Alice Zawadzki (with Pete Lee at the piano) Photo Credit Melody McLaren

This is our list of younger musicians who have made a mark (on us) in 2014:

Leo Appleyard. Until a month ago, I hadn’t heard of the guitarist . I missed his gig at LJF – it sold out before I thought to grab a ticket – but his CD Pembroke Road was an impressive debut. I hope to catch him next year!
(Patrick Hadfield) 

Moses Boyd….A wonderful drummer and still only 23.
(Adam Sieff)

George Crowley.   The sax player, through promoting regular gigs in smaller pubs like the Oxford and the Con Cellar Bar, is keeping London’s scene fresh and lively.
(Rob Mallows)

Aaron Diehl. 29 year old pianist Aaron Diehl, at ease across many genres, reflecting his immersion in the traditions of jazz piano from Tatum to John Lewis and beyond.
(Donald Helme)

Marko Churnchetz (Črnčec) New York-based Slovenian pianist/keyboardist Marko Churnchetz created a programme of highly-charged jazz fusion pyrotechnics in his 2014 quartet album, ‘Devotion’, duelling pitch-bent synths with saxophonist Mark Shim’s midi controller wizardry. An exceptional, lightning-fast jazz pianist, Churnchetz’s next release is keenly anticipated.
(Adrian Pallant)

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Elliot Galvin’s debut album, Dreamland arrived with a clatter to critical acclaim and was quickly followed by the award of Young European Jazz Artist to his trio.
(Mike Collins)

Tigran Hamasyan. The pianist’s next release Mockroot is his Nonesuch Records label debut (expected early 2015) and the staggered territory release of his previous album “Shadow Theater” somewhat cut into its momentum. So he’s slightly under the radar but his upcoming releases and activities should warrant deserved buzz and attention.
(Nicky Schrire)

Laura Jurd. Drawing by Geoff Winston. All rights reserved

Laura Jurd, With Huw V Williams ‘Hon’ quintet at The Salisbury, the trumpeter hugely impressed with her range and depth and the way she confidently paid indirect homage to illustrious antecedents – Chet Baker, Miles, Kenny Wheeler and Wadada – without compromising her own voice and spontaneity. Blending rough, smooth and lyrical with beautiful tones, her assuredness added a special ingredient to the mix.
(Geoff Winston)

Phil Meadows reached new heights in 2014 with the release of Lifecycles – his vibrant all-encompassing project for full orchestra. As a soloist, composer and educator, Meadows is leading the way for the next generation.
(Jon Carvell)

Dan Messore – a hugely talented synthesist of contemporary guitar styles, with an keenly awaited second CD on the way for his band Indigo Kid. Their set at Bristol’s festival was terrifically good, tantalisingly short.
(Jon Turney)

Dan Nicholls. This year North London’s Loop collective has continued to push the musical agenda, with Dan Nicholls in particular fulfilling his potential. Whether playing sampled kalimba compositions on Jez Nelson’s show, or as part of the riotous Brass Mask or deep grooving Strobes, Nicholls’ name on a bill is starting to become synonymous with fresh boundary-pushing music.
(Dan Bergsagel)

Vincent Peirani. Jazz accordion? Vincent Peirani has revolutionized its repertoire, mixing Classical influences with swing and free jazz. He tours constantly all over the world, and has won major jazz prizes in his native France. Here’s a wish for him to gig in the UK.
(Alison Bentley)

Cath Roberts/Dee Byrne for their music – but also for the LUME programme of exciting new music gigs.
(Peter Slavid)

Tom Skinner and Tim Giles. Two amazing drummers in this country who are so established that we forget their relative youth:
(Oliver Weindling)

Lewis Wright. The vibes player (and drummer) attracted attention with Empirical a few years ago, and is now making his mark as a wonderful soloist. He was in devastating form during a late show at Ronnie Scott’s led by Marco Panascia.
(Andy Boeckstaens)

Alice Zawadzki, A Genuine Original Vocalist, violinist and composer launched her debut CD, China Lane in June 2014, to enthusiastic reviews.  Described as “beautiful, uncategorisable – a real force to be reckoned with” (Jamie Cullum), Alice is a fascinating character and one to watch in 2015. (Melody McLaren)

OUR FOUR 2014 YEAR -END LISTS

LIST 1 THE BEST MOMENTS OF 2014

LIST 2 JAZZ MUSICIANS OF 2014 (UNDER 35)

LIST 3 JAZZ MUSICIANS OF 2014

LIST 4: JAZZ WISHES FOR 2015