Leo Richardson
A highly respected and sought after player, Leo Richardson has been making a considerable impact on the London jazz circuit for the past decade with his direct, contemporary take on hard bop. After several years' honing his craft in the Ronnie Scott’s Big Band, Leo struck out with his debut release 'The Chase' on Ubuntu in 2017, quickly winning praise for its blistering energy and dazzling musicianship in glowing reviews. The follow up record, 'Move' proved equally sensational among the press, firmly establishing Leo as a formidable talent and in-demand sideman. In testament to his skills, Leo counts among his credits sessions and gigs with an astonishing list world-class artists such as Kylie Minogue, Van Morrison, Jamie Cullum, Brian May and Gregory Porter at venues ranging from The Royal Albert Hall to Glastonbury Music Festival. Citing his primary influences as John Coltrane, Joe Henderson, Dexter Gordon, Horace Silver and Art Blakey, tonight Leo and his cracking band, pianist Rick Simpson, bassist Dave Whitford and drummer Darren Beckett will play material from previous records along with new tunes.
"I can’t remember hearing a more impressive debut...The style is hard bop, but music as good as this is beyond category" ***** The Observer