Moses Boyd Exodus…great jazz, jazz-funk and grime-tinged jazz-fusion.
Venue: Spiegeltent Palais Du Variete, George Square, Edinburgh, Scotland
Date: July 19, 2019
Review by Fiona MacTaggart
Photo by by Fiona MacTaggart
Two times MOBO winner, hyperkinetic drummer Moses Boyd brought his current, largest band from London to this well-attended Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival tented gig, where he gave the drummer-heavy audience what they’d come for: impressively subtle drums especially cymbals technique, particularly obvious during Boyd’s solos; and great jazz, jazz-funk and grime-tinged jazz-fusion from the whole quintet whether playing en masse, or in smaller constellations.
Front stage was Nathaniel Cross on trombone with Deji Ijishakin on tenor sax, while Deschenel Gorden supported on keys and Artur Zaitz, guitar. This is a youthful band, however all demonstrated impressive technique, Boyd and Zaitz perhaps the most strikingly tonight, though one suspects that from one gig to another, they all have their shining moments. Certainly tonight, this listener was left hoping Zaitz might in the future be given a little more space, as funking up proceedings seemed a particular strength.
Watching Boyd smiling his way through the intense and highly accomplished set, without appearing to break sweat, one wonders what various projects this tremendous young musician will involve himself in, in future years.
Should Boyd and Exodus tour through the States, as they doubtless will, this high-energy live show is strongly recommended.
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