Josh Kemp – Tenor Sax
Ross Stanley – Hammond Organ
Jo Caleb – Guitar
Dave Ingamells – Drums
‘A Fierce Talent’ – Jazzwise Magazine
‘Wonderfully rich toned … a Nuanced and Original Sound’ – Time Out
London-based Composer and Saxophonist Josh Kemp brings a stellar ensemble to play at the Vortex. His Rare Groove project, with Hammond Organ and guitar, blends the classic ‘Blue Note’ sound with a fresh outlook. This gig will include Josh’s own compositions as well as arrangements of standards, with a focus always on lyrical and melodic jazz.
Combining an extensive familiarity with the jazz tradition and a contemporary perspective, Josh is known for his thoughtful improvising style and attractive compositions. This top-level ensemble creates high-energy bluesy swing with an enjoyable and relaxed groove.
The quartet combine the amazing Hammond playing of Ross Stanley – he who is ‘Universally Revered’ (Ronnie Scott’s), with the genre busting talents of Jo Caleb – ‘Precociously Sophisticated’ (The Guardian), Jo combines his jazz chops with work for Ed Sheeran and Professor Green. Holding this mix together is the graceful and elegant drumming of Dave Ingamells.
As bandleader and composer Josh Kemp has completed 4 major UK tours since 2014, releasing 5 CDs of original compositions. He has been active on the London Scene for twenty years since winning a Ronnie Scott prize to Study at the Guildhall. Current bands include ‘The Coltrane Project’ with Alex Hutton, and work with singers such as Shireen Francis, as well as collaborations with Tim Lapthorn and Steve Fishwick.