Seamus Blake and the French Connection (UK/FR)

Born in London, raised in Vancouver, and a student of Berklee, Blake has released eight albums as leader and contributed to numerous other recordings. In 2002, he wins the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition, delighted to play alongside Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter. Heralded as one of the most influential saxophonists of his generation, his extensive career has included collaborations with Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Dave Douglas, Antonio Sanchez, Michael Brecker ; and as a member of John Scofield’s Quiet Band, the guitarist hailed him as “extraordinary – a total saxophonist.”

About the French Connection, he says : “My idea was to bridge what I consider elements of European and American styles, writing music I like to play, but also with a European sensibility, including classical harmony and certain types of groove. I envisioned the strengths of each of the band members, having already toured with them. They’re versatile and adept, with the foundation, openness and energy to head in different directions ; so their creative contributions became part of the spirit of the record. [...]For me, jazz is essentially about improvising and the beauty of a solo. But while I grew up with and studied a lot of mainstream and traditional jazz, I also like to integrate and involve elements from outside of that world – so it’s refreshing to work with these younger guys.”

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