Martin Hummel and the Ubuntu team for their support and belief in this music.”

Martin Hummel, Director of Ubuntu Music, concludes: “I was absolutely knocked out by this project, from the very first time I heard the music. John-Paul has a delicate touch – compositionally and as a pianist – which seduces the listener from the first note. Brigitte’s voice (along with Anjali’s lyrics) weaves seamlessly through each song, while George’s sax delivers textural depth. Jakub and Eric warmly underpin the full musical offering. It’s a joy to have John-Paul and his partners join The Ubuntu Music Family”

For further information, please contact:

John-Paul Muir/Artist:  jpmpiano@gmail.com

Rupert Burley/Dynamic Agency (International PR):  rupert@dynamicagency.co.uk

Martin Hummel/Ubuntu Music (Worldwide): martin@ubuntumanagementgroup.com

JOHN-PAUL MUIR BIOGRAPHY:

John-Paul Muir has established himself as one of the finest pianists to emerge from New Zealand in recent years and certainly one of the most versatile, equally at home in both classical, jazz and contemporary genres.

After completing studies at the University of Auckland with Rae de Lisle and Kevin Field, John-Paul moved to London to study at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. He has since graduated with distinction from their Artist Masters Programme and is currently enjoying a freelance career based in London. He has performed throughout New Zealand, the USA, and the United Kingdom. Highlights include performing for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, and several concert series at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival as part of the Royal Over-Seas League concert programme in both classical and jazz settings. He was featured as the official pianist for the New Zealand exhibit at the Venice Biennale in 2011, where he performed daily for a week as part of the opening festivities.

John-Paul is the Senior Programme Manager of the Bloomsbury Festival, an annual 10-day arts festival held in October featuring over one hundred events across Bloomsbury. His debut solo piano record featuring original compositions and improvisations, the Cornerstone Suite, was released in November 2019 after a premiere at the London Jazz Festival.

TRACK LISTING

Sunlight

(duration 7:09)

Brigitte Beraha (vocals)

George Crowley (bass clarinet)

John-Paul Muir (piano)

Home Now

(duration 10:15)

Brigitte Beraha (vocals)

George Crowley (bass clarinet)

John-Paul Muir (piano)

Jakub Cywiński (double-bass)

Eric Ford (drums)

Silent Acknowledgement

(duration 8:11)

Brigitte Beraha (vocals)

George Crowley (bass clarinet)

John-Paul Muir (piano)

Balm

(duration 7:26)

George Crowley (tenor saxophone)

John-Paul Muir (piano)

Jakub Cywiński (double-bass)

Eric Ford (drums)

Overjoyed

(duration 7:26)

George Crowley (tenor saxophone)

John-Paul Muir (piano)

Jakub Cywiński (double-bass)

Eric Ford (drums)

(total duration 40:27)

All music written by John-Paul Muir

Lyrics by Anjali Bhat

Ubuntu Music Signs Art Themen Organ Trio for Live Recording

Art Themen Organ Trio / Live in Soho

Release Date: 22nd November 2024

CD & Digital Formats / UBU0167

Art Themen at Ronnie Scott’s (House Photo)

Ubuntu Music is delighted to announce the signing of the Art Themen Organ Trio, featuring Art Themen on saxes, Pete Whittaker on organ & piano, and George Double on drums. The album, Live in Soho, was recorded at Pizza Express in London and will be released worldwide on the Ubuntu Music record label from 22nd November 2024.

Described by The Observer newspaper as "one of the tiny handful of undeniably perfect jazz musicians”, Art Themen has been an appealing presence on the British jazz circuit for over 60 years. A previous winner of the tenor sax category in the British Jazz Awards, recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Worshipful Company of Musicians and shortlisted for the Jazz Instrumentalist of the year in the recent Parliamentary Jazz Awards, this living legend has famously combined his role as a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with saxophone duties in the bands of Alexis Korner and Stan Tracey as well as recordings with Joe Cocker, Jack Bruce and even Bing Crosby.

George Double, Art Themen, Pete Whittaker (Photographer: Tim Hodges)

Art, Pete and George have been gigging as a unit since 2018. Over the course of a hundred-odd shots together, the sound has become characterised by a feeling of musical mischief, infectious groove and a palpable sense of shared fun. The trio have so far released two studio albums on Hadleigh Jazz Records - Thane and the Villeins (2019) and Dizzy Moods (2022). It was suggested that their third album should capture the spirit of the band in live performance and the opportunity arose at the historic Pizza Express Jazz Club in Soho in August 2023. The trio was delighted with the outcome.

Art Themen, George Double, Pete Whittaker (Photographer: Tim Hodges)

The trio describes the music from the album: “’Live in Soho’ reflects a typical set from the trio. Shot through with the sense of capricious fun that has become the band’s trademark, the recording features tunes by jazz masters past and present, including Herbie Hancock, Keith Jarrett, Horace Silver, Zoot Sims, Abdullah Ibrahim, Duke Ellington and Sergio Mendez. It is a journey filled with contrast. From the impactful energy of ‘Chili Peppers’, through the bouncy joy of ‘Brahms…I Think’ and ‘Groovy Samba’ to the tenderness of ‘Country’ and ‘I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face’, the trio present a curated aural experience, placing the listener in the best seat in the house, as the evening is replayed.”

They comment further on their new relationship with Ubuntu Music: “Art and his bandmates are thrilled and grateful to be collaborating with Ubuntu Music for this new release and look forward to reaching a wider audience as a result of Ubuntu’s great experience in the realm of music production and promotion.”

Martin Hummel, Director of Ubuntu Music, concludes: “It’s both a privilege and an honour to be representing the Art Themen Organ Trio and their upcoming release, ‘Live in Soho’. The live recording captures the energy and excitement of the band, with their repertoire of past and current jazz classics to deliver a broad spectrum of songs. This is a gem, and we can’t wait to release ‘Live in Soho’. We welcome the Art Themen Organ Trio to the Ubuntu Music Family.”

For further information, please contact:

George Double/Artist:  george.double@hotmail.co.uk

Martin Hummel/Ubuntu Music (Worldwide): martin@ubuntumanagementgroup.com

ART THEMEN INTERVIEW WITH JAZZ VIEWS

If Art Themen was a painter, the Tate would have an exhibition, and all the art cognoscenti would be queuing round the block at £20 a visit.  If Art Themen was a film director, the NFT would have a monograph and a season of his work at the South Bank.  But Art is none of these, he is just a great jazz musician whose work has illuminated the last sixty years at the same time as he specialised in orthopaedic medicine, eventually becoming a consultant.  He really is someone to celebrate.

Art is a phenomenon. His career has spanned sixty years and the people he has played with are key figures in UK jazz.  It all started in Manchester. Art saw Sidney Bechet with André Réwéliotty, Louis Armstrong, Stan Kenton, and Danny Moss with Johnny Dankworth at Sale Locarno.  It was when he saw the effect that one smile from the handsome Danny Moss had on one young lady that Art abandoned his clarinet and determined to play the tenor.

One perceptive head teacher altered Art’s Life. “I was in a council school, my father died, and we lived over a fish and chip shop in Salford. The headteacher of the school saw something in me and got me into MGS (Manchester Grammar School).  MGS had not just a headmaster but a high master, but they hated jazz.”  However, by the time Art left he was playing the school functions.  “Out of school there was a guy, Barry Dixon, my first inspiration, he played like Bix Beiderbecke, and he got me into jazz, and into a band called The Saints, that moved between New Orleans and Dixieland.”

Studying Medicine in Cambridge in the sixties, Art realised he was in the middle of a hotbed of jazz innovation and also realised that jazz could be modern.  “There was Colin Purbrook, Dick Heckstall Smith, Dave Gelly and, most influentially, Lionel Grigson who eventually started the jazz course at the Guildhall s School of Music.  I scraped through the studying, but I was no academic.”

Art eventually moved to a London hospital to continue his studies and his jazz playing in clubs. Heckstall Smith introduced Art to Alexis Korner who had a blues band, a wild passionate, raucous group influenced by Charlie Mingus Jazz anarchy!  It was a cult band. Phil Seamen, the doyen of drummers was in the band, it was towards the end of his life.  “We played at the Flamingo and some nights you would have Mick Jagger and Charlie Watts crowding around the bandstand trying to get a sit-in! Where did I go wrong?

“Later, I worked with Long John Baldry and drummer Eddie Taylor who was a particular friend of mine.  The second singer was Rod Stewart.  Also, at that time I was on the fringe of the session world.  One of the sessions was playing with Bing Crosby. They wanted to put him in a separate part of the studio because he was a big star, but he didn’t want that. He wanted to be close to the musicians: he really was one of the boys.  I understand he wasn’t a particularly nice guy with those who were close to him, but on that occasion he was great.  I even played on a hit record: Joe Cocker’s ‘With a Little Help From my Friends’. I was in the backing band for that.  I got £15!”

There was the period when Art was with Graham Collier. Graham was a bass player but mainly a composer.  “He was sometimes difficult to get along with, but he was a great administrator, even managed to get the Arts Council to finance a big band so Collier could take it over to India.” Collier thought a great deal of Art’s playing and would leave generous solo space in his compositions. “There’s only one thing wrong with a soprano saxophone played on its own and that’s two soprano saxophones played on their own. Graham wrote something like that; it’s still in its cellophane packing and when I die it will still be in its cellophane packing.”

Art played with Stan Tracey for over 20 years. “I got the job courtesy of Jimmy Hastings. I was working with Jimmy in a pick-up big band and he encouraged me to solo and recommended me to Stan. Everything is serendipity! I was privileged to work with Stan, although you never really got to know him. He kept himself to himself.  Underneath, you knew that what he did was full of integrity; he was the true real deal.  We never knew what we were going to do. I remember one particular gig at the Fairfield Hall in Croydon: Stan winged it all the way through, he just had that ability. I was privileged. I was really fortunate working with the quartet, the sextet, the octet, the big band, working side by side with Tony Coe, Guy Barker, Peter King, Don Weller, very fortunate. I started with Stan just after the problems he had after working at Ronnie’s. He started casting around and set up an avant-garde band called Tentacles, ten people, musical anarchy, lasted about ten gigs! Stan finally folded it because during one set, at the last gig, he banged out ‘God Save the Queen’ throughout and nobody recognised it!”

 The relationship with Stan Tracey continues. Clark Tracey, after his father’s death, made Art the Patron of Herts Jazz. “The work I do as Herts Jazz Patron is that I get to play with the young guys, the young guns. It’s a privilege and they tear me to shreds. There is a guy called Sean Payne, just 18, and he has a marvellous technical facility on alto.  Sean is absolutely out of sight, brilliant.”  Sean won the BBC Young Jazz Musician award.   “In 2018’ the winner was tenor player Xhosa Cole.  I’ve got a couple of gigs soon with Xhosa.”

“My other work is with the New Directions Quintet, we play occasionally, not enough.  We got together for my 80th at The Spice of Life in Soho.  It’s an old bebop quintet.  There’s only one thing wrong with it and that’s the bandleader, me! The rest are brilliant:  Gareth Williams, Steve Fishwick, Winston Clifford, Arnie Somogyi. With them, I just feel like an old fart.”

“I suppose my playing has changed. There’s the old buffer bit, you play slow, you play fewer notes and hopefully there is a lot more meaning in those notes.  Something happens, could be maturity. Last night I heard Jerry Bergonzi playing ‘It Might as Well Be Spring’, he’s in his sixties, getting better. Wonderful.

“If you’re no longer cutting the mustard, you have to make sure that somebody tells you, pulls you off the stage like they did in the old Edw ardian music halls with the shepherd’s crook.  I’ve got a dozen people ready to tell me the moment I’m not doing it anymore. Terribly important.”

​As you talk to Art, he says often that he has been privileged. His audiences have been even more privileged.

--Jack Kenny

Ubuntu Music Signs Pianist Ivo Neame for Album Release

Ivo Neame / Zettalogue

Release Date: 25th October 2024

CD & Digital Formats / UBU0183

Ivo Neame (Photographer: Monika S Jakubowska)

Ubuntu Music is delighted to announce the signing of Ivo Neame, an exceptional pianist, composer and arranger, for the release of Zettalogue, his upcoming album on Ubuntu Music.

This recording is a documentation of some of the work Ivo has created with the Ivo Neame Quartet over the last three years. The band features some of the finest jazz musicians in the UK - George Crowley (saxes), Tom Farmer (bass) and James Maddren (drums). Together, they have developed a band identity by performing Ivo’s original material in an improvised manner. As a unit, they have created a level of trust that allows them to reinterpret the music by finding new paths through it every time.

Ivo Neame, George Crawley, Tom Farmer, James Maddren (Photographer: Monika S Jakubowska)

Ivo explains the idea behind the music from Zettalogue: “There are new pieces and also new interpretations of older pieces. I recorded my piece, ’The Rise of the Lizard People’,  for a 2021 release called ‘Glimpses of Truth’. As a result of the lockdown restrictions and the way this particular album was made, there was only space for one solo on that version. It was great to be able to revisit this piece and include a piano solo on it. As a quartet, we performed this material many times all over the UK and always managed to explore new areas in the music - it feels great to have captured the development of this music. Apart from that, we also recorded new pieces of mine. I am hugely grateful to the members of my quartet for the time and effort that they have dedicated to this process.”

Ivo continues, describing his new relationship with Ubuntu Music: “I have known Martin for many years - he is a warm and encouraging presence on the jazz scene and I have always enjoyed hanging out with him after gigs or at events. He is motivated by a real love of this music and has a genuine desire to support musicians. I’m delighted to be working with him on my first release for Ubuntu.”

Ivo Neame (Photographer: Monika S Jakubowska)

Martin Hummel, Director of Ubuntu Music, concludes: “I was first introduced to Ivo and his immense talent during the time he was with Phronesis…one of the most gifted jazz trios in Europe. He is a special artist – for me personally and for the label. Ivo possesses that rare talent to fit into a range of musically challenging situations as side man, whether it’s with Marius Neset or Emma Rawicz. However, when the stage is his, it opens up a whole new world of musical freedom. ‘Zettalogue’ is just that, providing the platform to share new interpretations of earlier compositions and to deliver new material in his unique voice, backed up by a stellar line-up. We are thrilled to be representing Ivo’s latest project and welcome him to the Ubuntu Music Family.”

For further information, please contact:

Ivo Neame (Artist):  ivo@ivoneame.com

Matt Fripp/Jazzfuel (International Publicity):  matt@jazzfuel.com

Martin Hummel/Ubuntu Music (Worldwide): martin@ubuntumanagementgroup.com

IVO NEAME BIOGRAPHY

Ivo Neame is an internationally renowned pianist, composer, and bandleader who has established himself as one of the most innovative and dynamic figures in the contemporary jazz scene. He regularly performs at jazz festivals worldwide, collaborating with ensembles as diverse as the Frankfurt Radio Big Band and the London Sinfonietta. He is best known for his work with the award-winning bands Phronesis and the Marius Neset Quintet, as well as collaborations with numerous other artists, including Hermeto Pascoal, Kenny Wheeler and Gilad Hekselman. Ivo's music is characterised by a stunning mix of virtuosity, sophistication, and playfulness, and his performances are known for their dynamic energy and emotional depth. His ninth album under his own name, Live at Turner Sims, was released in September 2023. In 2023 he was also made ‘artist-in-residence’ with the Cologne Contemporary Jazz Orchestra.

"Some of the most engaging jazz you’ll hear this year"

--LONDON JAZZ SCENE

“Ivo Neame is one of the very best jazz pianists on the UK scene”

--BANDCAMP DAILY

“That Neame is one of the most interesting jazz pianists of his generation may be clear. The

years of almost constantly being on the road with bands has given him a prominent role in the front line of British jazz”

--WRITTEN IN JAZZ

Awards and honours include:

Album of the Year 2010, Jazzwise Magazine (Phronesis)

Album of the Year 2010, MOJO Magazine (Phronesis)

Best Jazz Act 2011, MOBO Awards (Kairos Quartet)

UK Jazz Instrumentalist of the Year 2012 (nominated) Jazz FM Awards

Jazz Ensemble of the Year 2017, Parliamentary Jazz Awards (Phronesis)

Jazz Composition for Large Ensemble 2021 (nominated) IVORS Composer Awards

Ivo is an Associate of the Royal Academy of Music, an Associate Member of PRS and a Professor of Jazz Piano at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. He is also a member of the Featured Artists’ Coalition and a member of the Ivors Academy Jazz Committee.

Ubuntu Music Signs UK Saxophonist Mike Chillingworth For Album Release

Mike Chillingworth / Friday the Thirteenth

Release Date: 18th October 2024

CD & Digital Formats / UBU0174

Mike Chillingworth (Photographer: Rob Blackham)

Ubuntu Music is delighted to announce the release of Friday the Thirteenth, a deeply personal album from saxophonist Mike Chillingworth, whose idiosyncratic musical experiments are shaped by the lessons he's learned from collaborating with so many inspirational musicians over recent years. The line-up consists of pianist Ivo Neame (Phronesis), bassist Tom Farmer (Empirical) and drummer Jon Scott (GoGo Penguin).

Friday the Thirteenth is the culmination of several converging influences. Over the years, Mike had the privilege of collaborating with musicians who push the rhythmic boundaries of contemporary jazz, including Ant Law, Ivo Neame, Orlando le Fleming, and Miguel Gorodi. These experiences have challenged Mike to stretch his rhythmic comfort zone, finding freedom and space to express his musical personality within the intricate confines of complex structures. Mike explains: “I've always been inspired by the dedication of musicians like John Coltrane and Steve Coleman, who chose a singular path and pursued it with unwavering focus, uncovering the infinite complexities and beauty within what might seem like a straightforward idea. In recent years, my busy life as an educator, balanced with my performance schedule, has often left me little time for deep exploration. However, an opportunity arose during a multi-day bus tour with fifty teenagers. With only headphones and an iPad for company, I began experimenting with polyrhythms. This unusual context, coupled with the abundance of time, led me to a deep fixation. I spent the week immersed in these rhythms, discovering variations and ways to internalise them. Upon returning home, these rhythms had become a part of me, compelling me to see how they could translate to the saxophone, evolve into grooves, and integrate into standards. This exploration resulted in a body of music that reflected my discoveries. Assembling a group of my favourite musicians, whom I've shared the stage with for years and deeply trust, I crafted additional pieces with them in mind. After our first performance I knew that we had found something special that deserved to be recorded. This album is the fruition of that journey.”

Ivo Neame, Jon Scott, Mike Chillingworth, Tom Farmer (Photographer: Rob Blackham)

Mike continues, describing the music from Friday the Thirteenth: “My favourite music hits the elusive sweet spot between on one side the pull towards complexity and striving for something just outside of the musicians’ comfort zone, and on the other the desire to retain a sense of fun, melody, accessibility and groove. It’s the hardest balance to strike but that’s what I’ve attempted to do with the music on this record. Tracks like ‘Friday the Thirteenth’, ‘Coach Trip Special’, and my arrangement of Steve Swallow’s tune, ‘Ladies in Mercedes’, are based on a single specific polyrhythmic idea but always keeping melody and groove front and centre and allowing the musicians in the band plenty of space to improvise and explore together. ‘Keep It Simple’ is a more straight-ahead Mingus inspired tune, ‘Narwhal’ is a slow and atmospheric Paul Motian-like ballad, reflecting my broad interests within jazz from the straight-ahead tradition to the avant-garde.”

Mike shares his thoughts concerning his new relationship with Ubuntu Music: “I am deeply excited to be working with Ubuntu Music to release this record. Over the last few years Ubuntu have released a staggering catalogue of truly world-class music from some of the top names in jazz and it’s a privilege for my music to be included in such a roster. Martin Hummel’s commitment and impact in supporting the music, the scene, and enabling musicians to get their music out into the world is second to none and I am very happy to be working with him and excited about the future.”

Mike Chillingworth (Photographer: Rob Blackham)

Martin Hummel, Director of Ubuntu Music, concludes: “I’ve been an admirer of Mike and his music for a number of years now. He’s a firm fixture on the London jazz scene, which is thriving. Mike’s careful and deliberate casting of his band – which includes Ivo Neame, Tom Farmer and Jon Scott – is perfect for this project as the band comfortably challenge each other, while delivering a dynamic, seamless whole. It’s a pleasure to have Mike as the newest member of the Ubuntu Music Family.”

For further information, please contact:

Mike Chillingworth (Artist):  michaelchillingworth@gmail.com

Rupert Burley/Dynamic Agency (International Publicity): rupert@dynamicagency.co.uk

Martin Hummel/Ubuntu Music (Worldwide): martin@ubuntumanagementgroup.com

MIKE CHILLINGWORTH BIOGRAPHY

Mike Chillingworth is a London based saxophonist, multi-instrumentalist and composer. Consistently in demand as a performer and improviser, he regularly performs throughout the UK and internationally with his own groups and with many leading musicians at the forefront of British and European jazz.

The Mike Chillingworth Quartet features Ivo Neame (Marius Neset, Phronesis), Tom Farmer (Empirical), and Jon Scott (Sons of Kemet, GoGo Penguin, Kairos Quartet). They are releasing their debut album on the Ubuntu Music record label.

Previously as a band leader Mike released an album of original music for septet called Scratch And Sift on Two Rivers Records to critical acclaim, featuring an all-star cast of some of the top improvisers of the London jazz scene: Tom Challenger, George Crowley, Josh Arcoleo, Lewis Wright, Sam Lasserson and Jon Scott.

Mike is a long-standing member of acclaimed guitarist Ant Law’s quintet, alongside Ivo Neame, Tom Farmer and James Maddren, recording four albums and touring extensively throughout the UK and Europe, as well as performing live on BBC Radio 3 and numerous other media appearances.

Other sideman appearances and/or recordings include the Julian Siegel Jazz Orchestra, Ivo Neame Dodeka, Orlando le Fleming’s Romantic Funk, Gareth Lockrane Big Band, Josephine Davies Jazz Orchestra, Miguel Gorodi Nonet, Rick Simpson’s Klammer and In Rainbows, Troyk-estra (Kit Downes, Chris Montague and Josh Blackmore), Stan Sulzmann’s Neon Orchestra and as a member of the band Round Trip with the much celebrated and missed rising trumpet star Richard Turner who passed away in 2011. Mike has had radio play on BBC Radio 3, Radio 2, Jazz FM and other independent and local radio stations.

Alongside his creative and performing endeavours, Mike harbours a deep passion for both jazz and general music education, actively balancing a dynamic career as a dedicated educator.

Ubuntu Music Signs Maya Belsitzman & Uriel Herman for Impromptu Duet Release

Maya Belsitzman & Uriel Herman / Pauses in Shades

Release Date: 27th September 2024

CD & Digital Formats / UBU0184

Ubuntu Music is delighted to announce the signing of cellist Maya Belsitzman and pianist Uriel Herman, for the release of their duet album, Pauses in Shades, from 27th September on the Ubuntu Music record label.

Pauses in Shades is an intimate recording where the pieces are grounded in listening, improvisation, and emotion. In the studio, Maya and Uriel attempted to pour life into images, which allow the listener to take pause, join and observe moments created in the studio and reflect these to the outside world.

 Cellist and singer Maya Belsitzman and composer/pianist Uriel Herman have known each other for over 20 years in the world of classical music since they were children, yet they had never created together.

Uriel Herman, Maya Belsitzman (Photographer: Barak Rivkind)

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the two decided it was the perfect opportunity to collaborate. They entered the studio without prior rehearsals, sheet music, or plans. In the studio, magic happened thanks to the strong connection between them and the deep spirit they brought with them. Within a few hours, new pieces emerged through improvisation, reflecting the depths of their hearts with such themes as parenthood, loneliness, the struggle of lockdown, the journey and home.

This is how the album was born, consisting of 10 impromptu pieces – short musical compositions attempting to capture the raw magic that transpired in that studio and to bring a bit of light and goodness during these challenging times in Israel and the region.

Following Uriel's successful collaboration with the British record label Ubuntu Music in 2023 with the album, Different Eyes, another collaboration has now emerged - a duet featuring Uriel and Maya. Uriel comments: "We are very excited about this collaboration, and we believe that Ubuntu will help us spread the light and goodness that exists in this album in the best possible way."

Uriel Herman, Maya Belsitzman (Video Image)

Martin Hummel, Director of Ubuntu Music, concludes: “This is such a special project with Maya and Uriel, who are nearly lifelong friends yet had never collaborated musically, until now. The duo was inspired by a number of key themes in life, such as parenthood, loneliness and home. In this ever-challenging world of uncertainty, political upheaval and the increasing escalation of potential war, it is comforting to the heart and to the soul to have music that helps to heal and inspires to give us hope that the world will ultimately be a better place. We are so happy to be a part of this and are excited to have Uriel back for his second release, while Maya has her debut with Ubuntu Music. We welcome them with open arms to our Family.”

For further information, please contact:

Uriel Herman (Artist):  info@urielherman.com

Matt Fripp/Jazzfuel (International PR):  matt@jazzfuel.com

Martin Hummel/Ubuntu Music (Worldwide): martin@ubuntumanagementgroup.com

 BIOGRAPHIES

Maya Belsitzman

Maya is a classical educated cellist, playing, producing, composing and arranging. She is a virtuosic, soulful cellist and vocalist, playing with effects. She's been performing in festivals around the world such as Paris Jazz Festival, Buenos Aires Jazz Festival, Cervantino Festival, Red Sea Jazz Festival, Nairobi Jazz Festival, Pohoda Festival, Krakow Jewish Festival and many more.

Maya has played, recorded and collaborated with world class artists such as Keren Ann, Avishai Cohen (Trumpet), Chava Alberstein, Ehud Banai, Noa (Achinoam Nini), Inbal Pinto, Yasmin Levy, Barbara Streisand and more. She often performs with her life partner, the drummer and percussionist Matan Ephrat. Maya has composed original scores for theatre, modern dance, short films and documentary movies.

Uriel Herman

Internationally recognised for his remarkable blend of classical piano and Middle Eastern rhythm, Uriel has captured audiences worldwide. His last album, Different Eyes (2023), was selected by the UK's Guardian National Newspaper as one of the 10 best jazz albums of 2023. Over the past decade, Uriel has presented his music to audiences at prestigious festivals and venues around the globe. Notable performances include The Forbidden City Concert Hall (Beijing, CN), CCB (Lisbon, PT), Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club (London, UK), Centro Cultural Kirchner (Buenos Aires, AR), Stanford University (CA, US), Jarasum Jazz Festival (Jarasum, KR), Taichung Jazz Festival (Taichung, TW), Festival Jazz Sous Les Pommiers (Coutances, FR), Festival Eclats d’Email Jazz (Limoges, FR), Nuit de Sud Festival (Venve, FR), Jazz a Cauderan Festival (Bordeaux), Jazz Aux Carrés Festival (Annecy, FR), Limoges Opera House (Limoges, FR), Duc des Lombards (Paris, FR), Bimhuis (Amsterdam, NL) and many others. His commissioned orchestral works include a rhapsody for Jazz Quartet & Orchestra titled White Night and three dialogues for Orchestra and Jazz Quartet that Uriel was commissioned to compose for the Jenaer Philharmonic.

Ubuntu Music Signs Thad Jones Centennial ft. Joe Magnarelli/Dick Oatts/Gary Smulyan

Thad Jones Centennial / Live at Bird’s Eye

Release Date: 11th October 2024

CD & Digital Formats / UBU0170

Bernd Reiter, Gary Smulyan, Joe Magnarelli, Aldo Zunino, Dick Oatts, Oliver Kent (Photographer: Suthakar Rasnayagam)

Ubuntu Music is delighted to announce the release of The Thad Jones Centennial, a tribute album to one of the all-time greatest jazz trumpet soloists and arrangers, featuring an all-star line-up of musicians which include Joe Magnarelli (trumpet), Dick Oatts (alto sax) and Gary Smulyan (baritone sax). It was recorded Live at Bird’s Eye, Basel (Switzerland).

Bernd Reiter, drummer and visionary for the project, explains the thinking behind the idea: “Thad Jones was one of the most influential composers and arrangers in jazz history. As he would have celebrated his 100th birthday in 2023, Gary Smulyan approached me with the idea of a special ‘Centennial’ project to honor Thad with specialists of his music. And nobody knows Thad’s repertoire better than Dick Oatts, Gary Smulyan and Joe Magnarelli, who were closely associated with the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra - now the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra - for more than 40 years. Thad’s music is mostly played by big bands all over the world. Our project presents it in a small group (sextet) setting, as many compositions by Thad were originally written for quintet/sextet and arranged for a big band at a later date. So, our line-up leaves a lot of space for the soloists and everybody in the band gets a chance to really play on the tunes. Bird’s Eye Basel happened at the end of the tour, so it was also a great opportunity of doing a live recording after having been on the road for two weeks. No rehearsal needed, we could just go to the club and play, which was a special and privileged situation.”

The Bird's Eye Jazz Club, (Basel, Switzerland) is one of the most renowned and popular jazz clubs in Europe for decades. 

Live at Bird’s Eye, Basel features five compositions by Thad Jones and three standards arranged by Jones. The music is modern, straight-ahead jazz throughout, with a contemporary touch of classical swinging. Each soloist on the recording knows how to treat the timeless material with freedom while adding new, personal ideas.

Bernd Reiter is no stranger to the Ubuntu Music record label, as he describes: “Ubuntu is not new to me. I was lucky to already be on three releases for the label, including my own very successful ‘Dameronia’ project. Dick Oatts and Aldo Zunino were part of this recording too. Joe Magnarelli, Gary Smulyan and Oliver Kent have their debut on Ubuntu with this recording. We are all extremely excited about the release and the collaboration with Martin Hummel and the Ubuntu team as this is one of the very few labels nowadays which takes care of the music and the musicians the way it should be.”

Gary Smulyan, Aldo Zunino, Joe Magnarelli, Oliver Kent, Dick Oatts, Bernd Reiter (Photographer: Suthakar Rasnayagam)

Martin Hummel, Director of Ubuntu Music, concludes: “Bernd never ceases to amaze me. He’s constantly creating exciting projects with tremendous musicians and The Thad Jones Centennial is no exception. Bernd has assembled an all-star cast of some of the biggest names in contemporary jazz, who have also performed with legends such as Joe Magnarelli (Lionel Hampton), Dick Oatts (Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra) and Gary Smulyan (Woody Herman). This live recording packs a punch that reminds us of just how special Thad Jones and his music always was, is and will be. It’s so very special for Ubuntu Music to bring this timeless, contemporary jazz to the world, which is certain to put a smile on your face and a tap in your toes .”

Thad Jones in Denmark, 1969. (Video Image)

For further information, please contact:

Bernd Reiter (Artist): berndreiter@gmx.at

Martin Hummel/Ubuntu Music (Worldwide): martin@ubuntumanagementgroup.com

The Brubeck Living Legacy Prize is Awarded to Dutch Saxophonist Kasper Rietkerk

Kasper Rietkerk (Photographer Anne Sophie Leurink)

Brubeck Living Legacy, Inc, in partnership with Ubuntu Music, and the Royal Academy of Music, is delighted to announce the selection of The Brubeck Living Legacy Prize winner, which is awarded to the most deserving jazz student of the Royal Academy of Music in London, UK, each year, for an initial three-year period. Kasper’s album will be released on the Ubuntu Music record label next year.

In 2019, the Dave Brubeck family founded Brubeck Living Legacy with the goal of promoting awareness, interest and the understanding of jazz and its role in American and international culture.  Brubeck Living Legacy supports educational opportunities and live concerts that recognize the contributions of Dave and Iola Brubeck, and others, to modern American music, the civil rights movement and to the community of musicians worldwide.

The Brubeck Living Legacy Prize will be awarded each year to a young musician who demonstrates excellence in both performance and composition, selected from the jazz musician student body at the Royal Academy of Music in their final two years of study, as well as those in the first year following graduation. The prize includes funding and support for the release of the individual’s proposed recording on the Ubuntu Music record label. Eligible musicians submitted applications for consideration, which were then reviewed by a panel of industry-related judges. For the first year, the judges were composer, arranger, pianist and President of Brubeck Living Legacy Darius Brubeck, Royal Academy of Music Professor & Head of Jazz Programmes Nick Smart, jazz vocalist, recording artist and co-founder of ECN Music Claire Martin (OBE), and founder/director of Ubuntu Music, Martin Hummel.

Darius Brubeck shares his view concerning this special award: “As president of Brubeck Living Legacy, I can say that we are committed to supporting this imaginative initiative by Ubuntu Music and the Royal Academy of Music. Brubeck Living Legacy is already involved in high-level education creatively and financially in America and this is our first partnership based in a foreign country. As a long-time UK resident, I am excited to see this taking shape before my eyes and will do my part in making it a success.”

Kasper Rietkerk (Photographer Anne Sophie Leurink)

Kasper Rietkerk is the recipient of the first awarded prize.  He is an award-winning saxophonist, renowned for his collaborations with esteemed artists such as Eddie Chacon, John Caroll Kirby and Jean Toussaint, and has also been a member of the Emma Rawicz Jazz Orchestra. His diverse career includes appearances on various TV and radio programmes, as well as contributing to the music composition for VPRO’s television series ‘Naar Bed’.

“Fantastic saxophonist”

--Jean Toussaint

Kasper Rietkerk (Photographer Ezo Sarici)

Kasper began playing saxophone at a young age and was inspired by the sounds of saxophonists like Cannonball Adderley, Kenny Garrett, and Paul Desmond. After completing his bachelor’s degree, Kasper moved to London and graduated from his master’s at the Royal Academy of Music in 2023, where he received an award for his final exam performance.

“Rietkerk’s alto work is first-rate, melodic and capable of delicacy as well as power.”

--All About Jazz (2024) ★★★★

Kasper’s plans for his upcoming project on Ubuntu Music include a multi-generational ensemble consisting of legendary guitarist John Parricelli, London veteran bassist Tom Herbert and fellow Royal Academy grad, drummer Jonah Evans. Kasper seeks “openness” in the recording session, with a less arranged structure, while capturing somewhat of an ECM sound or feeling. The album will be recorded this year and is tentatively scheduled for release in June 2025.

Kasper Rietkerk (Photographer Yaap Kroon)

Nick Smart comments: “We were inspired and encouraged in equal measure at the outstanding quality of every single applicant for the inaugural year of this wonderful new initiative. If the quality of the music being made (and the deep thought and care going into their art) is anything to go by, then the future of this music we love so much is in the very brightest and most talented hands. Any one of them would have been a worthy winner but of course you have to pick one recipient which is never easy. Kasper’s musical breadth, his maturity, the writing and improvising, as well as his clarity of vision, stood out in every aspect of his presentation and we are thrilled to have such a wonderful first beneficiary of this fantastic new opportunity. The Academy is deeply proud to be involved and we’re excited for the coming years too.”

Claire Martin shares her perspective: “It was an honour to be part of the panel that selected Kasper Rietkerk as the winner of the first ever Brubeck Living Legacy Prize.  We were all so impressed with all the standards of each applicant's submission, so it wasn't an easy task to pick a winner.  However, Kasper’s application stood out for many reasons, and for me his sophisticated writing, his idea and vision for his next release and his sheer drive and enthusiasm made him the obvious musician for this prize and a very worthy winner.  Congratulations Kasper!”

Darius Brubeck continues: “On behalf of Brubeck Living Legacy, I would like to congratulate Kasper Rietkerk on his being the winner of the BLL Prize. A new award establishes a benchmark going forward; one that distinguishes the recipient and represents the values of BLL and its partners, Royal Academy of Music and Ubuntu Music. We are very excited to have such a deserving candidate the first time around.”

Martin Hummel concludes: “Ubuntu Music is dedicated to the identification and development of outstanding young jazz talent, which is an integral part of the label’s DNA. The opportunity to partner with Brubeck Living Legacy and the distinguished panellists to select a most deserving beneficiary of the first award was somewhat daunting, given the quality of the submissions. However, in the end, Kasper Rietkerk stood out as the most deserving. His compositional strength, combined with his approach to shaping the project concept and delivering the music itself, were exceptional and demonstrated a maturity at such an early stage in his career. We very much look forward to working with Kasper as we begin to prepare for the release of his next project.”

Left to right: Brubeck Living Legacy Prize panellists Martin Hummel, Nick Smart, Claire Martin and Darius Brubeck.

For further information, please contact:

Emma Perry (UK Publicity): emma@ecnmusic.com

Martin Hummel/Ubuntu Music:  martin@ubuntumanagementgroup.com

WEBSITES:

Kasper Rietkerk:  https://kasperrietkerk.nl/

Brubeck Living Legacy:  https://www.brubecklivinglegacy.com/

PANELLIST BIOGRAPHIES:

Darius Brubeck

Photographer: Rob Blackham

Pianist, composer and band leader, Darius Brubeck was the Head of Jazz Studies and Director of the Centre for Jazz & Popular Music at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa from 1983 until 2006 when he moved to London and established The Darius Brubeck Quartet. This group’s most recent recording Live in Poland (listed in Downbeat’s best of 2020) reflects their international profile.

His book, Playing the Changes, coauthored with his wife, Catherine, was published internationally in July 2024 by the University of Illinois Press.  

Link:www.dariusbrubeck.com

Nick Smart

Head of Jazz at the Royal Academy of Music, Nick Smart is an internationally renowned jazz educator, trumpeter and conductor who has given guest masterclasses and performances around the world. Nick has performed alongside some of the leading names in jazz and was a member of the late Kenny Wheeler's Big Band with whom he had a long association and has just finished co-writing Wheeler's biography. He has released three albums as a leader to critical acclaim, including 2005’s Remembering Nick Drake which was described by Straight No Chaser Magazine as “…a future classic because it really captures all that is best about British jazz…”. He has been equally in demand as both educator and musical director.

Link: www.ram.ac.uk

Claire Martin

Claire Martin (Photographer: Kenny McCracken)

Claire Martin OBE has established herself as a tour de force on the UK jazz scene and rest of world, gaining many prestigious awards including winning the British Jazz Awards eight times during her career which spans over three decades. In 2018 she was the proud recipient of the BASCA Gold Badge Award for her contribution to Songwriting and was awarded the OBE for her Services to Jazz in 2011.

Claire shares her perspective on the Brubeck Living Legacy Prize: “I’m excited to hear the next generation of musicians coming through and it is this kind of platform that can really provide the perfect launch pad for up-and-coming musicians as they embark on their career in the music industry.”

Link: https://clairemartinjazz.co.uk/

Martin Hummel

Photographer: Peak15

Martin Hummel is a seasoned executive with extensive experience in managing communications for brands and international artists on a global, regional and local basis across multiple disciplines and business sectors.

In 2017, he founded the Ubuntu Music, the jazz record label, whose artists include Darius Brubeck, Chet Baker, Eric Alexander, Harold Mabern, Paul Booth, Tim Garland and rising stars from all corners of the world.

Link: www.weareubuntumusic.com