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
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[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/
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[18] 28 August 2024 - London Jazz News https://londonjazznews.com/2024/08/26/28-august-2024/
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[25] Berlin Discography: Vinyl, CDs, & More | Discogs https://www.discogs.com/artist/44969-Berlin
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[27] Berlin Songs, Albums, Reviews, Bio & More | Al... - AllMusic https://www.allmusic.com/artist/berlin-mn0000046381
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