Ben Martin Quartet presents Full Gas [The Great American Songbook]

About this event

“A saxophonist of immaculate taste and lyricism” – John Fordham (The Guardian)

“A seriously good saxophonist” – Richard Williams (The Guardian)

Spend a Sunday afternoon with the Ben Martin Quartet as they bring the timeless melodies of The Great American Songbook to life. The quartet, with over a decade performing together, will showcase a curated selection of jazz standards and classic songs that have defined American music for decades.

The Great American Songbook, a treasure trove of iconic songs from composers like George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, and Harold Arlen, holds a special place in the heart of music lovers. It represents an era of sophistication, romance, and storytelling rarely equalled in modern times.

Ben Martin has been described as a seriously good saxophonist and a soloist of immaculate taste and lyricism by The Guardian newspaper. He has performed all over the world with such diverse acts as Sir Paul McCartney, Groove Armada, Kenny Wheeler and many more.

Accompanying him are three exceptional musicians: Matt Ratcliffe, a virtuoso pianist whose improvisations add depth and sparkle, Martyn Spencer, bassist who anchors the ensemble with rhythm and groove, and the dynamic Andrew ‘Woody’ Wood – a drummer whose subtle nuances and creative flourishes complete the quartet’s sound.

Line up
Ben Martin – saxophones
Matt Ratcliffe – piano
Martyn Spencer – double bass
Andrew ‘Woody’ Wood – drums