THE BAND
Comprised of 10 adept Leeds Conservatoire alumni, the band presents as a bold, thoughtful, and striking musical powerhouse that amplifies its members' impactful voices by pushing the sonic boundaries of improvised music whilst rooting it in the rich jazz tradition. After playing together consistently for the past three years, the band operates like a well-oiled machine, allowing for pure freedom of expression and musical understanding between the players.
Being part of groups like Ferg’s Imaginary Big Band and the Tom Sharp Jazz Orchestra, Conrad has always had a taste for the larger ensembles. He uses his passion for a robust row of horns and a thundering rhythm section to deliver the raw emotion of his music. The compositions use each band members’ unique sound and style to properly define the ensemble and provide a richer layer to the music.
On vocals, the band showcases one of the UK’s finest, Amy Clark. It would be a disserves to compare her voice to anything less than that of an angel, and her deep understanding of jazz and vocal traditions shines through in her insightful and inspirational style. Playing with colossal bands such as Awen Ensemble and K.O.G, Amy is a seasoned professional of the UK music scene.
For the horns, Conrad has selected Oli Crips on trumpet, Charlie Folland on alto sax, Jamie Gallacher on tenor sax, and Pete New on trombone. All of whom are unbelievable musicians and artists who each bring refreshing flavour to the project.
The rhythm section features the monstrous Isaac Keech on piano, Alex Oldknow on guitar, Sean Blake on bass and Billy Goulding on drums. Conrad describes the section as the unequivocal backbone of the band, holding the project together and providing rock-hard foundation for the band to build up from.
“I’ve woven this band together with the precision and intent of a fine medieval tapestry. Each member makes an immeasurable contribution to the band, and I could not do this project without any of them. To me, they are all extremely invaluable both as musicians but also friends.”
- Conrad Clenton
“Like it was from the pen of Mingus himself”
— Steve Fishwick
Press photos
THE BAND
- Oli Cripps - Trumpet
- Charlie Folland - Alto Sax
- Jamie Gallacher - Tenor Sax
- Conrad Clenton - Baritone Sax
- Pete New - Trombone
- Alex Oldknow - Guitar
- Isaac Keech - Piano
- Sean Blake - Bass
- Billy Goulding - Drums