Returning from three years studying and living abroad in Boston, USA, last January, saxophonist and composer Stephen Byth bought together a group of seven of his favourite Australian musicians to play his new music (as well as some material from his acclaimed album, ‘Reparations’). This performance was regarded by many as one of – if not the – outstanding gigs of the year. Ranging from sweeping orchestral soundscapes to explosive dynamic peaks, this material draws inspiration from influences ranging from John Coltrane to Béla Bartók to Andrea Keller. Depicting musical narratives in an Australian context, it explores themes such as identity, landscape, time and place, as well as the navigation of complex social dynamics. For this performance he reconvenes that personnel with Niran Dasika (trumpet), Bernard Alexander (alto saxophone), Stephen Byth (tenor), James Macaulay (trombone), Julien Wilson (clarinet and bass clarinet), Kade Brown (piano), Sam Anning (double bass) and, from Adelaide, Angus Mason (drums). After a performance in February, featuring material from his new album, this will be the Octet’s last gig before Byth heads back to the USA.