Starting Today

Pianist/keyboardist Joe Armon-Jones made a fine showing with “Go See” on Gilles Peterson’s London jazz compilation *We Out Here*. On his debut, *Starting Today*, he stretches out, shrouding sleek beats and advanced harmony in cool Wurlitzer tones. Along with the dub and dance vibes and vocal cameos, there’s deep virtuosity here (David Mrakpor\'s bass solo on “Ragify” is superb). But the main draw is the beautiful “Almost Went Too Far,” with undulating chords and a falling melody that have the makings of a timeless pop-R&B hit.

Starting Today follows the Idiom EP released with Maxwell Owin in 2017. Picked by The Vinyl Factory as one of 2017’s best EPs, it led to live shows at Boiler Room and Jazz Cafe, and was supported by Touching Bass on NTS and Thristian on Worldwide FM. Last year also saw Ezra Collective (of which he’s a co-founder) release their Juan Pablo EP and headline shows at Islington Assembly Hall and Ronnie Scott’s.

This solo debut from a fixture of London’s vital and eclectic jazz community delves into dub, soul, and fusion on a journey from the scene’s diverse roots to its exhilarating present.

Joe Armon-Jones is one of the most prodigious musicians in the new wave of jazz eminating from London right now. A member of Ezra Collective and a noted

When Joe Armon-Jones' debut album 'Starting Today' comes together, it’s as strong as anything coming out of the London jazz scene.