Pianist / composer Tippett needs little introduction to those with an ear to the ground in the world of creative music. Appearing initially on the London jazz scene in the 1960's, Keith quickly forged a reputation as a formidable player, bandleader and composer. His large scale work Septober Energy for the 50 piece ensemble Centipede remains a benchmark recording in the history of this music. Subsequently his work as a founding member of ensembles as diverse as Mujician, Ovary Lodge, leading The Ark Orchestra, the Septet and the Tapestry Orchestra, his duo work with Julie Tippetts plus appearances as an improvising piano soloist have consolidated his position as a major figure in both improvised and composed music. 'The Nine Dances Of Patrick O'Gonogon' was commissioned by Richard Wiltshire and was recorded by the Keith Tippett Octet at Real World Studio in the UK. This new suite is inspired by themes from Irish folk music and was written for his new octet, which includes several alumni of the Royal Academy of Music's jazz programme along with a long-time collaborator, the drummer Peter Fairclough, and the London-based Italian trumpeter Fulvio Sigurta.'This is arguably Keith Tippett's most accessible and consistently excellent recording for many years. It benefits from several instantly and hauntingly memorable tunes, universally superb performances all round and the brief penultimate track is adorned by Julie Tippett's irresistible vocals. Very highly recommended and probably gets my vote for new album of the year. You may think the above somewhat hyperbolic, but I assure you it ain't.' - Roger F, OrganissimoKeith Tippett (piano/composer) Julie Tippetts (voice, lyrics)Fulvio Sigurta (trumpet/flugel)Sam Mayne (alto and soprano saxes/clarinet/flute)James Gardiner-Bateman (alto sax/flute)Kieran Mcleod (trombone) Rob Harvey (trombone)Tom McCredie (bass) Peter Fairclough (drums/percussion)