Vol. 1, released on May 2, 2023, is the debut recording by The Workshop, a collaborative five-piece jazz ensemble featuring Chris Engel (soprano and alto saxophone), Bill Blackmore (trumpet), Darragh O’Kelly (piano), Cormac O’Brien (double bass), and Matthew Jacobson (drums). The album presents nine original compositions by members of the group and balances stylistic diversity with a strong sense of ensemble cohesion, reflecting the musicians’ long-standing professional relationships. While the material ranges from introspective and lyrical to rhythmically driven and energetic, the recording maintains a consistent aesthetic grounded in contemporary jazz practice, with occasional subtle references to other musical traditions. Throughout, the interplay between the musicians, supported by a flexible and responsive rhythm section, allows for both structural clarity and open improvisation, resulting in a debut that is adventurous yet accessible in its approach.
Credits
Chris Engel - Soprano & Alto Saxophone
Bill Blackmore - Trumpet
Darragh O’Kelly - Piano
Cormac O’Brien - Double Bass
Matthew Jacobson - Drums
Recorded in Hellfire Studio
Mixed and Mastered by Ivan Jackman
Artwork - Chris Haughton
Design - Plamena AnatasovaThis recording was supported through funding from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sports and Media as administered by FMC via the Music Industry Stimulus Package 2020
Quiet Storm, The Badger
c. Bill BlackmoreGadget, ALittle Later, Something Happy
c. Cormac OBrienCoyle’s Jig, That Kinda Way, The Return Of The Prodigal Son:
c Chris EngelSweatshop
c. Darragh O'Kelly