Empirical is set to release their second album now slated for release on 28 September. To be released by the Salisbury-based Naim Jazz label it’s the follow up to the critically acclaimed eponymously titled Destin-e album that became the Jazzwise album of the year in 2007.

The band since then has undergone changes in personnel and now for the album titled Out ’n’ In features vibes player Lewis Wright, alto saxophonist Nathaniel Facey, bassist Tom Farmer and drummer Shaney Forbes with special guest reedsman Julian Siegel. Tracks include Nat Facey’s ‘So He Left’ and ‘Dolphys Morphyus’, Tom Farmer-penned ‘Out But In’, ‘Interlude’ and ‘Syndicalism’ plus Eric Dolphy’s ‘Hat and Beard’ and ‘Gazzelloni’. The album was produced by Jason Yarde.

Simon Drake, Naim label manager says: “Empirical are deservedly the hottest ticket around at the moment. We are absolutely delighted to be releasing such an outstanding album from a quartet that represents everything that is great about the future of British jazz. As you can imagine Empirical generated a wealth of interest from a whole heap of labels and the guys were obviously looking for a label that suited their demeanour and the refreshing enthusiasm they so brilliantly bear.”

Empirical saxophonist Nathaniel Facey told Jazzwise: “Naim Jazz is the ideal label for us: it’s full of enthusiasm and focus, and it has real belief in our work. It also has a reputation for producing high quality products. We as a group are very much looking forward to working with Simon Drake and everyone at Naim Jazz, and are committed to developing a strong brand and voice for UK jazz in every territory we can.”

- Stephen Graham