The wait is over: Matthew Bourne’s first full-length album for solo piano (plus bits of cello and Dulcitone) since 2017 is out now. This Is Not For You.

Anyone who has followed Bourne’s career will know he’s never been one to take the expected route. You may have preconceptions of an artist who first came to prominence as a virtuosic pianist and winner of the Perrier Jazz Award in 2001. Witnessing Bourne at the piano is a visceral thrill with the instrument becoming an extension of his body. It’s unclear where one ends and the other begins as he climbs inside a grand to pluck, strum and bend the notes to his will. There’s a rare physicality in his performances that sets him apart – unexpected in the world of concert halls and Steinways.

However, Bourne is driven to push that envelope with projects on Moogs, harmoniums, harpsicords and any number of old, broken or infirm instruments. His fingerprints are all over a huge number of diverse projects, having worked with the likes of Alabaster DePlume, Keith Tippett, Nils Frahm, MINING, Nightports and Mzlkypop, and playing a key role in Keeley Forsyth’s desolate and haunting works.

When he does return to solo piano, it’s certainly cause for celebration. Here’s to a restless and forward-thinking artist doing what he does best.

Put your feet up and listen to This Is Not For You. here. Once you’re finished, it is available to order on LP, CD and digital.