UMBRA and RHYTHM METHOD at the Hawks Well Theatre, 8pm FACEBOOK LIVE and YOUTUBE
Making their first performance since 2019, UMBRA perform at Sligo's Hawk's Well Theatre. This concert is produced virtually as part of Sligo Jazz Festival 2021
Chris Guilfoyle - Guitar
Chris Engel - Soprano Sax
Barry Donohue - Bass
Matt Jacobson – Drums
'Arguably one of the most exciting jazz ensembles in Europe'
'A vibrant set of original tunes… thrilling back-and-forth between the two saxophonists—but even in the midst of the most exuberant solos a pronounced sense of collective groove held sway.'
- All About Jazz
Umbra is one of the most exciting and innovative bands in the Irish Jazz scene. Comprised of some of the most promising musicians in Dublin, Umbra's modus operandi is high energy, thought provoking performance with an emphasis on intricate compositions.
Led by guitarist and composer Chris Guilfoyle, Umbra is his vehicle to showcase his unique take on contemporary jazz. The music is a blend of harmonic and melodic sophistication reminiscent of artists like John Hollenbeck and Jim Mcneely, cyclical grooves evoking comparisons with IDM and math metal, all played with the energy of a punk rock band.
Each members individual strengths are showcased in the compositions while at the same time blending masterfully into a cohesive and recognisable group sound. Drummer Matt Jacobson and bassist Barry Donohue lay down wonderfully elastic grooves, while the contrasting horns of soprano Chris Engel and tenor Sam Comerford make the most of the explosive front line in the company of Chris Guilfoyle's intricate guitar playing.
Bill Blackmore - Trumpet
Shane Latimer - Guitar
Darragh O’Kelly - Keys
Cormac OBrien - Double Bass
Shane O’Donovan - Drums
Rhythm Method was co-founded in 2009 by guitarist Shane Latimer and bassist Cormac OBrien, with the addition of Bill Blackmore on trumpet, Darragh O’Kelly on keys and Shane O’Donovan on drums a collaborative project featuring five of Dublin’s most innovative and creative musicians was established. The writing responsibilities are shared and the music reflects the different creative personalities in the group. The band strive to deliver a cohesive sound which explores the possibilities of minimalism, groove, free improvisation and odd meters, with a focus on lyricism and musicality over extended forms.
The music is reminiscent of Miles Davis’ In Silent Way and Bitches Brew with elements of many different styles of music coming through from rock and jazz to classical and contemporary.