Notes Inégales - Expect the Unexpected (Live at Club Inégales) (2021) Hi Res

The magic on Club Inégales nights often comes in the 3rd set. The resident band and guest have each played their own music, then comes the moment they come together, the clash, the unexpected, the meeting of minds and ears.

So, what happens when there are 20 guests, with 22 new pieces, all in two marathon events? This was the premise of John Cumming, director of the EFG London Jazz Festival and Peter Wiegold in the conceiving of Expect the Unexpected, when planning a celebration of 25 years of the Festival.

Each guest would be asked to contribute a one-page score, then the performances would take place without rehearsal, with just some basic directing signals given by Peter. A wonderful variety of pieces emerged, from written instructions through to graphic scores to fully-fleshed grooves, melodies, and harmonies. The expansive set of choices of guest musicians was made by John, ranging from exciting young talent that had emerged through Serious’ Take-5 scheme to experienced and distinguished UK jazz musicians.

"With Eastern instruments like the Indian tabla and the Korean taegum (a bamboo flute) blended with standard jazz instrumentation, this is exceptional cross-cultural cosmopolitan jazz. The synergy between the 15 guests and the house band a combination of young talent and established players is unshakable." I Care If You Listen