Swift - In Another Lifetime (2022) [Hi-Res]

‘In Another Lifetime’ has been 40 years in the making. Brendan, Hugh, Larry, and John formed Swift in 1976. Stylistic diversity has always characterised Swift’s music; radical shifts occurring in the same piece, each composition different to the last. With John Sanderson on saxes and flute, SWIFT was selected as the ‘Greater London Arts Association’s Young Jazz Musicians, 1977,’ and for two years played extensively in London, with occasional tours to Holland, the rest of the UK, and Ireland. Recording opportunities were limited and in 1979, the band went out on a high, supporting John McLaughlin at the Rainbow Theatre, London, (this time with Pete Thomas on saxes).

In June 2020, trumpeter, Dr Linley Hamilton acquired copies of SWIFT demos from that other lifetime, and began playing them on his show, ‘Jazz World’ on BBC Radio Ulster. Linley’s enthusiasm revitalised the band and in the midst of a pandemic, Swift began to record remotely with Larry overseeing the programming. Additional musicians were needed. Not only did Linley step up, three of Europe’s finest horn players also offered their services: Michael Buckley, Frank Mead, and Derek O’Connor, while Katherine and Jennifer O’Neill of INDIAN QUEENS provided backing vocals. By July 2022, the album was complete. The band feels it was worth the wait; we hope you agree.