The London Jazz Orchestra is 35 years old, star trumpeter Henry Lowther is 85, and they will be celebrating in concert with the launch of Primetime, a double LP of Henry’s music on his 85th birthday, Saturday 11 July, in the beautiful acoustic of the American International Church, London.
Primetime is released on Analogue/October Records, best known for bringing important recordings from the past back into print. Every now and then, however, a project comes along that sits outside their usual remit; this project has been driven by a shared desire to celebrate and preserve the work of a living jazz legend. A limited run of 300 numbered and signed copies will be available.
Henry Lowther is a treasure - and one of the most loved and respected musicians in British jazz. Since emerging in the 1960s with the John Dankworth Orchestra and a host of jazz and pop artists, to his current band, Still Waters, and his 30-year stint with the LJO, his beautiful sound and fiery solos have thrilled generations of listeners. Everybody wants Henry in their bands.
Directed by Scott Stroman, "the LJO is at the quality-plus-commitment end of the spectrum." Resident at London's Vortex Club since 1991, the band of outstanding soloists plays music written by its members, who have included Kenny Wheeler, John Taylor, Norma Winstone, Tim Garland, Nikki Iles, Pete Saberton and a host of others. Today's band is just as vital:
Trumpets: Henry Lowther, Mike Lovatt, Miguel Gorodi, Andre Cannier
Trombones: Martin Gladdish, Ollie Martin, James Wade-Sired, Richard Henry
Saxes/Woodwinds: Matt Sulzmann, Martin Hathaway, Tori Freestone,
Pete Hurt, Mick Foster
Piano: Liam Noble, Alcyona Mick
Guitar: Nick Costley-White
Bass: Calum Gourlay
Drums: Paul Clarvis
Director: Scott Stroman
