Philip Clouts Quartet

Cape Town-born pianist/composer Clouts' South African roots have inspired a voyage of discovery that has led to him soaking up the joyful passion of Caribbean calypso, the bluesy melodies of Middle Eastern praise songs, the exuberant sway of Cuban dance music and the tuneful essence of Gospel while honouring jazz heroes including Bill Evans, Keith Jarrett and Charles Lloyd. As a key member of the popular London-based world jazz ensemble Zubop and its offshoot Zubop Gambia with BBC World Music award-winner Juldeh Camara, Clouts created a solid body of work with African roots. Since moving to Dorset in 2006, he has responded to his new surroundings with impressionistic compositions that complement his World Music interests, resonating with strong themes and packing a mighty rhythmical punch.