Bonsai Get Out Of A Jam With Groove-Laden Re-Boot At The Vortex
Monday, February 11, 2019
While a name change can spark an invigorating re-boot for many groups, the brand U-turn does pose a distinct set of industry challenges which only those with the proper stuff can weather.
Tonight marks the unveiling of Bonsai (formerly known as Jam Experiment), a London-based five-piece who have steadily been working the UK jazz circuit since their formation five years ago.
Ready to tackle the inevitable social media/bookings confusion are brothers Rory (trombone) and Dominic Ingham (violin/voice), Toby Comeau (piano), Joe Lee (bass) and Jonny Mansfield (drums), and this evening sees them preview new material from their forthcoming album on Ubuntu, set for release at the start of the summer. Having since met at celebrated Chetham's School of Music in Manchester, the five have gone on to tour extensively across the UK and Europe, as well as release a previously self-titled debut album, which featured rising saxophonist and former group member, Alexander Bone.
The first of two 45-minute sets kicks off with ‘BMJC’, written by drummer Mansfield, that sees the group blow off pre-show cobwebs and tune into tonight’s room at Dalston’s Vortex. The ability of newest member Dominic Ingham becomes immediately apparent as his effects-enthused violin skilfully soars above a slow-burning groover, followed by the gentle and atmospheric sounds of the gifted Lee’s own ‘Quay’. ‘Ritchie Scalp’, the first of tonight’s at times amusing, yet seemingly random, track titles, has a really nice pace to it and the impressive, brotherly synchronicity between trombonist Rory and Dominic is particularly present.
Bonsai are focused and purposeful throughout and Rory’s song intros are refreshingly light-hearted. Pianist Comeau’s meticulously crafted, nine-month composition quest, ‘Appledore’, and Rory’s footballing lament ‘Get It On Target’ close the first set strongly. The band’s penchant for journeying composition, reminiscent of early Dinosaur, conjures up moods of English countryside ambles and rural reflection, on tracks such as ‘Hop The Hip Replacement’ and ‘Itchy Knee’, the night’s standout tune. While the beginning of the second set is largely unmoving and could have benefitted from the band exploring a more varied palette, the group finish in commanding fashion. Dominic’s well-placed voice on ‘Bonsai Club’ is stirring, and the group demonstrate flare and execution on an arresting final piece. Bonsai have what it takes to see the name-change through.
– Fabrice Robinson