Amongst the hotbed of talent on the London post-jazz improv scene there is one band that stands out from the crowd for their no-gimmick and uncompromising approach to music making that effortlessly marries the complex with accessibility. Cloudmakers Trio play original music that lies somewhere between New York’s ‘downtown’ sound and the modern European tradition, and with the help of their rare instrumentation, featuring the vibraphone in a trio leadership role, their soundworld defies category yet draws influence from a diverse range of music traditions, while maintaining a devotion to raw energy, in the moment risk taking, a dedication to deep groove and rhythm, and strong melody.
Under the leadership of the award-winning multi-instrumentalist Jim Hart, the Cloudmakers Trio represents the culmination of over a decade of musical growth between three of the finest London-based musicians currently working on the international jazz, improvised, and creative music scenes. And they have no boundaries; their collective resumes include performances with Evan Parker, Fofoulah, Sir John Dankworth, Joe Lovano, Kurt Rosenwinkel, JuJu, Dianne Reeves, Quincy Jones, Outhouse Ruhabi, Heritage Orchestra, Ingrid Jenson, Lee Konitz, Walter Smith III and Robert Plant.
Having performed as a trio for many touring projects over the years, Hart had the good sense to make this group the focus of his new compositions and arrangements. With US born, London-based virtuoso Michael Janisch on double bass, and long time musical associate David Smith on drums and percussion, Cloudmakers Trio officially formed in July, 2010. Since their formation CMT has become a hit in their native UK and quickly become one of Mainland Europe’s most talked about young bands, with performances across the continent. Excitedly, the trio have also turned heads in Japan and the USA from fans, critics and prominent musicians alike as a result of their high-energy live shows and the release of their debut album.