Rob Cope / Gemini

Release Date: 12th January 2024

CD & Digital Formats / UBU0160

Ubuntu Music is delighted to announce the release of multi-talented composer/saxophonist and podcaster/filmmaker Rob Cope, for the release of Gemini, his second album on Ubuntu Music.

Gemini, derived from Greek mythology as meaning ‘two’ or ‘twins’, brings together two coexisting duos, and musicians who have inspired Rob greatly over the years. This project is a personal reflection of what musical collaboration means to him. For this release, Rob is joined by his great friend and saxophone teacher, Andy Scott, whose playing, compositional creativity, and freedom of expression through both contemporary and improvised music Rob has always admired. The outstanding improvising duo of Liam Noble and Paul Clarvis adds a dimension that celebrates true spontaneity, energy and colour.

Rob describes the music of Gemini: “This music is a self-reflection and collaboration with my great friend and teacher, Andy Scott. Each of my compositions represents a lesson - be it in life or in music - and all the wisdom passed along the way. For me, music should be fun to play but also challenging, and I wanted to combine my love of difficult, contemporary saxophone music with improvisation, and hopefully contribute to the repertoire in a unique way. Liam and Paul are musicians I grew up listening to, so to record with them is the fruition of years of planning and dreaming.”

Paul Clarvis, Andy Scott, Liam Noble, Rob Cope. (Photographer: Chris Cruz)

Rob continues, describing his ongoing relationship with Ubuntu Music: “Releasing ‘Gemini’ on Ubuntu is the perfect next step in my journey with the Label. Having released my debut album, ‘Gods of Apollo’ as well, Ubuntu is home to all of my music. The diversity of the Label is something I identify with and I’m proud to be associated with. Wanting to continue my collaboration with Ubuntu comes from a deep and long-standing appreciation for Martin Hummel, whose energy and enthusiasm - along with his support - made working together on this album a real joy.”

Martin Hummel, Director of Ubuntu Music, concludes: “Rob is a uniquely talented individual, who seems equally comfortable composing, arranging, performing, podcasting or even film directing. ‘Gemini’ is the obvious next step in his mission, which began with ‘Gods of Apollo’. This latest adventure consists of a group of musicians who are leaders in their own right and whom Rob has admired for some time. The music reflects what Rob is all about – as an artist and as a human being – as he takes us on his journey. We’re over the moon (pun intended) to have Rob continue to grow with the Ubuntu Music Family.”

For further information, please contact:

Rob Cope (Artist): roblcope@gmail.com

Emma Perry (UK Publicity): emmasarahperry@gmail.com

Martin Hummel/Ubuntu Music (Worldwide): martin@ubuntumanagementgroup.com

BIOGRAPHY

Gemini is a new band, featuring Rob Cope (soprano saxophone and bass clarinet), Andy Scott (tenor saxophone), Liam Noble (piano) and Paul Clarvis (drums). Andy, Liam and Paul have been performing together for over 30 years and this new band brings them back together with composer Cope at the helm. Gemini’, their first recording as a band, explores Rob's passion for challenging and fun improvised music. Due to perform at jazz venues across the UK in 2024, Gemini will bring a unique combination of impressive technical agility with the freedom of improvisation and genuine musical interaction.

Ubuntu Management Group News

Rob Cope / Gemini