Michael Garrick

The ebullient and restless creativity of pianist/composer Michael Garrick, coupled with his enthusiasm and boundless energy, placed him at the forefront of UK jazz from the 1960s until his death in November of 2011. 'Home Thoughts' is his final album recorded in the summer of 2011, with the group which he dubbed 'The Lyric Ensemble'.

An innovator in many ways, Michael Garrick spearheaded the jazz and poetry movement in the 1960s, composed countless pieces for jazz orchestra and big band, made the first (and last) jazz recording in St. Paul's Cathedral with massed choir, and recorded many albums with his small groups.

In singer Nette Robinson, Garrick had found a muse with which to indulge his love of poetry and music, revelling in her ability and eagerness to sing whatever melody his mind could conjure. On 'Home Thoughts' Michael explores the work of some of the great poets, effusively composing to the lines of Shakespeare, Browning, Blake, Tin-Tun-Ling, in addition to his own poetic output. Voice and piano are complemented by the talents of Tony Woods on saxophone/reeds, Matt Ridley on double bass, and drummer Chris Nickolls.