Thanks to the team at the Wangaratta Jazz Festival and to all of the musicians that performed and punters that attended the 2022 festival. It was an honour to work on such an iconic event, and am I very proud of what we created. Unfortunately, I have had to step down from my role at the festival, and am no longer involved with the event. For queries concerning the festival, please contact businessmanager@wangarattajazz.com or scott@wangarattajazz.com.
Eugene Ball 4tet – new album, From Down Here, out now on Namboku Records
I’m immensely proud to proffer the 4tet’s sophomore release, From Down Here.
From Down Here is no ordinary jazz album. Don’t expect neat melodies, distinct solos, and traditional instrumental roles. From Down Here is brave, adventurous, iconoclastic. Improvisation is the binding thread - the composed material (penned by Eugene) appears unexpectedly; a series of character-laden cameos. The title, From Down Here, speaks to the blanketing melancholy, the pervasive ennui that can at times obscure our experience of life.
Joining Eugene on this adventure are long-standing collaborators, James Macaulay, Mick Meagher, and James McLean. These are musicians and humans of the highest order. James Macaulay, winner of the 2017 National Jazz Award, has redefined the very limits of fluency and dexterity expected of the modern trombonist. Mick Meagher has devoted the last decade to expanding the sonic palette of the electric bass. James McLean, winner of the 2016 Freedman Jazz Fellowship, has developed an artistic practice on the drum set that incorporates Korean principles of embodied fluidity.
To listen and purchase, visit Namboku Records on Bandcamp
Five Bells, the legacy of the Allan Browne Quintet, is soon to release its debut album, Three Planets! The album features the playing of and pieces by its members: myself, Phil Noy (alto saxophone), Geoff Hughes (guitar), and Nick Haywood (bass). In keeping with the literary legacy of the Allan Browne Quintet, we’ve composed music to some of Al’s unpublished poetry. The mixing is essentially complete, so stay tuned.
Photo by hayley Miro
Land of If – premiere release from Ball Hanlon Schulz
In June 2021 accordionist Anthony Schulz, double bassist Ben Hanlon and I released its debut album, Land of If on Earshift Music. In his review of the album in the Australian (newspaper), Eric Myers had this to say:
“[Ball’s} playing is a tour de force, freely exploring the trumpet’s sound possibilities. … this is an album of somewhat playful music, filled with subtle nuances, which are revealed more and more through repeated listenings. I would expect the receptive listener coming to the music with open ears and generosity of spirit to love this album.”
Land of If was recorded by Niko Schauble at the Yarra Edge Theatre, Melbourne Polytechnic, Fairfield. Mixed by Niko at Pughouse Studios. Mastered by Phil Noy. Album photos by Dave Wayman, artwork by Theodore Papahatzis.
