Trumpeter Lina Allemano splits time between Berlin and Toronto, and this band is key to her ongoing connection with the latter. Despite a decades-long history and seven releases on Lumo Records, the band was named a ‘Rising Star Jazz Band’ in the 2022 Downbeat Critics Poll –– a fine achievement regardless! –– and nominated for a Juno Award for good measure. While Lina’s group, with Brodie West (alto saxophone), Andrew Downing (double bass), and Nick Fraser (drums), resembles classic Ornette Coleman Quartets at first glance, her compelling extended composing and gorgeously dark-toned playing serve to make it something special.
Thursday, 14 September, 10pm • artBar • $20/$15 [buy tickets]
Listen to the Lina Allemano Four here
photo credit: Cristina Marx