The Tories introduced the 50% strike ballot threshold to make industrial action harder. MATT WRACK argues that a Labour government has no justification for leaving it on the statute book
Mike Westbrook Paris (ASC ascc d166)
AFTER 80 years, a lifetime’s piano: that’s how it sounds, that what it means, that’s what it is. Like his inspiration, Duke Ellington, Mike Westbrook’s prime instrument has been his orchestra — or his brass band, or the trio with his wife Kate and saxophonist Chris Biscoe, or whatever format he has created.
But listen to this record, made in Paris in July 2016 with just a piano to give him his voice and you begin to know what a deep and fine pianist Westbrook is too.
CHRIS SEARLE urges you to listen to two new albums by the US Indian pianist VIJAY IYER
CHRIS SEARLE recommends a work of love and deep admiration for a great musician
CHRIS SEARLE recommends a new album featuring Pat Thomas and Ahmed, and marvels at the tempestuous power of a live performance
As part of the 2025 London Jazz Festival Rich Mix offered intriguing sessions titled 'Persian Jazz,' CHRIS SEARLE was there


