Ruby Rushton are one of the best jazz bands out of London the last couple of years, hands down. Led by the flute master that is Tenderlonius, the quartet have released some stellar releases over the year, namely Trudi’s Songbook: Volume One and Trudi’s Songbook: Volume Two, the latter of which I wrote a great review for. It was the chemistry between the members and the density in composition that made the records such engaging bodies of work. Ironside is their fourth studio album, released on 22a Records, and wow… it might be their best album to date.
This album was recorded over 2 days at the prestigious Abbey Road Studios, the group. Edward Cawthorne (on flute, soprano sax, synth, wah pedal and percussion), Nick Walters (on trumpet and percussion), Aidan Shepherd (on Fender Rhodes, Nord Stage, piano and bass synth) and Tim Carnegie (on drums) all have impeccable chemistry, which seems to strengthen from release to release. And when I say chemistry, I mean that every single note, every single rhythm and every passage throughout this album is perfect. There is no misstep. The flute-driven gorgeous melody on “The Target” is brilliant, especially with the Fender Rhodes and impeccable drumming complementing the stellar percussion. The Fender is featured heavily throughout the record on tracks like “Lara’s Theme,” whilst “Pingwin (Requiem for Komeda)” is a beautiful 10 minute tribute to Polish jazz pianist Krzysztof Komeda. All in all, this album exceeds all expectations, and Ruby Rushton show yet again why they are one of the best jazz groups in the world.
Listen to Ruby Rushton’s new album Ironside below via Bandcamp and don’t forget to support! Released via 22a Music.
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