Jasmine

Leeds-based quintet Jasmine will be returning to the NQ Jazz stage after a triumphant turn in 2019 to perform the understatedly charismatic works of saxophonist, Jasmine Whalley.

Somewhat of an accidental frontwoman, Jasmine originally had “no interest in leading a project or writing [her] own music”, but after finding herself in search of a suitable band to back her during her final recital at college, the Jasmine Quintet was formed, later fortified via her involvement in separate musical project, Têtes de Pois.

A keen improviser, Jasmine is appreciative of jazz’s innate embrace of imperfection, furnishing its artists with the freedom to utilise each of their live performances as separate vehicles for self-expression. Inspired by the likes of Bonobo, MF Doom and Madvillain, as well as fellow saxophonist - and NQ Jazz alumnus - Soweto Kinch, her compositions are subtly suffused with a hint of hip-hop’s signature swagger, combining the classic with the contemporary to create the sort of sleek yet sparkling soundscapes by which audiences can’t help but be captivated.

With a new album currently in the works - made with the support of Matthew Halsall, Manchester-based jazz musician and co-founder of Gondwana Records, and set for release some time in 2022 - the evening’s setlist will undoubtedly showcase the cream of the quintet’s previous releases, but may also provide us with a preview of what’s next for this Northern sax star.

Jasmine Whalley // Saxophone

Ben Haskins // Guitar

George MacDonald // Keys

Owen Burns // Bass

George Hall // Drums