Will Barnes Quartet – Pizza Express Soho
Details
Pizza Express Dean St
The Will Barnes Quartet
8 February 8:00 PM
£20 >> BOOKINGS <<
★★★★
“ Barnes is the standout player, with fluent, hip, melodic chops
that other guitar players must surely envy... “The quality of this band makes one keen to hear them live”
Peter Jones, Jazzwise
Following the critical acclaim of their debut album 'Source of the Severn', the Will Barnes Quartet returns with 'Outside the Light' — a bold and expressive new chapter in their artistic journey. Drawing inspiration from local folklore and Celtic mythology, the album explores themes of light, seasons and changing landscapes. This second album deepens the group’s exploration of the interplay between jazz improvisation and the evocative landscapes of Mid Wales and the Welsh Marches.
Full Biography
Led by guitarist and composer Will Barnes, the quartet features pianist Jack Gonsalez, bassist Aidan Thorne, and drummer James Batten - an ensemble recognised for its tight chemistry and compelling live performances. Their sound pays homage to jazz greats such as Wes Montgomery, Pat Metheny, and Oscar Peterson, while forging a distinct voice rooted in contemporary expression.
WILL'S WEBSITE
The Will Barnes Quartet has performed at major UK venues and festivals, including Pizza Express Jazz Club (Soho), Hay Festival, Brecon Jazz Festival, and BBC Radio 4’s Loose Ends. Source of the Severn earned praise from critics, with MOJO highlighting their “springy deftness… cool precision… serious chops,” and The Jazz Mann describing the album as “evocative, intelligent… contemporary.”
Outside the Light showcases a group in full creative stride, offering audiences an immersive evening of modern jazz that’s both emotionally resonant and musically sophisticated.
Band Lineup
Will Barnes (guitar)
James Batten (drums)
Jack Gonsalez (piano)
Aidan Thorne (bass)
VIDEO 'Devil's Bridge'
Note: For a reserved table with the London Loves Jazz MeetUp group bookings must be confirmed by bookings in advance of the gig directly with the venue. For a comprehensive list of jazz gigs subscribe to Jazz London Live which lists over 5,000 gigs annually in 250 venues.