Manchester-based saxophonist Nat Birchall, who has released a string of incredible recordings in which he’s playing all the instrumentation (Songs of the Ancestors, Afro Trane, The Infinite, and Ancient Africa), has returned with a full 7-piece ensemble for his latest offering, titled New World.

Representing the second album featuring his Unity Ensemble, along with legendary UK tenor saxophonist Alan Skidmore and guest percussionist Mark Wastell, this brilliant six-track recordings build off the foundation heard on many of Birchall’s last few releases, which blend together strong John Coltrane and spiritual jazz influences with rhythmic and hypnotic percussion grooves. This has an overall late 60s Impulse! Records era feel, why still very much looking forward.

Also included on the dynamic session are pianist Adam Fairhall, bassist Michael Bardon, drummer Paul Hession, and percussionist Lascelle Gordon.

Greta from start to finish, New World is another superb recording from one of today’s most active and forward-thinking saxophone greats. Don’t wait too long to pick-up a copy, this LP is already quickly flying off shelves. One of the best albums of 2024!

Nat Birchall Unity Ensemble — ‘New World’
(Ancient Archive Of Sound)

1. New World
2. Exaltation
3. Greetings of Love
4. Jubilation
5. Elevation

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• Jazz
• Spiritual Jazz