Livia Records proudly presents Ebb and Flow, is proud to announce the release of 'Ebb and Flow,' the latest album from renowned Dublin saxophonist Michael Buckley. This marks the label’s first contemporary jazz new contemporary release in nearly four decades, reaffirming its commitment to excellence in Irish jazz. The album is available for purchase on CD and digital download via the Livia Records website: Ebb and Flow – Michael Buckley,
Recorded in 2024 at Michael’s House of Horns Studio, Ebb and Flow is a compelling collection of nine original compositions. The album showcases Buckley’s distinctive voice on the saxophone, supported by a stellar trio featuring Greg Felton on piano, Barry Donohue on bass, and Shane O’Donovan on drums. From intricate post-bop arrangements to tender ballads and adventurous free improvisations, the album exemplifies the modern Irish jazz landscape at its finest, 'Ebb and Flow' showcases a collection of original compositions that highlight the group’s deep musical connection, blending post-bop energy, tender balladry, and free improvisation.
A Deeply Personal and Collaborative Project
Michael is recognised as the leading contemporary Irish jazz musician and a phenomenal tenor player who is also in demand as producer and arranger. He has also collaborated and toured with The Mingus Big Band and Septet, saxophonists Dave Liebman, Lee Konitz, and George Coleman; guitarists Kurt Rosenwinkel and John Abercrombie, pianists Jason Moran, Edward Simon and Jason Rebello, drummers Joey Baron, Lewis Nash and Jim Black, trumpeter Colin Steele, percussionist Badal Roy, bassist Ronan Guilfoyle and many more. With Ebb and Flow, he solidifies his place as both a performer and a composer of exceptional depth.
The quartet’s synergy is palpable throughout the album, reflecting the time invested in workshopping and refining these compositions. Their collective experience, spanning both local and international stages, informs every note, making Ebb and Flow a milestone in contemporary Irish jazz.
With this new release, Livia Records continues its legacy of presenting exceptional Irish jazz. 'Ebb and Flow' is now available for purchase on CD and as a digital download via the Livia Records website. This brand-new release includes an 8-page booklet with detailed sleeve notes and great photographs.
Album Launch Event
The official album launch for 'Ebb and Flow' will take place at Arthur’s Blues & Jazz Club, Dublin, on February 27, 2025. This highly anticipated event will feature a live performance from Michael Buckley and his band, bringing the music of the album to life. Event details and ticket information are available in the event listings on the Jazz Ireland website: Jazz Ireland Event Link.
Michael Buckley Featured in In the Groove
To complement the album’s release, Michael Buckley is also the subject of the latest episode of Jazz Ireland’s new video series In the Groove produced by Hayley Kavanagh and Eric Doyle. This in-depth interview explores his artistic journey, the making of Ebb and Flow, and his perspective on the evolution of jazz in Ireland. Watch the full episode here: In the Groove: Episode #2 – Michael Buckley.
The Revival of Livia Records
Livia Records, originally founded in 1977 by Dublin painter and arts polymath Gerald Davis, played a crucial role in documenting Irish jazz, with legendary releases featuring guitarist Louis Stewart. Under the leadership of Dermot Rogers, the label has embarked on an ambitious reissue program while also championing new talent. Ebb and Flow stands as a testament to this vision, merging Livia’s historic dedication to jazz with a forward-thinking approach.