Jack Wilson - new album and UK live dates.
Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Saxophonist and composer Jack Wilson released his debut album, The Bear And The Wolf, on June 26th 2026. He will play a short series of UK live dates during July and August.
We have received the following press release;
Jack Wilson
THE BEAR AND THE WOLF
Whittington Records – WR002CD/LP
Release date (CD, vinyl & digital): Friday 26 June 2026
LIVE DATES:
Wednesday 1 July – Manchester, Matt & Phred’s
Thursday 2 July – Harrogate, Crema Coffee
Friday 3 July – Ambleside, Zeffirellis
Tuesday 18 August – album launch at PizzaExpress Live (Holborn)
Saxophonist and composer Jack Wilson presents his debut album, The Bear And The Wolf, a rich, melodic recording rooted in strong narrative writing and shaped by the musical rapport of his longstanding quartet featuring Billy Marrows (electric guitar), Max Kahn (double bass) and Jack Yardley (drums).
The album opens with ‘Cascade’, a flowing piece built around a repeating guitar motif and a standout drum feature; ‘Prelude For The Departed’ follows, drawing on the spirituality of the John Coltrane Quartet, particularly the classic line-up featuring McCoy Tyner, Jimmy Garrison and Elvin Jones, with a simple theme that builds in intensity. ‘P&P’ is a tribute to mentors Ian Peak and Paul Welch, moving between swing and more turbulent, modern textures. In contrast, ‘Lullaby’ offers a quieter moment with a warm, lyrical ballad, while the title track, ‘The Bear And The Wolf’, unfolds through two contrasting themes, suggesting companionship and a shared journey.
Travel and everyday life also shape the music. ‘Södermalm’, named after the Stockholm district Wilson knows well, reflects a sense of warmth and energy, while ‘Mr Fox’ captures a more playful mood, sparked by a regular garden visitor and the angular groove of 1980s John Scofield.
At the heart of the album is the chemistry between the four musicians, built over years of collaboration. As Wilson explains, “Writing with these musicians in mind has allowed their personalities to come out in the music with greater ease. We’ve played together in different formats over a number of years, and there’s a real sense of connection and trust. Max and Jack play together as a dynamic unit that brings a big energy and vibe to a musical setting. It is very exciting to be able to play over them as soloist. Billy’s playing acts as the glue to the band, filling the space thoughtfully and with real excitement.”
The Bear And The Wolf is released on Whittington Records in association with ECN Music.
Recorded on 28 & 29 October 2025 at Lightship 95; mixed and mastered by Alex Bonney.
Jack Wilson: jackwilsonmusic.co.uk
London-based saxophonist, composer and multi-instrumentalist Jack Wilson is an emerging voice on the UK jazz scene, drawing on influences from jazz, folk and world music. He performs widely across the UK and Europe, appearing at major festivals including EFG London Jazz Festival, Green Man and Cambridge Folk Festival and has toured with Palestinian violinist Akram Abdulfattah. His self-titled debut EP led to sold-out London shows and a UK tour. Alongside performing, Jack is a dedicated educator, teaching woodwind with Haringey Music Service and leading workshops, ensembles and community music projects.
ECN Music: http://www.ecnmusic.com
Distribution via ECN Music/Proper Music: propermusic.com