September 22nd, 2010

24 year old pianist/composer Kit Downes exploded onto the British Jazz Scene playing with the band Empirical, taking him through Europe and America, and then with Troyka, Fraud and Acoustic Ladyland. Two years on, Kit moved on to his own trio project and this debut album sees him developing as a strong voice both as a performer and composer.  Joined by his two Royal Academy colleagues award winning 24 year old bassist Calum Gourlay and 23 year old rising drum star James Maddren the music displays a level of understanding and intelligence between players that can only come from working closely together for a number of years.  They read each other perfectly.  The trio’s latest album Golden (Basho Records) was nominated for the 2010 Mercury Music Prize.

“a breathtaking improviser, and weaver of magical piano soundscapes, Kit Downes is world class” - Helen Mayhew, Jazz FM

“an exceptional talent”  - Stuart Nicholson, The Observer Music Monthly 2009

‘A very skilled and fluid pianist, Downes is not only bursting with fresh ideas but has that rare ability to carry them off.” - Selwyn Harris, Jazzwise

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