Saxophonist, composer, producer and 22a label boss Tenderlonious enters fresh album territory with, 'You Know I Care'. Having released several solo projects, numerous collaborations and a series of LP's, EP's and singles with his band Ruby Rushton that centred on original compositions, he wanted to take a moment to focus his energy on exploring the classic jazz material that has inspired him over the years.

Players like Jackie McLean, Duke Pearson, Clifford Jordan and Wayne Shorter have all played significant roles in Tenderlonious' life and provide a constant source of inspiration for his development as a musician and composer. 'You Know I Care' is a tribute to those musicians and for this reason a landmark album - his first recording that purely delves into the American jazz songbook. Plus it's a way of encouraging a new generation of jazz listeners to explore some of the most significant contributors, and in some cases unsung heroes, to this ever-evolving genre.

This long player clearly follows in the footsteps of Tenderlonious' spiritual jazz hero's, paying particular attention to the original performers of these six masterpieces - Jackie McClean, Clifford Jordan, Wayne Shorter and Duke Pearson. This is also the first time that Tenderlonious has recorded on alto saxophone, a more recent love affair for this talented multi-instrumentalist, and hopefully the first of many.

There is something for everyone on this album, from brooding ballads to full-steam ahead modal delights - and an opportunity to enjoy a fresh take on these timeless compositions.

Tenderlonious: alto saxophone, flutes
Hamish Balfour: piano
Pete Martin: bass
Tim Carnegie: drums

Press:

"What a revelation this album is...undoubtedly one of the best jazz albums you'll hear anywhere this year...The band-leader plays alto sax and flute on this session, with a depth and beauty that is rarely surpassed. The tone and timbre of his alto playing is sublime. It's spiritual, emotive, powerful, dynamic and compellingly blissful to listen to. Add to this the transcendent, ethereal nature of his flute playing and what you have is an album to enjoy with a deep sense of immersive pleasure." - ***** UK Vibe

"Individually and collectively, all the members of the quartet are on top form, making this a fresh and captivating album. There is a range of material and styles here, all handled in a way which supports the overall narrative. It is good to see a musician evolving in new directions. Long may it continue." - **** All About Jazz

"A selection of well-chosen tunes given a respectful revival in a classic saxophone quartet line-up...Duke Pearson's 'You Know I Care' is another restrained flute feature emphasising the emotive tune in a classic Blue Note context and it leaves you with a sense of Tenderlonious as a contemporary musician paying his dues to those influences that have mattered the most to him." - Jazzwise