Here’s an exceptional new record from Ultramarine on the excellent Blackford Hill imprint. Send And Return is a gorgeous geographical work that reflects a changing environment as their own music goes through its own changes. Hard to place but if you like Tape, Andrew Wasylyk and the softer side of To Rococo Rot this could be for you.

The moods and movements of an English estuary can be heard running through Send And Return. Flowing and mutating as it transitions from an Essex river into the open sea, the Blackwater Estuary, north of London inspired this beguiling collection of hypnotic jazz, itching electronica and softly dazzling ambient shapes.

Send and Return is the result of a live session captured onboard a barge floating on the Blackwater Estuary, recorded in 2020. Paul and Ian were joined by Greg Heath (on saxophones and alto flute) and Ric Elsworth (percussion and vibraphone).

Recorded live on board Thames Sailing Barge Kitty, Maldon, Essex 7th February 2020

Additional production and mixing at Press Play Studios, London March 2022

Ian Cooper | live treatments, guitar

Paul Hammond | keyboard, bass guitar

Greg Heath | soprano sax, alto flute

Ric Elsworth | vibraphone, percussion

Mix engineer | Andy Ramsay

Mastering | Jason Goz, Transition Mastering

Photography | Ian Cooper