'The Quiet Mind' is a conversation between three great improvising musicians, led by acclaimed saxophonist Martin Speake, alongside tuba maestro Oren Marshall (Sons of Kemet, The Grip) and master percussionist Mark Sanders. It was recorded live, in the moment, without amplification or enhancement, to an audience of appreciative listeners.
Martin Speake is a gentle, deeply thoughtful man and his music is solemn, melodic, intelligent and soulful. It's deeply informed by tradition, unique, spontaneous, and communicative. Martin engages in conversation when playing with other musicians, in dialogue. He listens to others, reflects and he responds with honesty and the intention to make things better.
In the liner notes, Martin says "This music was recorded live at The Oxford in Kentish Town. I have played there many times with different projects and also been a listener at other evenings of great music. I always like playing in that room with no amplification and feel these small, intimate venues are really the right place to hear jazz and improvised music."
The album features three extended improvisations. As ever, Martin's playing is lyrical, melodic and complex. At times the music is oblique, at others there's a groove, often instigated by Oren's tuba and punctuated by Mark's drumming, and always masterly.
Personnel: Martin Speake (alto saxophone), Oren Marshall (tuba), Mark Sanders (drums and percussion)
