JUNE 5-16 | 41ST ANNUAL SAN FRANCISCO JAZZ FESTIVAL
Jun 14 - Jun 15, 2024
Miner Auditorium
PLEASE NOTE:
This page is an archive of a past production
Please visit our calendar for all upcoming SFJAZZ shows.
Original show description below.
The piano trio has been one of the most durable, beloved, and flexible formats in jazz history. Manchester-based GoGo Penguin turns this most venerable construct on its ear, infusing direct influences from contemporary electronic music and modern classical concepts into their singular ensemble approach that has earned well-deserved raves from all corners of the music world.
The band’s hypnotic, swirling grooves are acoustic adaptations of pieces composed with sequencing software, and rely as much on additive development and dynamic contrasts as improvisation, with pianist Chris Illingworth’s powerful melodic statements anchored by Nick Blacka’s thunderous bass and the skittering break-beat rhythms of new drummer Jon Scott.
The strength of their first two independent albums and magnetic live performances led to inclusion on Rolling Stone’s list of “20 Great New British Artists to Watch,” as well as a deal with Blue Note Records, who released their 2016 breakout, Man Made Object.
After two further albums and a remix EP, the band underwent a series of personal and professional upheavals before regrouping with a new drummer, a new label, and a stunning new release, 2023’s Everything Is Going to Be Okay on XXIM Records.
Pushing the jazz trio form in unprecedented new directions, GoGo Penguin truly sounds like nothing else on Earth.
“A group that lives comfortably beyond artistic restraints” (Pitchfork), the acclaimed Manchester-based trio infuses electronic music and modern classical influences into their singular approach.
(GoGo Penguin) have cannily adapted the rush of electronic music to a traditional acoustic lineup of piano, double bass and drums
The Guardian
(GoGo Penguin) have cannily adapted the rush of electronic music to a traditional acoustic lineup of piano, double bass and drums
The Guardian
Personnel
Chris Illingworth piano
Nick Blacka bass
Jon Scott drums
GoGo Penguin lure you into a trance-like state, they toy with your emotions, feeding some primal need with jolts of energy
london jazz news
Personnel
Chris Illingworth piano
Nick Blacka bass
Jon Scott drums
GoGo Penguin lure you into a trance-like state, they toy with your emotions, feeding some primal need with jolts of energy
london jazz news
Watch & Listen
GoGo Penguin
Everything Is Going to Be Okay
GoGo Penguin
We May not Stay
GoGo Penguin
Everything Is Going to Be Okay
GoGo Penguin
We May not Stay