The John Heward Quintet is a dynamic ensemble that burst onto the jazz scene with their self-titled album, a vibrant exploration of free jazz that captivates from start to finish. Formed by the visionary drummer John Heward, the quintet made waves with their performance at the Guelph Jazz Festival in 2014, later captured in a live concert recording. The album, released in 2019 under the Mode label, is a testament to the group's fearless approach to improvisation and experimentation. With a lineup featuring the likes of Lori Freedman, Joe McPhee, Barre Phillips, and Dana Reason, the John Heward Quintet delivers a powerful and engaging musical experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional jazz.