“Following the critical acclaim of their debut album Source of the Severn, the Will Barnes Quartet returns with Outside the Light—a bold and expressive new chapter in their artistic journey. Drawing inspiration from local folklore and Celtic mythology, the album explores themes of light, seasons and changing landscapes. This second album deepens the group’s exploration of the interplay between jazz improvisation and the evocative landscapes of Mid Wales and the Welsh Marches.

Led by guitarist and composer Will Barnes, the quartet features pianist Jack Gonsalez, bassist Aidan Thorne, and drummer James Batten—an ensemble recognised for its tight chemistry and compelling live performances. Their sound pays homage to jazz greats such as Wes Montgomery, Pat Metheny, and Oscar Peterson, while forging a distinct voice rooted in contemporary expression.

The quartet has performed at major UK venues and festivals, including Pizza Express Jazz Club (Soho), Hay Festival, Brecon Jazz Festival, and BBC Radio 4’s Loose Ends. Source of the Severn earned praise from critics, with MOJO highlighting their “springy deftness… cool precision… serious chops,” and The Jazz Mann describing the album as “evocative, intelligent… contemporary.”

Outside the Light showcases a group in full creative stride, offering audiences an immersive evening of modern jazz that’s both emotionally resonant and musically sophisticated.


“It’s sophisticated stuff in the contemporary vein [and] the playing by all concerned is immaculate throughout…The quality of this band makes one keen to hear them live” ★★★★ Peter Jones, Jazzwise

“The quartet’s most adventurous recording to date. Barnes’ writing is increasingly individual and distinctive, displaying a growing maturity and a genuine melodic and narrative awareness.” ★★★★ Ian Mann, The Jazz Mann

“All four musicians support each other as they navigate the intricacies of Barnes’s intriguing and absorbing compositions, and as such Outside the Light comes highly recommended” Nick Lea, Jazz Views

“The band is in full creative flow on this album, fusing images of natural beauty into a soundscape of shimmering textures.” Neil Duggan, All About Jazz​