Fraser Smith & Alex Garnett Quartet
Describing himself as ‘a practical scholar’, from an early age Birmingham-born saxophonist Fraser Smith was drawn to the music of the golden age of jazz associated with Kansas City in the 30’s to New York in the 60’s. His new album, ‘Tip Top’ embraces that swinging, mainstream big tenor sound, refreshed for modern day. The show this evening however marks the debut of Fraser’s latest project, co-led with the superb sax player Alex Garnett (Ronnie Scott’s All Stars). Citing Grant Green, George Benson and lesser-known Hammond master Babyface Willette as influences and with both Fraser and Alex on baritone sax, the group plays fiery, funky swing and groove music rooted firmly in the 50’s & 60’s soul-jazz traditions. Also featuring highly sought-after sidemen Mike Gorman-organ and Matt Skelton-drums, this show promises to be nothing short of spectacular!
“Smith…confident and…hard swinging” London Jazz News; “Smith…original tunes which take the virtues of 50s and 60s hard bop and…infuse them with a youthful enthusiasm born of the 21st century.” The Jazz Mann; “Alex Garnett…one of Great Britain’s most accomplished post-bop musicians" AllAboutJazz