Quartet Con Alma
Paul Deats (Fender Rhodes, piano, synth), Simon Paterson (bass),
Rich Kensington (percussion) and Simon Bowhill (drums)
Vibrant rhythms, soulful melodies, and electrifying improvisations converge in the music of Quartet Con Alma, an exciting Latin jazz ensemble bringing a fresh perspective to the genre, blending the feel and tradition of Latin music with the spontaneity and improvisational fire of modern jazz.
Quartet Con Alma derives their name from the Dizzy Gillespie composition ‘Con Alma’. Translating to ‘with soul’ — it’s more than a name;. the group create a sound that is heartfelt, timeless and innovative. Exploring the breadth of latin jazz, this piano quartet play the music of, and take inspiration from the likes of Horace Silver, Tom Jobim, Sergio Mendes, Chick Corea, The Jazz Crusaders, Tania Maria and Ray Bryant. Whether cooking on ‘Cubano Chant’, relaxing on ‘Poinciana’ or grooving on ‘Come With Me’, this music from the Latin Quarter is always performed Con Alma…“with soul”…
Improvisation
We rarely play the same set or the same tune the same. One of the joys of playing with Paul, Simon and Simon is how the music always comes out different. We all trust each other to follow an idea that might get put into the mix and to see where it takes us. It's a a lovely feeling to get relaxed enough on stage to genuinely explore musical ideas in real time.
Sound
The band has evolved a sound that is very much based around the Fender Rhodes. The blend of that and the Fender bass guitar with the drums and percussion makes it all sound so warm and funky. It's super fun thing to be part of. What's more is that Paul owns and runs Peggy's Skylight in Nottingham, so we get to play at one of the best (in my opinion) jazz clubs in the country. Have a listen here