Nichols’ ensemble is a close-knit group that have been playing, performing and studying together for eight years, honing in the material on ‘From Dust’ through a series of recent gigs around the UK. The result is a mature, interactive, pedigree-pushing sound beyond their years.

Featuring seven original compositions by Nichols and saxophonist Charlie Rees, the quintet flows between delicate, balladic tenderness, exhilarating high-energy contemporary swing, time-bending chaos and everything in between with ease. Rich modern harmony, well considered arrangements and expressive improvisations from each member of the ensemble are stitched together with a strong foothold in tradition, and a vivacious forward-thinking spirit. 

Each song is a musical reflection of some of the stories and memories that make up Nichols’ identity – ‘When All Is Said And “Dunn”’ is a tribute to his grandfather who was lost to dementia in 2022, ‘Treyarnon’ is named after a bay in Cornwall where he spent many of his childhood holidays, ‘From Dust’ is a nod to his personal journey with his faith, and ‘Green Juice’ is a reference to a conversation overheard on a bus between two older women discussing the secret to maintaining their husbands’ health in old age.