Bonsai, formerly known as Jam Experiment, was selected in Jazzwise’s ‘Shape Of Jazz to Come In 2018’ section. They are an award-winning, UK-based band. They were formed in 2014 and have been featured on BBC Radio 3 and Jazz FM many times. They also played at top jazz festivals across the UK, including London Jazz Festival and Love Supreme Festival, Cheltenham Jazz Festival, Ronnie Scott’s, and Ronnie Scott’s. Bonsai’s music is dynamic jazz fusion with complex compositions and improvisations that are negotiated through mutual admiration. Each member of the band is the leader, but there is no leader. This has allowed them to push their musical boundaries. Given that the Ingham brothers have been playing together for nearly 20 years, when the unusual frontline of trombone/violin/vocals is met with the ferociously “high- octane” rhythm section, the ensemble has an electric synergy that results in “pure musical gold”. Rory Ingham (tromboneist), Dominic Ingham (violin/vocals), Toby Comeau (keyboard/piano), Joe Lee (Kenny Wheeler Jazz Prize Winner) and Jonny Mansfield are the members of the line-up. The band explained that “Bonsai Club” is an album of Bonsai compositions. The group is led by everyone, and all music is meant to be shared with the other. Bonsai have a long history of friendships between Jonny, Rory, Dom, and Toby, their childhood friends. This allows them to work together and communicate freely, which results in total synergy. Bonsai explored the boundaries of genres while creating a sound that is driven a myriad a variety of ingredients: expressive vocals and a plethora synths as well as groove-fueled improvisations. “Bonsai are jumping with excitement (like dogs with two tails!) Trombonist Rory Ingham says that he will be releasing “Bonsai Club” on Ubuntu Music. We are thrilled that Martin Hummel provided us with the platform to publish this new music. Martin is one the most forward-looking, supportive and open-minded people on the UK jazz scene. I’m truly optimistic that this album will reach an audience that loves all types of music as it has something for everyone,” Martin Hummel, Director at Ubuntu Music, said. Others agree. Bonsai has bright future ahead. Keep an eye on this space from www.weareubuntumusic.com
