ARQ is a vital and creative jazz quintet led by bass player Alison Rayner, whose profile has risen dramatically over the past four years, with extensive touring and critical acclaim for their second album, ‘A Magic Life’.
Described by the Guardian as ‘spirited, eloquent and graceful’ and by the Observer as ‘a beautifully integrated band’, their music is inventive, vibrantly colourful and unfailingly melodic, possessed of a strong sense of narrative and cinematic quality. Their combination of richly nuanced compositions – frequently inspired by personal experience – with folk-infused grooves, skilful musicianship and a love of improvisation, creates a compelling and coherent whole.
They have built a substantial and wide-ranging audience, receiving national and international radio play and four and five- star reviews in jazz and national press. Their 40-date ‘A Magic Life’ UK tour, supported by Arts Council of England, concluded with a sell-out night at the Soho Pizza Express Jazz Club. ARQ’s 2018 touring includes summer festivals and Autumn dates in Germany and Scotland.
In ARQ, Alison Rayner has gathered a group of fine musicians who sympathetically support her music. They are currently previewing new music to be featured on their third album, due for release in 2019.
ARQ: Diane McLoughlin saxophones | Buster Birch drums & perc | Alison Rayner double bass | Steve Lodder piano | Deirdre Cartwright guitar
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