Martin Dale Quartet

The Martin Dale Quartet is led by Martin Dale whose versatile technique and talented improvisations on tenor sax deliver an eclectic blues-influenced mix of modern mainstream jazz. MDQ’s rhythm section simply ‘lock in’ together and naturally groove from start to finish in any tempo both harmonically and stylistically, driven by a powerhouse swinging drummer who gives light and shade to the section. MDQ has worked with other great British jazz musicians such as Jim Mullen, Peter King, Mark Nightingale, Alan Barnes, Bruce Adams, Bobby Wellins and Lee Gibson.

Martin Dale -Martin took the tenor sax position as a member of The John Burch Octet when Dick Morrissey became ill - Dick Morrissey was a great influence and inspiration to Martin who has continued playing in true Morrissey style delivering great sax improvisations to non-standard jazz tunes in addition to MDQ’s original repertoire. Martin has also worked on the QE2 taking lead alto sax backing Neil Sedaka, Petula Clark and Tom Jones. Martin has recorded sound tracks for the BBC on radio and TV and has enjoyed exposure on Radio 2, Radio 3 and Jazz FM.

The Harris Brothers - Paul (organ) and Dennis (drums) were greatly influenced and brought up on jazz from an early age by their father who as a jazz musician himself playing piano and vibes, introduced his sons into the live scene from the youthful ages of 15 and 12yrs old. After forming part of the backing band for Plymouth ’s first Jazz Club, Paul and Dennis joined Dick Heckstall-Smith's band and played high profile gigs and were regulars at Londons Ronnie Scott's club. Pauls blues influenced harmony and technical ability on organ takes MDQ to exciting levels which is complimented by Dennis’s driving energy on drums – playing ‘great-time’ every time!.

Kevin Sanders - Kevin walks bass lines that never falter with a great feel at any tempo whether it’s straight ahead swing, blues, ballad, or bossas – whatever, he simply ‘earholes’ it all and lays it down perfectly. From a more rock ‘n’ roll angle, Kevin has recorded with The Levellers and Mel & Kim together with playing on two of the award winning Korean classical pianist, Ingrid Wu’s albums. Kevin teaches bass at Dartington College of Arts - South Devon and at the Academy of Music and Sound – East Devon .