Biography
Ancient Infinity Orchestra is a large, communal jazz ensemble founded and led by double-bassist and composer Ozzy Moysey, originating in Leeds, North of England—a region known for its vibrant, community-driven jazz scene. Formed after years of collaborative improvisation among friends and inspired by frequent pilgrimages to London’s Café Oto, the group was born from a desire to blend improvisational freedom with strong melodic writing. The ensemble’s name was inspired by a story about a drum named by Sun Ra, reflecting the group’s reverence for ancient and timeless musical traditions.
The orchestra features a rotating cast of 14-15 musicians, including saxophonists, double bassists, harpists, violinists, cellists, pianists, and a wide array of woodwinds and percussion, creating a sound that is both expansive and intimate. Their music draws deeply from the well of spiritual jazz, especially the soulful, meditative works of Pharoah Sanders, Alice and John Coltrane, while also channeling the Northern English jazz sensibility fostered by contemporaries like Matthew Halsall. Their debut album 'Rivers of Light' (2023, Gondwana Records) and follow-up 'It's Always About Love' showcase their melodic, improvisational approach, emphasizing togetherness, healing, and the joy of communal music-making.
Ancient Infinity Orchestra’s legacy is rooted in their commitment to community, inclusivity, and the celebration of musical friendship. Their performances and recordings are marked by a warm, honest, and deeply spiritual character, offering listeners a sense of connection and uplift through music that is both rooted in tradition and open to new influences.
Fun Facts
- The ensemble’s name was inspired by a story about a drum named by Sun Ra, called the 'ancient Egyptian infinity lightning wood drum.'
- Ancient Infinity Orchestra often features two double bassists and a wide array of unusual instruments, including guzheng (Chinese zither), harp, and oboe.
- The group’s formation was catalyzed by regular trips to London’s Café Oto to see avant-garde jazz legends, which deeply influenced their communal and improvisational ethos.
- Their music is intentionally melody-driven, serving as a vessel for the individual expression and fulfillment of each member.
Members
- John Arnesen
- Michael Bardon
- Georgie Buchanan
- Matt Cliffe
- Evan Rhodri Davies - violin
- Oliver Dover
- Will Howard
- Megan Jowett
- Ozzy Moysey
- Tom Orrell
- Jake Rider
- Elliot Roffe
- Toma Sapir
- Khemi Shabazz
- Joel Stedman
- Hugh Vincent
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Pharoah Sanders - Major spiritual jazz influence; referenced in the track 'Pharoah Sings' and in the ensemble's overall sound. (General inspiration, especially for 'Rivers of Light') [2020s (influence acknowledged during formation and recording)]
- Alice Coltrane - Inspirational figure for the ensemble's spiritual and melodic approach. (General inspiration, especially for 'Rivers of Light') [2020s]
- John Coltrane - Stylistic and spiritual influence on improvisational and compositional approach. (General inspiration) [2020s]
Key Collaborators
- Mathew Cliffe - Key saxophonist and core member; also performs with Matthew Halsall. ('Rivers of Light', 'It's Always About Love') [2023-present]
- Joe Love - Original drummer and founding member; helped shape the group's early sound. (Early live performances, 'Rivers of Light') [2020s]
- Andy French - Tenor saxophonist and founding member; returned from Spain to join the group. (Early live performances, 'Rivers of Light') [2020s]
- Yorgos - First pianist in the group, contributed to the ensemble's initial sound. (Early live performances) [2020s]
- Matthew Halsall - Contemporary and occasional collaborator; his work and support have been influential in the Northern English jazz scene. (Shared performances, scene-building) [2020s]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| River of Light | 2023-11-17 | Album |
| It's Always About Love | 2025-09-26 | Album |
| It's Always About Love | 2025-09-26 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Equanimity (River of Light)
- Chant for Don Cherry (Chant for Don Cherry)
- The Seeker (The Seeker)
- Greeting (River of Light)
- River of Light (River of Light)
- Rejoicing (River of Light)
- Michael & Zelah (River of Light)
- Niyama (River of Light)
- Spring Break on Trappist-1 (River of Light)
- Love Song (River of Light)
External Links
Tags: #jazz
References
Heard on WWOZ
Ancient Infinity Orchestra has been played 2 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 28, 2025 | 08:12 | Nilgoonfrom Its Always About Love | The Morning Setw/ Fox Duhon or Mark LaMaire | |
| Sep 30, 2025 | 06:45 | Chant for Don Cherryfrom Chant for Don Cherry | The Morning Setw/ Fox Duhon or Mark LaMaire |