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MODERN VIKINGS
September 23 @ 8:00 pm - 10:30 pm
MODERN VIKINGS
“[Stephen Henderson is] a remarkably sensitive performer, listening intently to the other musicians in whatever setting he finds himself, demonstrating why he’s becoming one of the go-to drummers on the Scottish scene” – London Jazz News
As with their Scandinavian jazz cousins, Modern Vikings play music with a strong emphasis on melody with the added grooves, urgency and colours of the American jazz tradition. Drummer/composer Stephen Henderson leads a stellar line-up featuring Fergus McCreadie (piano), Graeme Stephen (guitar), Konrad Wiszniewski (saxophone) and David Bowden (bass). The band’s music reflects Henderson’s many influences and experiences from the beginning of his musical upbringing to present, creating a fresh sound that is unique, bold and emotive.
“I’m particularly inspired by jazz musicians who incorporate elements of their own countries’ folk music into their writings and playing. Modern Jazz artists such as Shai Maestro, Avishai Cohen, Lionel Loueke, Leo Blanco and John Scofield have been huge influences on my style more recently,” says Stephen Henderson.
This much anticipated concert is also the launch of Modern Vikings’ debut album Tales of the Skald. The 9-track album composed by band leader Stephen Henderson, takes the listener through an array of grooves, colours and styles all connected to the jazz tradition and beyond, capturing Henderson’s broad musical upbringing. The all-star band are individually featured in the writing, allowing their unique personalities to take turns at coming to the forefront, then subtly blending together to create a bold and exciting new sound.
ABOUT STEPHEN HENDERSON
Born and raised in Ayrshire, Stephen Henderson has been immersed in music from the womb. His parents both being musicians gave him an exceptional musical upbringing. At aged 9, he started learning snare drum at his local pipe band giving him a great foundation for moving on to the drums. He found his passion for jazz upon gaining entry to the National Youth Jazz Orchestra of Scotland, there Stephen met many of his current esteemed collogues such as Fergus McCreadie, Helena Kay and Pete Johnstone
In 2015 Stephen graduated from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland with First Class Honours. Since then, he has been touring and recording with various artists. Currently his most prominent role is that of the drummer for mercury nominated artist Fergus McCreadie. Playing with this trio has allowed Stephen to play in many of the top venues and festivals in the UK and Europe including The North Sea Jazz Festival, Love Supreme, Oslo Jazz Festival and South by South-West.
As an active side person he has played with global music artists such as: Laura Jurd, Tim Garland, Rob Luft, James Tormé (LA) Aidan O’Rourke, Leroy Brown (New Orleans), Elchin Shirinov (Azerbaijan), to name a few.
PREVIEW:
Tickets: £16/£13
Date: Monday 23 September 2024
Doors open: 7:30pm | Music starts: 8pm (bar open from 7pm)
Location: Traverse One, 10 Cambridge Street, Edinburgh
