Doors 7:45 PM, Music 8:30 PM – 2 set(s) of music
Line-up:
Karim Saber – Guitar
Alex Wilson – Piano
Matt Cook – Tenor Saxophone
John Jones – Double bass
Jack Thomas – Drums
About
Guitarist and composer Karim Saber brings his band of longstanding collaborators to the Vortex to celebrate the release of his debut album ‘Transmission’.
Born and raised in London, British/Iranian guitarist Karim Saber is steadily building a profile as both a performer and composer to watch. Known for his instrumental prowess and creativity, he is in demand as a sideman and regularly tours throughout Europe as part of the Lukas De Rungs Quintet/Kosmos Suite project. In 2021, whilst studying at the Royal Academy of Music, Karim established his band, which features some of the most creative and in demand young musicians in London. Recorded in April 2023, the group’s debut album ‘Transmission’ draws from influences ranging from cutting edge modern jazz to grunge, and aims to seamlessly combine Karim’s love of extended improvisation with evocative, memorable melodic writing. ‘Transmission’ will be released on UK based label Ubuntu music in January 2024.
‘Amidst the many London guitarists, Karim Saber is one who’s playing I am most excited about. He’s got ferocious chops, a great repertoire and I really enjoy his writing’ – Ant Law
‘Karim is one of the most recognisable and distinctive guitarists to emerge on the UK jazz scene in recent years. His compositions, tone and ideas are unique to him and I absolutely love this new album he has put together. I think he will be a much sought after play once audiences get a chance to hear this beautiful set of original tunes’ – Chris Montague
‘Karim has made a fine debut album with strong support from his accomplished fellow musicians.The engine room is particularly strong on this album – Jack Thomas on drums brings verve and dynamism to the compositions and John Jones makes his mark with a pleasingly limpid tone on bass. The compositions are sophisticated yet unpretentious; the improvising from all musicians is refreshingly honest and heartfelt. A particular highlight for me was the lilting and dreamy ballad “Turner”; I also enjoyed the lithe and playful way that the band approached the rhythmically engaging “Mannheim”. Karim has thought hard about presenting varying moods and atmospheres to the listener check this album out mofos!’ – Ivo Neame