Biography

Nathan Francis' second album Diamondback features Finnish jazz greats Aleksi Heinola, Riitta Paakki and Manuel Dunkel.

Diamondback is the second full-length album of Nathan Francis as band leader, and the first record featuring compositions from his own pen. To interpret these and other songs, the bassist has compiled an ensemble of the top names in Finnish jazz to play alongside him: drummer Aleksi Heinola, pianist Riitta Paakki and saxophonist Manuel Dunkel.

The eight-track album is a melting pot of different influences with roots in the American jazz tradition. In the limelight are Francis' compositions and versatile bass work. As a band leader, Francis gives space to every player and their expression to compositions as well.

Diamondback’s songs were created over two years from a variety of sources of inspiration. Francis' own compositions include Bossa nova-influenced opening track Our Savior (in Shades of gray), the immersively swinging Too Little Blooze, the intensely rhythmic Premonition and the soothing, meditative Ken. In addition to Francis' songs, the album includes one composition by drummer Aleksi Heinola and three borrowed songs.

Diamondback was released by Malmö- and Berlin-based Ajabu! Records.

Tracklist

1. Our Saviour (in Shades of gray)(Francis)
2. Ugetsu(Walton)
3. Playa de las Canteras(Heinola)
4. Ken(Francis)
5. I’ll be seeing you(Fain, Kahal)
6. Too Little Blooze(Francis)
7. Premonition(Francis)
8. You’re my everything(Warren, Dixon, Young)