Johnathan Blake: 'My Life Matters'
Drummer-composer Johnathan Blake returns to Ronnie Scott’s with music from his powerful new Blue Note album My Life Matters. Originally commissioned by The Jazz Gallery, the suite is both personal and political - a reflection on racial injustice, resilience, and family legacy. With themes that resonate deeply in today’s world, the music moves between contemplation and confrontation, anchored by Blake’s unmistakable rhythmic voice.
Heralded by NPR as the ultimate modernist, the Philadelphia-raised Johnathan Blake has been one of the most creative drummers of recent times, backing up heavyweights from the Mingus Big Band, Pharoah Sanders, Q-Tip and Dr. Lonnie Smith, to post-bop innovators Tom Harrell, Maria Schneider and countless other distinctive voices.
Joining him for this London date are long-time collaborators and standout players: John Ellis (saxophone, ewi), Fabian Almazan (piano, electronics), Jalen Baker (vibraphone), and Ben Street (bass). Together, they bring Blake’s vision to life: a striking blend of acoustic and electronic textures, jazz tradition and future-facing composition.
Lush vibes, funky jams and irrepressible energy.
Channelling everything from the fierce rhythmic urge of Charles Mingus’ music to Pharoah Sanders’ spiritual freedom, the deep groove of Roy Hargrove to the swing of Ralph Peterson Jr.
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