A jazz quartet is set to visit Ross-on-Wye, Hay-on-Wye and Winchcombe as part of its UK album tour early next year.
Will Barnes Jazz Quartet on UK Album Tour
Corn Exchange Jazz. Ross-on-Wye on 9 January
Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye on 24 January
Isbourne Arts, Winchcombe on 7 February
Jazz fans will have the opportunity to experience the Will Barnes Quartet’s new album, Outside the Light.
Following the success of their debut album Source of the Severn, which earned praise from critics—including “springy deftness… cool precision… serious chops” from MOJO and The Jazz Mann’s description as “evocative, intelligent… contemporary”—the quartet returns with a bold, expressive collection of original compositions inspired by local folklore, Celtic mythology and the richly evocative landscapes of Mid Wales and the Welsh Marches.
Already garnering critical acclaim. Outside the Light showcases the group’s evolution and creative confidence. The album was released on 7 November 2025 and draws on the interplay between jazz improvisation and changing seasons, exploring themes of light, darkness and shifting terrain in ways that reflect the region’s unique character.
The quartet features Will Barnes (guitar/composer), Jack Gonsalez (piano), Aidan Thorne (bass) and James Batten (drums)
Speaking ahead of the tour, Barnes said, “I initially set myself a brief to write eight pieces that reflect the changing seasons in our landscape here in Mid Wales. As the pieces started coming together, the project evolved, and I drew influence from Celtic folklore. The theme of seasons morphed into themes of light and dark—in particular how the change in light throughout the seasons alters our perception of the landscape and how this has influenced folklore. Each piece is written with a particular place/feeling/story in mind. I will endeavour to recite some of the stories behind the pieces at our live shows.” UK Jazz News – UK Jazz News
The quartet is known for its tight interplay and dynamic live performances, with past appearances at prominent venues and events including Pizza Express Jazz Club (Soho), Hay Festival, Brecon Jazz Festival and BBC Radio 4’s Loose Ends.
Each of the upcoming venues offers a distinctive setting, from the intimate atmosphere of Corn Exchange Jazz, to the historic surroundings of Hay Castle, and the renowned listening space at Isbourne Arts. Audiences can expect an immersive evening of modern jazz that is both emotionally resonant and musically sophisticated.
Tickets for all three dates are available via the respective venue box offices.