Effective period / Period of releases: 2016

Members: Jonathan Crayford, Tom Callwood, Nick Van Dijk, Lucien Johnson, Lex French, Chris O'Connor (6)

Lucien Johnson + 5 is a New Zealand acoustic jazz sextet based in Wellington. Founded by Lucien Johnson and comprised of the top NZ contemporary jazz players, the ensemble recorded their debut album of Johnson's original compositions in 2016. West of the Sun is inspired by the 1960s Blue Note artists, such as Andrew Hill, Joe Henderson, and Herbie Hancock. To complete the retro atmosphere, this record was mixed and engineered by Mike August/Lord Echo employing vintage techniques and equipment. The album is available in digital formats via Bandcamp, with CD and vinyl to be released by Japanese label Wonderful Noise Productions in 2017.

Current members
Lucien Johnson – tenor saxophone
Jonathan Crayford – piano
Lex French – trumpet
Nick Van Dijk – trombone
Tom Callwood – double bass
Chris O'Connor – drums