Joseph Nowell Quartet

Joseph Nowell’s trio was formed in 2018, following a meeting between Joseph and Manolo during a session in Antwerp. Joined by Brussels-based drummer Gaspard Sicx, they developed a project centered around Joseph’s compositions and free improvisation. Their first album, Sketches (2022), was well received by jazz critics.

During their most recent concerts, the group has been joined by saxophonist Jordi Grognard, opening up new musical directions inspired in particular by Ornette Coleman and Olivier Messiaen.

With this quartet, the aim is to remain rooted in the jazz tradition while developing a personal voice, seeking a balance between freedom and structure. The compositions explore the blues and its harmonic extensions in particular, incorporating elements from contemporary classical harmony, such as Messiaen’s modes, twelve-tone technique, and polytonality, while retaining a language deeply rooted in jazz. Through these compositions and free improvisation, the project seeks to create a dialogue between the traditions of jazz and classical music, as well as between reflection and spontaneity.