Niklas Lukassen ft. Gwilym Simcock & James Maddren
Mentored by Ron Carter whilst studying in New York, German bassist Niklas Lukassen has established himself as an exciting presence on the contemporary jazz scene. Now living between London and Berlin he includes work with the likes of Joe Lovano, Mike Stern, & Richie Beirach on an impressive cv. Fluent on both acoustic and electric bass tonight Niklas introduces his latest Trio project featuring him performing on a unique hybrid instrument: the bass cello. The programme will consist of a mix of his original music, written specifically for this project, alongside material from his most recent album album "Still Waters Run Deep" (recorded alongside Kurt Rosenwinkel & Kit Downes). Joining him tonight will be two of the UK’s leading jazz heavyweights, pianist Gwilym Simcock and drummer James Maddren. A multi Award winner, Gwilym is unquestionably one of the finest musicians of his generation with Perrier, BBC Jazz and British Jazz Rising Star Awards to his name, plus "Best Band" and “Jazz Musician of the Year” Parliamentary Jazz Awards and if all that wasn’t enough, his album “Good Days at Schloss Elmau” was a ‘Barclaycard Mercury Prize’ Album of the Year. Most recently he has toured the world with jazz legend Pat Metheny. James Maddren is the drummer of choice for a remarkable array of high-profile jazz artists and is also a member of Gwilym’s own trio. These three superb musicians will explore the potential of this new and unique collaboration at their only London show.
“Lukassen…A great bassist with very musical instincts“ Mike Stern; "A phenomenal talent, Simcock is a jewel in the crown of the country's jazz scene" Norwich Evening News; "Simcock…a jaw-droppingly exciting pianist" The Guardian
Photo Niklas Lukassen by Anna Yatskevich, Photo Gwilym Simcock by Evan Dawson