A 2004 album from pianist/composer Bates, who is described in the Rough Guide to Jazz as “one of the most prodigiously talented musicians that Britain has produced.” Django’s work refers to the entire jazz spectrum – from early jazz through bebop and free jazz to jazz-rock fusion, using a mixture of acoustic and electronic instruments. As well as his incredible musical abilities, he has a surreal sense of humour, an acute visual sense, and a deep interest in language and literature.
Bates’ never-ending search for the unexpected takes his audience on yet another journey of discovery. “Human Chain” is joined by The Smith Quartet and a number of guest musicians who include alto saxophonist Dave Sanborn, guitarist Jim Mullen and Nikki Yeoh as fresh rapper. Most of the songs on the album are originals, two of them – “Weird World” and “Football” – were commissioned by the Jerwood Foundation. It is completed with modern explorations of David Bowie, “Life On Mars”, featuring David Sanborn, and Gilbert O’Sullivan’s “Alone Again, Naturally”, and Sinatra classic, ”My Way”.
Personnel: Human Chain: Django Bates (keyboards, eb tenor horn, vocals), Iain Ballamy (tenor saxophone), Josefine Lindstrand (vocals and Tibetan Bell), Martin France (drums and electronic percussion), Michael Mondesir (electric bass, rap vocals)
The Smith Quartet: Ian Humphries, Charles Mutter (violin), Nic Pendlebury – (viola), Deirdre Cooper (cello)
Guest Musicians: David Sanborn (alto saxophone, 5), Nikki Yeoh (rap, 2), Chris Batchelor (trumpet, 1), Jim Mullen (guitar, 1), Lawrence Cottle (electric bass, 11), Barak School (percussion, 11)
