Sweet Dusk: Music by Mick Foster (DXL 1214) Digital Booklet

Sweet Dusk is an album of original compositions for the Quartz Saxophone Quartet by baritone saxophonist Mick Foster. Sitting at the nexus of jazz and classical writing, Foster’s language is sophisticatedly accessible, combining contemporary jazz harmonies with soaring melodies and a pulsating rhythmic intensity. The Quartet speak this language as their own, with their members’ unique combination of experience in symphony orchestras, jazz bands, and West End shows. Sensitively recorded by Matt Wadsworth, they have a beautiful, clear, warm sound, which lets each soloist shine through whilst giving a homogeneous glow to the ensemble.

Mick Foster is a saxophonist and composer who has worked extensively in the fields of jazz, commercial and classical music. Mick has appeared with many ensembles, including the London Philharmonic Orchestra and English National Opera, as well as the big bands of John Dankworth, Stan Sulzmann and Mike Garrick, and many more. Mick has recorded four albums under his own name and appears on film & TV soundtracks including Don’t Look Up and Downton Abbey. As a composer, Mick has written for ensembles ranging from Onyx Brass to the London Jazz Orchestra. His music has been recorded and played around the world, broadcast on BBC radio, and included on exam syllabi. Mick teaches at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, London, and at Jazz School UK.

Catalogue No: DXL 1214
Title: Sweet Dusk: Music by Mick Foster
Artists: Quartz Saxophone Quartet
Barcode: 0666283121421
Playing Time: 52:48
UK Release: 3rd October 2025
UK Distribution: RSK, Tel: 01488 608900
Packaging: 1CD, Digipak; Box 35

Track List:

Saxophone Quartet No 1
1. With movement   6:24
2. Freely, slowly – Tranquil   5:03
3. Lively   5:03

Saxophone Quartet No 2
4. Brooding   5:48
5. Lively   2:35
6. Tenderly   2:50
7. Joyful   3:42

Autumn Tones
8. Sweet Dusk   3:08
9. Leaf Swirl   4:02

Five Contemporary Dances
10. Jivers   2:08
11. For Astor   2:42
12. Saturday Night   2:32
13. Witney’s Lament   4:11
14. Salseros   2:41