Ilumetris, Tom Thorp - Here, There Be Monsters (2024) [Hi-Res]

“Here, There be Monsters” is a new and exciting concept album from UK Saxophonist/Composer Tom Thorp and his quintet, Ilumetris.

A contemporary jazz album, brimming with programmatic flourishes, musical imagery and virtuosic improvisations; “Here, There be Monsters” is the stunning new album from award-winning composer and saxophonist, Tom Thorp. Inspired by myths and legends from around the world, the album takes a colourful journey through the characters, stories and themes of human mythologies, ranging from celtic legends of dragons and kelpi’s – to the creatures of the 1001 Arabian Nights, Greek mythology and the Mongolian Steppe. While steeped in the language of modern jazz, the album takes much inspiration from 20th century classical composers and European folk music. The pieces toy with complex textures which blend subtly with moments of energetic groove, profound stillness and melodic improvisational freedom.

Tom Thorp - saxophones/clarinets, Neil Yates - trumpet/Flugelhorn, Andy Stamatakis-Brown - piano,

Grant Russell - bass, John Arnesen - drums, Prof. George Walkden - spoken word

Tracklist:
1.01 - Ilumetris, Tom Thorp - Prologue: The Kelpi's Song (3:23)
1.02 - Ilumetris, Tom Thorp - The Phoenix (11:18)
1.03 - Ilumetris, Tom Thorp - Grendal (9:16)
1.04 - Ilumetris, Tom Thorp - We Have a Pixie Problem! (3:33)
1.05 - Ilumetris, Tom Thorp - Minotaur (12:46)
1.06 - Ilumetris, Tom Thorp - Pegasus (9:41)
1.07 - Ilumetris, Tom Thorp - In Alberich's Mine (8:08)
1.08 - Ilumetris, Tom Thorp - The Last Dragon (12:13)
1.09 - Ilumetris, Tom Thorp - Medusa (7:58)