20th September 2018: #TBT – NYSQ’s ‘Heaven Steps to Seven’ drops tomorrow – take a look back at previous release ‘Sleight of Hand’ with press highlights inc ★★★★ from The Irish Times + video interview with the band

On the eve of the release of NYSQ’s Heaven Steps to Seven, here’s a reminder of their sixth album Sleight of Hand.

Recorded at the end of an international tour – in the beautiful, mountainous location of Lake Yamanaka, close to Mount Fuji (the quartet enjoys a special affinity with Japan) – Sleight of Hand’s eight numbers reflect the band’s spontaneous, transformational approach.

“Deft, satisfyingly open, at times telepathic exchanges prove joyously and conclusively that there is life in the old standards yet.​”​
★★★★ Irish Times (full review)

“These guys mix tradition with some moxie!”
Jazz Weekly​ (full review)

“The strong ensemble playing, in addition to the many fine solos, and the imaginative reworking of the material make for a superb straight-ahead recording.”
Jazz & Blues Report (website)

“A wonderfully engaging session.”
Jersey Jazz (website)

“Familiar tunes sparkle with surprises.”
Schweiz am Sonntag (website)

“Inspired interpretations of familiar material.”
Dr Jazz Magazine (website)

“Captivating, creative interpretations.”
Radio REC

“A new way to understand the magical characteristics of these songs.”
Concerto Magazine (website)

“Reharmonizations and rhythmic reimaginings while simultaneously observing tradition… They definitely cook.”
Modern Drummer Magazine (website)

​”​NYSQ has worked together for over a decade and the communication and empathy honed over such a long period is on full display with this perceptive recording.​”‘
The ​New York City Jazz Record ​(website)