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DSQ – Dave Stapleton Quintet – The House Always Wins

Redeye Music: Redeye 010: Rec 2006, Released September 2007

Dave Stapleton, piano + electric piano; Johnny Bruce, trumpet; Ben Waghorn, saxes; Paula Gardiner, bass; Elliot Bennett, drums.

When reviewing DSQ’s debut album in 2005, I was struck by the absolute freshness of their music: I thought that it promised much for new approaches in modern British jazz and that the quintet was set to be a leading light. I am now convinced of this, as The House Always Wins is another accomplishment for them. It is perhaps an especial triumph for Dave Stapleton, because it is his writing particularly that sets this band apart from others. He has a decidedly personal signature, but his compositions are written for the band as well, allowing each individual to be just that, but still within the context of the collective voice.

The music is melodically variegated - there are blues, jazz and classical elements here, with a touch of Eastern too - and strongly accented with Paula’s bass. The vigour of the band is evident in depth, through the solo work of saxophone and trumpet, the solidity of the rhythm section and the fine, post-Coltrane style of improvisation. Each musician seems fully cognizant of their musical identity and of that of their fellow artists and the collective. There is even a very welcome visit from Julie Tippetts, one of the foremost European vocalists in the field of contemporary jazz and improvised music, on the final track, ‘Aquamarine’. Their creativity switch is fully on and they have produced a true eye-opener, wholly earning their place in the London Jazz Festival this year (18th Nov at Royal Festival Hall foyer, admission free). The album has just been released: don’t wait, treat yourself now, it’s superb.

Reviewed by
ken cheetham
September 2007