Trish Clowes has made a name for herself as a notable figure in British jazz over the past decade. At 39 years old, the London-based saxophonist and composer has spearheaded numerous groups, such as the innovative quartet My Iris and released eight highly praised, distinctively original albums. Clowes, who is admired for her unique skill in mixing jazz and improvisation with classical composition, has penned pieces for esteemed orchestras like the BBC Concert Orchestra and the London Sinfonietta. She shared in 2018 that her preference is for music rich in varied hues and textures, open to personal interpretation and imagination.
This intent is fully realised in her work ‘Journey to Where’ where Clowes and English pianist Ross Stanley, a frequent band member, have pared their music back, creating a more intimate sound. The album, which was cut in London’s esteemed Wigmore Hall in July 2021, boasts an expansive range of compositions from four originals to classics like Duke Ellington’s ‘Prelude to a Kiss’ and traditional folk tune ‘The Month of January’. Stanley’s favourite pieces from his time as an organ scholar at Marlborough College, the ‘Gloucester Service’ by Herbert Howells and Marcel Dupré’s ‘Prelude in G Minor’, are also included. A testament to their talent, they are unafraid to pull inspiration from the past as they move forward.
In terms of performance, both Clowes and Stanley exhibit extraordinary talent and artistry. Clowes’s saxophone playing is both warm and assured, showcasing a controlled vulnerability. Her style, full of sensitivity and power, echoes the influences of great musicians like Wayne Shorter, Joe Lovano, and Iain Ballamy. Similarly, Stanley’s piano playing is akin to the understated virtuosity of John Taylor, the harmonic complexity of Bill Evans, and the lyrical fluency of Wynton Kelly.
Despite the elevated setting and exceptional skill, the music is brimming with swing, atmosphere, and emotion. The pair manage to generate an experience that rises beyond their individual contributions, creating an undeniable musical bond and perhaps, a touch of enchantment.