Alan Barnes - A Fish Tale Tour

Gill Wilde of Grimsby Jazz recently commissioned Alan Barnes to develop a new work, A Fish Tale, which draws on the rich and interesting history of the fishing trade in Grimsby. Barnes teamed up with guitarist Pat McCarthy and poet Josie Moon and the new work is now about to embark on a tour thanks to the support of Arts Council England.

...the commission explores the myths, the misadventures and the realities of the trawling life.

It is a tribute to the contribution made by those in the fishing industry who were instrumental in feeding the nation and protecting it in times of war.

It is a powerful and exciting evening of jazz and poetry completely evocative of any fishing port, and guaranteed to stir the memories of fishing communities.

Alan is joined by -

Gilad Atzmon - Soprano/Alto/Bass Clarinet
Dean Masser - Tenor/Clarinet
Mark Nightingale - Trombone
Neil Yates - Trumpet
Dave Green - Double Bass
Pat McCarthy - Guitar
John Perry - Drums
Josie Moon - Spoken Word

You can catch this brilliant band on tour at the following venues -

July

6th - Kardomah94, Hull
14th - Central Hall, Grimsby
15th - Swanage Jazz Festival
29th - Llandudno Jazz Festival

October

11th - Swansea Jazzland
12th - Seven Arts, Leeds
13th - Wakefield Jazz
15th - Herts Jazz Festival
19th - Folkestone Jazz Club

November

11th - Drill Hall, Lincoln
12th - Wigan Jazz
18th - The Hive, Shrewsbury

RNCM cancels Gilad Atzmon gig

Controversy has been brewing in the Northern jazz scene this week after the RNCM took the decision to cancel their upcoming Gilad Atzmon & Orient House Ensemble performance amidst pressure from political activists.

The gig, which was due to take place on Thursday March 5th, was cancelled to 'ensure the safety of all involved'...

After careful consideration, and to ensure the safety of all involved, the RNCM decided to withdraw the concert. This decision was taken and actioned prior to the launch of an associated petition and in no way reflects any political view of the College. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

- RNCM Press Release

An online petition has been set up, asking RNCM to reverse their decision and so far 459 people have signed it. There are also many articles popping up covering the story, including this thought piece on Jewish News website.

Gilad's own website is kept updated with his writing about this issue, as well as many others.

Lots of Jazz at RNCM...

This week, RNCM in Manchester announced their Spring 2015 concert season. Included in the 10-date concert programme are 5 jazz gigs featuring UK musicians who have built up strong international reputations plus a weekend event to launch their new Concert Hall which features another two jazz gigs!

31st January: RCNM Big Band featuring Mark Nightingale

One of the best known jazz trombonists in the UK, Mark Nightingale performs with the RCNM Big Band for their first concert of the year.

7th February: Matthew Halsall/Gogo Penguin/Mammal Hands

Manchester-born trumpeter, band leader and record label owner Matthew Halsall hosts this evening featuring three bands making a big impression on the jazz scene. Halsall's own Gondwana Orchestra will play, along with Mercury Prize nominees GoGo Penguin and new finds Mammal Hands.

20th February: Troyka

The ever-popular jazz-rock trio Troyka bring their 'Mingus meets Motorhead' approach to music to the RNCM. Thi high flying band features Chris Montague (Montreux Jazz Festival Award), Joshua Blackmore and Kit Downes (Mercury Prize nominee).

5th March: Gilad Atzmon & the Orient House Ensemble

Atzmon returns to the UK after an extensive world tour with his group. ‘A formidable improvisational array…a jazz giant steadily drawing himself up to his full height...’ The Guardian

 19-22nd March: RNCM Big Weekender

This full weekend event launches the new Concert Hall at RNCM. Performances will take place throughout (all free to attend) and amongst the varied programme, the RNCM Big Band will perform with Nikki Iles and Tina May and Courtney Pine brings his House of Legends.

 17th April: Polar Bear

Seb Rochford brings his award-winning group to RNCM. The band have received a second Merucry Prize nomination and go from strength to strength, attracting audiences wherever they go.

For full information on all of the concerts, visit the RNCM website.