CIMP: Creative Improvised Music Projects

Albums Featuring Instrument or Role - Guitar

View the complete list of instruments and artist roles.

Catalog Number: CIMP 380
Lonely House (Covers)Lonely House (Covers)Tomas Ulrich (Cello), Rolf Sturm (Guitar), Michael Bisio (Bass), Cargo Cult (Primary)Tomas Ulrich's Cargo Cult: certainly one of the definitive string groups of the 21st century and perhaps the most versatile and expansive. This latest release follows up CIMP 375 and Cadence Jazz 1214 with a recording that references a wide range of compositions. The inspirations here range from Leadbelly to Monk. Definitely an enchanting and fun listening experience.
Catalog Number: CIMP 375
Cargo CultCargo CultTomas Ulrich (Cello), Rolf Sturm (Guitar), Michael Bisio (Bass)Cargo Cult’s first recording (Cadence Jazz Records 1214) was so inspiring, CIMP moved quickly to make this recording. And this recording further inspired CIMP enough to record two more (to be released in the near future) performances by this group. Here is a string trio like you’ve never heard before. Passionate, improvising, beautiful compositions, and soulful delivery. Try this and listen to what the fuss is all about.
Catalog Number: CIMP LTD 353
To The RoachTo The RoachOdean Pope (Tenor Saxophone), Matt Davis (Guitar), Michael Taylor (Bass), Craig McIver (Drums)Odean Pope is a master of improvised music in both technique and thought. A distinguished and distinguishable voice, his latest CIMP event finds him playing tribute to his "boss" of 20 years, Max Roach. This session finds Odean outfitted with a new quartet featuring guitar—unprecedented in the Pope discography. No need to pontificate further. This is pure Pope—a broad view from the typically more lyrical to arguably his most volcanic work on record. There's a surpise at the end of this recording: a few moments of something very special albeit in low low fidelity. This is the complete Pope.
Catalog Number: CIMP 342
Younger DryasYounger DryasWilliam Gagliardi (Alto, Soprano,&Tenor Sax), John Carlson (Trumpet, Pocket Trumpet), Ken Wessel (Guitar), Dave Hofstra (Bass), Lou Grassi (Drums)This release is the companion to CIMP 332. As regular CIMP listeners know, a second volume is not "leftovers." We don't release culls or anything of a standard we don't endorse. So be assured this is in fact more - more of the joyous, quirky inventive music from "Billy Gags" and his handpicked group of excellent and interesting artists. Recorded May 26 & 27, 2005
Catalog Number: CIMP Records 334
Stellar SaxStellar SaxErnie Krivda (Saxophone), Bob Fraser (Guitar), Dominick Farinacci (Trumpet), Jeff Halsey (Bass), Carmen Intorre (Drums)One of the most distinctive and uncompromised stylists in Jazz, this new release from the quintet offers up four extended explorations including some new Krivda compositions, plus a fascinating solo invention off "Stella By Starlight." Sharing the front-line as he has on four other Krivda releases is Dominick Farinacci (trumpet) while Bob Fraser (g) and Carmen Intorre (d) also return. And Jeff Halsey's big bass finally reunites with Krivda after a long association that began in 1985. Recorded June 15 & 16, 2005.
Catalog Number: CIMP LTD 332
Memories of TomorrowMemories of TomorrowWilliam Gagliardi (Saxophone), John Carlson (Trumpet), Ken Wessel (Guitar), Dave Hofstra (Bass), Lou Grassi (Drums)This is the third recording of Bill Gagliardi's (AKA Billy Gags) quintet, a group that has now managed to stay together since 2000. What has made this possible is that every member of the group wants to play together and is equally inspired both by one another and Bill's Gagliardi's music. Hear why people continue to say "How come I've never heard of this guy? His music is wonderful." Recorded May 26 & 27, 2005.
Catalog Number: CIMP 318
JawboningJawboningKen Wessel (Guitar), Ken Filiano (Bass), Lou Grassi (Drums)There may be better known guitarists but none of them get to the heart of an improvisation better than Ken Wessel. A sideman on other CIMP sessions, we've been waiting for him to stand up and do his own date. The anticipation is justified as you'll hear on this mostly original music which also includes "I Remember You" and "Softly As In a Morning Sunrise." Recorded September 9 & 10, 2004
Catalog Number: CIMP 317
Lost in the StarsLost in the StarsMarc Pompe (Vocals), Curt Warren (Guitar), Nick Tountas (Bass), Rusty Jones (Drums)Marc Pompe is a Jazz singer. At 68 years this is only his third release and it's on CIMP, so you know he must be the real thing. Backed by a trio equal to his hipness, he makes memorable Pompe interpretations of 14 Jazz standards and 1 original. Hip, tender, and poignant: another original voice. Recorded August 30 & 31, 2004.
Catalog Number: CIMP 302
Plays Ernie Kirvda Volume 2Plays Ernie Kirvda Volume 2Ernie Krivda (Tenor Saxophone), Dominick Farinacci (Trumpet), Bob Fraser (Guitar), Kurt Kotheimer (Bass), Carmen Intorre (Drums)Volume 2 of Krivda Plays Krivda - still one of the most identifiable tenor stylists in Jazz. If after all these years you don't know Ernie's music?get to it. This is a fine place to start. Recorded July 24 & 25, 2003.
Catalog Number: CIMP 298
Celebration of the SpiritCelebration 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 297
Hear and NowHear and NowWilliam Gagliardi (Tenor&Soprano Saxophones), John Carlson (Trumpet), Ken Wessel (Guitar), Dave Hofstra (Bass), Lou Grassi (Drums)William Gagliardi (tenor & soprano saxophones) Quintet with John Carlson (trumpet) - Ken Wessel (guitar) - Dave Hofstra (bass) - Lou Grassi - (drums) Hear and Now People still marvel at Bill Gagliardi's talent and why they've never heard of him for his first 50 years. Well, here is part 2 of
Catalog Number: CIMP 293
Plays Ernie KrivdaPlays Ernie KrivdaErnie Krivda (Tenor Saxophone), Dominick Farinaccci (Trumpet), Bob Fraser (Guitar), Kurt Kotheimer (Bass), Carmen Intorre (Drums)Ernie Krivda, one of the most distinctive saxophone stylists, plays Ernie Krivda, one of the most distinctive Jazz composers. Ernie Krivda is the complete artist and is an instantly recognizable stylist. If after 30 years on the scene you still have not tasted his treats, this is a good place to begin. Recorded July 24 & 25, 2003.
Catalog Number: CIMP 291
NHLAHLANHLAHLAWilliam Gagliardi (Tenor Saxophone, Thumbpiano), John Carlson (Trumpet), Ken Wessel (Guitar), Dave Hofstra (Bass), Lou Grassi (Drums)Saxman/composer Gagliardi waited over 50 years to make his first recording CIMP 242), a date which was met with critical acclaim and a sense of “Where has this artist been hiding?” Now he reunited the quartet and adds trumpeter John Carlson for another quirky and dynamic concert of 7 new Gagliardi compositions. Recorded July 7 & 8, 2003.
Catalog Number: CIMP 287
Leave it to LutherLeave it to LutherLuther Thomas (Alto Sax), Ethan Mann (Guitar), Brian Smith (Bass), Cliff Barbaro (Drums)287 Luther Thomas (alto sax) - Ethan Mann - (guitar) - Brian Smith (bass) - Cliff Barbaro (drums) Leave It to Luther The distinct energized sound of Luther Thomas is all over the 9 cuts on this CD which includes "Groovin' High," "Body & Soul," and "'Round Midnight." Unexpected is the presence of Ethan Mann’s hip and complementary guitar work. Like Luther, this music is irrepressible. Recorded April 15, 2003, Rossie, NY. Leave It To Luther - Belona - Tatjana - Body and Soul - Groovin' High - Luther's Theme - Nova Zembla - Up South - 'Round Midnight
Catalog Number: CIMP 278
Hope is Bright Green Up NorthHope is Bright Green Up NorthJohn Tchicai (Tenor Sax, Bass Clarinet), Pierre Dorge (Guitar), Lou Grassi (Drums)When John Tchicai was the featured guest on Lou Grassi's Po Band recording (CIMP 262), they had such a good time that John decided this would be a good combination to pair up with his long-time associate Pierre Dorge. Dorge is best known (and justifiably so) for leading the New Jungle Orchestra. Here you get a good listen to the instrumentalists in a small group setting. One would expect John and Pierre to debut their own compositions, but the big surprise is that this recording marks Lou's compositional debut. Let's hear it for the drummer. Recorded October 1 & 2, 2002, The Spirit Room, Rossie, NY.
Catalog Number: CIMP 275
Lowe-down&BlueLowe-down&BlueFrank Lowe (Tenor Saxophone), Berne Nix (Guitar), Dominic Duval (Bass), Michael Carvin (Drums)This is Frank Lowe's fourth CIMP session and we think this one captures the tender soul of this tenor stylist. Recorded just days before Frank had to have lung surgery, this concert finds him ironically more robust than usual. But, in essence, it is a quintessential Lowe concert: full of the compositional and playing quirks which mark his best work. A real stylist with giving, unselfish support from a great rhythm grouping. Recorded September 16, 2002.
Catalog Number: CIMP 252
Standards&InsightsStandards&InsightsT.J. Graham (Vocals), Rory Stuart (Guitar)Here’s something for the lovers of standards and vocals: T.J. Graham, backed only by the sensitive artistry of guitarist Rory Stuart. It takes guts to record a vocal record with our audiophile demands: there’s no place to hide, no “fix” in the mix. Recorded July 23 and 24, 2001.
Catalog Number: CIMP 242
Music is the MeditationMusic is the MeditationWilliam Gagliardi (Alto Saxophone), Ken Wessel (Guitar), Dave Hofstra (Bass), Lou Grassi (Drums)William Gagliardi leads a tasty hard bop come free bop session featuring his notable compositions and the inspired front line mix of the leader's torqued sax with the flying inventiveness of Kenny Wessel's hard body guitar. Listen to this date and you ask yourself why is this this man's first release in 54 years. Recorded Feb. 20 & 21, 2001.
Catalog Number: CIMP 240
Transcend&TriumphTranscend&TriumphBobby Zankel (Alto Saxophone), Rick Iannacone (Guitar), Craig McIver (Drums)A harmolodic and multi-rhythmic synthesis to a set of originals that are visceral and spiny but also emotionally resolving in their cross grain interplay. Recorded February 1 & 2, 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 233
Mirabile DictuMirabile 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 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 214
Realities: Old&NewRealities: Old&NewLuther Thomas (Alto Saxophone), Kalaparush Maurice McIntyre (Tenor Saxophone), Mads Thorsen (Guitar), Brian Smith (Bass), Ronnie Burrage (Drums)A session that can be seen as a modern field recording as the concert clearly shows the evolutionary steps that bring about the wonders of Creative Improvised Music. The 10 tracks, issued in the order in which they were played, are as instructive as they are enjoyable. A unique unfolding. Recorded January 5, 2000.
Catalog Number: CIMP 196
Finishing TouchesFinishing TouchesDom Minasi (Guitar), Michael Bocchicchio (Bass), Jay Rosen (Drums)Dom Minasi returns after almost 25 years of recorded silence with a recording of his very original guitar. A controversial guitar stylist, Minasi's original darkly rhythmic attack is wonderfully captured on a program of standards and 5 originals. Recorded Feb. 22 & 23, 1999.
Catalog Number: CIMP 195
TaxidermyTaxidermySam 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 186
Standard DeviationsStandard 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 170
Wild Is the WindWild Is the WindPucci Jhones (Vocals), Casey Benjamin (Alto Saxophone), Rory Stuart (Guitar), Hilliard Greene (Bass), Wade Barnes (Drums)Pucci Amanda Jhones is a strong, fresh and highly original Jazz singer. She has had a profound effect on people first encountering her; hip and accessible yet empowered with a real individuality. Recorded March 11 & 12, 1998.
Catalog Number: CIMP 168
Double DoubleDouble DoubleDavid White (Guitar), Tim Armacost (Soprano Saxophone), George Garzone (Soprano Saxaphone), John Lockwood (Bass), Joris Dudli (Drums)Guitarist David White deals with a genre, bop, in a fresh way. White's work is notable for its original material and agitating arrangements. After you've been wowed by these qualities, prepare to be blown away by the dynamic inventions of the individuals in the group. Recorded Feb 23 & 24, 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 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 146
The Unhead Herbie Nichols Vol. 2The Unhead Herbie Nichols Vol. 2Roswell Rudd (Trombone), Greg Millar (Guitar), John Bacon, Jr. (Drums)Part 2 of the Rudd Trio's eclectic explorations of previously unrecorded Herbie Nichols compositions. Recorded Nov. 18 & 19, 1997.
Catalog Number: CIMP 145
Saxcrobatic FanaticSaxcrobatic FanaticLuther Thomas (Alto Saxophone), Kelvyn Bell (Guitar), Ronnie Burrage (Drums)Luther Thomas reunites with his St. Louis growing up buddies to visit their roots and exercise their rights to swing and have fun on this original program. Recorded April 2 & 3, 1997.
Catalog Number: CIMP 144
Nine WingsNine WingsBruce Eisenbeil (Guitar), Rob Brown (Alto Saxophone), Lou Grassi (Drums)Bruce Eisenbeil brings a new aesthetic to the guitar. Nine original compositions show there is still room for a fresh and original approach to the instrument. Recorded March 27, 1997.
Catalog Number: CIMP 134
RevelationRevelationIvo Perelman (Tenor Saxophone), Rory Stuart (Guitar), Dominic Duval (Bass), Jay Rosen (Drums)Guitarist Rory Stuart meets the Brazilian blower in this totally ad lib set which includes highly original readings of Auld Lang Syne and In a Sentimental Mood. Recorded Oct. 10, 1996.
Catalog Number: CIMP 133
The Unheard Herbie Nichols Vol. 1The Unheard Herbie Nichols Vol. 1Roswell Rudd (Mellaphone), Greg Millar (Guitar), John Bacon, Jr. (Drums)Roswell Rudd pays tribute to his old partner and friend in this eclectic interpretation of previously unheard compositions by Herbie Nichols. Expect the unexpected. Recorded Nov. 18 & 19, 1996.
Catalog Number: CIMP 125
EssenceEssenceLee Shaw (Piano), Mike DeMicco (Guitar), Rich Syracuse (Bass)Lee Shaw is out of the tradition of Art Tatum and Oscar Peterson. What marks her work is an enthusiasm, swing, and over-all effervescence which is unsupressable. Add to this the fine bop sensibilities of her rhythm section and you have an everfresh program of standards and exceptional Shaw originals. Recorded Sept. 16, 1996.
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.
Catalog Number: CIMP 102
Sarah's ThemeSarah's ThemeErnie Krivda Trio (Tenor Saxophone), Jeff Halsey (Bass), Bob Fraser (Guitar)The mellow side of the veteran tenor man, one of Jazz's most individual and underappreciated voices, an original stylist and a fine composer with a distinct sound. Sept. 11 & 12, 1995.