WANDERING Monster are touring next month with several gigs pencilled in to tie in with the release of their much awaited debut album. Well established on the northern music scene, the exceptionally gifted Leeds-based quintet is led by Sam Quintana on double bass, Ben Powling, tenor sax, Calvin Travers, guitar, Tom Higham on drums, plus pianist and keyboard player, Aleks Podraza. Their music - described as ferocious jazz rock - juxtaposes the harmonic sophistication and improvisational approach of jazz with the rhythmic complexity of modern rock and metal, resulting in a sound that is intense, yet dynamic, sensitive and spontaneous.

Sam says that his early musical experiences included playing bass guitar in rock and metal bands: "In my late teens I developed a love for jazz, which intensified when I moved to Leeds and started studying the double bass. The musicians that inspired me to start writing for a group were those who blend the jazz and rock genres." Sam's compositions reflect the 'inner monsters’ we can all possess at some point: "The Rush Begins and Tuco let the band show off their raucous side and explore themes of anxiety, anger and frustration," adds Sam. "In contrast Sweetheart, Emöke and Happy Place are gentler and more reflective, delving into themes of grief, loss and nostalgia."

The album - on Ubuntu Music - is launched at Sela Bar, Leeds, on Sunday, January 20.

Meanwhile, the band play Zeffirellis, at Ambleside, on Saturday, January 12. (Pic Porl Medlock)