Jazz: Liam Brennan’s Abacus

Abacus is a project run by Birmingham-based saxophonist, composer, and improvisor Liam Brennan. Formed in 2022, the project concept was heavily influenced by Omer Avital’s Asking No Permission which featured a 4-horn frontline. The music aims to combine concepts from both the jazz small group tradition as well as the big band lineage. It features some of the most exciting improvisors from Birmingham and London.

Liam Brennan performs regularly around the midlands with a variety of artistically fulfilling projects both as a leader and a sideman. He currently holds the 1st alto chair in the Midlands Youth Jazz Orchestra, performs with Matt Holmes’ Quintet, Maria Graspa Quintet, and Collidescope. Since October 2021 he has been running Jazz At The Spotted Dog with Kai Chareunsy. Liam was recently selected by Jazz Central Midlands to be part of their mentoring scheme and has been working under the mentorship of Laura Jurd. Recent commissions aside from the mentoring scheme include an arrangement for large ensemble to celebrate the 85th Birthday of world-renown composer Mike Gibbs, as well as arranging the standard ‘Every Time We Say Goodbye’ for saxophonist Xhosa Cole.

For Abacus Liam has chosen to include two alto saxes, resulting in an interesting sound due to the similar registers between the altos and trumpet. This has forced compositions to explore more textural possibilities as well as orchestral, creating a truly unique and original sound. Other influences include John Taylor, Gil Evans, and Charles Mingus, as well as the Joe Lovano Nonet. Since the beginning of this project, Liam has been mentored by saxophonist and composer Alex Merritt, who has also been an important influence in arranging for the ensemble.

Dining at the Hen & Chicken

Here at the Hen & Chicken, we are passionate about fresh, tasty food & local craft beers. Why not make a night of it and join us for dinner before the gig?

You can book your table for dinner here: Book a Table – Hen & Chicken