EMPIRICAL

2008-12-04T09:32:00.000-08:00

Empirical has a new line-up! The new Quartet currently features a prodigious new talent, vibraphonist Lewis Wright.

Empirical has a new management team! Joining Danielle Rollins of raestar Ventures are new manager Kerstan Mackness of Riot Management, agent Clive Johnson of Time and Talent and publicist Helen Maleed.

Empirical have some new opportunities! The quartet is appearing for three nights at Ronnie Scotts in Janruary, has been invited to perform at the North Sea Jazz festival for the third year running and wll be releasing a new album early next year!

‘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 next year, featuring the Quartet with special guest Julian Siegel.

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.

Empirical has another line-up, introducing pianist George Fogel, as part of an original music project to be realised later next year. This quartet previewed new compositions at the Lakeside Theatre Colchester, and the Blackfriars Arts Centre, Boston earlier this year.

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, The John Randall Quintet and Roundtrip.***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 includingTunde of the Lighthouse Family (Sony BMG) and Catherine Feeny (Tallgrass/Charisma).

George Fogel-Piano

A hugely talented pianist and composer. After graduating from the Guildhall School of Music with a 1st class honours degree he was awarded a prestigious scholarship to study at Berklee College of Music with Lazlo Gardony. Whilst in the U.S. he played for the George Garzone Band. His London club appearances have included the Vortex, 606, Jazz Cafe, the Spitz, Ronnie Scott’s and Cargo, mainly with members of London’s cutting edge F-ire and Loop Collectives.

photos by William Ellis

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Parliamentary Jazz Awards 2008 - BEST ENSEMBLE
EBU/European Jazz Competition - WINNER 2007
Peter Whittingham Award - WINNER December 2007
Jazzwise - ALBUM OF THE YEAR 2007
Mojo - JAZZ ALBUM OF THE YEAR 2007

Empirical take on CANADA!!

2008-10-14T07:49:00.000-07:00

We had the most amazing experience this summer – A tour of North America! We did some incredible gigs, and meet some wonderful people – mostly Jays Family! Check it….

19 June – Whiterock - Belles

We left sunny Heathrow mid morning to arrive in Vancouver around 4. Met by the incredible Aunty Brenda and her friend Mark, we got a whirlwind tour of Jay's hometown of Whiterock, before performing our first gig @ Belles. The food was incredible!!

The gig

20 June – Second Gig @ Belles

The second day at Whiterock featured more of Jays Family. We stayed at Aunty Shirly's, had massages, saunas, and life coaching from Aunty Brenda, the best chicken of our lives from Aunty Yvonne and taken for squishies by Cousin Ricky! Then the second gig at Belles!

<o:p></o:p> <st1:state st="on"><st1:place st="on"></st1:place></st1:state><w:worddocument><w:punctuationkerning><w:validateagainstschemas><w:compatibility><w:breakwrappedtables><w:snaptogridincell><w:wraptextwithpunct><o:p></o:p> We had the most amazing experience this summer – A tour of <st1:place st="on">North America</st1:place>! We did some incredible gigs, and meet some wonderful people – mostly Jays Family! Check it…. <o:p></o:p>19 June – Whiterock - Belles <o:p></o:p>We left sunny Heathrow mid morning to arrive in <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Vancouver</st1:place></st1:city> around 4. Met by the incredible Aunty Brenda and her friend Mark, we got a whirlwind tour of Jay's hometown of Whiterock, before performing our first gig @ Belles. The food was incredible!!<a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9Q0lNRzE1NDYuanBn" target="_blank"></a> <o:p> Aunty Brenda showing us the view</o:p> <o:p></o:p><a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9MjAwODA2MTktRFNDXzI1NzcuanBn" target="_blank"></a>The gig <o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p>20 June – Second Gig @ Belles <o:p> </o:p>The second day at Whiterock featured more of Jays Family. We stayed at Aunty Shirly's, had massages, saunas, and life coaching from Aunty Brenda, the best chicken of our lives from Aunty Yvonne and taken for squishies by Cousin Ricky! Then the second gig at Belles!<a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9Q0lNRzE1NTQuanBn" target="_blank"></a> An Aunty Brenda Maassage <o:p> </o:p><a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9Q0lNRzE1NjIuanBn" target="_blank"></a> Squishy's 21 June – <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Vancouver</st1:place></st1:city> Jazz Festival, Gastown <o:p> </o:p> Aunty Yvonne drove us into <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Vancouver</st1:place></st1:city> where the incredible Joan had sorted everything – parking, a place to change 50 yards from the stage some excellent local knowledge. The gig was great – really well received, despite being the loudest we've ever been on stage. <o:p> </o:p> After the gig – massive hangs with Ricky!! Some incredible food, great people, good drinking and endless jokes!! <o:p> </o:p> 22 June – <st1:state st="on">Victoria</st1:state>, <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Centennial</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place> <o:p> </o:p> After a beautiful ferry ride to <st1:place st="on"><st1:state st="on">Victoria</st1:state></st1:place>, we prepared for our first gig - outside. The sun was shining, so Kit's keyboard didn't seem so bad (!!), we played and hung out. Then a few hours off – the usual gym and sauna time - and on to our second gig at Hermann's. <o:p> </o:p><a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9Q0lNRzE1NzkuanBn" target="_blank"></a> Posing in the sun Backstage @ Victoria <o:p> </o:p> A wicked bar, with a great bass (cheers – Tillah) meant a cool gig. A brief hang in the Hotel cocktail bar – Apple Martinis all round and jokes at a piano that played itself!!! <o:p> </o:p> 23 June – Travelling <st1:state st="on">New York</st1:state> via <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Seattle</st1:place></st1:city>! <o:p> </o:p> Leaving <st1:state st="on">Victoria</st1:state>, we split the group to ease the travel into <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region>. We all went with Joan on the clipper except Shane who got to go on the sea plane!...unfair…Once again, Joan had totally sorted us out – a place to hang all day (with a piano!!) and some incredible food: Oysters and sea food! Whilst Shane slept we all got bargains on some noise cancelling headphones – ha! There is some justice. <o:p> </o:p> <v:shape id="_x0000_i1031" type="_x0000_t75" style="width: 278.25pt; height: 210.75pt;" bordertopcolor="this" borderleftcolor="this" borderbottomcolor="this" borderrightcolor="this"><v:image.."file: jpg="" title="CIMG1593"><w:bordertop type="single" width="12"><w:borderleft type="single" width="12"><w:borderbottom type="single" width="12"><a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9Q0lNRzE1OTMuanBn" target="_blank"></a></w:borderbottom></w:borderleft></w:bordertop></v:image.."file:></v:shape><v:shape id="_x0000_i1031" type="_x0000_t75" style="width: 278.25pt; height: 210.75pt;" bordertopcolor="this" borderleftcolor="this" borderbottomcolor="this" borderrightcolor="this"><v:image.."file: jpg="" title="CIMG1593"><w:bordertop type="single" width="12"><w:borderleft type="single" width="12"><w:borderbottom type="single" width="12">Hanging in Seattle </w:borderbottom></w:borderleft></w:bordertop></v:image.."file:></v:shape> <o:p> </o:p> We Boarded our flight to <st1:place st="on"><st1:state st="on">New York</st1:state></st1:place> at 8pm – tired but excited!! <o:p> </o:p> 24 June - Society for Ethnic Arts, New York <o:p> </o:p> !!!!CHECK OUR OTHER BLOG!!!!<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> <st1:place st="on"><st1:state st="on">NEW YORK</st1:state></st1:place>!!!! We arrived at 6am so stole some hours in a very cramped comfort inn. Having taken our time getting ready – we had to look bad – we sound checked and ate. <o:p></o:p></w:wraptextwithpunct></w:snaptogridincell></w:breakwrappedtables></w:compatibility></w:validateagainstschemas></w:punctuationkerning></w:worddocument>The gig was incredible – supporting the Bad Plus and Kurt Rosenwinkel! They were inspiriational. Fond farwells to Joan!!!!<o:p> </o:p><o:p> </o:p><o:p> </o:p><w:worddocument><w:punctuationkerning><w:validateagainstschemas><w:compatibility><w:breakwrappedtables><w:snaptogridincell><w:wraptextwithpunct> <o:p></o:p><o:p></o:p><o:p></o:p><w:worddocument><w:punctuationkerning><w:validateagainstschemas><w:compatibility><w:breakwrappedtables><w:snaptogridincell><w:wraptextwithpunct><a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9UDEwMDAxNDguanBn" target="_blank"></a> Us mid flow at the Society <o:p> </o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Having hooked up with our great friend John Escreet, we hung at Dizzy's for a bit before Shane and Jay went to check <st1:place st="on">Greenwich Village</st1:place>. Knackered we slept at around 3am <o:p> </o:p> <v:shape id="_x0000_i1034" type="_x0000_t75" style="width: 313.5pt; height: 232.5pt;" bordertopcolor="this" borderleftcolor="this" borderbottomcolor="this" borderrightcolor="this"><v:image.."file: jpg="" title="CIMG1639"><w:bordertop type="single" width="12"><w:borderleft type="single" width="12"><w:borderbottom type="single" width="12"><a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9Q0lNRzE2MzkuanBn" target="_blank"></a></w:borderbottom></w:borderleft></w:bordertop></v:image.."file:></v:shape><v:shape id="_x0000_i1034" type="_x0000_t75" style="width: 313.5pt; height: 232.5pt;" bordertopcolor="this" borderleftcolor="this" borderbottomcolor="this" borderrightcolor="this"><v:image.."file: jpg="" title="CIMG1639"><w:bordertop type="single" width="12"><w:borderleft type="single" width="12"><w:borderbottom type="single" width="12">Us and John </w:borderbottom></w:borderleft></w:bordertop></v:image.."file:></v:shape> <o:p> </o:p> <o:p> </o:p> 25 June – Travel to <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Montreal</st1:place></st1:city> <o:p> </o:p> A dark morning – getting on a train at 8.20am!! A long haul train journey, back across the border, to <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Montreal</st1:city></st1:place>. A lot of sleep…. <o:p> </o:p> <v:shape id="_x0000_i1036" type="_x0000_t75" style="width: 313.5pt; height: 234.75pt;" bordertopcolor="this" borderleftcolor="this" borderbottomcolor="this" borderrightcolor="this"><v:image.."file: jpg="" title="CIMG1682"><w:bordertop type="single" width="12"><w:borderleft type="single" width="12"><w:borderbottom type="single" width="12"><a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9Q0lNRzE2ODIuanBn" target="_blank"></a> </w:borderbottom></w:borderleft></w:bordertop></v:image.."file:></v:shape> sleepy sleepy Met by Dani and Uncle Marc! Another generous member of Jay's family. Back to his for much needed Barbeque and Beer – and to meet <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Lorena, Tyler, Colin</st1:place></st1:city> and Anne Darla! <o:p> </o:p> 26 June – <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Montreal</st1:city></st1:place> Jazz Festival <o:p> </o:p> Our first festival gig at <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Montreal</st1:place></st1:city> – outside and right in the thick of it. After a rushed sound check and a replacement bass, we had the customary Swim and Suana. The gig was wicked – never seen some many people at a Jazz festival! Hung out with some scientists (…ooo...) and had a lot more jokes!! <o:p> </o:p> <v:shape id="_x0000_i1037" type="_x0000_t75" style="width: 315pt; height: 236.25pt;" bordertopcolor="this" borderleftcolor="this" borderbottomcolor="this" borderrightcolor="this"><v:image.."file: jpg="" title="CIMG1659"><w:bordertop type="single" width="12"><w:borderleft type="single" width="12"><w:borderbottom type="single" width="12"><a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9Q0lNRzE2NTkuanBn" target="_blank"></a></w:borderbottom></w:borderleft></w:bordertop></v:image.."file:></v:shape><v:shape id="_x0000_i1037" type="_x0000_t75" style="width: 315pt; height: 236.25pt;" bordertopcolor="this" borderleftcolor="this" borderbottomcolor="this" borderrightcolor="this"><v:image.."file: jpg="" title="CIMG1659"><w:bordertop type="single" width="12"><w:borderleft type="single" width="12"><w:borderbottom type="single" width="12">Gig at Montreal </w:borderbottom></w:borderleft></w:bordertop></v:image.."file:></v:shape> <o:p> </o:p> 27 June – <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Toronto</st1:place></st1:city>, Academy of Spherical Arts <o:p> </o:p> Leaving out early once more, we took the train to <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Toronto</st1:place></st1:city>, straight to the Hotel for more saunas! Then to the Belle Epoch room for our first gig. We had been there earlier in the year as part of IAJE. Amazing Steaks!!! <o:p> </o:p> 28 June – <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Toronto</st1:place></st1:city>, Second gig @ Spherical Arts <o:p> </o:p> The second day in <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Toronto</st1:place></st1:city> – Chilling out, Shane went to meet some of his family. Our first real rest day since Whiterock. The second gig at Spherical arts, great fun, great to meet more lovely people – including Shane's Cousin Odessa! <o:p> <a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9Q0lNRzE2OTIuanBn" target="_blank"></a></o:p> <v:shape id="_x0000_i1040" type="_x0000_t75" style="width: 236.25pt; height: 315pt;" bordertopcolor="this" borderleftcolor="this" borderbottomcolor="this" borderrightcolor="this"><v:image.."file: jpg="" title="CIMG1692"><w:bordertop type="single" width="12"><w:borderleft type="single" width="12"><w:borderbottom type="single" width="12">Odessa and Face </w:borderbottom></w:borderleft></w:bordertop></v:image.."file:></v:shape> <o:p> </o:p> <o:p> </o:p>29 June – <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Montreal</st1:place></st1:city>, Upstairs Jazz Club <o:p> </o:p> Our last gig – an honour to play at the Upstairs club. Following the sleepy train journey back to <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Montreal</st1:place></st1:city>, Marc dropped us at the club for some great Burgers. It was rammed for the gig, which featured even more of Jay's family! <o:p> </o:p> <o:p> </o:p> 30 June – <st1:city style="font-weight: bold;" st="on"><st1:place st="on">Montreal</st1:place></st1:city> @ Uncle Marc's <o:p> </o:p> Jay's cousin Tyler fancied himself as a soccer player – so an impromptu <st1:country-region st="on">England</st1:country-region> versues <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">Canada</st1:place></st1:country-region> 5 a side was organised! HA! 6 – 0 <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">England</st1:place></st1:country-region>! And its football not soccer…. <o:p> </o:p> Kit left us mid afternoon to fly back to Blighty for some gigs. We chilled in his absence – much Wii, Pancakes, Jay and Tillah bought excessive Candaian Candy and we watched Cloverfield. Uncle Marc and Lorena are legends – has a bar in the basement where we were sleeping –safe. <o:p> </o:p><a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9Q0lNRzE2NTUuanBn" target="_blank"></a>Tillah behind the bar<v:shape id="_x0000_i1042" type="_x0000_t75" style="width: 315pt; height: 236.25pt;" bordertopcolor="this" borderleftcolor="this" borderbottomcolor="this" borderrightcolor="this"><v:image.."file: jpg="" title="CIMG1649"><w:bordertop type="single" width="12"><w:borderleft type="single" width="12"><w:borderbottom type="single" width="12"></w:borderbottom></w:borderleft></w:bordertop></v:image.."file:></v:shape> <o:p> </o:p> 1 July – <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Montreal</st1:place></st1:city> <o:p> </o:p> Feeling relaxed, Jay and Tillah hit some back yard Badminton whilst Face ran off to the park so assert some more English dominance on the Soccer pitch. Shane slept. Anne Darla took us to the hippest shops in Montreal- after a beer with Uncle Marc. Face got some Nikes!! <o:p> </o:p><o:p><a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9Q0lNRzE3MjYuanBn" target="_blank"></a> </o:p> Us and Uncle Marc<v:shape id="_x0000_i1044" type="_x0000_t75" style="width: 356.25pt; height: 267pt;" bordertopcolor="this" borderleftcolor="this" borderbottomcolor="this" borderrightcolor="this"><v:image.."file: jpg="" title="CIMG1726"><w:bordertop type="single" width="12"><w:borderleft type="single" width="12"><w:borderbottom type="single" width="12"></w:borderbottom></w:borderleft></w:bordertop></v:image.."file:></v:shape> <o:p> </o:p> We were treated to some fine Chinese dining – Lobster no less – by the generous Auntie Marlene and Luciano! He said he could get us some incredible suits – and hooked it up! Legend… <o:p> </o:p> A great Hang at Upstairs Jazz Club again – a Jam session featuring Greg Ritchie, many beers, great fun. <o:p> </o:p> 2 July – <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Montreal</st1:place></st1:city> <o:p> </o:p> The suit hook up happened!! Luciano introduced us to Tony Tatkiss – importer of fine leathers and Suits! Everyone got seriously kitted out… <o:p> </o:p><o:p><a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9Q0lNRzE3NTQuanBn" target="_blank"></a> </o:p> The Suits<v:shape id="_x0000_i1046" type="_x0000_t75" style="width: 342.75pt; height: 257.25pt;" bordertopcolor="this" borderleftcolor="this" borderbottomcolor="this" borderrightcolor="this"><v:image.."file: jpg="" title="CIMG1754"><w:bordertop type="single" width="12"><w:borderleft type="single" width="12"><w:borderbottom type="single" width="12"></w:borderbottom></w:borderleft></w:bordertop></v:image.."file:></v:shape> <o:p> </o:p><o:p><a href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vczQ1LnBob3RvYnVja2V0LmNvbS9hbGJ1bXMvZjc5L1RvbXdmYXJtZXIvP2FjdGlvbj12aWV3JmN1cnJlbnQ9Q0lNRzE3NjUuanBn" target="_blank"></a> </o:p> Us Luciano and Tony <v:shape id="_x0000_i1047" type="_x0000_t75" style="width: 342.75pt; height: 257.25pt;" bordertopcolor="this" borderleftcolor="this" borderbottomcolor="this" borderrightcolor="this"><v:image.."file: jpg="" title="CIMG1765"><w:bordertop type="single" width="12"><w:borderleft type="single" width="12"><w:borderbottom type="single" width="12"></w:borderbottom></w:borderleft></w:bordertop></v:image.."file:></v:shape> <o:p> </o:p> Back to Marc's to hang, more Wii, watching Nadal beat <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Murray</st1:city></st1:place>, few beers a lot of Sun. Paradise! <o:p> </o:p> 3 July –– <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Montreal</st1:place></st1:city> and home….almost <o:p> </o:p> Our last day – Uncel Marc had promised to take us golfing, so we Jay, Shane and Tillah hit the range. Much harder than it looks, it pained us but we had to admit, Jay was best. <o:p> </o:p> Some fond farewells, we were blown away by the warmth and generousity shown to us in <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Montreal</st1:city></st1:place>. Thank you so much!!!! We headed to the airport. <o:p> </o:p> Unfortunately, we were flying with the now defunct Zoom. Then plane never arrived, we were shuttled off to a hotel, annoyed and shattered. <o:p> </o:p> 4 July – Delays! <o:p> </o:p> After a beautiful al fresco lunch, we drudged back to the airport to wait for another 8 hours! Jay and face were corralled into entertaining the passengers, which led to some upset security guards. <param name="allowScriptAccess" value="never"> <param name="allowNetworking" value="internal"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/HsgQ754sFh8&hl=en&fs=1"></object> Face and an unappreciative security guard <o:p> </o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Finally boarded the plan, which signified the end of a highly successful tour. A Massive thank you to Dani (our tireless manager) who made this possible! <o:p> </o:p> <o:p> </o:p> <o:p> </o:p> <o:p> </o:p><o:p> </o:p></w:wraptextwithpunct></w:snaptogridincell></w:breakwrappedtables></w:compatibility></w:validateagainstschemas></w:punctuationkerning></w:worddocument> </w:wraptextwithpunct></w:snaptogridincell></w:breakwrappedtables></w:compatibility></w:validateagainstschemas></w:punctuationkerning></w:worddocument>

An Aunty Brenda Maassage

Squishy's

21 June – Vancouver Jazz Festival, Gastown

Aunty Yvonne and Lauren drove us into Vancouver where the incredible Joan had sorted everything – parking, a place to change 50 yards from the stage some excellent local knowledge. The gig was great – really well received, despite being the loudest we've ever been on stage.

After the gig – massive hangs with Ricky and Lauren!! Some incredible food, great people, good drinking and endless jokes!!

22 June – Victoria, Centennial Park

After a beautiful ferry ride to Victoria, we prepared for our first gig - outside. The sun was shining, so Kit's keyboard didn't seem so bad (!!), we played and hung out. Then a few hours off – the usual gym and sauna time - and on to our second gig at Hermann's.

Posing in the sun Backstage @ Victoria

A wicked bar, with a great bass (cheers – Tillah) meant a cool gig. A brief hang in the Hotel cocktail bar – Apple Martinis all round and jokes at a piano that played itself!!!

23 June – Travelling New York via Seattle!

Leaving Victoria, we split the group to ease the travel into America. We all went with Joan on the clipper except Shane who got to go on the sea plane!...unfair…Once again, Joan had totally sorted us out – a place to hang all day (with a piano!!) and some incredible food: Oysters and sea food! Whilst Shane slept we all got bargains on some noise cancelling headphones – ha! There is some justice.

Hanging in Seattle

We Boarded our flight to New York at 8pm – tired but excited!!

24 June - Society for Ethnic Arts, New York

NEW YORK!!!! We arrived at 6am so stole some hours in a very cramped comfort inn. Having taken our time getting ready – we had to look bad – we sound checked and ate.

The gig was incredible – supporting the Bad Plus and Kurt Rosenwinkel! They were inspiriational. Fond farwells to Joan!!!!

Us mid flow at the Society

Having hooked up with our great friend John Escreet, we hung at Dizzy's for a bit before Shane and Jay went to check Greenwich Village. Knackered we slept at around 3am

Us and John

25 June – Travel to Montreal

A dark morning – getting on a train at 8.20am!! A long haul train journey, back across the border, to Montreal. A lot of sleep….

sleepy sleepy

Met by Dani and Uncle Marc! Another generous member of Jay's family. Back to his for much needed Barbeque and Beer – and to meet Lorena, Tyler, Colin and Anne Darla!

26 June – Montreal Jazz Festival

Our first festival gig at Montreal – outside and right in the thick of it. After a rushed sound check and a replacement bass, we had the customary Swim and Suana. The gig was wicked – never seen some many people at a Jazz festival! Hung out with some scientists (…ooo...) and had a lot more jokes!!

Gig at Montreal

27 June – Toronto, Academy of Spherical Arts

Leaving out early once more, we took the train to Toronto, straight to the Hotel for more saunas! Then to the Belle Epoch room for our first gig. We had been there earlier in the year as part of IAJE. Amazing Steaks!!!

28 June – Toronto, Second gig @ Spherical Arts

The second day in Toronto – Chilling out, Shane went to meet some of his family. Our first real rest day since Whiterock. The second gig at Spherical arts, great fun, great to meet more lovely people – including Shane's Cousin Odessa!

Odessa and Face

29 June – Montreal, Upstairs Jazz Club

Our last gig – an honour to play at the Upstairs club. Following the sleepy train journey back to Montreal, Marc dropped us at the club for some great Burgers. By the performance, the club was rammed with even more of Jays family, but also André Ménard, festival director, who stayed for the whole gig!

30 June – Montreal @ Uncle Marc's

Jay's cousin Tyler fancied himself as a soccer player – so an impromptu England versues Canada 5 a side was organised! HA! 6 – 0 England! And its football not soccer….

Kit left us mid afternoon to fly back to Blighty for some gigs. We chilled in his absence – much Wii, Pancakes, Jay and Tillah bought excessive Candaian Candy and we watched Cloverfield. Uncle Marc and Lorena are legends – has a bar in the basement where we were sleeping –safe.

Tillah behind the bar

1 July – Montreal

Feeling relaxed, Jay and Tillah hit some back yard Badminton whilst Face ran off to the park so assert some more English dominance on the Soccer pitch. Shane slept. Anne Darla took us to the hippest shops in Montreal- after a beer with Uncle Marc. Face got some Nikes!!

Us and Uncle Marc

We were treated to some fine Chinese dining – Lobster no less – by the generous Auntie Marlene and Luciano! He said he could get us some incredible suits – and hooked it up! Legend…

A great Hang at Upstairs Jazz Club again – a Jam session featuring Greg Ritchie, many beers, great fun.

2 July – Montreal

The suit hook up happened!! Luciano introduced us to Tony Tatkiss – importer of fine leathers and Suits! Everyone got seriously kitted out…

The Suits

Us Luciano and Tony

Back to Marc's to hang, more Wii, watching Nadal beat Murray, few beers a lot of Sun. Paradise!

3 July –– Montreal and home….almost

Our last day – Uncel Marc had promised to take us golfing, so we Jay, Shane and Tillah hit the range. Much harder than it looks, it pained us but we had to admit, Jay was best.

Some fond farewells, we were blown away by the warmth and generousity shown to us in Montreal. Thank you so much!!!! We headed to the airport.

Unfortunately, we were flying with the now defunct Zoom. Then plane never arrived, we were shuttled off to a hotel, annoyed and shattered.

4 July – Delays!

After a beautiful al fresco lunch, we drudged back to the airport to wait for another 8 hours! Jay and face were corralled into entertaining the passengers, which led to some upset security guards.

Finally boarded the plan, which signified the end of a highly successful tour. A Massive thank you to Dani (our tireless manager) who made this possible!

NEWPORT JAZZ FESTIVAL

2008-08-16T18:16:00.000-07:00

Empirical were invited to play at the 2008 JVC Newport Jazz Festival! We were honoured, privaledged and too excited!

The experience started after leaving a standing ovation at Brecon Jazz Festival, being driven down the M4 (thanks Mick!!!!) and checking into the Heathrow Hilton Hotel at around 3am!!

At 7am (yes....7am) we checked in at NWA, and boarded a much delayed flight to Detroit. The delay cost us our connection and Nathaniels Bag (...disaster...) but we made it to meet our driver William at around 11pm in Boston. A long day, but not long enough to stop a 1am Wendy's drive through in Newport!!

The day of the gig - left the Motel at 9.30 for sound check at 10.30, perhaps a little tired, but the glorious sun kept our excitement going! A ridiculously heavy bill of top class international musicians only spurred us on - Bill Frissel went after us on the same 'Waterside' stage!! oh no....

After Jason Olaines generous introduction, the tent was rammed and we played our best - typically overdramatic and easily excitable. A standing ovation!! Thanks to one of the best festival crowds we've ever had - silent during the music and crazy loud after!

Then to check the rest of the music. We had a serious day of lessons from the MASTERS - Chris Potter, Herbie Hancock, Dave Holland and Sonny Rollins - yes Sonny Rollins. We sat 10ft from him - that sound!

We also had the pleasure to meet the lovely Esperanza Spalding, our friend from New York via Montreal Greg Ritchie, the incredible Jimmy Cobb (hanging back stage!) a multitude of enthusiastic press people/radio presenters and yet still found time for a complimentary massage!

Tired and a little sun burnt (Tillah), we headed to the hotel via 'The Mansions' and, quote, 'I can't believe I'm seeing this!' from Kit when he saw some palatial 'cottages' in the depths of Newport.

A long return Journey, but with a short turnaround to get to OSLO Jazz Festival, we were shattered but too happy to have been involved with the greatest Jazz festival of all.

Check this...

2008 Newport Festival Line-up

Parliamentary Jazz Award

2008-05-18T14:52:00.000-07:00

Yo yo yo!

As some of you may have heard - we recently recieved a Parliamentary Jazz Award for Best Jazz Ensemble! Wicked!

And just for now, heres some more fun we've been having recently. A little back stage exclusive...

Jokes....and some more cool photos:

Get Voting!!

MUSFLASH interview

2008-04-02T05:06:00.000-07:00

Easy Now!

Here's an interview we did for MUSFLASH TV just before our stint at Ronnie Scotts in February! We had a wicked time at Ronnies and hopefully will be returning in July or August! Watch this space...

Other stuff we've been excited about:

Our gig supporting John Scofield at the Sage Gateshead was a success, we learnt a lot about playing on big stages and about travelling across country by train! Swansea to Newcastle!

New Albums from our Jazz Heroes! Kurt - The Remedy! the Brad trio live! and coming soon - Vijay Iyer Quartet, Tragicomic. Miguel Zenon, AWAKE!! AHHHHHH! Must get them all!

Oh...and Tillah feat. Missy H....

Empirical wid da plans!!

2008-02-17T16:02:00.000-08:00

Yo!

We've been crazy busy since the New Year. Here's a little audio taster of whats been going down!

Now playing: Empirical

LOOK OUT!

Empirical has serious plans for 2008! Aside from all the upcoming shows - including supporting Billy Cobham at Ronnie Scotts this week (...ahhhh...) - we've been working on all aspects of our band:

Watch out for a heavy Oliver Messiaen project spear headed by Kit, taking inspiration from 'Quatour pour la fin du temps'.

Watch out for some more tunes from Eric Dolphy's 'Out to Lunch', we've got a tribute set rehearsed!

Watch out for a Cannonball Adderley tribute set, early stages but we'll keep you posted.

Watch out for some workshops, were planning a few - from "How African Music links to Jazz" to "Empirical Concepts".

Watch out for us in the Gaurdian on the 22nd of Feb and the Times later this spring!

Watch out for our increasing On-line presence, check www.soundclick.com/empirical

Listen out for us on In-tune on Radio 3 - 21st Feb

Listen out for regular live recordings.

and Get ready for a new studio recording Spring '09

It's Gonna get BIG this year.....hope everyone is along for the ride!

Exclusive Rehearsal Footage 06/2007

2008-01-27T02:09:00.000-08:00

Yo!

Here's a little behind the scenes vibe into our rehearsals last year. We were working towards our gig at the North Sea Jazz Festival, developing some groove ideas.

This clip is from Nathaniel's Palantir, particularly the Sax solo. We were trying out going from a heavy swing in 7 to a bouncy semi quaver feel and back again. Jay and Face are out of shot (probably for the best - jokes).

Also, we're all checking Eric Dolphy 'Out to lunch'....we have a gig tomorrow at the Con cellar Bar, Camden, playing this music. Come hear our tribute to this monumental album and support a great venue in London. www.myspace.com/jazztheconcellar

Gig Diary - IAJE Toronto 09/01

2008-01-20T04:20:00.000-08:00

Well....as we had luckily been hooked up with a British Airways flight a little later than expected, it wasn't too early a start for us. Shaney had his usual hold up with his suspicious looking cymbals at customs and then we were on the plane (along with Badbone and co). It was an 8 hour flight to Toronto in which we all watched films and ate pretty bad plane food, then on arrival we went to straight to our hotel, where we went our seperate ways for the evening to check out the city nightlife.

Other people out there who we hung with included Gwlym Simcock, Tom Cawley, Denys Baptiste, Andrew McCormack, the guys from Air (bethan and co), Helen Mayhew and lots of other guys. After a small amount of jetlagged sleep we performed at the British Showcase hosted by Courtney Pine (after Nathaniel had played with the 'Let Freedom Ring' Project). The gig was well received (I think). We played Shaney Forbes' tune 'Kite' and then Jay Phelps' 'Tyrant's Tale'.

After the performance we celebrated in traditional style (except for Jay - or Yay to his Spanish admirers - who performed with Badbone and co)...A day off ensued in which Kit played with the CUK Big Band and more sightseeing and listening, and then our longer gig. We felt we could stretch out more at this lunchtime performance and felt more comfortable and therefore a little happier with the gig. We played the same set which we won the EBU Competition with - Tyrants Tale, Dark Lady, Palantir and Blessings. It was strange to play at a 'conference' rather than a festival, but an interesting experience none the less.

Our last gig was a small club gig at the 'Academy of Spherical Arts' which ended up as a jam session for listeners and performers at the festival. We enjoyed ourselves immensely and hope to return before long.

Listening material on the trip included Vijay Iyer's 'Panoptic Modes', Keith Jarrett's 'Facing You' and Eric Dolphy's 'Out to Lunch' for our gig at the Con Cellar Bar, 28th Jan, which comprises soley of tunes from that album.

Success in Wakefield

2008-01-19T10:21:00.000-08:00

Gig Diary - Wakefield 18/01
Category: Music

To be honest we were late meeting our driver, Nick (legend), in Lewisham on the morning of the 18th. But we left around 12 for the long old drive up to Wakefield. The journey was cool - we were checking the Art Blakey 'Jazz Icons' DVD featuring Benny Golson and a 20yr old Lee Morgan, just ridiculous.

We arrived in perfect time (thanks Nick) just as promoter and quality guy Chris arrived, excited. After some reunions between Chris and Shane, Jay and Nat, we set up, slowly as always, did a quick sound check (thanks Brian).

Chris told us he was expected a crowd, but we were in for a pleasant shock as we took the stage. It was rammed! All ages as well! All the regular Wakefield Jazz supporters plus some students for Leeds College of Music, Simon came from Manchester (on the train) Dennis Rollins from Donny, it was a wicked atmosphere.

We opened with a new Kit Downes original - 'Export' (live track coming soon) - a ballad in the Nefertitti style. The audience was fantastic - silent yet attentive, supportive and engaging. We knew were in for a good gig.

By the end of the gig, our usual 'post mortem' was put on hold, as we tried to get round a speak to everyone who had come. Man, Wakefield Jazz has some cool people in it's audiences, everyone was so supportive and took the time to say thanks, buy a Cd, get our scrawls on it - it was wicked. Thanks Everyone!!

So we packed down, slowly as always, tried to convince Face to put his horn away (even more difficult now he has a bad ass new one). Jay was bragging about heading back for some home comforts in Doncaster, sipping on his Brandy and catching up with Mr Ellis of Doncaster Youth Jazz fame, whilst we loaded up the Van for the journey back.

Another fun gig was the verdict! A long way, but worth it. Theres a real buzz at the moment - we want to say thanks to all those people who are lending us there ears!

Check some photos....

2007-12-22T09:12:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

Empirical are spread over the world this Christmas form Catford to Cuba, so heres some news...

After our sell out gig Supporting JOSHUA REDMAN (!) at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in London, Joshua was kind enough to say some nice things.....check it....

Introducing EMPIRICAL to the Blogging World

2007-12-16T16:12:00.000-08:00

Hello! We are all new to the blogging community, so here's a little bit about whats been going on in the past year. Check back for upcoming dates, projects, recordings, gig reports, some live tracks and of course let us know what you think!!!

"Empirical is the most exciting jazz band to come out of the UK."
Courtney Pine

"This is a fantastic debut that everyone needs to hear."
The Independent on Sunday

"Empirical could turn out to be one of the most important bands in UK jazz history. British album of the year!"
Jazzwise

Empirical is dedicated to maintaining the roots of traditional modern jazz but has a definite finger on the pulse of the contemporary world. Style-wise: think Ornette Coleman meets Wayne Shorter meets John Coltrane meets Ali Farka Toure meets Steve Coleman - performed with an abundance of youthful energy.

Recent Awards

EBU/European Jazz Competition
Peter Whittingham award in December 2007
Album of the year- Jazzwise 2007
Mojo Jazz album of the year

Members Biography

Jay Phelps-Trumpet:
Vancouver-born Canadian who was tutored by some of that city's top trumpeters, including Brad Turner and Ray Kirkham (second principal trumpet, VSO). At 17 Jay moved to London and is now completing a degree at Trinity College of Music with fellow band member Shane Forbes. Citing Louis Armstrong, Fats Navarro, Clifford Brown and Miles Davis as his main influences, Jay has performed with, Andrew Hill, Amy Winehouse, HughMasakela, Nasheet Waits, George Benson, Courtney Pine, Dennis Rollins, Gerrard Presencer.

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.

Kit Downes-Piano:
Initially a student at the Purcell School of Music (where he studied with Simon Colam for four years), Kit won a scholarship to study at the Royal Academy of Music in 2005. Now living in London, Kit has performed with musicians Martin Speake, Gerard Prescensor, Seb Rochford, Joe Locke, Stan Sulzman, James Allsop, Eugene Skeef and Mike Outram. Kit has also performed with Fraud, Acoustic Ladyland, Nostalgia 77, 2000 Black, Silhouette Brown (in the London Jazz Festival ‘05) and Dennis Rollins’ Badbone and Co. Kit also co-leads ‘Troyka’.

Tom 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.

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 is currently completing his degree at Trinity College of Music alongside band-mate Jay Phelps. Shane has also performed with Jean Toussaint, Billy Jenkins, Claire Martin, Robert Mitchell, Andrea Pozza, Mike Carr, Soweto Kinch.

2007-12-15T12:44:00.000-08:00