Gleaming World Unit

"this is a vital, frequently thrilling calling card from an explosive quintet, whose leader serves compelling notice of his credentials as a composer and bandleader of some distinction.” — All About Jazz

Belfast-based drummer and improviser Stephen Davis is one of the most sought-after musicians and collaborators working today. He is a member of Anthony Braxton’s ‘The New Standard’ and the Alexander Hawkins Trio, and has worked with Marc Ribot, Evan Parker, Kris Davis, Paul Dunmall, Django Bates, and Van Morrison.

His new project, Gleaming World Unit, marks a new chapter and a first international label release (577 Records, New York). Drawing on a letter by Seamus Heaney and time spent in the Wicklow mountains, Davis developed a compositional approach that purposefully blurs improvisation and composition. Ghosts, forests, old photographs and conversations with elders fed into a sound blending free jazz, punk, contemporary classical, electronics, and art-music.

The touring ensemble features Alexander Hawkins (piano), alto saxophonist Angelika Niescier, tenor saxophonist Tom Challenger, and double bassist Michael Formanek. The group made an explosive live bow at the Brilliant Corners festival in Belfast in 2024 and will present shows across Dublin, Belfast and London.

Each of the album’s eight compositions moves through playful, thought-provoking and boldly free expressions, with relentless grooves, chunkier hip-hop adjacent percussion and moments of sultry seduction. Expect a dynamic live experience.