Albums By Artists Whose Names Begin With - S
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Catalog Number: CIMPoL 5020
CIMPFest 2009 live in Villach, AustriaMichael Bisio (Primary), John Carlson (Primary), Dominic Duval (Primary), Avram Fefer (Primary), Ken Filiano (Primary), William Gagliardi (Primary), Stephen Gauci (Primary), Lou Grassi (Primary), Jimmy Halperin (Primary), David Hofstra (Primary), John O'Gallagher (Primary), Jay Rosen (Primary), Kenny Wessell (Primary)Catalog Number: CIMPoL 5013
Live in MontrealGebhard Ullmann (Clarinet), Steve Swell (Trombone), Hilliard Greene (Bass), Barry Altschul (Drums)This quartet came together in 2004 and we first recorded it in June 2004 (CIMP 315). At the time I wrote “This is a tough group,” speaking about the group’s musical character but the fact that four years later they are still functioning as a group speaks to another toughness or resilience. Between these dates each member of the group has been active with a number of other projects, both as members and leaders. As for Casa del Popolo, it is one of the most continuously supportive outlets for creative improvised music in Canada and a venue where, in 2005, CIMPoL made its first recordings (CIMPoL 5001 and 5003). The venue is small—about 16’ by 60’ with a 10’ by 10’ bandstand at its end, a bar, and tables at the other (street) end. A relaxed and respectful environment is both encouraging of the artist, and, in this case the CIMPoL crew as well. The first set opened around 10 p.m. In his opening announcement, Steve Swell (b.1954, Newark, NJ) noted it was hockey night in Canada, May Day the next day, but tonight would be mayhem and with that they were off and running with Box Set. Earlier, in discussing the calculated risks of recording on location, Barry Altschul (b.1943, NYC, NY) modestly told me that if we didn’t get (the material) for a great recording it was our fault as “this band has been amazingly strong” for the whole tour. In a phone conversation a few days earlier, Steve had suggested to me basically the same thing. All this I think was confirmed right from the opening on Box Set, which if the opening mayhem doesn’t give you pause, surely Gebhard Ullmann’s (b.1957, Bad Godesberg, Germany) driving tenor solo will. The second piece, Don’t Touch My Music, is interesting in that the heart of the piece is made up of two duos, stop time with Steve and Gebhard and in time with Barry and Hill Greene (b.1958, Logansport, IN) giving further evidence of the robustness of this group. On Improv/ For Grachan, it’s not duologues but monologues that distinguish this composition. Both Hill and Barry have distinguishing solo conversations in the performance, a piece seemingly made up of many pieces, many conversations, and many wonderful moments and movements. Slammin’ Textures/ Kleine Figuren and Composite #1 both come from the second set. Again, the former displaying a structural development built along a series of solos and duos and rhythmic variances covering everything from madrigal-like Third Stream sounds to backbeat Blues. The final performance of the night, Composite #1, develops off a typical Swell stomp riff and eventually deconstructs into a minimalist dialogue then gathers its passionate conversation for some improvisatory fellowship and finish. Hockey night in Canada rarely sounded so good. Robert D. Rusch - April 30, 2008 Catalog Number: CIMPoL 5005
Live 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)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 372
AMMichael 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 LTD 361
Absolute, absolutelyStephen Gauci (Tenor Saxophone), Nate Wooley (Trumpet), Ken Filiano (Bass), Lou Grassi (Drums)Here is part two of this remarkable Gauci quartet recording date. Nate Wooley joins Steve’s regular trio and sounds as though he’s been playing with this group for years. This is a classic quartet. Music written for the quartet is purposeful, pointed, and perfect Free Bop and beyond.Catalog Number: CIMP LTD 360
CIMP 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 359
SubstratumStephen Gauci (Tenor Saxophone), Michael Bisio (Bass), Jay Rosen (Drums)This session updates the Gauci Trio (see CIMP 326). Whether inside or outside, Stephen Gauci plays with a heady and focused passion. There's nothing belabored in this offering. Credit also has to go to the rhythm of Mike Bisio (one of the most respected artists in this field) and Jay Rosen (an uncannily quick and sensitive drummer). Stephen Gauci presents mindful music—again!Catalog Number: CIMP LTD 352
Double DiploidSteve Swell (Trombone), David Taylor (Bass Trombone), Warren Smith (Percussion), Chad Taylor (Percussion)Whoa! Two trombones and two percussionists? What can this be? What it is is music of great rhythm, drive, humor, intensity, and downright fun. If you've come across the talents of either or both Messrs. Swell and Taylor, then you know the contrast of their brilliance. Add in Warren Smith (a senior percussion master) and Chad Taylor (no longer just in the underground) and you have a quartet of great capabilities—even of accomplishing the musical Double Diploid, and more the fun for it. Twice the pleasure just for the asking.Catalog Number: CIMP LTD 351
Wisps of an Unknown FaceStephen Gauci (Tenor Saxophone), Nate Wooley (Trumpet), Ken Filiano (Bass), Lou Grassi (Drums)Stephen Gauci has come on strong in the past three years. A veteran of the business, it's only of recent that he's decided to record. And that still slim body of work has been enthusiastically received by both the public and critics.
Here Stephen expands his core trio with trumpeter Nate Wooley—a brilliant choice. The whole of Gauci, Wooley, Filiano, and Grassi is music far more than the sum of its parts.Catalog Number: CIMP LTD 350
IllumineSeth Meicht (Tenor Saxophone), Matt Bauder (Tenor Saxophone), Matt Engle (Bass), Lonnie Solaway (Drums)It takes a certain confidence to add another tenor saxist to your trio, but, in Matt Bauder, Seth Meicht's confidence is well founded. Not so much a tenor battle as an integrated and complementary pairing, this is gutsy assertive music that will satisfy all who like their music upfront and bold. Seth Meicht is a force coming on strong.Catalog Number: CIMP 341
The Rain In SpainSophie Duner (Vocals), Rory Stuart (Guitar, Voice), Matt Penman (Bass), Kahlil Kwame Bell (Bongos, Chimes,Udu)This may be Sophie Dunér's debut but have no doubt: she is a mature, seasoned and original voice. In addition, she has written over half of the tunes for this stunning release, originals as notable as the standards she chose to accompany them. This is a memorable vocalist, composer/lyricist, and presentation. A lyric printout is included. Recorded September 8 & 9, 2005Catalog Number: CIMP 336
Brother SoulCarl Grubbs (Saxophone), Salim Washington (Saxophone), Steve Neil (Bass), Ronnie Burrage (Drums)For a man whose life has not always been easy, Carl Grubbs' music often resonates joy and optimism. On this recording he resurrects the 2-sax front line that he made so notable with The Visitors, the group he co-led with his late brother, Earl. Salim Washington, another under documented saxman, joins the front line on a program that revisits some of the best of the Grubbs Brothers' compositions along with some fine new works and a jaunty cover of "Smile." Recorded June 20 & 21, 2005.
Catalog Number: CIMP 336
Brother SoulCarl Grubbs (Saxophone), Salim Washington (Saxophone), Steve Neil (Bass), Ronnie Burrage (Drums)For a man whose life has not always been easy, Carl Grubbs' music often resonates joy and optimism. On this recording he resurrects the 2-sax front line that he made so notable with The Visitors, the group he co-led with his late brother, Earl. Salim Washington, another under documented saxman, joins the front line on a program that revisits some of the best of the Grubbs Brothers' compositions along with some fine new works and a jaunty cover of "Smile." Recorded June 20 & 21, 2005.
Catalog Number: CIMP 326
First, Keep QuietStephen Gauci (Saxophone), Todd Nicholson (Bass), Jeremy Carlstedt (Drums)Already heralded as a new and exciting voice, tenor saxist Stephen Gauci is front and center with compositions, concepts, and executions that, if nothing else, are clearly not the same old same old. There are lots of "new" names out there - this is one worth hearing. You have our word. Recorded March 3 & 4, 2005Catalog Number: CIMP 323
ConnectionsMichael 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 321
Not Just...David Taylor (Trombone), Steve Swell (Trombone), Billy Bang (Violin), Tomas Ulrich (Cello), Ken Filiano (Bass)Gad. Two trombones and strings! But when the trombones are Dave Taylor and Steve Swell and the strings are Bang, Ulrich, and Filiano, you know this is going to be fun. A five-sided circle that is everything you'd expect from this meeting of fertile musical minds. Over 270 cumulative years in the making, its listening pleasures should last easily that long. Recorded January 5 & 6, 2005.Catalog Number: CIMP Records 315
Desert Songs and Other LandscapesGebhard Ullmann (Tenor Sax/Bass Clarinet), Steve Swell (Trombone), Hilliard Greene (Bass), Barry Altschul (Drums)Gebhard Ullmann, whose formidable European reputation has yet to find its match in North America, joins with Steve Swell - one of the most inventive, active, and touring trombonists on the creative improvised music scene - for a program that reflects the travels (and travails?) of their lives. And with Barry Altschul and Hill Greene handling the rhythm, you know there's no featherbedding on this road trip. Recorded June 22 & 23, 2004.Catalog Number: CIMP 310
BloodScott Rosenberg (Tenor), Todd Margasak (Cornet), Kyle Hernandez (Bass), Tim Daisy (Drums)This quartet debuted in 1999 (Cadence Jazz Records 1135) and this second recording updates its intricate and unpredictable music. Here is a classic pianoless quartet that can evoke a sense of Ornette & Don Cherry with a slight essence of Chet in the mix. But the 9 non-traditional compositions give these musical talents plenty of space to exercise their own post Bop personalities. Recorded May 10 & 11, 2004.Catalog Number: CIMP 309
RenewalChris Kelsey (Soprano Sax), Steve Swell (Trombone), Franscois Grillot (Bass), Jay Rosen (Drums)Chris Kelsey is back and he's lost none of his passion nor intensity and continues to be one of the strongest and most original soprano sax voices on the scene. Here's a chance for listeners to hear now what critics will still be raving about in 15 years. Tough stuff. Recorded April 7, 2004.
Catalog Number: CIMP 305
The Drum is Honor EnoughPatrick Brennan (Alto Sax), Steve Swell (Trombone), Hill Greene (Bass), Newman Taylor Baker (Drums)Listening to Patrick Brennan's music is a bit like looking at a bowl that has been shattered and reassembled but whose fit isn't quite right?you know what it is when looking at it, but it requires some reassessment to take it all in. Extensive Artist and Producer Notes may take you one listen just to get through, another listen to digest, but by the third listen the joy and genius of this concert should be evident. A valuable addition to this veteran's slight but growing discography. Recorded February 17 & 18, 2004.Catalog Number: CIMP 298
Celebration of the SpiritJazz Composers Alliance Orchestra (Group), Hiroaki Honshuku (Flute), Jims Hobbs (Alto Sax), Jeremy Udden (Alto Sax), Phil Scarff (Tenor&Soprano Sax), Hands Indigo (Bari Sax), Mike Peipman (Trumpet), Keiichi Hashimoto (Trumpet), Jim Mosher (French Horn), Bob Pilkington (Trombone), David Harris (Trombone), Jim Gray (Tuba), Richie Barshay (Drums), Winnien Dahlgren (Vibes), Soo-Jung Kae (Piano), Takaaki Masuko (Percussion), Rick McLaughlin (Bass), Norma Zocher (Guitar), Laura Andel (Composer/Conductor), Darrell Katz (Composer/conductor, dir. of Jazz Compose), Ken Schaphorst (Composer/Conductor), Warren Senders (Composer/Conductor)Here is an incredible combination: a big band full of exciting soloists playing the compositions of 5 composers recorded in real stereo, the CIMP way - with clarity, space and accurate dynamics. Everything about this recording will excite. You'll have to hear it to believe it. Recorded at The Tsai Performance Center at Boston University, Boston, MA October 5, 2003.Catalog Number: CIMP 292
Steve Swell's Suite for Players, Listeners and other DreamersSteve Swell (Trombone), Will Connell (Alto Sax, Flute, Bass Clarinet), Roy Campbell (Trumpet, Flute), Charles Burnham (Violin), Francois Grillot (Bass), Kevin Norton (Percussion)Over the 8 years Steve Swell has been recording for CIMP, he has produced a little less than a dozen projects, all of them distinct and purposeful. This latest effort may be his most ambitious to date, a large scale work that retains the intimacy and personality of a smaller work with the power and impact of the larger concept. A solid statement from a trombonist now considered to be a major talent on the post Bop, creative improvised music scene. Recorded July 16 & 17, 2003.Catalog Number: CIMP 285
Still in MovementSteve Swell (Trombone), Tom Abbs (Bass, Tuba), Geoff Mann (Drums,Cornet,Glockenspiel)Steve Swell calls this his New York BrassWood Trio; we’re not sure why. What the trio offers is a chance for Steve to offer up some of his compositional delights along with the technical and improvising pleasures of this hip little trio. Another distinctive Steve Swell-led recording. Recorded March 10 & 11, 2003.
Catalog Number: CIMP 272
Poets of the NowUrsel Schlicht (Piano), Steve Swell (Trombone), Tom Abbs (Bass), Geoff Mann (Drums)For Schlicht and Swell, this is a follow-up to their very exciting Sound Quest recording on Cadence Jazz Records. Here the group moves more into composed structures with Ms. Schlicht, in particular, showing a softer side. But make no mistakes - this is post-Bop creative improvised music, and yet another fresh look at Steve Swell whose growing reputation is finally catching up to his talents. Form, variety, and passion combine here for meaty listening. Recorded July 18, 2002.Catalog Number: CIMP 268
Recollections of Darby HicksBob Washington (Voice), Steve Swell (Trombone), Dominic Duval (Bass)This date is essentially a "brother's" narrative of growing up in America from the pre- WWII years. It's a story funny, funky, and poignant, and delivered with improvised surroundings which suggest some parallels to the collaboration between Charles Mingus and Jean Shephard on "The Clown." A good tale, well told with outstanding improvisations. Recorded April 23 & 24, 2002.Catalog Number: CIMP 264
Real Time MessengersDaniel Carter (Alto Saxophone), Steve Swell (Trombone), Tom Abbs (Bass), David Brandt (Drums)Eight cuts of coherent and inspired improvisations that will reward close listening with inspiration and renewal of energy. Creative improvised chamber music.Catalog Number: CIMP 261
American ScrapbookDominic Duval (Bass), Jason Hwang (Violin), Tomas Ulrich (Cello), Tom Varner (French Horn), Joe McPhee (Cornet), Steve Swell (Trombone)Dominic Duval's String & Brass Ensemble brings together Joe McPhee Steve Swell, Tom Varner, Tomas Ulrich, and Jason Hwang in a stirring reflection on traditional and improvised music inspired not just by the memories of Dominic's late wife and 9/11, but also by the whole quilt that is the American SpiritCatalog Number: CIMP 256
ObbligatoMary LaRose (Vocals), Jeff Lederer (Reeds), Steve Swell (Trombone), Dominic Duval (Bass)Integrating material from a broad idiomatic range including Charles Mingus, Duke Ellington, Randy Newman, Jimi Hendrix, Ornette Coleman, Claude Thornhill, Albert Ayler and others, vocalist extraordinaire Mary LaRose leads a strong improvising quartet. Out of the tradition but clearly of today and tomorrow, this is music as challenging as it is sensual.Catalog Number: CIMP 255
CamoflageSteve Lehman (Alto Saxophone), Roy Campbell, Jr. (Trumpet), Kevin O'Neil (Electric Guitar), John Hebert (Acoustic Bass), Kevin Norton (Percussion)This is Volume 2 of the impressive debut from saxman Steve Lehman and his quintet: Volume 2, not leftovers; you know CIMP would never compromise the music. In this case, it is music out of the Jackie McLean – Anthony Braxton tradition, but roots, not retreads. Recorded May 14 & 15, 2001.Catalog Number: CIMP 245
Structural FireSteve Lehman (Alto Saxophone), Roy Campbell, Jr. (Trumpet), Kevin O'Neil (Electric Guitar), John Hebert (Acoustic Bass), Kevin Norton (Percussion)Steve Lehman is atypical of most CIMP artists in that he is young but typical in that he has a clear understanding of what he wants to express. A student of both Jackie McLean and Anthony Braxton, he leads a hard blowing set of notable originals and a refreshing visit into the land of 21st century hard bop. Recorded May 14 & 15, 2001.Catalog Number: CIMP 243
Eight 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 237
Lucille'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, 2001Catalog Number: CIMP 236
Nine 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 233
Mirabile DictuPaul Smoker (Trumpet), Steve Salerno (Guitar), Ken Filiano (Bass)Original compositions of complexity and movement dismantled and redirected by 3 outstanding storytellers. Recorded September 18 & 19, 2000.Catalog Number: CIMP 227
The Joy of BeingLou Grassi (Drums), Paul Smoker (Trumpet), Steve Swell (Trombone), Perry Robinson (Clarinet), Wilber Morris (Bass), Joseph Jarman (Flute)The PoBand strikes again, this time the guest is Joseph Jarman who shares this journey into the unknown but compelling world of inventive music. Recorded June 12 & 13, 2000.Catalog Number: CIMP 223
DeliriumOri Kaplan (Alto Saxophone), Tom Abbs (Tuba), Steve Swell (Trombone), Geoff Mann (Trumpet)A follow up to the first (CIMP 190) session with Trio Plus, augmented by Steve Swell's trombone. This recording also focuses on both Ori Kaplan's catchy compositions and the energized interplay of the group's outward swing. Recorded May 1 and 2, 2000.Catalog Number: CIMP 210
The LowdownEhran Elisha (Drums), Bill Lowe (Bass Trombone), Roy Campbell, Jr. (Trumpet), David Bindman (Tenor Saxophone), Sam Bardfeld (Violin), Drew Gress (Doublebass)Ehran Elisha likes to write in long form. The center of this release is The Lowedown, a 4 part piece which traverses many paths on its way to a satisfying conclusion. The two other tunes are duets between Bill Lowe and Elisha. Recorded August 9 & 10, 1999.Catalog Number: CIMP 207
PoZestMarshall Allen (Alto Saxophone), Lou Grassi (Drums), Paul Smoker (Trumpet), Steve Swell (Trombone), Perry Robinson (Clarinet), Wilber Morris (Bass)Sun Ra's legendary right hand alto man, Marshall Allen, meets Lou Grassi's PoBand in an extemporaneous musical outing that freely references everything from the late night blues to other galaxies. Recorded May 10 & 11, 1999.Catalog Number: CIMP 203
Flurries Warm and ClearSteve Swell (Trombone), Ned Rothenberg (Clarinet), Tomas Ulrich (Cello)This is the fifth CIMP session that Steve Swell has led, and each has its own distinct ambience. This release features a chamber setting on eleven blended originals. Could this mark the mellowing of a trombone monster?Catalog Number: CIMP 195
TaxidermySam Bardfeld (Violin), Ken Wessel (Guitar), Drew Gress (Bass), Mike Sarin (Drums)This group executs a fresh hybrid of improvising music which references then encompasses everything from chamber music to country and western. 8 catchy and intricate originals paired with 2 standards. Recorded February 15 & 16, 1999.Catalog Number: CIMP 193
Research On the EdgeMark Whitecage (Alto Saxophone), Sabir Mateen (Alto Saxophone), Chris Dahlgren (Bass), Jay Rosen (Drums)Mark Whitecage is one of the premier improvisors of his generation and, in this configuration, he and Mateen suggest the Al and Zoot of post-Bop music. The group operates from an exceptional level of intellect and instinct, truly living up to the disc's name. Recorded February 2, 1999.Catalog Number: CIMP 189
Free Range RatJohn Carlson (Trumpet), Eric Hipp (Tenor Saxophone), Shawn McGloin (Bass), Scott Neumann (Drums)Fresh and disruptive, engaging Bop and Free Bop - hard play and fun over a program of originals, 4 Sun Ra and 1 Ellington tunes. Recorded Oct. 20 & 21, 1998.Catalog Number: CIMP 189
Free Range RatJohn Carlson (Trumpet), Eric Hipp (Tenor Saxophone), Shawn McGloin (Bass), Scott Neumann (Drums)Fresh and disruptive, engaging Bop and Free Bop - hard play and fun over a program of originals, 4 Sun Ra and 1 Ellington tunes. Recorded Oct. 20 & 21, 1998.Catalog Number: CIMP 186
Standard DeviationsPaul Smoker (Trumpet), Steve Salerno (Guitar), Tomas Ulrich (Cello), Jay Rosen (Drums)Wonderfully abstract interpretations from the great American song book. Recorded Sept. 22 & 23, 1998.Catalog Number: CIMP 184
AtmospheelsSteve Swell (Trombone), Will Connell (Alto Saxophone), Lou Grassi (Drums)Steve Swell with a nifty little post-bop trio that includes the rarely heard veteran Will Connell. These players have known each other for more than two decades and these eight tracks open up some fine conversant and stimulating exchanges. Recorded August 3 & 4, 1998.Catalog Number: CIMP 166
The KickerEhran Elisha (Drums), Roy Campbell (Trumpet), David Bindman (Tenor Saxophone), Sam Bardfeld (Violin), Wilber Morris (Bass)The Ehran Elisha group presents a dense conceptual brand of improvising music which is as powerful for all of its individual statements as it is for the totality of its design. The Kicker is a 4 part intense structural free improv which can take your breath away. Recorded Feb. 12, 1998.Catalog Number: CIMP 157
Consensual TensionMark Whitecage (Alto Saxophone), Sabir Mateen (Clarinet), Joe Fonda (Bass), Harvey Sorgen (Drums)With this, his other, quartet, Mark Whitecage extends his Jazz lines with counterpoint and humor. Both Whitecage and Mateen present a fresh facet of their sound and soul over a program of 'Oleo' and six originals. Recorded July 21, 1998.Catalog Number: CIMP 156
Mo' PoLou Grassi (Drums), Perry Robinson (Clarinet), Herb Robertson (Cornet), Steve Swell (Trombone), Wilber Morris (Bass)One of the best free ensembles working today. The seven tracks range in length from under 3 to over 17 minutes in length. Out of nothing, substantial music is developed, remarkable fresh and free of fat and fill. It's what can happen in the hands of veterans well versed in the discipline of the art. No faking here. Recorded July 16 & 17, 1997.Catalog Number: CIMP 154
Out of the BoxTyrone Hill (Trombone), Marshall Allen (Alto Saxophone), Jason Oettel (Bass), Samarai Celestial (Drums)Long time Sun Ra trombonist Tyrone Hill makes his debut as a leader and brings along much-longer-time Sun Ra-ite Marshall Allen in a featured role for a program that mixes the music of Sun Ra with standards and originals. Recorded June 30 & July 1, 1997.Catalog Number: CIMP 149
Moons of JupiterSteve Swell (Trombone), Mark Whitecage (Alto Saxophone), Dominic Duval (Bass), Jay Rosen (Drums)The power of Steve Swell and the joy of his improvisations are equal to the fertile playing of Mark Whitecage's reeds. Strength against strength, this is powerful Jazz. Recorded May 22 & 23, 1997.Catalog Number: CIMP 138
Vision 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 128
Red Sprites&Blue JetsMarc Edwards (Percussion), Sabir Mateen (Tenor Saxophone), Hill Greene (Bass)A power trio that plays free music with clarity, precision, logic, and remarkable energy. Recorded Oct. 13, 1996.
Catalog Number: CIMP 118
Judgment DaySonny Simmons (Tenor Saxophone), Steve Neil (Bass), Michael Marcus (Manzello), Charles Moffett (Drums)This is an intense set by veterans who pull no punches. Sonny answers his critics. Watchout: improvisation at full strength. Recorded May 4, 1996.
Catalog Number: CIMP 118
Judgment DaySonny Simmons (Tenor Saxophone), Steve Neil (Bass), Michael Marcus (Manzello), Charles Moffett (Drums)This is an intense set by veterans who pull no punches. Sonny answers his critics. Watchout: improvisation at full strength. Recorded May 4, 1996.
Catalog Number: CIMP 117
Object RelationsDavid White (El&Ac Guitar), Tim Armacost (Tenor&Sop Sax), Valery Ponomarev (Trumpet), Calvin Hill (Bass), Shingo Okudaira (Drums)Object Relations is just that. Excellent composition, arrangement, and improvisation by the Quintet. Living bop; not a retread. Recorded June 18 & 19, `1996
Catalog Number: CIMP 116
Out And AboutSteve Swell (Trombone), Roswell Rudd (Trombone), Ken Filiano (Bass), Lou Grassi (Drums)State of the art trombone from two generations of masters. Warm, wonderful, and wild - it confirms why Steve Swell and Roswell Rudd are in a league of their own. Trombonemanship of the highest order and energy. Recorded June 14 & 15, 1996.
Catalog Number: CIMP 113
TranscendenceSonny Simmons (Alto Saxophone), Michael Marcus (Stritch), Charles Moffett (Drums)Music that transcends its own improvising brilliance and reveals levels of inspiration rarely encountered. Recorded April 9, 1996Catalog Number: CIMP 108
ObservationsSteve Swell (Trombone), Chris Kelsey (Soprano sax)Remarkably intuitive interplay. Inventive, surprising, and playful freely improvised music. Endless riches for attentive listeners. Recorded Feb. 16 & 17, 1996.
Catalog Number: CIMP 107
Froggin' AroundChris McCann (Drums), Billy Pierce (Tenor), Steve Wallace (Bass)Drawn from the work of Strayhorn, Ellington, Monk, and others, Billy Pierce and Chris McCann in a delightful program. Bop with guts. Feb. 14,15, 1996.
