TOP jazz saxophonist Carlos Lopez-Real is bringing his new band Mandorla to Huddersfield later this month.

The gig, at the town’s Lawrence Batley Theatre on April 25, is part of a UK tour to promote the band’s new album.

In Mandorla, Carlos has brought together some of the country’s best, award-winning young musicians.

Expect lyrical melodies, grooves that draw you in and high-level interaction between the players as they improvise.

The music draws on a diverse pool of influences including Steve Reich, Bjork, Bheki Mseleku and John McLaughlin.

Carlos is a London-based saxophonist, composer and teacher.

He plays largely jazz but also enjoys everything from 20’s jazz through bebop, fusion and free jazz to salsa and dance.

“I’ve played in Huddersfield before with my previous band and I’m looking forward to bringing my new project here. The jazz club here is one of the most enthusiastic that I’ve visited so it’s always a great pleasure.”

As well as Carlos on alto and soprano saxes, Mandorla features, on guitar, Justin Quinn whose own album Before I Forget won Mojo magazine’s best jazz CD of 2005.

The line-up includes bassist Oli Hayhurst, founder member of Gilad Atzmon’s Orient House Ensemble, plus BBC regular Simon Colam on piano, and hot young drummer Jon Scott.

This latest Huddersfield Jazz organised gig is in the LBT’s Cellar space at 8pm. Box office is on 01484 430528.