Press

“Weighty but not heavy-handed approaches to contemporary issues manifest clear-eyed social conviction through compositions of fire and substance.”
– Downbeat Magazine

“Precise, clever, penetrating logic..distinctive ideas.”
– The Village Voice

“John Leaman’s compositions are rhythmic and harmonic mosaics developing rich deep tones…. makes a lasting impression.”
– Jazz Life Magazine (Japan)

“Leaman’s writing is refined and original… always balanced thanks to a an excellent capacity for arrangement.”
– Musica Jazz (Italy)

“Covers the spectrum from sweet harmonic textures to fierce discord and agitated rhythms…Maddeningly catchy melodies."
– CMJ New Music Report

"Some of the best music that you'll hear...truly an inspiration."
– Wire Magazine (England)

"Auteur Leaman reveals a rather languid romanticism spiked by a sharp dramatic sense. It's a sensibility reflected in the melancholy shadings of the arrangements. The shifting moods of the compositions and ironic use of gesture."
– Musician Magazine (USA)

"Symphonic Poems. Descriptive and elaborate with intricate rhythms. Music of exceptional quality.The writing is really beautiful, colorful and rythmic.
– Jazz Hot (France)