Lorraine Baker's Eden: Cambridge Jazz Festival

Lorraine Baker is embarking on a 19 date UK tour to support the launch of her debut album “Eden,” released on independent jazz label Spark!, and funded by the Jazz Services Recording Support Scheme along with a successful Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign. Her newest project features new arrangements of jazz tunes originally performed by legendary drummer Ed Blackwell.

 

Inspiration for this album came from a unique experience, when Lorraine gained the opportunity to perform the Don Cherry tune “Guinea” with international bassist Dave Holland, who had played and recorded with Ed Blackwell himself. Lorraine has always admired the dance-like quality of Blackwell’s playing, and has crafted her latest project with the drums at the centre, re-arranging tunes that Blackwell famously played and adding exciting modern compositional twists. Tracks include ‘Dakar Dance;’ a drum-heavy, infectious riff-based tune, ‘Thumbs Up;’ a raw fusion of progressive rock and afro groove, and ‘Blues Connotation;’ with an agitated, edgy introduction exploding into hard driving swing.

 

Critically acclaimed pianist and mentor Liam Noble features on the album, who will be replaced by the incredible John Turville for the tour. Lorraine’s lifelong musical partner Paul Michael features heavily on electric bass and the quartet is completed by Cambridge based Alex Merritt on tenor saxophone. Lorraine has performed at many prestigious venues including Tokyo Opera House, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, and the Royal Albert Hall amongst many more. 

 

​Lorraine Baker - drums

Paul Michael - electric bass

John Turville - piano

Alex Merritt - tenor saxophone