Gareth Lockrane
““Flute phenomenon””
Evening Standard
First noticed for his dazzling flute playing, Gareth Lockrane has since built an impressive reputation as a composer, arranger and bandleader. As a flautist, he was recognised as a “Rising Star” by Downbeat Magazine and demonstrated those talents as a key member of Bheki Mseleku’s band, along with extensive work with the James Taylor Quartet & Phil Robson's IMS Quintet featuring Mark Turner on a sparkling CV. Subsequently, his brilliant writing and arranging skills were showcased with his soul/jazz band ‘Grooveyard’, winning multiple awards including the Parliamentary Jazz Award for Best Album for their second record, while their third, “The Strut” was MOJO Magazine’s Album of the Year. Lately Gareth’s been well-known at the Club for leading his celebrated Big Band, but for this show he’s bringing his fabulous quintet to the Six, performing a mixture of Gareth's own compositions and favourite standards. Joining Gareth on the stand are four of the finest players around, all stars in their own right: vibraphonist Lewis Wright, pianist Tom Cawley, bassist Dave Whitford and drummer Shane Forbes. This is truly a supergroup performing exciting music of exceptional quality.
“Lockrane’s flute work is exceptional, combining a relaxed fluidity with an acute adventurousness…very special indeed” Jazzwise; “...brilliant” Observer; “...breathtaking…dazzling” AllAboutJazz; “Britain’s top exponent [of the flute] is Gareth Lockrane, whose hip ideas and easy fluency recall the great Tubby Hayes” Evening Standard