Real groups like Empirical are a rarity in contemporary jazz, where musicians so often come together for single projects then disperse again once they are done: groups that endure for fifteen years, without slackening in their quest for the new and the fresh, are all but unheard of. Having started their journey in 2007, Empirical now makes a triumphant return, re-taking their rightful place at the centre of the UK scene with ‘Wonder is the Beginning’. Their first full-length album since 2016, is a mature musical statement that shows the band’s fire is still undimmed and their commitment to maintaining the legacy while forging their own unique path is as strong as ever.

The personnel of the quartet, for whom sharp tailoring has become something of a trademark, has remained the same for fifteen years. Nathaniel Facey (alto sax), Tom Farmer (double bass), Lewis Wright (vibraphone) and Shaney Forbes (drums) confound listeners with a telepathic empathy that can only be attained after countless performances together.

On ‘Wonder is the Beginning’ their palette is expanded by the presence of two remarkable guests. Alex Hitchcock contributes his voice on tenor sax to represent the rising generation of virtuoso players, while Jason Rebello adds his unmistakable presence on piano as well as the towering reputation he’s built over a thirty-five year international career.

This album illustrates the breadth and vision that make Empirical such a potent creative force and underlines that longevity in the challenging world of top-tier contemporary jazz is no fluke. Reinforced by the inspiring contributions of their special guests, it’s a powerful statement of faith in the music’s ability to adapt, to inspire, to express the ineffable, to engage and to grow.

Nathaniel Facey: alto saxophone
Lewis Wright: vibraphone
Tom Farmer: double bass
Shaney Forbes: drums
Jason Rebello: piano (1-3, 5-7)
Alex Hitchcock: tenor saxophone (1, 3, 4)