Live at The Forge (2010)
Jazz compositions for a 13-piece ensemble
Whilst pursuing his Master of Arts in Performance at the Royal Academy of Music, John was honored with the prestigious Peter Whittingham Development Award. This accolade enabled him to showcase his musical prowess and creativity in a unique concert of new music written for a 13-piece ensemble, consisting of a jazz octet, strings, and a harp. Guest soloist Stan Sulzmann added his renowned virtuosity to the performance, elevating it to even greater heights.
“A remarkable exploration of texture and some moments of real depth... the enthusiastic audience would not let the band leave without an encore, they knew they had seen something special”
In addition to John's music, the album includes the first recording of "Para Megan," an unpublished piece composed by the legendary Brazilian musician Hermeto Pascoal. The actual origin story of the piece in fact remained a mystery to John for many years following his recording, until he recently tracked down its story.
This charming composition was written for the daughter of a touring musician while they were waiting at an airport, and over time it passed through the hands of various musicians until it landed in John's hands. John was able to bring the piece to life by arranging it for his ensemble, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the musical genius of Hermeto Pascoal.
Tracklist
1. Day of the Mayfly (J Cervantes) - 5:28
2. Interlude (J Cervantes) - 1:49
3. Jonathan Livingston Seagull (J Cervantes) - 7:56
4. Butterfly Effect (J Cervantes) - 6:47
5. Para Megan (H Pascoal, arranged J Cervantes) - 8:53
6. Forward Motion (J Cervantes) - 5:54
7. Simple Song (J Cervantes) - 5:40
Musicians
Stan Sulzmann - featured guest soloist tenor/soprano saxophone
Tom Walsh - trumpet
Joe Wright - soprano / tenor saxophone
Kieran McLeod - trombone
John Cervantes - piano, composer
Alex Munk - guitar
Tom West - double bass
Dave Hamblett - drum kit
Credits
Recorded on 11th December 2010 at The Forge, Camden by Matt Robertson
Mixed by Jules Jackson
Mastered by Peter Beckmann
Album cover by Alban Low
Supported by The Peter Whittingham Jazz Award