Neil Cowley Trio – deep space, or down to earth?

Continuing my pledge to be more proactive with my updates….today we are with the fabulous Neil Cowley Trio. Talented bunch exploring a deep space theme with a combination of traditional and electronic instruments, samples, synths, iPads….it’s not rocket science….or is it?

Not much to report here from a technical standpoint. Small village hall gig so important to get the volume coming off stage balanced with the PA. Henry made deplomatic negotiations with bass player Rex Horan, no egos were bruised and a decibel settlement was reached amicably without any fisty cuffs!

Actually, I’m completeing this blog update post gig and I’m slightly starstruck to realise via Wikipedia that Neil was one half of a band called Fragile State (The Facts and the Dreams…amazing electronica/jazz album) as well as Brand New Heavies and Zero7 to name but a few of his past incarnations that resonate with me. Perhaps I should have done my homework before hand, although it would have probably served me no good….going a little quiet infront of an artist you admire is always a bit awks! Soo glad I skipped the opportunity to meet Lou Rhodes…but thats another story.

Meeting your idols is something I do with great caution. They could turn out to be complete prima donnas, or in the very least having a bad day that leaves a lasting negative impression. Luckily Neil, Rex and Evan Jenkins are some of the nicest jazzers you’ll meet on the circuit. (Not wishing to be a “jazzist” but lets be honest there are plenty of aloofists floating about the scene). Greetings with warm handshakes, exchanged names on arrival (you’d be amazed at how often this small yet important detail gets skipped…note to self), jokes a plenty, a sense of mockery about their own work (soundcheck was subtly hilarious..can’t explain it in words). These guys are the cream of the crop. Professionally, musically, generally….fact…no dream!

Henry is continuing to become good friends with the DL32R system, as well as  being a good listener to some of my spoutings of “wisdom” regarding how to go about monitor mixing in such a way as to minimise volumes on stage. I’m afraid I can’t share that particular tip…it’s one of our trade secrets that sets us apart from the crowd.

This was a good gig. Promoters…book this band! You’ll have no BS and fabulous music…no brainer….(and while you’re at it, book us to provide the PA! I’d work with these fine gentlemen again any day of the week.)