Alison Rayner Quintet

The Alison Rayner Quintet take folk infused melodies, adding improvisation and rhythmic interplay to their "songs without words", taking you into new worlds. Perfect for a Festival Saturday afternoon, these artists have built a strong ensemble under the charismatic leadership of Alison Rayner, whilst being extraordinary artists in their own right. Evidence enough in their latest album "Short Stories" released in 2019 to great acclaim.

Individually, the group's track record includes work with such international artists as Carla Bley, Andy Sheppard, George Russell, John Harle, The Guest Stars, Marjorie Whylie, Sharon Freeman, Jayne Cortez, Tal Farlow and BBC TV's Rockschool series, broadcasted in both the UK and USA.

Appearances at Ronnie Scott's, Pizza Express Soho, Birmingham Jazz Festival, Leeds, Gateshead, Swanage Jazz Festival and many more.

Long time trustee, Paul Ellis is sponsoring the Alison Rayner Quintet. He adds, "It's a pleasure to help such talented musicians and the Jazz Festival bank holiday weekend in Clitheroe. This has been a featured part of the cultural vibe in this area over 12 years and deserves all the support we can give."


Line-Up:

Alison Rayner - bass, composer; Buster Birch - drums, percussion; Deirdre Cartwright - guitar, composer; Diane McLoughlin - saxophone, composer; Steve Lodder - piano, composer.


Reviews:

"Spirited, eloquent and graceful" ★★★ The Guardian

"Purposeful, full-toned and melodic...a beautifully integrated band" ★★★★ The Observer

"Tells its tales through strong melodies, sinewy rhythms and luminous solos, is by turns tender and exuberant…" ★★★★ All About Jazz

"Great songs, great playing, a complete joy in these troubled times. Thank you all for having the courage to get out there and do it; inspiring commitment." - Youtube

"The playing, both individually and collectively was superb throughout and Rayner's bass playing was always at the heart of the music... in many ways the quintet IS her instrument. Rayner's late blooming into a composer of some stature is one of the most satisfying stories of British jazz in recent years." - www.thejazzmann.com

Awards:

★ Ivor Novello Composer Awards 2019 Alison Rayner
★ All Party Parliamentary Jazz Awards 2018 Ensemble of the Year
★ British Jazz Awards 2018 Best Small Group