Leaps in Leicester

Album Description

Alexander Hawkins and Evan Parker's collaborative album, 'Leaps in Leicester', is a masterful demonstration of free improvisation and European free jazz. Released on 8 April 2016 via Clean Feed, this captivating record showcases the duo's technical skill and inventive dialogue.

As a self-taught improviser and composer, Alexander Hawkins brings a unique perspective to the table, making him the perfect partner for the renowned saxophonist Evan Parker. Although they have worked together in various formations in the past, 'Leaps in Leicester' marks their first explorations as a duo. The result is a remarkable album that further solidifies Parker's sequence of duets with pianists, following in the footsteps of notable collaborations with Matthew Shipp and Sylvie Courvoisier.

The album features four tracks: 'Jump Start', 'Gambade', 'Capriole', and 'The Shimmy (For Tony Marsh)', which together create a rich and immersive listening experience lasting 1 hour and 9 minutes. With Hawkins on piano and Parker on tenor saxophone, the duo weaves a complex and engaging soundscape that showcases their exceptional musicianship.

As established players on the London and European free jazz scene, Alexander Hawkins and Evan Parker bring together their distinctive styles and generational perspectives to create an album of remarkable insight and technical skill. 'Leaps in Leicester' is a testament to the duo's masterful ability to craft an inventive and captivating dialogue, making it an essential listen for fans of free improvisation and avant-garde jazz.

8 apr 2016

About Alexander Hawkins

Alexander Hawkins is a pioneering force in modern creative music, renowned for his innovative approach as a pianist, composer, and bandleader. Born in Oxford in 1981, Hawkins has carved out a unique soundworld that blends a deep fascination with composition and structure with a love for chance and open forms. His work spans various creative contexts, from leading his own ensembles like the Alexander Hawkins Ensemble and the Convergence Quartet to collaborating with jazz legends.

Hawkins' music is often described as "unlike anything else in modern creative music," reflecting his status as one of the most imaginative voices in contemporary jazz. His discography includes a range of albums that showcase his versatility and innovation, from solo piano works to large ensemble compositions. Whether performing on piano or organ, Hawkins' fierce technique and wizard-like touch make each performance a captivating experience. His recent album, "Togetherness Music (For Sixteen Musicians)," featuring Evan Parker and the Riot Ensemble, is a testament to his ability to push musical boundaries and create deeply engaging musical experiences.