Ron Caines, Martin Archer, Axis

Port Of Saints is the third collaboration between Archer and Caines - all compositions by Caines with arrangements and production by Archer. This time around the 14 pieces have been edited into three long suites, and a careful listener will hear thematic links running all the way through the album. Caines takes centre stage throughout with the other musicians arranged to provide a shifting and sometimes almost orchestral setting. Breaking with the group's tradition, whereas previous albums have featured Laura Cole's piano, this time round chordal parts from Chris Sharkey (guitar) and Corey Mwamba (vibes) are edgier and darker. Electronics have always been a feature of the group - on Port Of Saints Martin, Chris and Corey all use electronics to extend their sounds, alongside Hervé's radical post production interventions. We're delighted to welcome Byron Wallen as featured soloist on this record, and Graham Clark returns on violin for some telling interventions. Johnny Hunter underpins the group with detailed work on drums, which Gus Garside's darkly atmospheric bass provides a considered commentary. Very much not a blowing band and more an electroacoustic suite.....