Physical Examinaton Bates

British pianist Django Bates returns to ECM with one of his very finest constellations, the trio Belovèd, with Swedish bassist Petter Eldh and Danish drummer Peter Bruun, and an aptly named album, "The Study of Touch". All three musicians are highly individual players, subtly challenging the conventions of the jazz piano trio.

Frontman Billy Miscione met drummer Tyler Katz at a local music show at the age of 17. Acknowledging their chemistry, the two became best friends, and would play in various projects with each other until meeting guitarist Craig Browning, and Mark Perkinz at SUNY Purchase. By fate, they would meet Patrick Devir at a music show in Connecticut a few years later, adding the final piece to form BATES. Craig's grungy ambient leads, Patrick’s powerful chords, and Mark's driving punk bass fused with Billy's blues guitar create a unique yet familiar rock sound. The five of them have played shows all over Westchester County, NY, New York City, and Connecticut, performing at notable venues such as Garcia’s (Portchester, NY), Toad’s Place (New Haven, CT), and The Bitter End (NYC). BATES released their self-titled debut album on June 9th, 2018. It is currently available on Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, Bandcamp, and more.

Did you ever get a bit envious listening to a recording and thinking the band is having way too much fun making music? I'm not saying Northern Spy stirs up jealousy, but damn the trio of bassist Michael Bates, saxophonist Michael Blake and drummer Jeremy "Bean" Clemons are up to some serious jollification here.