Lorenzo Morabito, an Italian double bassist based in London, has been steadily active in the jazz scene since 2019. Known for his reliable and understated playing, he’s contributed to live performances and digital releases over the past few years. Here’s a snapshot of his recent work. 

In 2023, Morabito teamed up with guitarist Miles Mindlin for a duo performance at Karamel in London. The set highlighted his ability to anchor a minimal lineup, providing a solid rhythmic base for Mindlin’s guitar. That same year, he joined guitarist Artie Zaitz and vocalist Jo Harrop for a trio gig, where they reinterpreted Harrop’s songs with a soulful, bluesy edge. 

Morabito’s basslines offered a consistent foundation, supporting the group’s sound without drawing attention away from his collaborators. Morabito’s music is available on platforms like Spotify, with tracks such as “The Thespian” and “Easel” linked to his name. 

As of early 2025, he has 21 monthly listeners on Spotify—a modest but real presence for a working musician. His recordings reflect his role as a contributor to the jazz landscape, accessible to anyone browsing online. 

Based in London, Morabito keeps a low profile outside his performances. His approach to the double bass prioritizes structure and support, making him a dependable partner for other musicians. 

He’s part of London’s active jazz community, showing up where the music happens. On March 27, 2025, Lorenzo Morabito continues to play and contribute to London’s jazz scene. His recent gigs and online tracks point to a musician focused on the craft, offering a listenable presence for those interested in current jazz talent.

The Already In Berlin Band stands as one of London's most exciting new traditional jazz ensembles, delivering hard-swinging, string-led early jazz with a distinctive approach that captivates audiences throughout the UK. At the heart of their rhythmic foundation is accomplished bassist Lorenzo Morabito, whose impressive credentials and growing reputation have made him one of the UK jazz scene's most in-demand musicians.

## The Band's Musical Identity and Style

The Already In Berlin Band specializes in straight-forward, hard-swinging early jazz that is firmly anchored in pre-war jazz styles[1]. What makes the ensemble particularly unique is their drummerless lineup, which creates a collective spirit of music-making with all the texture and nuance characteristic of traditional jazz[1]. Their performances capture the spirit of classic jazz pioneers from both sides of the Atlantic, presenting a repertoire featuring compositions from legendary figures such as Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet, and Django Reinhardt[1][4].

The band's musical approach harkens back to an era when jazz was considered revolutionary, controversial, and decidedly "hot"[1][4]. Their string-led sound creates a distinctive texture that allows listeners to experience classic jazz in its most authentic form while maintaining a fresh and engaging presentation. The absence of drums places greater emphasis on the stringed instruments' rhythmic capabilities, resulting in a sound that's both historically informed and creatively vibrant.

### Band Members and Their Contributions

The Already In Berlin Band features four accomplished musicians who each bring distinctive elements to the collective sound:

1. Dave Kelbie (Guitar) - As the band's frontman, Kelbie is described as "an unstoppable force on rhythm guitar with a sound described as 'the rhythmic rumbling of a folksy freight train'"[1][4]. His extensive experience includes performing with The Dime Notes, Evan Christopher's Django a la Creole, and Don Vappie's Jazz Creole[1]. Kelbie has devoted his professional career to playing rhythm guitar and has been a prominent accompanist to many world-leading jazz soloists and celebrated guitarists in the Gypsy jazz world over the past 30 years[9].

2. Matt Holborn (Violin) - Serving as the London Django Collective's curator, composer, and educator, Holborn is rapidly establishing himself as a significant force in jazz violin[1][4]. He learned jazz initially through his musician grandfather before studying with notable violinists including Omar Puente, Tim Kliphuis, and Tcha Limberger[9].

3. John Kelly (Guitar) - Described as a "legend of London's Classic jazz and African music scenes," Kelly brings depth and authenticity to the ensemble's sound[1][4]. Based in London, he works across various styles from early jazz and ragtime to Hot Club style swing and contemporary jazz, having graduated from Leeds Conservatoire in 2005[9].

4. Lorenzo Morabito (Double Bass) - Providing the crucial anchor for the group, Morabito has quickly established himself as one of the most sought-after bassists on the UK jazz scene[2][6].

## Lorenzo Morabito: Rising Star of UK Jazz Bass

Lorenzo Morabito's story is particularly compelling within the context of the band. Despite his relatively young age, he has swiftly risen to prominence as one of the most sought-after double bassists on the UK jazz scene, particularly since the pandemic period[2][6].

### Background and Musical Journey

Born in London to Italian parents, Morabito represents a new generation of jazz talent making waves in London's competitive jazz landscape[2]. His musical journey demonstrates remarkable adaptability and dedication to his craft, allowing him to excel across various jazz subgenres and ensemble configurations[2].

Morabito is known for his impeccable timing, articulate soloing capabilities, and versatility across jazz styles, which have made him a first-call musician for numerous prominent artists and ensembles[2]. What sets him apart is his exceptional ability to elevate the performances of his collaborators through his technical excellence and innate musical sensitivity[2].

### Current Projects and Collaborations

Beyond The Already In Berlin Band, Lorenzo maintains an active performance schedule across London's most prestigious jazz venues and festivals[2]. He serves as a key member of the Nat Steele Quartet, where he performs alongside vibraphonist Nat Steele, pianist Matyas Gayer, and drummer Steve Brown[6]. This quartet pays homage to the legendary Modern Jazz Quartet, performing classic tunes such as "Django," "Softly, As In A Morning Sunrise," and "Bags Groove"[6].

Morabito's versatility is evident in his extensive collaborations with prominent jazz artists. He has worked with renowned musicians such as Renato D'Aiello, Giacomo Smith, Andrea Rinciari, and many others[2][6][14]. His collaborative spirit extends from traditional jazz ensembles to more contemporary projects, demonstrating both deep respect for jazz tradition and an eye toward its future development[2].

## Recent Performances and Future Engagements

The Already In Berlin Band has been actively performing at various venues and events across the UK. Notable performances include:

1. Django at the Farm - A tribute to the greats of early jazz at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts in Maidenhead on July 4, 2024[5][8][9].

2. Under Canvas Concert Series - Curated by Eden Court Inverness, with performance footage available on YouTube under the title "Shake it and break it by The Already In Berlin Band"[13].

Looking ahead, Lorenzo Morabito is scheduled to perform with the Hugo Jennings Trio at The Landor Space in Clapham on April 3, 2025[6]. This continued active performance schedule demonstrates both the band's and Morabito's growing presence in the UK jazz scene.

## Conclusion

The Already In Berlin Band represents a compelling new voice in traditional jazz, combining historical authenticity with fresh energy and remarkable musicianship. The group's string-led, drummerless approach creates a distinctive sound that honors jazz's rich legacy while remaining accessible and engaging for contemporary audiences.

Lorenzo Morabito's rapid ascension within the UK jazz scene, particularly evident in his role with The Already In Berlin Band, highlights his exceptional talent and versatility as a bassist. As both the band and Morabito continue to develop their artistic voices and expand their performance schedules, they are poised to make significant contributions to the vibrant UK jazz landscape for years to come.

Sources
[1] The Already In Berlin Band - Lejazzetal https://lejazzetal.com/the-already-in-berlin-band/
[2] Lorenzo Morabito Musician - All About Jazz https://www.allaboutjazz.com/musicians/lorenzo-morabito/
[3] Berlin discography - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin_discography
[4] Django at the Farm - Music in Maidenhead, Windsor and ... https://www.visitsoutheastengland.com/events/django-at-the-farm-p2381221
[5] Django at the Farm - 4 July 2024 | WhereCanWeGo https://www.wherecanwego.com/item/e1545928
[6] Lorenzo Morabito - Battersea Jazz Festival https://www.batterseajazzfestival.co.uk/artist/lorenzo-morabito/
[7] Berlin - Apple Music https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/berlin/364321
[8] Norden Farm Centre for the Arts - Theatre in Maidenhead https://norden.farm/events/django-at-the-farm
[9] Django at the Farm - Visit Windsor https://www.windsor.gov.uk/whats-on/django-at-the-farm-p2392771
[10] Django at the Fringe – Hard-Swinging Early Jazz | Music ... https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/django-at-the-fringe-hard-swinging-early-jazz
[11] Django at the Farm : Norden Farm Centre for the Arts - Theatre in ... https://go.norden.farm/events/django-at-the-farm
[12] February '25 - Jazz in Kentish Town https://jazzattheparakeet.com/2025/01/20/february-25/
[13] Shake it and break it by The Already in Berlin Band - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EShTYSn-_Vk
[14] Renato D'Aiello Trio | Review | The Jazz Mann - The Jazz Mann https://www.thejazzmann.com/reviews/review/renato-daiello-trio-kidderminster-jazz-club-st-ambrose-parish-centre-kidderminster-worcs-04-10-2024
[15] Lorenzo M (@lorenzo_morabito) • Instagram photos and videos https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo_morabito/
[16] Django At The Fringe With The Already In Berlin Band | Lejazzetal https://lejazzetal.com/events/the-already-in-berlin-band-django-at-4/
[17] lorenzomorabito https://www.lorenzomorabito.com
[18] 28 August 2024 - London Jazz News https://londonjazznews.com/2024/08/26/28-august-2024/
[19] The Long Now (live set Berlin 2018) - Kate Carr - Bandcamp https://katecarr.bandcamp.com/album/the-long-now-live-set-berlin-2018
[20] Mildmay Club Presents The Already In Berlin Band - Lejazzetal https://lejazzetal.com/events/gypsy-jazz-in-soho-mildmay/
[21] Django At Eden Court With The Already In Berlin Band | Lejazzetal https://lejazzetal.com/events/the-already-in-berlin-band-django-at-9/
[22] Jazz in Kentish Town https://jazzattheparakeet.com/tag/jazz/
[23] Berlin Blues Band Discography: Vinyl, CDs, & More - Discogs https://www.discogs.com/artist/3239598-Berlin-Blues-Band
[24] Berlin (band) - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin_(band)
[25] Berlin Discography: Vinyl, CDs, & More | Discogs https://www.discogs.com/artist/44969-Berlin
[26] Shake it and break it by the Already in Berlin Band - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uv8gL0vvD2k
[27] Berlin Songs, Albums, Reviews, Bio & More | Al... - AllMusic https://www.allmusic.com/artist/berlin-mn0000046381
[28] [PDF] Swanage Jazz Festival - Programme of Events https://swanagejazzfestival.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/SJF-Programme-050719.pdf
 

The Art of Listening in Jazz  

Jazz is fundamentally a dialogue—a fluid exchange of ideas between musicians. The bassist, often seen as the anchor of the ensemble, has a unique responsibility: to provide a solid harmonic and rhythmic foundation while simultaneously reacting to and enhancing the contributions of others. This is where Lorenzo Morabito excels. He doesn’t just play; he listens deeply, responding intuitively to the music as it unfolds in real time.  

Lorenzo’s ability to listen goes beyond simply keeping time or following chord changes. His playing demonstrates an acute awareness of the emotional and dynamic shifts within a performance. Whether it’s locking into a groove with a drummer, subtly adjusting his phrasing to complement a soloist, or adding unexpected melodic flourishes that elevate an arrangement, Lorenzo’s bass lines feel alive—like an active participant in the conversation rather than a static backdrop.  

Versatility Rooted in Empathy  

One of the most striking aspects of Lorenzo’s career is his versatility. He moves effortlessly between different styles and ensembles, from gypsy jazz with the London Django Collective to bebop-inspired projects like Nat Steele's Modern Jazz Quartet tribute. This adaptability stems from his ability to immerse himself in the specific language of each musical context while maintaining his own artistic voice.  

For example, when performing with the London Django Collective, Lorenzo’s bass lines evoke the rhythmic drive and swing characteristic of gypsy jazz but are imbued with subtle modern touches that keep the music fresh and engaging. In contrast, his work with more traditional bebop ensembles showcases his deep understanding of jazz history and his ability to channel that knowledge into vibrant, authentic performances.  

This versatility would not be possible without Lorenzo’s deep listening skills. He approaches every project with curiosity and respect for its unique aesthetic, ensuring that his contributions enhance rather than overshadow the collective sound.  

Collaboration as an Art Form  

Lorenzo’s reputation as a “bassist who listens” has made him a sought-after collaborator among some of Europe’s top jazz musicians. Since emerging on the scene after the pandemic, he has worked with renowned artists such as saxophonist Renato D’Aiello and clarinetist Giacomo Smith, as well as being a fixture in London’s thriving jazz community. These collaborations highlight not only his technical prowess but also his ability to build trust and rapport within an ensemble—qualities that are essential for creating truly memorable performances.  

His growing discography reflects this collaborative spirit. Whether contributing to live recordings or studio projects, Lorenzo’s playing consistently demonstrates an intuitive understanding of what each piece needs. He knows when to step forward with a melodic or rhythmic idea and when to step back to let others shine—a balance that requires both humility and confidence.  

A Rising Star with Depth Beyond His Years  

What makes Lorenzo Morabito’s rise even more remarkable is his youth. In a relatively short period, he has established himself as one of the first-call bassists for leading UK and European jazz musicians—a testament not only to his talent but also to his work ethic and dedication to the craft. His rapid ascent speaks volumes about how highly he is regarded by his peers, many of whom are drawn to his maturity as both a musician and collaborator.

Despite his growing prominence, Lorenzo remains grounded in his approach to music-making. He views every performance as an opportunity to learn and grow, constantly refining his ability to connect with other musicians and audiences alike.

Why “Listening” Matters  

In an era where virtuosity often takes center stage, Lorenzo Morabito reminds us of the profound power of listening in music. His playing serves as a masterclass in how empathy and attentiveness can elevate not just individual performances but entire ensembles. By prioritizing connection over ego, he embodies what it means to be a true team player in jazz—a quality that makes him stand out in any setting.

As Lorenzo continues to evolve as an artist, one thing is certain: his reputation as a “bassist who listens” will remain central to what makes him special. It’s this rare combination of technical skill, emotional intelligence, and collaborative spirit that ensures he will leave an indelible mark on contemporary jazz for years to come.

Lorenzo Morabito is an Italian double bassist who has made a significant mark on the London jazz scene. Known for his versatility and technical skill, he has become a first-call musician for many prominent artistsLorenzo Morabito: A Comprehensive Profile of the Rising Jazz Bassist and ensembles. Despite his young age, Lorenzo has built an impressive career, collaborating with top musicians across the UK and Europe. His ability to adapt to various jazz styles, from traditional to modern, has made him a sought-after performer.

Lorenzo is a key member of the Nat Steele Quartet, where he performs alongside vibraphonist Nat Steele, pianist Matyas Gayer, and drummer Steve Brown. The quartet specializes in interpreting the works of the Modern Jazz Quartet, showcasing Lorenzo's ability to navigate complex harmonic structures and chamber-like jazz aesthetics. He has also worked with saxophonist Renato D'Aiello, clarinetist Giacomo Smith, and guitarist Andrea Rinciari, among others.

His discography includes collaborations such as "To Bud," a tribute to Bud Powell, and "The Takeover," which features original compositions and dynamic interpretations of jazz standards. These recordings highlight Lorenzo's skills as both a performer and composer.

Lorenzo's live performances span diverse contexts, including drummerless string bands, intimate duos, and larger ensembles. He has participated in prestigious events like the Swanage Jazz Festival and EFG London Jazz Festival. His collaborations with Tom Waters have included performances in Germany, France (with Ben Waters), and at a festival in Bradford. These engagements reflect his growing reputation as one of the most promising bassists in contemporary jazz.