Get The Blessing

Formed in Bristol, England, during 2000, the progressive jazz/noise/thrash outfit Get the Blessing adopted its current name after a legal dispute compelled the original lineup, then known simply as the Blessing, to alter its title. Their sonic identity took shape through shared affinities for modern creative improvisation, North African traditions, and non-chordal textures. An additional fascination with Ornette Coleman’s harmelodic principles sharpened their direction, prompting the group’s first studio sessions in 2006. In its earlier incarnation the Blessing pursued a parallel path to the Esbjörn Svensson Trio while also aligning with Polar Bear and Acoustic Ladyland, drawing further inspiration from Kings of Leon, Morphine, Elvis Costello, and Albert Ayler. The resulting debut album, All Is Yes, appeared in 2008. Bassist Jim Barr and drummer Clive Deamer, both ex-Portishead, anchor the rhythm section; Barr’s prior associations include the Jukes and Peter Gabriel, whereas Deamer’s wide-ranging résumé encompasses Hawkwind, Jeff Beck, Loreena McKennitt, Alison Moyet, Champion Jack Dupree, Dr. John, Tom Jones, Jools Holland, and Robert Plant. Trumpeter Pete Judge and saxophonist Jake McMurchie have both collaborated with Super Furry Animals, with Judge additionally recognized for film-score contributions and further Portishead work, and McMurchie directing his own jazz quartet after earlier tenure in the National Youth Jazz Orchestra.