Sharp Little Bones at Peggy’s Skylight, Nottingham

At Nottingham’s Peggy’s Skylight, the house band Sharp Little Bones recently stepped out from their usual supporting role to headline their own event, marking the release of their sophomore album, Step Up! Get Down! This follow-up continues the momentum established by their debut project released in 2023, which featured two volumes and earned notable acclaim within the UK jazz circuit.

The ensemble originated from musicians who regularly perform as the venue’s resident band, known for their adaptability and cohesion in backing various artists. The core trio consists of Simon Paterson on both double and electric bass, pianist Paul Deats who also incorporates Rhodes and Moog keyboards, and drummer Andrew Wood. Their strong foundational interplay forms the backbone of the group’s sound, characterized by intricate rhythms and seamless synchronization.

Adding a distinguished voice to this foundation is tenor saxophonist Tony Kofi, a multi-award-winning artist who joined the lineup following a fruitful collaboration with the trio in 2020. His presence elevates the band’s sonic palette, providing compelling leads that complement the underlying groove without overpowering it.

The album launch featured two performances, both of which reached full capacity, necessitating additional seating arrangements to accommodate the enthusiastic turnout. The concert opened with the album’s first piece, ‘Trent Fields,’ immediately immersing the audience in the band’s signature blend of funk-infused jazz. The musicians proceeded to perform the initial suite of tracks in album sequence, enabling listeners to experience the new material as a cohesive narrative.

Throughout the set, Paterson’s complex bass lines and Wood’s adaptive drumming demonstrated a deep mutual understanding, with the rhythm section navigating challenging time signatures effortlessly. Deats’s keyboard textures added layers of warmth and subtlety, shifting between melodic prominence and supportive ambiance as required. Kofi’s saxophone contributions were marked by fluid articulation and restrained intensity, anchoring the ensemble’s dynamic range.

Audience engagement remained high despite brief interludes for merchandise promotion, conducted with Paterson’s light-hearted approach that helped maintain the show’s convivial atmosphere. The setlist included standout tracks such as ‘Portman Pie’ and ‘Snake Oil,’ which resonated strongly with attendees and were favored in an audience vote determining the encore.

The evening concluded with an extended finale that incorporated the popular choice ‘Hook Up,’ ensuring a satisfying closure for the fans. The band’s ability to revisit and adapt the program based on real-time feedback underscored their responsiveness and connection to the local jazz community.

Sharp Little Bones’ emergence from house band status to headline performers at Peggy’s Skylight highlights both their artistic growth and the supportive environment fostered by the venue. Their second album launch not only affirmed their place within Nottingham’s vibrant jazz scene but also demonstrated the creative potential that can flourish when musicians unite with shared vision and experience.

Further details about the band’s forthcoming projects or touring plans remain limited at this time. However, the positive reception of Step Up! Get Down! positions Sharp Little Bones as a group to watch in the evolving landscape of contemporary British jazz.