A unique island-based group that creates music on the spot is set to release its debut album this weekend.

The three-piece group Chroma release their first CD, ’Captured’, tomorrow (Friday).

The eclectic and experimental eight-track album features the talents of guitarist and bassist Jon Sanders, saxophonist and keyboardist Sue Harrison and drummer Danny Kneale, with each track featuring a series of live-recorded improvised music and melodies.

According to Jon, each piece of music begins with no preconceived idea and no knowledge of which direction the music will head towards.

The group have been performing together since 2018 and their concerts take the same approach, playing improvisational tracks rather than preconceived songs.

The result is described as a ’unique snapshot’ of this highly-creative method of playing and composing music, featuring each band member’s blend of rock, jazz and prog influences.

The album was recorded and produced by Gyp Buggane at Ballagroove studios, Ballasalla earlier this year.

Jon said that the group literally creates music on the spot and that, because of this unusual approach, both the band and the audience never know what is going to happen from performance to performance.

’That is always exciting from both the audience and performers’ perspectives,’ said Jon.

’I have always been drawn to melodic improvisation from a very early stage in my musical development.

’It is just something that seems to draw me in and I need to do creatively.

’This is why I always appreciate all forms of music and totally understand why musicians and the numerous other fantastic bands and performers on this wonderful musically-rich island have to play what they play.

’It is just something they are drawn to and it can’t be helped, which is always great for music and audiences in general.

’Sue and I work very well together musically, and it is always exciting to be able to interact live as we never know which path each piece will take.

’It really is a case of using total listening to its advantage and being able to react instantly to each other using the overall soundscape we are given.’

Away for the group, Jon is a full-time professional musician specialising in musical education and melodic improvisation using a variety of instruments in many genres.

He currently mentors a wide range of musicians, ranging from complete beginners to professional-level players with a unique and original approach to music.

’Captured’ is available to download or buy as a CD from the Chroma Bandcamp page, priced £10.

The CD was originally intended to be released during two special concerts, held at the Railway, Douglas, tomorrow night (Friday) and at the Manx Arms in Onchan on Saturday. Unfortunately both gigs have been cancelled.