Join the multi award-winning UK jazz ensemble Empirical for a performance of their album Wonder is the Beginning, released on Whirlwind Recordings in 2024. Having started their journey in 2007, Empirical make a triumphant return, re-taking their rightful place at the centre of the UK scene, with their first full-length release since 2016.

 Wonder is the Beginning is a mature musical statement that shows the band’s fire is still undimmed and their commitment to maintaining the legacy while forging their own unique path is as strong as ever.

 Empirical’s trademark combination of complex, thoughtful writing and spontaneous improvisation is enabled by the absolute trust that comes from years of collective music making, and is at the heart of what makes Empirical stand out consistently on the musical landscape.

The performance will feature Nathaniel Facey (alto sax), Tom Farmer (double bass), Shaney Forbes (drums) and featuring special guest Ivo Neame (piano).

‘Empirical, around for an astonishing 15 years already, are one of the great British contributions to European jazz.’ (Downbeat, 2022) 

'Empirical is still a reliable touchstone of contemporary British jazz at its most sophisticated.' (Jazzwise, 2022)

'London’s quartet Empirical delivered it all… This was the height of contemporary jazz from risk-taking players with real commitment.' (Calgary Herald, 2019)

Nathaniel Facey // alto saxophone
Ivo Neame // piano
Tom Farmer // bass
Shaney Forbes // drums