Saturday 20th April, Bar 7:30 pm / music 8:30 pm, Jazz Cafe POSK, Hammersmith, London

For his fifth soon to be released album as a leader, Krzysztof Urbański presents a quartet that naturally blends melodic rhapsody, rhythmic structures within the tradition of jazz, world, and classical music on an evening which also happens to be Urbanski’s birthday.

The London based Quartet was formed in 2016. Krzysztof’s goal was to find musicians open to create a fresh and original sound within a very common band frame – a Quartet. The leader says:

All four musicians are exceptional instrumentalists and improvisers. Watching them exploring new musical territories can be a very memorable experience.

Krzysztof Urbański is a multi-award-winning jazz saxophonist, composer, educator, and producer, recommended by ‘The Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz’ along with Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter as one of the most interesting saxophone voices of his generation. During his 20-year career he has become well known for taking part in concerts, festivals, jazz competitions, masterclasses and workshops at prestigious venues. As a recording artist he has 5 albums under his belt. He has appeared as a guest artist on more than 100 albums crossing all musical genres.

John Turville has developed a reputation as ‘one of the leading jazz pianists of his generation’ (Ian Mann). After studying at Cambridge and the Guildhall, he rapidly began working as a performer and composer on the European scene. John has recorded three albums as a leader, winning multiple awards. John conducts and writes for the E17 large ensemble and curated the Walthamstow jazz festival. He also co-leads the jazz sextet Solstice as well as his own tango quintet ‘Almagro Ensemble’, performing Astor Piazzolla, Diego Schissi and original compositions. As an in-demand sideman, John regularly tours Europe and Asia. He has recorded over 30 albums with many established jazz and the BBC Singers.

Born in Poland, based in London, Jakub Cywiński is a double bass player and composer who currently explores his interest in collaborating with various contemporary composers and jazz musicians such as Ola Onabule, Marco Marconi, Partikel, Power of the Horns and Nicolas Meyer among others… He studied double bass as a postgraduate at the Royal College of Music. His varied freelance career has taken him to India, Russia, Lebanon, and other places around the world.

Sam Gardner graduated with a 1st class honours degree in Jazz from Leeds College of Music in 2011. Since then, he has worked as a freelance composer, producer, and drummer. He has composed and produced music in a broad range of styles, for many purposes. From music for brands & advertising, through to films and videogames, he is a prolific composer, with many original releases to date. Sam is also an active music educator and has worked with many schools, and charities, leading workshops and masterclasses with students of all ages. He is currently a lecturer of jazz drums at Leeds University.

Line up:

• Krzysztof Urbański – saxophone
• John Turville – piano
• Jakub Cywiński – double bass
• Sam Gardner – drums/electronics

Tickets £15 on the door and Eventbrite.

Listen to some of Krzysztof Urbański’s music here: