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About this concert
Presented by Thick Records NZ, pianist Ben Wilcock and drummer John Rae—distinguished figures in New Zealand jazz—unveil their latest recording, March of the Octopus, joined by esteemed bassist Patrick Bleakley. Known for their longstanding contribution to the Festival and their adventurous musical dialogue, the trio presents a sophisticated programme of original compositions that traverse and expand the boundaries of contemporary jazz.
This album launch offers a rare opportunity to experience three masterful musicians at the height of their creative powers. Also featuring Patrick Bleakley on bass.
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John Rae Biography
John Rae is a jazz drummer and award winning composer. He is the musical director for the national jazz orchestra of New Zealand the 'Aotearoa Jazz Orchestra'. In 2009/10 he was the Creative New Zealand/Jack C. Richards composer-in-residence at Victoria University Wellington, New Zealand. "His writing incorporates a global perspective and his use of traditional instruments along with strings and jazz instruments can only be described as 21st century music". John recorded his first album at the age of sixteen with the Scottish saxophonist Tommy Smith and has subsequently recorded over 70 albums both as a leader and side man, and performed on two BBC Jazz Albums of the Year. Awarded a ‘Herald Angel Award’ at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and leader and composer for the New Zealand jazz group, The Troubles. From 2000-3 drummer for the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra and has performed and recorded with many world renowned jazz musicians including Ethan Iverson, Vijay Iyer and Mike Nock. Originally from Scotland, John has been a New Zealand citizen since 2016.
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