Richard Spaven

Richard Spaven

Richard Spaven is a London-based drummer associated with jazz, funk, electronic music and instrumental electronica. He is known for playing across different styles while keeping a clear jazz influence in his work.

Career

Spaven becomes established through his drumming and his ability to move easily between genres. He works with classically trained pianist Robert Mitchell and tours internationally with the late hip-hop MC GURU. He also plays with Mark de Clive Lowe and 4Hero, providing percussion for their more futuristic sounds.

He serves as the backbone of jazz vocalist Jose James’s band and also handles the rhythm section for The Cinematic Orchestra. His style makes him a familiar figure within the Jazzre:freshed scene, where his playing and approach fit closely with the collective’s focus on contemporary jazz.

44th Move and solo work

Spaven is a member of 44th Move. His solo release 5ive reflects his broad influences and places jazz at the centre while drawing on other musical forms. The record uses different textures and challenges more traditional jazz structures.