‘Though suggestive of the old Wynton Marsalis Quintet, the band had its own strong flow, with all original music. It was a treat to hear something totally unfamiliar on a mainstream festival bill, and the crowd responded with unchecked enthusiasm' The New York Times
Empirical continued to be one of the most critically acclaimed UK bands in 2008 adding the Ensemble of the Year prize at the annual Parliamentary Jazz Awards to the ever increasing list of awards.
‘Out but in' was the description of Empirical's latest project – studying the music of Eric Dolphy. A set of original material, written by the band in tribute to Dolphy, was included in an exploration of the album ‘Out to lunch'. Premiered at the Stables Wavendon, Empirical have performed the project at the NEMC York and at the Barbican as part of London Jazz Festival. The project is to be captured as a studio recording, available this year.
Empirical has been involved with Jazz Alive, a Jazz education project for young adults. Students enjoyed the Barbican concert and Empirical enjoyed coaching some fantastic young players.
Nathaniel Facey-Alto Sax:
Born in London to Jamaican parents, is influenced by Charlie Parker, Wayne Shorter, John Coltrane and Ornette Coleman. With a degree from London's Royal Academy of Music, Nathaniel, who began his music studies at the age of 14, has distinguished himself as a creative composer and a lyrical performer and has been tipped as a musician to watch. Nathaniel has worked with Afrobeat star Dele Sosemi, gospel artist Ron Kenoli, Billy Jenkins, Steve Watts, Soweto Kinch, Jean Toussaint, Oren Marshall.
Tom 'Tillah' Farmer-Double Bass:
Began studying piano at an early age, moving on to electric bass at 16. He joined the Essex Youth Jazz Orchestra whilst completing A-level music and music technology, and furthered his bass studies under John Bower. Having been accepted to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Tom took up double bass, studying with Colin Paris (LSO) and Steve Watts. He was a member of NYJO for 18 months, and began playing extensively on the London jazz scene. Tom is currently a member of The Heritage Orchestra and Lazenby.***look out for Tommy Tillah***
Shaney Forbes-Drums:
Who recently picked up one of three scholarship prizes for new jazz talent, sponsored by the UK 's new jazz radio station, TheJazz, and Yamaha. With support from the All Party Parliamentary Jazz Appreciation Group, and Jazzwise magazine, the inaugural award aims to support and showcase the best of the UK's emerging jazz talent. Shane received his first percussion lesson at the age of 12. He and childhood friend Nathaniel Facey formed a band with pianist Arthur Lea which featured as support for the school band's events. Shane has also performed with Jean Toussaint, Billy Jenkins, Claire Martin, Robert Mitchell, Andrea Pozza, Mike Carr, Soweto Kinch.
Lewis Wright-Vibraphone
Having started Vibes aged 9, Lewis was performing with the Norwich Students band at 10 and had recorded a solo CD aged 13. Now a vibraphonist and drummer living in London , studying at Trinity College of Music with Liam Noble, Martin Speake, Dave Wickins and Roger Beaujolais, Lewis has performed with with Stan Sulzmann, Clark Tracey, Dave O'Higgins, Laurence Cottle, Mark Lockheart. He has recorded for artists including Tunde of the Lighthouse Family (Sony BMG) and Catherine Feeny (Tallgrass/Charisma).
Empirical play the FACTORY PERFORMANCE SPACE 8pm JULY 18.
Tickets ˆ15 +353 71 917 0431
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SLIGO JAZZ 2009
JULY 17-19
featuring
GET THE BLESSING (UK)
MATTHEW HALPIN QUARTET (IRELAND/SWEDEN)
THE ODD COUPLE with SINEAD CONWAY
FULL SCHEDULE
FRIDAY 17 JULY
FACTORY PERFORMANCE SPACE 8PM - NEIL COWLEY TRIO
Tickets ˆ15 +353 71 917 0431
TOBERGAL LANE CAFÉ 10.30PM - MATTHEW HALPIN QUARTET
Tickets @ door €10
SATURDAY 18 JULY
FACTORY PERFORMANCE SPACE 8PM - EMPIRICAL
Tickets ˆ15 +353 71 917 0431
TOBERGAL LANE CAFÉ 10.30PM - GET THE BLESSING
Tickets @ door €15
SUNDAY 19 JULY
TOBERGAL LANE CAFÉ 1pm - JAZZ BRUNCH WITH THE ODD COUPLE & SINEAD CONWAY
€15 including food Advance booking essential +353 71 9146599 |
