For more than two decades pianist Liam Noble has been a key figure on the vibrant British Jazz scene, both as a sideman and leader. The Long Game sees him exploring new territories in his own unique musical world. Working with long term collaborators Tom Herbert and Seb Rochford, Liam has created music that is a marriage of opposites. Its groove is funky yet abstract, its improvisations move from tranquil to violent and its dense in texture but with a wonderful translucency. Most of all this is music of patience and space, perfectly reflecting the beauty that is waiting for the right thing to come along. This isn’t music for the modern-day hustle and bustle of the daily commute or for the digitally impatient world we live in. It is music to be savoured and absorbed slowly. This album is all about ‘The Long Game’.
As Liam explains: “I made a deal with myself when I was around 16, that I would try not to tell people I was good, but wait for people to come to me. The Long Game is a reference to that arrangement, but also to the idea of waiting. Wait for ideas, wait to play, wait for something to happen before jumping in. Listen”.
The trio sound completely distinctive, but at the same time practice the art of waiting, letting the music speak for itself. They’re all listening to the long through line. There’s a purpose to every note played and it’s totally immersive and engaging.
The Long Game is indeed the music Liam’s fans have long been waiting for. A trio that allows his extraordinary talent to shine in such a way that we are compelled to admit – the boy has talent! This is music to savour. Listening, too, is a long game when the music is as profound and engrossing as this. Link here…
Pic above c Dave Stapleton
Liam Noble’s “The Long Game” are live at Seven Arts on Thursday 3 July 7.30pm. Tickets, limited number only www.ticketsource.co.uk/jazzleeds.
