Believe is an Australian, potent, free jazz quartet featuring the experienced rhythm section of double bass player Clayton Thomas, known for his collaborations with innovative European improvisers from the time he lived in Berlin (including Splitter Orchestra and the Ames Room), and drummer-percussionist Laurence Pike (of the PVT, Szun Waves, Triosk, and LIARS bands), with younger alto sax player Peter Farrar and pianist Novak Manojlovic who are making their recording debut. Spirits of the Dead are Watching is the debut album of this new quartet, the first part of a two-volume album release, and it was recorded at Golden Retriever Studios in the Marrickville neighbourhood of Sydney.

Believe adds a new approach to space, time, and place that is strictly Australian, while still reflecting the power of American free jazz and the spontaneity of European free improvisation, knowing that the spirits of the forefathers of free jazz and free improvisation may be listening and not only watching this promising quartet. Believe has already established its powerhouse sound, articulated with great passion, risk-taking, and rare intimacy.

Spirits of the Dead are Watching offers three pieces where anything is possible in their powerful ecosystems. The title piece pays homage to generations of storytellers, instrument builders, singers, dancers, players, and prophets sharing their art, and suggests a modern-day mysterious, evocative ritual. The 25-minute «already Not Yet» explores the full potential of Believe, as the strong-minded Farrar, Manojlovic, Thomas, and Pike enjoy the stimulating, conversational dynamics, moving between the tribal, spiritual, and the poetic.

Eyal Hareuveni 

Peter Farrar  (alto saxophone, percussion), Novak Manojlovic (piano, percussion), Clayton Thomas (double bass, percussion), Laurence Pike (drums, percussion)