I was listening to this jazz duo's new album, A Short Diary, and I was floored by its beautiful melodies and superb musicianship.  Drummer Sebastian Rochford from Aberdeen, Scotland and jazz pianist Kit Downes have created a musical masterpiece.  Rochford has a large family that is not afraid to express themselves. Father Gerald Rochford was a poet who fueled Sebastian's creative mind. His musical path began with a local punk band called Cabbage. Later, he went to the Newcastle College of Music to perfect his playing. He's collaborated with many artists such artists as Adele, Pete Doherty, and others. The leader of the British experimental jazz band, Polar Bear, he also goes by the name, Kutch Butcha.

Kit Downes originally started as an organ player but quickly switched to piano. He studied both at the Purcell School of Music and later the Royal Academy of Music. In 2015 he was nominated in the Rising Star category in Downbeat magazine, making a name for himself as a leader and a sideman. He has won countless awards over the years for his own recordings. He made his debut in 2008 with the album Troyka with many more to follow, including three albums last year alone with three different trios.

Together these two talented musicians created an album of beautiful piano and drums that is both sexy and so soothing that I can listen to it on repeat. The album was created as a way for Sebastian Rochford to get through grief where it comforts your soul. The Short Diary was just released, and it's an album you should check out. Support independent music and musicians. Happy listening!