Alan Skidmore's Ubizo: The Spiritual Power of British Jazz
Alan Skidmore's Ubizo is a celebrated British jazz ensemble led by the legendary tenor saxophonist Alan Skidmore. Formed in the 1990s, the group is renowned for its deep exploration of South African jazz and spiritual music, creating a powerful and unique sound within the European jazz scene.
Early career
Alan Skidmore, born in 1942, established himself as a formidable tenor saxophonist in the 1960s, playing with icons like Ronnie Scott and Georgie Fame. His early career was marked by a versatility that spanned traditional jazz, free jazz, and rock, performing with bands like SOS and the European Rhythm Machine. This foundational period set the stage for his later, more focused musical explorations.
Breakthrough
The formation of Ubizo in 1994 marked a significant artistic breakthrough for Skidmore. The group's 1995 debut album, Ubizo, released on the Provocateur label, was a critical success that defined their direction. This album, deeply influenced by Skidmore's collaborations with South African drummer Louis Moholo, cemented the band's reputation for authentic, spiritually charged music.
Key tracks
Ubizo (The Calling) — This title track from their debut album encapsulates the group's core mission of blending South African rhythms with modal jazz exploration.
Dedication to John Coltrane — A powerful tribute showcasing Skidmore's deep saxophone lineage and the band's ability to channel spiritual jazz energy.
Mra — A composition highlighting the intricate interplay between the rhythm section and Skidmore's soaring, melodic saxophone lines.
The group's momentum continued with albums like The Call and live recordings that captured their intense concert energy. A pivotal moment was the 2001 album After the Rain, which featured a celebrated collaboration with South African pianist Bheki Mseleku. This project underscored the authentic connection Alan Skidmore's Ubizo had to the source of their inspiration.
Later works, including Speaking of Ubizo, further refined their synthesis of African-rooted grooves and free-flowing improvisation. The consistent lineup, often featuring pianist Steve Melling, bassist Tony Levin, and drummer Mike Paxton, provided a stable and intuitive foundation for Skidmore's visionary leadership.
Fans of Alan Skidmore's Ubizo also appreciate the work of Louis Moholo for the shared South African jazz connection. The spiritual depth of Pharoah Sanders resonates in their expansive compositions. Listeners are also directed to Mike Westbrook for another pillar of the inventive British jazz scene. The ensemble work of Blue Note artists from the 1960s provides a clear historical framework for their sound.
The music of Alan Skidmore's Ubizo holds a respected place in the playlists of specialist jazz radio stations and online jazz radio streams. Their recordings are featured on programs dedicated to modern creative jazz, African-inspired music, and the legacy of British jazz innovators, reaching an audience of dedicated aficionados.
You can experience the compelling sound of Alan Skidmore's Ubizo on radio stations featured here on onairium.com. Tune in to discover their influential catalog through the curated selections of independent music radio stations available on our platform.
