Career
Martin was born 11 February 1944, in Northampton, England, and started to play the drums when he was six years old. He played his first professional engagement at thirteen. Studying with the late George Fierstone gave Martin a solid musical and technical background.
Drew had a quintet called "Our Band" with Dick Morrissey, tenor saxophone, Jim Mullen, guitar (originally Louis Stewart), John Critchinson, piano, and Ron Mathewson, double bass.
Drew was also a member of a trio led by Eddie Thompson. He was often heard playing on BBC Radio 2's Sounds of Jazz programme in the 1970s which was introduced by Peter Clayton on Sunday evenings.
Martin Drew was best known for his extensive work in Oscar Peterson and Ronnie Scott's groups, with which he became an international name. He also played at Ronnie Scott's club with many famous visiting U.S. jazz musicians.
From 1997-2000 Martin Drew led a quartet with Mornington Lockett, tenor saxophone, Gareth Williams, piano, and Laurence Cottle, electric bass.
In 2000, Drew formed the Celebrating The Jazz Couriers quintet with Mornington Lockett. The group played the music of the original Jazz Couriers, a group led by Ronnie Scott and Tubby Hayes. This new band was completed by Nigel Hitchcock on tenor saxophone, Steve Melling on piano, and Andrew Cleyndert on double bass. The group won the 2002 British Jazz Award for Best Small Group.
The New Couriers band reformed in 2003 with Paul Morgan on double bass and Jim Hart on vibraphone. Lockett and Melling returned on tenor saxophone and piano.
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