In 2005, Jon formed neo-soul band Freefall with keyboardist Saeed Shah. Saeed had a solid jazz background but Jon bought funk to the party and the result formed the basis for the band’s sound. Over the next 4 years, Freefall became regulars on the London gig circuit, including Camden’s famous Jazz Cafe . Singers included Zara McFarlane, since signed to Gilles Peterson’s Brownswood Recordings label, and actress/singer Sarah Niles. In 2007, the band recorded its first CD, Pack Up Your Things . Their debut album, Shades , followed in 2008 and Pack Up Your Things was also featured on the Acid Jazz compilation album Totally Wired 21 .

It was my pleasure to have Jon play bass with me for 5 years in an originals band called Freefall. Jon was a dependable member of the band, a quick learner of new songs and had a great feel for the music (jazz/funk/soul so quite often very bass driven). He also contributed many creative ideas and is a good song writer. Finally (and possibly as important as being able to play well), he’s very easy to get along with and has a great sense of humour.

Saeed Shah, MD Freefall

Jon and Saeed have continued to work together on ad-hoc projects since the band split in 2009.

Pack Up Your Things

Mystic Blue Skies

Before I Go