Lunchtime: Gareth Lockrane Big Band
“Lockrane’s flute work is exceptional, combining a relaxed fluidity with an acute adventurousness… very special indeed”
Jazzwise
Over the last few years Gareth Lockrane has established himself as one of the finest jazz flautists in Europe, with a string of high profile appearances alongside the likes of the James Taylor Quartet, Natalie Williams and the late, great, Bheki Mseleku. It is a measure of Gareth’s growing international standing that he was named “Rising Star on Flute” in the prestigious Downbeat Critics Poll (USA), just one of many awards and accolades he’s received. Performing his brilliant arrangements of a mix of originals and the odd classic jazz standard, the ensemble inevitably attracts a host of high-profile award-winning players, today including Julian Siegel; James Copus; Ivo Neame; Mike Outram, Ian Thomas & Pat Levett. And to make things even more exciting, the ensemble has just released its second, highly anticipated album, "Box of Tricks" (Whirlwind Recordings) which is already receiving reviews such as this one from UK Jazz News: "This excellent album is not so much a Box of Tricks as a carefully lit display case of gemstones". Promises to be a thrill!
"The band plays a roof-lifting mix of fresh grooves…and blistering…solos from some of the country’s finest musicians. Music to make you smile, dance, and…admire, very special" Jazz FM; “Lockrane’s flute work is exceptional, combining a relaxed fluidity with an acute adventurousness…very special indeed” Jazzwise; “…formidable” Guardian; “…brilliant” Observer; “Flute phenomenon” Evening Standard; “…breathtaking…dazzling…” AllAboutJazz
Photo by Carl Hyde