New Zealand–born, London-based keyboardist and producer Ben Stewart captures a beautiful tug-of-war on Live from Lloyd’s Place, his latest two-track EP. This EP comes off intimate, restless, and profound all at once. Released via HUMMUCIDE Music, this short but potent live session thrives on contrast, pitting mental overload against calm resolution, and letting the music breathe somewhere in between. Backed by a sharp lineup of London jazz heavy-hitters—Sam Notman on drums, Benjamin Muralt on bass, and Jamie Pye on guitar—Stewart leans into feel over flash, even when the chops are undeniably there.
The EP opens with “Spiral,” and right away, you’re dropped into motion. Notman kicks things off with fast, rumbling, almost rapping drums that pulse with nervous energy, setting a groove that never quite settles. The melody floats lazily above, wandering without a strict pattern, like thoughts racing in different directions at once. Muralt’s bass keeps things grounded, locking in with the drums while Stewart’s keys move conversationally, weaving in and out of the rhythm. It’s relaxed and groovy on the surface, but underneath there’s tension, the kind that keeps you on edge without ever tipping over.
Then comes “Acceptance,” and the shift is subtle but powerful. The rhythm section eases into a more head-nodding, sketchy groove. Jamie Pye’s guitar opens up the sonic palette, adding warmth and space as the melody turns gentler and more trance-inducing. Stewart’s playing here feels reflective, letting notes linger, while the band listens closely to one another, bouncing ideas back and forth with restraint. It’s meditative without drifting off, calm without going flat.
Live from Lloyd’s Place is a snapshot of stress and peace, captured live, raw, and unpolished in the best way. Two tracks, two states of mind, and a reminder that sometimes clarity comes right after the chaos.
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Review by: Naomi Joan