Sam Eastmond has been a regular collaborator with John Zorn over the last decade. With his large ensemble Spike Orchestra, he has arranged and conducted large ensemble albums in Zorn’s Masada Book Two (Cerberus), and Book Three (Binah), as well as his own compositions (Splintered Stories) for Zorn’s Tzadik Label. His upcoming record is part of Zorn’s latest series The Bagatelles. 

This performance features music from The Bagatelles and celebrates John Zorn’s 70th birthday, presenting works from their latest release, and from Eastmond’s extensive work in John Zorn’s Masada book series celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.

Composed by John Zorn

Conducted and Arranged by Sam Eastmond
Alto Sax - Chris Williams
Tenor Sax - Asha Parkinson
Tenor Sax - George Garford
Baritone Sax - Mick Foster
Trumpet/Flugelhorn - Noel Langley
Trumpet/Flugelhorn - Charlotte Keeffe
Trombone - Joel Knee
Tuba - Tom Briers
Guitar - Moss Freed
Piano - Olly Chalk
Bass - Fergus Quill
Drums - Alasdair Pennington

John Zorn’s The Bagatelles

“From March to May 2015, John Zorn composed 300 new tunes that were eventually collected into a book of music he called The Bagatelles. After seven years of performances around the world in venues large and small, the choicest ensembles have gone into the studio and the results are some of the most exciting and varied music Zorn has ever presented.

Volume 16 is a stunning big band interpretation of The Bagatelles. Brilliantly arranged by Sam Eastmond (Spike Orchestra) this is one of the most exhilarating instillments of the series. Sam outdoes himself here with a set of expansive arrangements that touch on jazz, rock, classical, soundtracks and more. Spine-tingling music from one of the most creative large ensembles in the world!” - Tzadik Label