BRIGHTON: The Verdict

Wednesday 19th April, 2017

8:00pm

Event information

Christophe de Bezenac: saxophone
Adam Fairhall: piano, keyboard instruments
Anton Hunter: guitar
Johnny Hunter: drums
Dave Kane: double bass
Corey Mwamba: vibes and misc instruments

The Spirit Farm bring quick instincts, an impressive shared understanding and a wealth of idiomatic approaches to the music. The musicians build on the achievements of previous generations of improvisers in fascinating ways; the upside-down use of the bass bow, often heard in free improv, might be used here to beat out a haunting riff like a 21st century diddley bow, or the post-cage piano preparations so common among free pianists might here be applied to a vintage tine piano.

In addition to full-band numbers which can reach stunning climaxes, the group explore smaller combinations, such as duos and trios, ensuring a constantly varied listening experience.

“Devastatingly creative ****” – Jazzwise

“Ecstatic free jazz remains a touchstone on their 2015 debut album, but it’s in the quieter moments that the session is lifted out of the ordinary by a mischievous take on timbre and instrumentation, with gamalan-like toy piano and distorted electric keys circling taut guitar pings and the hollow rattling of saxophone pads” – The Wire

“Hugely Impressive ****” – Jazz Journal

“It’s a set that declares intent, imagination and prowess and as such promises much for the future” – New York City Jazz Record