A quiet revolution in music has been simmering since 2013 in Cambridge, England, a charming and historic city. The varied and inventive sound of Q3, a jazz quartet featuring pianist and composer Martin Hallmark, saxophonist Kevin Flanagan, bassist Tiago Coimbra, and drummer Oscar Reynolds, has captured the attention of listeners. Each member contributes a special combination of life experiences and cultural influences that have molded the band into its own musical entity.
In 2012, while learning under the famous Chick Corea, Q3’s creator, Martin Hallmark, found inspiration. Hallmark developed a penchant for composing that skillfully combines traditional jazz with modern inspirations under Corea’s tutelage, in addition to honing his technical abilities. With his intricate tapestry of tracks that draw inspiration from Arabic, Mediterranean, Latin, and Funk sounds, Hallmark crafts a soundtrack that is instantly identifiable while remaining shockingly original.
Since the 1980s, Kevin Flanagan, the saxophone for the quartet, has been a mainstay of the UK jazz scene. His expressive and strong playing has let him to collaborate with many different musicians, such as Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, and the avant-garde outfit Portishead. Flanagan’s vast background and expert command of the tenor saxophone give Q3’s sound a dynamic and fascinating depth and richness.
The quartet benefits from the international flare of Tiago Coimbra, one of the best electric bassists in the UK. His music is a smooth blend of flamenco, funk, and North African elements. Because of his effortless handling of intricate rhythms and harmonies, Coimbra is a crucial component of Q3’s avant-garde sound. His versatility and virtuosity are demonstrated by his past collaborations with jazz-funk band Resolution 88 and international piano superstar Hiromi.
Oscar Reynolds, the drummer, provides the ensemble with a delicate yet strong foundation with his touch. Reynolds, a Cambridge and London resident, has performed with numerous ensembles in a variety of musical genres, such as blues, jazz, funk, and soul. Q3’s music is fluid and dynamic because of his ability to mix in with his bandmates fluidly while still having a unique rhythmic presence. Three albums have been released by Q3 since their founding: “Spider Dance” (2014), “The Monkey Puzzle Tree” (2019), and their most recent album, “Water Speckled Midnight” (2024). Every album is an important turning point in their musical development and reflects their sound and increasing level of artistic maturity.
The eagerly awaited third album from Q3, “Water Speckled Midnight,” was finally published on January 15th, 2024. It is an incredible representation of the band’s development and evolution. This is a much-needed follow-up to their highly regarded 2019 album “The Monkey Puzzle Tree.” “Water Speckled Midnight” is a musical voyage that defies classification and bounds. It was recorded at the esteemed Alpheton New Maltings studio in Suffolk, where jazz great Brad Mehldau has also created his masterpieces.
“Water Speckled Midnight” is a masterful fusion of jazz, Arabic, funk, Latin, and Mediterranean elements. Martin Hallmark wrote 10 brand-new pieces for the album, all of which were painstakingly composed to highlight the band’s amazing skill and range. Only a band with Q3’s experience and chemistry can execute the music with such delicacy; it’s quirky yet melodic, intelligent yet incredibly listenable.
Water Speckled Midnight Album Track List:
Through The Clouds:
Listening to “Through The Clouds” from Q3’s album “Water Speckled Midnight” was an immersive experience that reaffirmed my love for jazz. From the moment Kevin Flanagan’s saxophone opened the track with its bright and silky tones, I was drawn into a world of exquisite melody. The way the piano danced behind the saxophone, supported by Tiago Coimbra’s electric bass, created an exotic and soothing melodic reverie. As the soft, percussive drum beats by Oscar Reynolds gently entered the mix, they added an elegant touch that elevated the entire piece.
As the track unfolded, I was mesmerized by the interplay between the instruments. Martin Hallmark’s piano led the charge, weaving in beautiful scales that complemented the saxophone’s elegant phrases. The electric bass provided a deep, resonant foundation that laced the piece together, while the gentle drum beats guided the melody with a subtle yet firm touch. Each instrument took turns showcasing its essence, creating a rich and layered soundscape that was both profound and harmonious. The fluid transitions and the intricate layering of melodies were simply magnificent.
I experienced a sense of transcendence by the time “Through The Clouds” reached its peak. Each instrument performed its function with amazing consistency and accuracy. This song demonstrates how well Q3 understands jazz music and how they can capture its spirit. Anyone who hears it will be left with a lasting impression as it is a musically attractive masterpiece that remains loyal to the essence of jazz.
Odyssey:
“Odyssey” from Q3’s album “Water Speckled Midnight” is a sonic journey that left me spellbound with its intricate fusion of funky jazz and Arabic influences. The track opens with a uniquely singular piano note, instantly capturing my attention and setting the stage for what is to come. As Tiago Coimbra’s deep-rooted bass joins in, I could feel the rhythm beginning to pulse through the piece. The subtle dance of shaky percussions in the background adds an intriguing texture, creating a rich, layered soundscape that draws you in.
As the song progresses, the interplay between the piano and bass becomes more intricate, with Martin Hallmark’s delicate yet assertive piano lines dancing in perfect harmony with the bass. Oscar Reynolds’ percussive touch adds a funky jazz vibe that is both unique and compelling. The tempo remains steady, yet the flow of the music shifts and evolves, testing different sonic waters. This constant evolution keeps the listener engaged, as each moment brings a new twist in the musical narrative. The brief halt at the 1:45 mark and the resumption at 1:49 with the same opening melodies is a masterstroke, adding a dramatic flair to the piece.
I got the impression, towards the end of “Odyssey,” that I had been on an amazing voyage across a variety of musical settings. A gorgeous and intricate tapestry is created by fusing Arabic patterns with groovy jazz rhythms. The song changes smoothly, telling stories with its arrangement and striking the ideal ratio of originality to consistency. A great work of art, “Odyssey” demonstrates Q3’s ability to compose music that is both technically sound and incredibly moving.
A Good ”ay For Breathing:
“A Good Day For Breathing” from Q3’s album “Water Speckled Midnight” truly took my breath away with its exquisite instrumentation, delicate layering, and sweet flow. The track opens with the silky and velvety sounds of Kevin Flanagan’s saxophone, instantly creating a soft, melodic ambiance. Martin Hallmark’s piano complements the saxophone beautifully, while Tiago Coimbra’s bass provides a gentle, grounding embrace. Oscar Reynolds’ delicate drum touches lace the piece together, making the opening feel creative, beautiful, and almost angelic. This charming symphony, led by the saxophone, sets the stage for a truly magnificent listening experience.
As the track progresses, each instrument takes its turn to shine, revealing its core and essence. Hallmark’s piano scales are astounding, weaving intricate melodies that are both complex and accessible. Coimbra’s electric bass is extraordinary, providing a rich, resonant foundation that supports the entire composition. Reynolds’ drumming is consistently phenomenal, offering a steady yet subtle rhythm that guides the piece. The saxophone licks and phrases are truly works of art, adding an element of elegance and sophistication. Together, these elements create the perfect jazz track, one that exudes true beauty and essence. The consistency and precision of their delivery make this song an exquisite and charming masterpiece.
Postlude:
“Postlude” from Q3’s album “Water Speckled Midnight” enveloped me in a dreamy soundscape, creating a soft, flowing, and magnificent experience akin to a symphony of angels. The track’s simplistic yet holistic instrumentation stood out as a true work of art. It opens with Martin Hallmark’s delicate piano sounds and the calm movements of Tiago Coimbra’s bass, gliding through the soft percussive feel introduced by Oscar Reynolds. This setup crafts a true astral sonic experience. As the gentle percussive touch of the drums slowly creeps in, the song continues with the piano taking the lead, establishing a beautiful and soothing melody that remains consistent throughout the piece.
The progression and evolution of “Postlude” are truly astonishing, maintaining a soft essence while exploring new musical dimensions. The track evolves naturally, with each instrument contributing to its serene and ethereal atmosphere. The piano’s lead role is complemented perfectly by the bass’s calm undertones and the delicate, guiding rhythm of the drums. This evolving yet consistent melody is the track’s greatest feature, making “Postlude” a perfect conclusion to the album. The eloquence of this track left me truly astounded, showcasing Q3’s mastery in creating a piece that is both soothing and dynamically rich.
For every fan of jazz, “Water Speckled Midnight” by Q3 is an essential listen. The album shows the band’s development and their ability to write music that is both avant-garde and extremely poignant. The album is a coherent yet varied collection of musical gems since each track gives a distinctive experience. Discover the genuine spirit of modern jazz by allowing Q3 to lead you through this magnificent mix of tunes and rhythms. Take advantage of the chance to listen to and experience this incredible album for yourself.
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