SLAMCD264 John Law & Cornucopia Ensemble – Out of the Darkness

Live recording of pianist John Law‘s jazz quartet alongside the classical Cornucopia Ensemble in concert at CBSO Hall, Birmingham, on 17 October 2004. Performing his epic “Out of the Darkness” composition and 3 additional tracks. Featuring leading UK jazz players Andy Sheppard, Chris Laurence and Paul Clarvis.

Personnel: Rita Manning (violin/leader), Emlyn Singleton (violin), Andy Parker (viola), Nick Cooper (cello), Bruce Nockles (trumpet), Melinda Maxwell (oboe), David Purser (trombone), John Orford (bassoon).

Featured soloists: Andy Sheppard (tenor and soprano saxophones), John Law (piano, director, composer), Chris Laurence (double bass), Paul Clarvis (drums, percussion)

“A rich and completely distinctive contemporary music programme.” – John Fordham, The Guardian

“Paul Clarvis and Chris Laurence are old dependables, and Laurence turns his many solo spots into something magical…Three smaller pieces provide a good balance to the ambitious opener, and Law succeeds where many others have failed.” – Philip Clark, Jazz Review

“Achieving a natural-sounding synthesis rather than an awkward ‘bolted-on’ effect with the forces at his disposal must have presented a considerable challenge, but John Law has succeeded triumphantly, and the album provides an object lesson in the deployment of elements too often considered incompatible. Recommended.” – Chris Parker, Vortex

“There are a number of inspired solos from different players throughout this long eventful work, trumpeter Bruce Nockles, Andy Sheppard’s saxes and John Law’s great piano. Mr. Law’s composing and direction has evolved and matured with grace and immense creativity. The entire 12-piece ensemble is so well-integrated, that they sound like they’ve been playing together for many years. I am reminded at times of the Neil Ardley, the legendary British jazz and classical music composer and conductor.” – Downtown Music Gallery

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