Sacha Harlan, a London-based drummer and composer, has rapidly become one of the most sought-after players in the UK’s burgeoning new wave of jazz musicians. His talent and unique voice have propelled him to the forefront of the jazz scene, garnering recognition from established artists and audiences alike.

Sacha’s journey into jazz and improvised music was significantly shaped by his mentorship with Dave King, the innovative drummer from The Bad Plus, Happy Apple, and Julian Lage Trio. During the lockdown period, Dave’s guidance played a pivotal role in honing Sacha’s musicality, inspiring his dynamic approach to rhythm and improvisation. King has described Sacha as having “an original voice far beyond his years,” a testament to his exceptional artistry and deep musical insight.

Regularly collaborating with prominent artists such as Byron Wallen, Hans Koller, and Tom Challenger, Sacha has cemented his place as a key figure within the contemporary jazz community. His distinctive drumming style and compositional vision also shine in his work with Tom Challenger, Caius Williams, and Noah Stoneman, culminating in their much-anticipated 2024 release, Pointe In Line. This record is poised to highlight the group’s collective innovation and Sacha’s rhythmic mastery, reinforcing his status as a driving force in UK jazz.

Beyond his studio and live performance achievements, Sacha’s evolving career reflects his passion for pushing musical boundaries while staying rooted in the rich traditions of jazz and improvisation. Whether leading his own projects or contributing to collaborative ensembles, Sacha continues to captivate audiences with his expressive and nuanced artistry.