PizzaExpress Jazz Club (Soho)

Jazz trumpet player, composer, arranger and producer Gary Alesbrook is back in the spotlight with the release of his second album “The Stories We Tell Ourselves,” The album consists of eleven original jazz compositions and features an exciting, diverse range of artists including two time Grammy nominated Guitarist and vocalist, Raul Midón. Gary was a guest of Raul’s at PizzaExpress last year as part of the EFG London Jazz Festival. Tonight he features the incredible vocal talent of Elliott Cole. Elliott rapidly made a name for himself on both the jazz and soul/pop scene, working extensively with the likes of Joss Stone, Solomon Burke, Beverly Knight and Natalie Williams’ Soul Family. Tonights performance also features the inspired rhythm section of Ian Matthews on drums, Will Harris on Double Bass and Anders Olinder on Piano.

“It doesn’t get much better than that.”

JazzFM

Alesbrook’s second studio album sees him once again transition from the unassuming sideman to the confident frontman. His early years as a jazz artist were influenced by players such as Chet Baker, Clark Terry and Clifford Brown and it’s the intuitive use of swing that is very evident in his second album. His use of melody and beautifully crafted phrasing hark back to an era of ‘West Coast’ and ‘Cool’ Jazz.

“It was exhilarating to go back to the music that inspired me so long ago and use it as inspiration for this album.” Gary was born and raised in Plymouth. At the age of 23 he graduated with a BA from Leeds College Of Music. He has recorded albums in a wide range of formations, worked as a session musician for artists as varied as Raphael Saadiq, Kasabian, Rag N Bone Man and Scissor Sisters as well as performed on movie, TV and computer game soundtracks. Each has proved the perfect setting for his warm and lyrical sound and although Alesbrook has shown his dexterity as a player able to cross multiple genres, it is Jazz that drives this album.

“The Stories We Tell Ourselves” is a collection of original songs that convey ideas of love, loss, relationships and identity. Stories reflecting on the past and recognising how our perceptions often change with insight and experience. From the flush of young love, to the challenges of staying authentic in our ever changing and fast paced world, Alesbrook touches on themes that are universal to us all. From the lighthearted nature of songs like “Key Lime Pie” and“Just One More Thing,” to the heart-breaking story of a “Fallen Star,” there is a message here for all.

Band Lineup

Elliott Cole (vocals)

Gary Alesbrook (trumpet)

Will Harris (double bass)

Anders Olinder (piano)

Ian Matthews (drums)