CIMP: Creative Improvised Music Projects

Albums By Artists Whose Names Begin With - A

View the complete artist roster.

Catalog Number: CIMPoL 5005
Live at St. Nick'sLive at St. Nick'sSalim Washington (Tenor Saxophone), Donald Smith (Piano), Melani Dyer (Viola), Ku-Umba Frank Lacy (Trombone), Aaron James (Bass), Mark Johnson (Drums), Donna Cumberbatch (Vocals)Salim Washington, though well respected in the artist community, has recorded sporadically over the past 20 years. This powerful recording of his septet captures them at New York City's St. Nick's Club where Salim has been playing a regular Friday night gig since 2005. It's a favorite place for him and you can feel the connection—not just between the musicians but also with the audience. Very live, very hot intensive program, and a special and unexpected vocal by Donna Cumberbatch on the last performance on this special night.
Catalog Number: CIMPoL 5004
The Early Show (live at Twins Jazz)The Early Show (live at Twins Jazz)David Bond (Alto Saxophone), Andrew White (Tenor Saxophone), Bob Butta (Piano), Steve Novosel (Bass), Luther Gray (Drums)Dense and intense would be perhaps the most concise way to describe this powerful Free/Hard Bop quintet. This is a group that the Capitol area has been enjoying for years and now the secret is out. David Bond and his somewhat legendary team of dynamic men will fill your listening to overflow.
Catalog Number: CIMP 389
Honeymood on SaturnHoneymood on SaturnAndrew Lamb (Saxophone), Tom Abbs (Bass), Warren Smith (Drums)His limited discography as a leader may well be explained by the deliberateness exhibited in both his playing and composition. Such careful consideration obviously carries over into his recording choices and are well worth the wait. Emotive. Thinking. This is music worthy of your attention.
Catalog Number: CIMP 383
The Hues of DestinyThe Hues of DestinyAndrew Lamb (Primary), Tom Abbs (Primary), Warren Smith (Primary)Andrew Lamb is contemplative. And this contemplation may be the reason why he has led so few sessions over the past two decades. This is second CIMP and the first part of an extended two-CD session (CIMP 389 will complete the concert) and follows five years after his first CIMP. The seven compositions offer  structure that, though thoughtful, offer plenty of room for emotive improvisation and intensity. Pacing and passion mark Andrew’s work. This is just the latest of his carefully growing discography.
Catalog Number: CIMP 372
AMAMMichael Bisio (Bass), Avram Fefer (Saxophone), Stephen Gauci (Saxophone), Jay Rosen (Drums)Here at last is the mate to CIMP 360. Fresh from recent gigs in Austria and New York, this power quartet wows everybody whenever they play. Michael Bisio’s compositions and driving force make great demands but Messrs. Fefer, Gauci, and Rosen have power and imagination in reserve. Meaty music for the hungry and discriminating listener.
Catalog Number: CIMP 371
Blue Flint GirlBlue Flint GirlDavid Haney (Piano), Michael Bisio (Bass), Adam Lane (Bass)David Haney continues to impress and confound a listening audience. Totally unpredictable on this concert, there are shades of Dada, Old-timey, Avant, New music—all interwoven with two of the finest bassists in play. It’s hard to prepare (i.e., make assumptions) for a Haney recital. So here are nine cuts that come at you from all directions. Relax and enjoy the ride. And then there are those bassists ...
Catalog Number: CIMP Records 369
Conspiracy A Go GoConspiracy A Go GoDavid Haney (Piano), Dominic Duval (Bass), Andrew Cyrille (Drums)This isn't the first time David Haney and Andrew Cyrille have worked together, but these two sessions are the first time they have recorded together. With David, one can always expect the unexpected, whether it be Free Jazz, excursions, or an exploration of a traditional Blues. With Andrew one has come to expect simply the best in musical inventiveness. CIMP 367 is a duo; the addition of the substantial presence of bassist Dominic Duval changes the whole dynamic (as it should) on CIMP 369. To further emphasize the differences, five of the compositions appear on both the duo and the trio sessions. Hear and analyze this bracing and embracing music.
Catalog Number: CIMP Records 367
ClandestineClandestineDavid Haney (Piano), Andrew Cyrille (Drums), Dominic Duval (Mallets)This isn't the first time David Haney and Andrew Cyrille have worked together, but these two sessions are the first time they have recorded together. With David, one can always expect the unexpected, whether it be Free Jazz, excursions, or an exploration of a traditional Blues. With Andrew one has come to expect simply the best in musical inventiveness. CIMP 367 is a duo; the addition of the substantial presence of bassist Dominic Duval changes the whole dynamic (as it should) on CIMP 369. To further emphasize the differences, five of the compositions appear on both the duo and the trio sessions. Hear and analyze this bracing and embracing music.
Catalog Number: CIMP LTD 360
CIMP 360: Circle ThisCIMP 360: Circle ThisMichael Bisio (Bass), Avram Fefer (Saxophone), Stephen Gauci (Tenor Saxophone), Jay Rosen (Drums)Here's a powerful listening experience that combines the distinct and intricate compositions of Mike Bisio with spot-on execution and brilliant solo statements from the individual band members. There's plenty of meat here for the mind and body from this large quartet. Arguably, Mike Bisio's most powerful work to date—and that's saying a lot.
Catalog Number: CIMP LTD 354
Blues RoyaleBlues RoyaleDavid Haney (Piano), Mike Bisio (Bass), Adam Lane (Bass)David Haney: one of the most originally rooted improvisers and a true original, backed by two of the most probing, inventive bassists in this music: Mike Bisio and Adam Lane. Just the logistics and possibilities of this encounter will intrigue the seasoned listener. Now add in the program concept—Traditional Blues and other music of antiquity—and the challenge further intrigues. Involving and deeply soulful creative improvised music.
Catalog Number: CIMP 344
Infinite PotentialInfinite PotentialLou Grassi (Drums, Percussion), Perry Robinson (Clarinet, Ocharina), David Taylor (Bass Trombone), Herb Robertson (Trumpet, Pocket Trumpet, Flugelhorn), Adam Lane (Bass)The 10th anniversary edition of the Po Band finds this veteran collective improvisation group in absolutely top form as it weaves whole cloth out of the threads from their individual minds and collective creativity that is vibrant in exposition and stunning in its conclusions. Recorded Sept.26 & 27, 2005
Catalog Number: CIMP 338
The MusicThe MusicDavid Haney (Piano), Julian Priester (Trombone), Adam Lane (Bass)Chances are you've never heard of David Haney but this follow-up to his much acclaimed duo with Julian Priester (Cadence Jazz Records 1179) should convince you that his is an original musical voice deserving of some attention. Joined by the masterful bassist Adam Lane, these three work hand-in-glove in this exploration of Haney's world. There's nothing familiar about this music but it's still deeply satisfying. Recorded Aug. 12, 2005.
Catalog Number: CIMP 337
Tuba ProjectTuba ProjectLucian Ban (Piano), Alex Harding (Baritone), J.D. Allen (Tenor), Bob Stewart (Tuba), Derrek Phillips (Drums)Prerelease press has already hailed this latest mixture of soul & savvy from the Ban & Harding juggernaut. It's the Tuba Project in reference to the inclusion of Bob Stewart, whose subtle shading and bottom work keeps things rolling throughout. As is usual with Ban & Harding, Tuba Project is an offering of fresh music to move and reward both the mind & soul. Recorded July 20, 2005.
Catalog Number: CIMP Records 335
Music Degree ZeroMusic Degree ZeroAdam Lane (Bass), Vinny Golia (Saxophone), Vijay Anderson (Drums)Here is the mate to CIMP 325 and—lest there be any—all doubts will be squelched by the power and strength of this trio. The accolades were universal in their comments on the excitement and power this trio generated on the session's first release. This is its complement and is in every way equal to the first volume. Hot and intense, this is a Jazz power trio. Recorded Feb. 24&25, 2005.
Catalog Number: CIMP Records 333
SanctuarySanctuaryBobby Few (Piano), Hilliard Greene (Bass), Newman Taylor Baker (Drums), Avram Fefer (Saxophone)Messrs. Few and Fefer have been collaborating since the mid 1990's but this is the first time they have recorded in Quartet and the results are strong. As Avram Fefer writes, "…a great couple days… a great piano… stimulating company." Bobby Few has been on the scene since his Ayler days of the 1960's and he represents some of the best of the classic Free period. Avram Fefer began to make a name for himself among musicians in the 1990's; he represents the rich future of this music. Here is a finished work for the discriminate and mature listener. Recorded May 7, 2005.
Catalog Number: CIMP 325
Zero Degree MusicZero Degree MusicAdam Lane (Bass), Vinny Golia (Soprano&Tenor Saxophones), Vijay Anderson (Drums)Adam Lane has quickly established himself as a musician of depth and quality through a small but exceptional group of recordings. And here is another outstanding effort. This is not just a trio: it is three well integrated artists playing music that will satisfy the most demanding listeners. And for fans of Vinny Golia, this is arguably some of his most dynamic sax playing on record. Recorded February 24 & 25, 2005.
Catalog Number: CIMP 324
Painting Breath, Stoking FirePainting Breath, Stoking FireMichael Bisio (Bass), Avram Fefer (Saxaphone)Avram Fefer constructed this 12-part suite and the duet offers up a full canvas of music as it pushes and keeps everything inventive & musical and the listener's interest & attention. A small group but full listening. Recorded January 18, 2005.
Catalog Number: CIMP 323
ConnectionsConnectionsMichael Bisio (Bass), Avram Fefer (Alto, Soprano,&Tenor Sax/Clarinet/Bass C), Stephen Gauci (Tenor Sax), Jay Rosen (Drums)Michael Bisio, the highly respected Pacific West Coast bassist/composer, put together these compositions specifically for this reed and rhythm quartet. Wonderful music which contains the composition "Basic Deconstruction"?a piece that captures an event we believe is unique in recording history. That's a teaser to get you to listen. That aside, this music stands on its own. Recorded January 17 & 18, 2005.
Catalog Number: CIMP 316
Isms OutIsms OutBurton Greene (Piano), Roy Campbell (Trumpets), Adam Lane (Bass), Lou Grassi (Drums)Playing the music of Bill Evans, Jim Hall, Ali Akbar Khan, and its own originals, the Burton Greene-Roy Campbell 4tet goes pretty straight ahead but without compromise as four strong instrumental voices document their music following an East Coast tour. The expressions and themes are exceptional. It's been almost two decades since Burton recorded in quartet and over 30 years since he recorded with trumpet. This is Roy's first recording with Burton. Recorded June 29, 2004.
Catalog Number: CIMP 306
Paths to GloryPaths to GloryKalaparush Maurice McIntyre (Tenor), Adam Lane (Bass), Jesse Dulman (Tuba), Ravish Momin (Drums)Kalaparush & The Light have, over the past 3 years, put forth one of the most distinct group sounds of the new millennium. After 3 recordings solidifying that group sound, they join forces with the soulful power of Adam Lane's bass. This was such a success there was discussion about incorporating the bassist into the group whole. What a novel way to grow a group. Who knows? At this rate, 15 years from now it could be Kalaparush & The Light Big Band. If so, it all started here. Recorded March 4 & 5, 2004.
Catalog Number: CIMP 300
JaloluJaloluHarris Eisenstadt (Drums), Andy Laster (Clarinet, Baritone Saxophone), Roy Campbell (Trumpet, Pocket Trumpet, Flugelhorn), Paul Smoker (Trumpet), Taylor Ho Bynum (Cornet)Perhaps this material might be thought of as composition: improvised composition or structured instant composition. The leader mapped out this session for close to a year before its formal execution, and the results are both quirky and comfortable. Recorded Oct. 27 & 28, 2003
Catalog Number: CIMP 294
Nothing is WrongNothing is WrongOdean Pope (Tenor Sax), Khan Jamal (Vibraphone), Arthur Harper (Bass), Allen Nelson (Drums)It shouldn’t be hard for Odean Pope and Khan Jamal to make distinctive music as they are both distinctive voices. Here they are joined by 2 other Philadelphia-based veterans and a sum total of about 160 years of experience for a program of originals that should tell you that nothing is wrong but more importantly everything is right. Recorded August 13 & 14, 2003.
Catalog Number: CIMP 294
Nothing is WrongNothing is WrongOdean Pope (Tenor Sax), Khan Jamal (Vibraphone), Arthur Harper (Bass), Allen Nelson (Drums)It shouldn’t be hard for Odean Pope and Khan Jamal to make distinctive music as they are both distinctive voices. Here they are joined by 2 other Philadelphia-based veterans and a sum total of about 160 years of experience for a program of originals that should tell you that nothing is wrong but more importantly everything is right. Recorded August 13 & 14, 2003.
Catalog Number: CIMP 286
Shades of the MuseShades of the MuseAvram Fefer (Tenor&Soprano Sax, Clarinet, Bass Clarin), Ken Filiano (Bass), Thomas Ulrich (Cello), Jay Rosen (Drums)It's been a couple of years since Avram Fefer (San Francisco, CA 1964) was last in The Spirit Room but it didn't take long before he was engaging me about another project. While this was being conceived and coordinated, Avram continued other musical activities including his duo association with pianist Bobby Few, an ambient-electric groove quartet called Squelch, an on-going trio collaboration ...
Catalog Number: CIMP 282
The PilgrimageThe PilgrimageAndrew Lamb (Tenor Saxophone, Mismaar), Tom Abbs (Bass, Tuba), Andrei Strobert (Drums)Andrew Lamb has one of the more nontraditional approaches to this music. Perhaps it’s the influence of Kalaparush, one of his teachers. Born in 1958, this is just Andrew’s second release, and it’s a finely measured set: 10 originals that will engage the rhythms of both your mind and body. Discover this fine saxman on this meaty outing. Recorded January 20 & 21, 2003.
Catalog Number: CIMP 282
The PilgrimageThe PilgrimageAndrew Lamb (Tenor Saxophone, Mismaar), Tom Abbs (Bass, Tuba), Andrei Strobert (Drums)Andrew Lamb has one of the more nontraditional approaches to this music. Perhaps it’s the influence of Kalaparush, one of his teachers. Born in 1958, this is just Andrew’s second release, and it’s a finely measured set: 10 originals that will engage the rhythms of both your mind and body. Discover this fine saxman on this meaty outing. Recorded January 20 & 21, 2003.
Catalog Number: CIMP 281
DosDosAdam Lane (Bass), John Tchicai (Bass Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone)Here is a chance to hear the talents of Adam Lane and John Tchicai up close. Warm, inventive, and personal, the 10 original tracks will transport you with their imaginative and fun excursions. Many people feel Mr. Tchicai is playing with renewed vigor and fire these past couple of years. This should confirm that belief. Recorded October 2 & 3, 2002.
Catalog Number: CIMP 277
PremonitionPremonitionLucian Ban (Piano), Alex Harding (Baritone Sax), Erik Torrente (Alto Sax), Chris Dahlgren (Bass), Damion Reid (Drums)This is a follow-up to Lucian and Alex's soulful duo outing (CIMP 274). Here the focus is on Lucian's fine compositions and the interplay between the horns and rhythm. Fresh faces and fresh music from the Bop/post Bop world. Recorded August 9, 2002, Gilbert Recital Hall, Canton, NY.
Catalog Number: CIMP 274
Somethin' HolySomethin' HolyLucian Ban (Piano), Alex Harding (Baritone Saxophone)Those who have Alex's first trio recording (CIMP 246) will notice that he plays, in part, the music of Lucian Ban. Now composer/pianist and baritone saxman come together in duo. The ambience of this date is reflective of Wilber Morris, whose spirit is referenced and imbues this session with a moving, soulful profile. It's a low-down uplifting concert, and beautifully expressive. Recorded August 8, 2002.
Catalog Number: CIMP 270
Invocation for PepperInvocation for PepperAlex Harding (Baritone Saxophone), Dominic Duval (Bass), Jay Rosen (Drums)This trio date is a follow-up to Alex's "FreeFlow" recording (CIMP 246), but here the emphasis is on standards, opening with Alex's "Invocation" to the spirit of fellow Motowner and bari player, Pepper Adams. It's a Jazz date all the way: the power of Alex Harding's baritone sax in the company of the celebrated rhythm team of Duval & Rosen. Recorded June 6 & 7, 2002.
Catalog Number: CIMP 263
Fo(u)r Being(s)Fo(u)r Being(s)Adam Lane (Bass), John Tchicai (Tenor Saxophone), Paul Smoker (Trumpet), Barry Altschul (Drums)This is bassist Adam Lane's third release. His first 2 offered a thunderous view of his writing/arranging work for larger groups. Again, the listener is treated to Adam Lane's compositional abilities, and, in addition, is better able to hear his instrumental abilities, well-exposed over the 6 tracks. In this all-star company there's no place to hide and Adam proves he's up to the company he keeps.
Catalog Number: CIMP 262
ComPOsedComPOsedLou Grassi (Drums), John Tchicai (Tenor Saxophone), Paul Smoker (Trumpet), Art Baron (Trombone), Perry Robinson (Clarinet), Wilber Morris (Bass)The latest from Lou Grassi's PoBand. This time the guest artist is John Tchicai. This concert by the PoBand is unique for a number of reasons (besides the always-fresh improvisations and presence of guest John Tchicai) in that, for the first time it deals with a compositional framework; Art Baron joins the band; and, sadly, this was the late Wilber Morris' last outing with the band that he helped establish in 1995. Thankfully, Wilber's spirit and voice (instrumentally and vocally) is well represented on the date. Eight wondrous cuts.
Catalog Number: CIMP 246
FreeflowFreeflowAlex Harding (Baritone Saxophone), Chris Dahlgren (Bass), Jimmy Weinstein (Drums)The debut album for this Detroit native. Alex Harding's baritone comes out of the tradition of Harry Carney, Leo Parker, and Pepper Adams and roars into today in its own funky way. He huffs and he puffs and he almost blows the CIMP house down. Recorded May 22 & 23, 2001.
Catalog Number: CIMP 243
Eight Composition (Quintet) 2001Eight Composition (Quintet) 2001Anthony Braxton (Alto Saxophone), Richard A. McGhee III (Soprano Saxophone), Alvin Benjamin Carter, Sr. (Percussion), Alvin Benjamin Carter, Jr. (Percussion), Sipho Robert Bellinger (Percussion)Two reeds and three African percussionists on nine original Braxton compositions. It is a challenging format and a synthesis of much of Anthony Braxton's artistic personality of the past 30 years. Challenging and rewarding listening. Recorded March 12 & 13, 2001.
Catalog Number: CIMP 243
Eight Composition (Quintet) 2001Eight Composition (Quintet) 2001Anthony Braxton (Alto Saxophone), Richard A. McGhee III (Soprano Saxophone), Alvin Benjamin Carter, Sr. (Percussion), Alvin Benjamin Carter, Jr. (Percussion), Sipho Robert Bellinger (Percussion)Two reeds and three African percussionists on nine original Braxton compositions. It is a challenging format and a synthesis of much of Anthony Braxton's artistic personality of the past 30 years. Challenging and rewarding listening. Recorded March 12 & 13, 2001.
Catalog Number: CIMP 243
Eight Composition (Quintet) 2001Eight Composition (Quintet) 2001Anthony Braxton (Alto Saxophone), Richard A. McGhee III (Soprano Saxophone), Alvin Benjamin Carter, Sr. (Percussion), Alvin Benjamin Carter, Jr. (Percussion), Sipho Robert Bellinger (Percussion)Two reeds and three African percussionists on nine original Braxton compositions. It is a challenging format and a synthesis of much of Anthony Braxton's artistic personality of the past 30 years. Challenging and rewarding listening. Recorded March 12 & 13, 2001.
Catalog Number: CIMP 238
Iron Monkey TrioIron Monkey TrioKevin Norton (Drums), Bob Celusak (Tenor Saxophone), Andy Eulau (Bass)The trio presents a program of music by Miles Davis, Monk, Wayne Shorter and originals and serves to introduce the power saxwork of Bob Celusak - one listen and you'll wonder, as we did, why this talent, after 30 some years playing, is only now being recorded. A free-bop trio of considerable power and substance. Recorded January 15 & 16, 2001
Catalog Number: CIMP 237
Lucille's Gemini DreamLucille's Gemini DreamAvram Fefer (Clarinet), Steve Swell (Trombone), Wilber Morris (Bass), Igal Foni (Drums)Following up his trio's well received debut recording on Cadence Jazz Records, reedman Avram Fefer brings the dynamic trombone of Steve Swell into the mix and the quartet addresses 7 original compositions, including the title track, a particularly evocative and lyrical ballad. Interplay, composition, depth, and complexity all propel this to a dynamic listen. Recorded Jan. 11 & 12, 2001
Catalog Number: CIMP 236
Nine Compositions (Hill) 2000Nine Compositions (Hill) 2000Anthony Braxton (Alto Saxophone), Steve Lehman (Alto Saxophone), Paul Smoker (Trumpet), Kevin O'Neil (Guitar), Andy Eulau (Bass), Kevin Norton (Drums)Anthony Braxton addresses the music of Andrew Hill in a loving and adventurous journey. A notable addition to the Braxton discography executed by individuals of note, or destined to be of note. Recorded May 23 & 24, 2000.
Catalog Number: CIMP 236
Nine Compositions (Hill) 2000Nine Compositions (Hill) 2000Anthony Braxton (Alto Saxophone), Steve Lehman (Alto Saxophone), Paul Smoker (Trumpet), Kevin O'Neil (Guitar), Andy Eulau (Bass), Kevin Norton (Drums)Anthony Braxton addresses the music of Andrew Hill in a loving and adventurous journey. A notable addition to the Braxton discography executed by individuals of note, or destined to be of note. Recorded May 23 & 24, 2000.
Catalog Number: CIMP 235
Four Compositions (Duets) 2000Four Compositions (Duets) 2000Anthony Braxton (Alto Saxophone), Alex Horwitz (Voice)Expect the unexpected when Anthony and Alex improvise around and with the spoken word using a variety of ad lib strategies, a snapshot of its time but universal in its implications, each listening will make you re-evaluate the possibilities of ephemera and randomness and the creative process. This remains one of Anthony's more controversial recordings. Recorded October 30 & 31, 2000.
Catalog Number: CIMP 235
Four Compositions (Duets) 2000Four Compositions (Duets) 2000Anthony Braxton (Alto Saxophone), Alex Horwitz (Voice)Expect the unexpected when Anthony and Alex improvise around and with the spoken word using a variety of ad lib strategies, a snapshot of its time but universal in its implications, each listening will make you re-evaluate the possibilities of ephemera and randomness and the creative process. This remains one of Anthony's more controversial recordings. Recorded October 30 & 31, 2000.
Catalog Number: CIMP 225
Ten Compositions (Quartet) 2000Ten Compositions (Quartet) 2000Anthony Braxton (Alto Saxophone), Kevin O'Neil (Guitar), Andy Eulau (Bass), Kevin Norton (Drums)A concert adventure into the Jazz compositions of Wayne Shorter (1), Billy Lester (1), George Coleman (2), and Andrew Hill (6). A notable new quartet making notable music on notable compositions by notable composers. Recorded May 22 & 23, 2000.
Catalog Number: CIMP 225
Ten Compositions (Quartet) 2000Ten Compositions (Quartet) 2000Anthony Braxton (Alto Saxophone), Kevin O'Neil (Guitar), Andy Eulau (Bass), Kevin Norton (Drums)A concert adventure into the Jazz compositions of Wayne Shorter (1), Billy Lester (1), George Coleman (2), and Andrew Hill (6). A notable new quartet making notable music on notable compositions by notable composers. Recorded May 22 & 23, 2000.
Catalog Number: CIMP 192
Actual ProofActual ProofAhmed Abdullah (Trumpet), Alex Harding (Bari Saxophone), Masa Kamaguchi (Bass), Jimmy Weinstein (Drums)NAM presents a program of memorable but rarely played compositions interpreted with a control and burn that speaks both of today's passion and pulse and the maturing legacy of the loft generation. Recorded January 18 & 19, 1999.
Catalog Number: CIMP 192
Actual ProofActual ProofAhmed Abdullah (Trumpet), Alex Harding (Bari Saxophone), Masa Kamaguchi (Bass), Jimmy Weinstein (Drums)NAM presents a program of memorable but rarely played compositions interpreted with a control and burn that speaks both of today's passion and pulse and the maturing legacy of the loft generation. Recorded January 18 & 19, 1999.
Catalog Number: CIMP 167
Papa's BouncePapa's BounceKahil El'Zabar (Drums), Ernest Dawkins (Alto Saxophone), Joseph Bowie (Trombone), Atu Harold Murray (Percussion)The Ethnic Heritage Ensemble is one of the veteran improvising ensembles. The group's open approach, which ranges from free intensities to original adaptations of more traditional music/standards has, at its heart, an infectious rhythm base which makes the group satisfying to a wide range of Jazz tastes. Arguably their finest recording. Recorded Feb. 16 & 17, 1998.
Catalog Number: CIMP 165
Relax, Keep the Tension, PleaseRelax, Keep the Tension, PleaseAndrew Cheshire (Guitar), Dominic Duval (Bass), Jay Rosen (Drums)Guitarist Andrew Cheshire comes from a Tal Farlow lineage. Here is a driving, warm, and very inventive bopster who references the tradition and doesn't try to clone it. 8 tracks, with a mixture of ballads and swingers, originals and standards make up a fine demanding inside session. With Jay Rosen on drums and Dominic Duval at the bass, you know there's no coasting. Recorded Jan. 26 & 27, 1998.
Catalog Number: CIMP 161
Scratching the SurfaceScratching the SurfaceRob Brown (Alto Saxophone), Assif Tsahar (Tenor Saxophone), Chris Lightcap (Bass), Lou Grassi (Drums)The Rob Brown and Lou Grassi Quartet is an intense group offering post bop music which is thematically solid in form and composition and heady in its chewy improvisations. And, even with a two man sax line, this music offers excellent deliniation of line and beautiful audio definition of its sound. Recorded October 6 & 7, 1997.
Catalog Number: CIMP 158
Today's BluesToday's BluesArthur Blythe (Alto Saxophone), David Eyges (Electric Cello)A side of Arthur Blythe and David Eyges never heard before. A program of 16 originals which explore what might be called the folk blues form. Catchy, rhythmic, and searching, it's a wonderful juxtaposition of lightness of spirit and depth of soul. Recorded August 11 & 12, 1998.
Catalog Number: CIMP 153
The Motion of EmotionThe Motion of EmotionElliott Levin (Tenor Saxophone), Akira Ando (Bass), Dominic Duval (Bass), Denis Charles (Drums)Although Elliott Levin is a veteran high energy free tenor sax player, this is, remarkably, the first recording to feature this Philadelphian's music. Supported by two bassists and propelled by the late Denis Charles' drumming, this is Free Jazz that is both visceral and intelligent. Recorded June 24 & 25, 1997.
Catalog Number: CIMP 152
DedicationDedicationAhmed Abdullah (Trumpet), Carlos Ward (Flute), Masujaa (Guitar), Alex Blake (Bass), Cody Moffett (Drums)Ahmed Abdullah's first release in ten years is a well-conceived and executed dedication to the late Charles Moffett, his colleague of many years. Cody Moffett took over his father's drum seat (and drums) for this eclectic and charming program of 9 tunes (La Vie En Rose and I'll Be Seeing You along with standards and traditional music. Recorded June 17 & 18, 1997.
Catalog Number: CIMP 152
DedicationDedicationAhmed Abdullah (Trumpet), Carlos Ward (Flute), Masujaa (Guitar), Alex Blake (Bass), Cody Moffett (Drums)Ahmed Abdullah's first release in ten years is a well-conceived and executed dedication to the late Charles Moffett, his colleague of many years. Cody Moffett took over his father's drum seat (and drums) for this eclectic and charming program of 9 tunes (La Vie En Rose and I'll Be Seeing You along with standards and traditional music. Recorded June 17 & 18, 1997.
Catalog Number: CIMP 150
Jitterbug JunctionJitterbug JunctionKahil El'Zabar (Drums), Ari Brown (Tenor Saxophone), Malachi Favors (Bass)A joyous romp with 3 of Chicago's finest veterans. This is carefully crafted music with considerable attention to detail and full committment to exploration. Recorded June 10, 1997.
Catalog Number: CIMP 138
Vision BlueVision BlueFrank Lowe (Tenor Saxophone), Steve Neil (Bass), Anders Griffen (Drums)Frank Lowe pays tribute to many of the spirits of improvising music and lays down 16 cuts in a refined, pure Lowe. Recorded Feb. 19 & 20, 1997.
Catalog Number: CIMP 109
Spirits GatheringSpirits GatheringBilly Bang (Violin), Brett Allen (Guitar), Akira Ando (Bass), Denis Charles (Drums)Billy Bang and his violin unveil a musical soul owing as much to Stuff Smith as to John Coltrane, while displaying the passionate lyricism of one of today's most dynamic improvisors. Recorded Feb. 28, 1996.