Derek Nash Acoustic Quartet – You've Got To Dig It To Dig It, You Dig?

Derek Nash Acoustic Quartet – You’ve Got To Dig It To Dig It, You Dig?

A vibrant and swinging session, You’ve Got To Dig It To Dig It, You Dig? finds Derek Nash stepping away from big band settings to explore a more intimate acoustic quartet sound. Known for his work with the Jools Holland Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, Nash brings that same energy and precision here, but with a looser, more conversational approach that lets each musician shine.

Blending original compositions with carefully chosen standards, the album moves effortlessly between hard-swinging grooves and reflective moments. Nash’s writing- heard on tracks like the playful title piece and “Swing Thing” - is both melodic and rhythmically engaging, while contributions from collaborators like Geoff Gascoyne add further depth and sophistication.

The quartet format allows for rich interplay throughout, with guest appearances from trumpeter Martin Shaw adding an extra layer of brightness and punch on selected tracks. Meanwhile, interpretations of classics - from “Secret Love” to Duke Ellington’s “Morning Glory” - are delivered with both reverence and fresh perspective.

Warm, engaging, and full of character, this album is a celebration of straight-ahead jazz played with style and personality - perfect for listeners who appreciate top-tier musicianship and a genuine love of the tradition.

Tracklist:

1. Secret Love
2. Let Some Things Go By
3. You’ve Got To Dig It To Dig It, You Dig?
4. Time Lag
5. Swing Thing
6. Homecoming
7. Vertigo
8. I’m Getting Temperamental Over You
9. Winter Solstice
10. Keep It To Yourself
11. Morning Glory