Live In Soho
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The esteemed saxophonist Hannah Horton brings us 8 live tracks laid down at the legendary Pizza Express Jazz Club, where both originals and interpretations are present.
“Feed The Birds” starts the set with Horton’s soulful sax that segues into Tim Lapthorn’s playful keys for the melodic climate, and “Surfing Thermals” follows with the flowing brass that’s joined by Rob Statham’s meticulous bass playing.
Arriving in the middle, the groove filled “Keep Walking” draws us in immediately, while the playful and charming “Escape” allows Nic France’s agile drums to guide the rich jazz ideas.
“Forget Me Not” and “Horn Dance” exit the listen, where the former showcases the cozy rhythm section amid firm keys, and the latter is an upbeat and meticulous closer that spotlights the bass acrobatics.
Horton’s baritone and tenor playing is quite exciting here, and her company provide a unique chemistry that makes these selections top notch, modern jazz.
Travels well with: Hannah Horton- Inside Out; Idit Shner- Ngatibatanei