Album Notes

Jazz: Extreme Measures

A quintet of talented instrumentalists, Newcastle-based Extreme Measures are not in the least bit extreme, and are only measured in the sense of David Carnegie's meticulous drumming.
Their debut album, EXM, comprises originals by members of the group, all versed in jazz, classical and rock. The pieces are not at all predictable, each overflowing with melody, making EXM an exceptionally fresh record with a mildly euphoric air.
The individual players have different, though compatible, qualities. Gary Turner is a deft saxophonist, and Barbados-born Carnegie holds everything together with poise and power. Stuart Davies is an intoxicatingly funky bassist, and pianist Ben Gilbert favours elegance and delicacy. Guitarist Jamie McCredie offers the album's most luminous tune with Colours Of 6, which builds with drama and excitement.
Brimful of ideas, EXM only counts as Extreme Measures' finest effort until the next one. We haven't heard the last of this lot.

Mike Butler, METRO life (03/08/2009)