ARQ (Alison Rayner Quartet)
The Red Lion
95 Warstone Ln
West Midlands
52.48700456643142
-1.91583416120373
Alison Raynor brings her Quintet to the Red Lion for a set dominated by the influence of bass player Stanley Clarke. She is a huge fan of Clarke’s music and her latest recording – “August” – is a collection of tracks that reflect him and his music. The quintet also gives a first visit to Birmingham Jazz for Deirdre Cartwright the great and influential guitar player. Steve Lodder makes a return after his storming contribution to the sell out Threeway gig in January. ARQ play “deliciously upbeat, groovy and thoughtful jazz” (Jazz UK Nov 2014). They released their first album August in October 2014 to critical acclaim followed by a Jazz Services national tour.Alison Rayner has had a lengthy career as a bass-player and composer. Now, as a leader, she ties together many of the strands of her numerous musical influences. A long-time Charlie Haden admirer as well as a Jaco fan, Alison Rayner plays acoustic bass exclusively here, and is supported by the eloquent Diane McLoughlin on saxophones, by Deirdre Cartwright’s soulful and crisply rhythmic guitar, pianist Steve Lodder’s fluid improvisations, and the propulsive drumming of Buster Birch.Expect terrific grooves, poignant melodies and fluid improvisation. Influences as diverse as funk, folk, and Afro-Cuban dance music.ARQ are:Alison Rayner: double bass; Buster Birch: drums; Deirdre Cartwright: guitar; Diane McLoughlin:saxophones & Steve Lodder keybopards.
