Recent years have witnessed the emergence of many fine young British musicians. Jazz is now acknowledged as an important component in music education and the exemplary work done by music teachers and leaders of youth orchestras has rapidly manifested itself. Never have we had so many ‘rising stars’ and this CD includes just such musicians. In this case the group, led by drummer Dylan Howe, mainly ‘paid their dues at the Billingdon Arms in Oxford. The remainder of the group are Denny Ilett, Jnr – guitar, the popular Gilad Atzmon – saxophone, (two tracks only), John Baggott and Neil Angilley share the piano duties accompanied by Andy Crowdy – bass. The eight tracks, two of which were written by members of the group, show much of where their influence lies. Having said that ‘The Way I Hear It’ provides a fresh approach to the type of music produced by such names as Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter and Philly Joe Jones.

None of the group is exactly new to the scene but generally they are as yet unknown to the wider jazz public even though this album was recorded some four years ago. This is an excellent CD full of exciting tempos and ideas. The choice of the industrious pianist John Baggott’s ‘Travellin’’ as the opening number sets the mood for this highly recommended album. I also enjoyed Ilett’s sensitive approach to the ballad ‘Violets For Your Furs.’ Both individually and collectively the members of this group deserve success and much wider recognition.

Jack Ashby