The unusual line-up of Andy Scott's Group S utilises a range of musicians drawn from the pop, jazz and contemporary classical worlds. All tracks are written with the specific musicians of Group S in mind, featuring virtuosic contemporary classical solos alongside creative improvisations, blending ensemble sound worlds and colours with space for each individual musician to bring their musical personality to the fore. Special guests on the album include Gwilym Simcock, Jon Hiseman and the legendary Barbara Thompson. Ruby & All Things Purple features seven original compositions from Scott alongside two pieces composed by Gwilym Simcock ('Chapters' and 'Serenade'), 'Sabretooth' by Mike Hall and 'Little Glass Box' by Rob Cope. Simcock guested on a duo piece on Scott's 2007 release Sax of Gold. Scott says of one of Simcock's contributions: 'I just gave him a sketch with some instructions as to the shape of the piece. He did in two takes and it's just beautiful.' Following an introduction that features the lyrical baritone saxes of Chris Caldwell & Jim Fieldhouse, the opening title track 'Ruby & All Things Purple' features an array of stunning soloists, including James Pusey (guitar), Duran Duran's Simon Willescroft (alto sax), and the sensational Krzysztof Urbanski (soprano sax). Rob Buckland (sopranino sax), Jim (bass sax) & Elliott Henshaw (drums) display amazing style & virtuosity in 'Eighteen', blending a contemporary classical notated trio with true feel & groove. A soulful solo from Dave Graham (alto sax) in 'Little Glass Box' leads into the track 'Group S', composed by Andy & inspired by the great Wayne Shorter.
