Spice Jazz Soho: GLEBE “Gaudí” Album launch

Glebe is a contemporary jazz quintet founded by guitarist Kieran Gunter and pianist Chris Bland. They first met as students and later went on to house share in a quirky flat above a fish and chip shop. It was during this unforgettable period of musical activity together that they discovered a mutual passion for guitar/piano-led groups such as the Pat Metheny Group and The Impossible Gentlemen.

Tonight marks the launch of their much-anticipated debut studio album, Gaudí. Recorded in 2024 at Cowshed Studios in North London and released in partnership with ECN Music, the album features compositions by Gunter’s hand and some by Bland’s. Influenced by jazz luminaries such as Shai Maestro, Maria Schneider, and Kenny Wheeler, their music is characterized by emotive melodies and evocative soundscapes. Glebe masterfully blends intricately arranged pieces with moments of creative spontaneity, creating a dynamic listening experience. As the Camden New Journal aptly noted, “Glebe produces a clean, uncluttered sound that uses complex harmonies and time signatures to pack a punch without slipping into aimless noodling.”

Gunter and Bland exclusively compose music with a story behind it. Influences for Glebe tunes include much-loved family relatives, Viking ruins, and a Spanish architect (thus providing the album’s title). Glebe gigs are consequently a vivid experience for the mind’s eye as well as the ear and are guaranteed to leave an emotional impression.

Both Kieran and Chris are highly sought-after musicians, performing across the UK and Europe in jazz, pop, and classical genres in prestigious venues.

Line up:
Chris Bland – Piano/Keyboards
Kieran Gunter– Electric/Acoustic Guitar
Dom Pusey – Woodwind
Luke Fowler – Double/Electric Bass
Filippo Galli – Drums

“Glebe produces a clean, uncluttered sound that uses complex harmonies and time signatures to pack a punch, without slipping into aimless noodling.“ – Camden New Journal