Since bursting onto the scene in 2002 with his debut album Twilight Dreams, Colin Steele’s music has won just about every plaudit there is; from BBC Jazz CD of the Year 2004 and Jazz Review International CD of the Year 2003 (for his follow-up album The Journey Home) to album of the year awards in The Guardian, Observer, Independent and The New Statesman.

Newly signed to leading German label ACT (home of Esbjorn Svensson Trio) his ACT debut release Through The Waves is receiving equally rave reviews (‘utterly vivacious’ – Guardian). Steele’s compositions are inspired by Scottish and Irish folk music, but are firmly rooted in the jazz tradition (‘may be the best amalgam of bop and folk yet’ –Independent). But what really sets Steele’s music apart from other instrumental jazz is its listenability and popular appeal that stretches far beyond the usual jazz audience (‘beautifully conceived and executed, mellow and melodic, Steele’s music has instant appeal’ -Observer).

Steele’s quintet features top musicians from the Scottish and Irish scene: Michael Buckley (saxophones), Dave Milligan (piano), Aidan O’ Donnell (double bass) and Stu Ritchie (drums).

From April 2006, Steele will also be touring his next project ‘Stramash’, which along with his quintet will include 3 of Scotland’s top fiddlers, cello and bagpipes.