VOLANT

Volant has bloomed from a long-standing curiosity of the beauty and intricacy of birds – both in their song and movement, and as enduring symbols of freedom.

Led by acclaimed saxophonist Matthew Ottignon, the Sydney quartet features pianist Lauren Tsamouras, bassist Hannah James, and drummer Hayley Chan.

“Is there something about this music, flush with heightened beauty and transcendence, that speaks tellingly to our times? On the strength of Volant, one senses a resounding yes.” - ★★★★1/2 Dingo Jazz Magazine

Ottignon has dug deep, burrowing into a brand of spiritual jazz rooted in the music of John and Alice Coltrane and Pharoah Sanders. “This music is an echo of all the sounds that have resonated with me past and present.”

“His invention, execution and originality is exceptional” - Jazzwise Magazine (UK)

With the release of their debut album (Earshift Music, 2024), Volant’s sound resonated internationally. The album received soaring 4 and 5-star reviews in The Age, Jazzwise (UK), Dingo Jazz Magazine, and the Sydney Morning Herald, and was named Best of Jazz Bandcamp (August), as well as a Feature Album on ABC Jazz and Eastside Radio.

“His current quartet has now adopted Volant [meaning 'to fly'] as a band name, and it’s the perfect moniker for an outfit that can glide and soar as naturally as a flock of birds,” wrote Jessica Nicholas in The Age. John Shand of the Sydney Morning Herald adds, “the impression of flight is not observed, but is experienced and exhilarating.”