“… a restlessly virtuosic display of exceptionally punchy rhythmic precision and tight but flighty improvisation.” Jazzwise
Just East of Jazz have arrived at an extraordinary synthesis of sound, colour, light and imagery — the apotheosis of a musical idea whose roots go back to 1993.
​Back then the band gained a reputation as one of the first and best groups to explore the connections between jazz and klezmer, but quickly developed a sound and approach all their own, and over time took in a much wider range of influences. Their writing embodies their personal and idiosyncratic concept and compositional style, a collective voice which fans recognise and love.
​Joining the core line-up of saxophonist Jeremy Shoham, percussionist Rick Finlay and bassist Phil Scragg, in their latest incarnation the band welcome keyboard wizard Danny Manners. Danny’s musical background includes eight years with award-winning prog rock band Big Big Train, a longstanding collaboration as bassist, keyboardist and arranger with French singer-songwriter Louis Philippe, and work with 80s alternative big band The Happy End.
​The band has a uniquely off-beam take on contemporary music, incorporating world, folk, prog and classical influences in their impressionistic style. Composition and improvisation are seamlessly linked, an approach that has led to favourable comparisons with fusion pioneers Weather Report and prog rock innovators Gong.
“…one of the more unusual world-jazz ensembles…the authority and energy of the group has been growing over the years, and they have long been a vivacious proposition live.” The Guardian
“A wonderful amalgamation of inspired writing and stunning playing” The Musician
“…rapid transitions and tight unison playing…a razor-sharp ensemble sound…” The Guardian