The Blow-Up play a distinctive, dynamic brand of cinematic jazz groove, drawing on a rich pool of 60s and 70s soundtrack tunes – Get Carter, Alfie, Bond, Black Orpheus, Bullitt, Midnight Cowboy and more. Stylish and accessible, the band features Tom Unwin on piano, Stig Olson on saxes and bass clarinet, and are completed by the fluid twin rhythms of the multi-talented Marcus Vergette on double bass and Ric Byer on drums.
Listen below to clips of the band in performance.
Blow Up by Herbie Hancock
Black Orpheus by Luis Bonfa (arranged by Tom Unwin)
Get Carter by Roy Budd
Midnight Cowboy by John Barry
The Godfather Waltz by Nino Rota
Reviews of The Blow-Up
“Pianist and leader Tom Unwin is a dexterous pianist with an impressive technique. In every number he proved highly creative. Best of all were his introductions that invariably kept the attentive audience guessing as to which way the piece was heading….All in all, a great evening of jazz that was never allowed to settle, where virtuosity was integrated and variety ensured”
Anthony Pither, Ilminster Arts Centre
“Some of the best contemporary jazz I’ve heard”
Paul Bamford, Jazz Aficionado