Led by bassist and composer Alison Rayner, multi award-winning quintet ARQ are widely celebrated from several years of extensive UK and European touring – and critically acclaimed for three album releases August (2014), A Magic Life (2016) and Short Stories (2019). Their music combines richly nuanced compositions, rhythmic interplay and folk-infused melodies; this, along with their love of improvisation, creates a strong sense of narrative and cinematic quality. ARQ play ‘songs without words’ and are lauded for their vibrant, communicative performances.
Short Stories, supported by Arts Council England and the PRS Foundation garnered press acclaim and international radio play, with one of the songs from the album winning an Ivor Novello Award, followed by a promotional tour of twenty dates.
Recent appearances include Ronnie Scott’s and Pizza Express Jazz Clubs in London and the band are touring from Spring 2022 with a series of club dates and summer festivals.
A collection of eight perfectly formed originals. ★★★★ BBC Music Magazine
Memories brought to life. ★★★★ The Observer
Tells its tales through strong melodies, sinewy rhythms and luminous solos, is by turns tender and exuberant…a great album.★★★★ All About Jazz
ARQ have come up with another impeccable album. ★★★★1/2 thejazzmann.com
Alison Rayner has been a leading light of British jazz for over 30 years, with the Guest Stars in the 80s and with the Blow The Fuse partnership. Strong heart-warming tunes and incisive improvising, with musical influences from around the world.
Alison Rayner (bass), Diane McLoughlin (saxophones), Deirdre Cartwright (guitar), Steve Lodder (piano) and Buster Birch (drums)
Alison’s website: www.alisonrayner.com
ARQ (Alison Rayner Quintet) @Seven Arts Sunday 3rd April 1.30pm £10/8 concessions 25s and under £5
