LCoM alumni groups Jasmine and Slow Loris have been selected for the pioneering Jazz North Introduces – a programme dedicated to nurturing and developing emerging talent in the North of England.
The scheme offers high-profile exposure at leading jazz festivals in the North for up-and-coming young musicians, along with career support and promotion.
The two bands were selected from a wide range of applicants after impressing the panel with their talent and enthusiasm – a move which will see them benefit from showcases at festivals in Lancaster, Marsden, Liverpool, Manchester, Gateshead, Scarborough and Durham.
Jasmine
Reflecting the growing scene across the UK, Jasmine combine the influences of jazz and hip-hop, using Ableton Live to introduce layered horn parts over a traditional saxophone-led jazz quintet setup. The band is made up of LCoM Jazz graduates Jasmine Whalley (alto saxophone), Ben Haskins (guitar), George MacDonald (piano), Owen Burns (bass) and George Hall (drums).
Slow Loris
Slow Loris is made up of Sam Lowther (guitar), Sam Evans (guitar), Chris Sellers (bass), and Theo Goss (drums) who met while studying at Leeds College of Music. Sam Lowther says their music is “dark, intense and energetic” with rock and metal influences, alongside a love of electronic music and hip-hop, yet staying rooted in jazz. They enjoy challenging traditional genre boundaries to create fresh, original music.
Jasmine and Slow Loris will each receive a package of help as part of the Jazz North Introduces scheme, including payment and expenses for the gigs, professional mentoring, a photo-shoot and assistance in creating an electronic press kit.
Lucy Woolley, Jazz North Introduces Project Manager, said: “Every year we are impressed by the quality of the applications to the Jazz North Introduces scheme and it is always exciting to see the amazing new artists entering the scene. By working in partnership with festivals, Jazz North Introduces will provide Jasmine and Slow Loris with the opportunity to perform throughout the region giving jazz audiences their first glimpse of the great talent that is emerging here in the north.”
The bands follow in the footsteps of LCoM alumni groups J Frisco, Wandering Monster and Stretch Trio, who have been selected for the programme in previous years.
Find out more about Jazz at Leeds College of Music.
