The Squid's Ear Magazine
NY Improv & Downtown NY


 
Zorn, John (Medeski / Grohowski / Hollenberg): Baphomet
Zorn, John (Medeski / Grohowski / Hollenberg):
Baphomet

(Tzadik -- USA )


Price: $17.95    




Out of Stock

The eight album from John Zorn's Simulacrum ensemble, blurring the lines between improvisation, fusion, exotica, compositional forms, and death-metal organ trio, performed with keyboardist John Medeski and members of heavy rock bands Cleric and Imperial Triumphant--Kenny Grohowski & Matt Hollenberg--in an epic 40 minutes long-form composition.

Mahanthappa, Rudresh: Hero Trio [VINYL]
Mahanthappa, Rudresh:
Hero Trio [VINYL]

(Whirlwind -- UK / EU )


Price: $28.95    




Out of Stock

Turning his attention from original compositions to the music of his heroes--Ornette Coleman, Stevie Wonder, Keith Jarrett, Johnny Cash, John Coltrane & Charlie Parker--saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa turns in an upbeat and exuberant album of standards performed in a trio with bassist Francois Moutin and drummer Rudy Royston.

Ideal Bread (Stinton / Knuffke / Hopkins / Fujiwara): Beating the Teens [2 CDs]
Ideal Bread (Stinton / Knuffke / Hopkins / Fujiwara):
Beating the Teens [2 CDs]

(Cuneiform -- Canada )


Price: $20.95    




In Stock

The 3rd album NYC's Steve Lacy repertory band Ideal Bread led by John Sinton (baritone saxophone) with Kirk Knuffke (cornet), Adam Hopkins (bass) and Tomas Fujiwara (drums) in a double CD recomposing Lacy's "Scratching The Seventies / Dreams" in unique and fascinating ways.

Ideal Bread: Transmit: Vol. 2 of The Music of Steve Lacy
Ideal Bread:
Transmit: Vol. 2 of The Music of Steve Lacy

(Cuneiform -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

The 2nd volume of the quartet of Kirk Knuffke, Josh Sinton, Reuben Radding and Tomas Fujiwara's quartet plaing the compositions of the late soprano saxophonist Steve Lacy.

TEST / Roy Campbell: TEST / Roy Campbell
TEST / Roy Campbell:
TEST / Roy Campbell

(577 Records -- USA )


Price: $16.00    




In Stock

A live recording from 1999 at Hint House in Harlem of TEST, led by Tom Bruno on drums with Matthew Heyner on bass and Sabir Mateen on alto & tenor sax, flute & clarinet, joined by Daniel Carter on alto & tenor sax, trumpet & flute, the set recorded by Matt Motel who captures the essence of this freewheeling band who brought their music not only to jazz clubs, but also to the street and subway.

Evans, Peter (w/ Ross / Jozwiak / Harris): Being & Becoming [VINYL]
Evans, Peter (w/ Ross / Jozwiak / Harris):
Being & Becoming [VINYL]

(More Is More -- USA )


Price: $24.95    




In Stock

A dynamic 1st release from trumpeter Peter Evans' group Being and Becoming, featuring improvisers from a younger generation of creative musicians--Joel Ross on vibes, Nick Joziwak on bass, and Savannah Harris on drums--the album featuring new compositions from Evans, moving between notated chamber music textures, free improvisations, deep grooves and telepathic ensemble playing.

Semantics (Elliott Sharp / Ned Rothenberg / Samm Bennett): Semantics
Semantics (Elliott Sharp / Ned Rothenberg / Samm Bennett):
Semantics

(Klanggalerie -- Austria )


Price: $17.95    




Out of Stock

An excellent example of the 80s Downtown NY approach to improvisation from the trio of wind player Ned Rothenberg on alto & tenor saxophones, bass clarinet & flute, Elliott Sharp on guitar, bass & violin, and Samm Bennett on drums, percussion & electronic drums, all in the height and excitement of the new music being developed and performed in NYC in the 1980s; awe-inspiring!

Shipp, Matthew / Rob Brown: Then Now
Shipp, Matthew / Rob Brown:
Then Now

(RogueArt -- Austria )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Since their 1988 duo album Sonic Explorations and through a number of group collaborations, the duo of alto saxophonist Rob Brown and pianist Matthew Shipp have extended and evolved their uniquely astute and confident dialog, as heard in this magnificent 8-part studio album, a reflection on their compatibility and perceptive artistry.

Okuden Quartet (Mat Walerian / Matthew Shipp / William Parker / Hamid Drake): Every Dog Has Its Day
Okuden Quartet (Mat Walerian / Matthew Shipp / William Parker / Hamid Drake):
Every Dog Has Its Day But It Doesn't Matter Because Fat Cat Is Getting Fatter [2 CDs]

(ESP-Disk -- USA )


Price: $14.45    




Out of Stock

Reed player Mat Walerian's 4th album as a leader, in a quartet with Matthew Shipp on piano, William Parker on double bass & shakuhachi, and Hamid Drake on drums, the name "Okuden" meaning "inner teachings, as Walerian's compositions vary from a fully free introspective opener to joyful jazz idiom, a perfect set for this versatile and enlightened set of musicians.

Niblock, Phill: G2,44+/X2  [CD + BOOK]
Niblock, Phill:
G2,44+/X2 [CD + BOOK]

(Room40 -- Australia )


Price: $26.95    




Out of Stock

A gorgeous and rich drone composition from New York composer Phill Niblock, intended for maximum volume to bring out shifting and slowly interacting harmonics from a nonet of incredible guitarists — David First, Rafael Toral, Robert Poss, Susan Stenger, Alan Licht, Kevin Drumm, Lee Ranaldo, and Thurston Moore — with Jim O'Rourk engineering the album for optimal warmth.

Graves, Milford / Don Pullen: The Complete Yale Concert, 1966
Graves, Milford / Don Pullen:
The Complete Yale Concert, 1966

(Corbett vs. Dempsey -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

Originally issued in two volumes on their own SRP Records in 1966 & 67 as In Concert At Yale University and Nommo, the duo of drummer/percussionist Milford Graves and pianist Don Pullen are heard live in in this excitingly energetic and revelatory concert at Yale University, redefining the roles of their instruments during the most exploratory period of free jazz.

McPhee, Joe : Black Is The Color: Live in Poughkeepsie and New Windsor, 1969-70 [2CDS]
McPhee, Joe :
Black Is The Color: Live in Poughkeepsie and New Windsor, 1969-70 [2CDS]

(Corbett vs. Dempsey -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

Unreleased material from Joe McPhee's archives, three live settings of the saxophonist and pocket trumpeter in upstate NY: a quartet with vibraphonist Ernie Bostic and the rhythm section of Tyrone Crabb and Bruce Thompson live at Vassar College; live in New Windsor with saxophonist Reggie Marks; and an outdoor concert at Poughkeepsie's Lincoln Centre.

What Happens In A Year (Sinton / Neufeld / Merega): Ceremonie / Musique
What Happens In A Year (Sinton / Neufeld / Merega):
Ceremonie / Musique

(FiP recordings -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

The 1st release of NY baritone saxophonist & bass clarinetist Josh Sinton's FiP label (Form is Possibility) is the debut of the "What Happens in a Year" trio with Todd Neufeld on electric guitar and Giacomo Merega on electric bass, an album of free collective improvisation fueled by a patiently ethereal and authoritative ethic through subtle dialog of tone, texture and pulse.

Perelman, Ivo / Arcado String Trio: Deep Resonance
Perelman, Ivo / Arcado String Trio:
Deep Resonance

(Listen! Foundation (Fundacja Sluchaj!) -- Poland )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

Saxophonist Ivo Perelman declares that he "metamorphosed into a string instrument" himself while playing with the dynamic string trio drawn of NY Downtown luminaries--cellist Hank Roberts, violinist Mark Feldman and bassist Mark Dresser--blending technical mastery with profound creative impulse as the quartet weaves a tapestry of free jazz and instant composition.

Futterman, Joel : Intervals
Futterman, Joel :
Intervals

(Listen! Foundation (Fundacja Sluchaj!) -- Poland )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

Each of the three parts of NY pianist Joel Futterman's "Intervals" is unedited first takes, a referendum on 40 years of playing and expanding his powers at free jazz that embraces tradition and future, alway engaging his listeners through fully formed figures, phrase and motifs, a great combination of familiar jazz elements and imaginative free invention.

Gjerstad, Frode / Fred Lonberg Holm / Steve Swell / William Parker: Tales From
Gjerstad, Frode / Fred Lonberg Holm / Steve Swell / William Parker:
Tales From

(Listen! Foundation (Fundacja Sluchaj!) -- Poland )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

After a tour through upstate New York State with Chicago cellist and electronic artist Fred Lonberg-Holm, saxophonist Frode Gjerstad headed to New York City for a planned trio recording which evolved into this informed quartet with Steve Swell on trombone and William Parker on bass, tuba, cornet & flutes, an outstanding example of Transatlanic collective improvisation.

Kaze (Fujii / Tamura / Pruvost / Orins) w/ Ikue Mori: Sand Storm
Kaze (Fujii / Tamura / Pruvost / Orins) w/ Ikue Mori:
Sand Storm

(Libra/ Circum-Disc -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

The cooperative quartet Kaze of Satoko Fujii on piano, Peter Orins on drums, Christian Pruvost on trumpet, Natsuki Tamura on trumpet, joins with elextroacoustic improviser Ikue Mori for seven exploratory pieces recorded in the studio after a one-week tour in Austria, France, and Russia, their enthusiasm for their extraordinarily unique group sound clearly evident.

Jordan, Kidd / Joel Futterman / Alvin Fielder Trio: Live At The Tampere Jazz Happening 2000
Jordan, Kidd / Joel Futterman / Alvin Fielder Trio:
Live At The Tampere Jazz Happening 2000

(CLM -- USA )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

A superb live album recorded at the 2000 Tampere Jazz Happening, Pakkahuone, Finland, and the 4th release from the trio of Kidd Jordan on tenor sax, Joel Futterman on piano, soprano sax & indian wooden flute, and Alvin Fielder on drums & percussion; improvisation performed like old friends, the album divided into six tracks plus an encore but performed as one long piece.

Icepick (Nate Wooley / Ingebrigt Haker-Flaten / Chris Corsano): Hellraiser [VINYL]
Icepick (Nate Wooley / Ingebrigt Haker-Flaten / Chris Corsano):
Hellraiser [VINYL]

(Astral Spirits -- USA )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

The 3rd album from the improvising trio of Nate Wooley on trumpet, Ingebrigt Haker Flaten on bass, and Chris Corsano on drums, is a live recording at the 2018 Experimental Sound Studio's Option Series, a smoldering session of collective improvisation that builds tension through impressive rhythmic texture and releases it in cathartic and passionate passages.

Carter, Daniel / Matthew Shipp: Dark Matrix
Carter, Daniel / Matthew Shipp:
Dark Matrix

(Not Two -- Poland )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

A meeting in the studio of long-time friends and collaborators, pianist Matthew Shipp and Daniel Carter performing on alto, tenor & soprano saxes, clarinet & trumpet, having played together in many groupings this is only their first duo recording, in a thoughtful set of free improvisations with an innate lyricism and beautiful sense of pacing; masterful and evolved.

Ayler, Albert Quartet With Don Cherry: European Recordings Autumn 1964 (Revisited) [2 CDs]
Ayler, Albert Quartet With Don Cherry:
European Recordings Autumn 1964 (Revisited) [2 CDs]

(ezz-thetics by Hat Hut Records Ltd -- Switzerland )


Price: $19.95    




In Stock

Essential radio and live recordings from saxophonist Albert Ayler's European tour in 1964 with Don Cherry on cornet, Gary Peacock on double bass and Sunny Murray on drums, a quintessential grouping for Ayler's compositions, here in outstanding renditions of classic works including "Spirits", "Ghosts", "Vibrations", "Mothers", "Childrens", plus Don Cherry's "Infant Happiness".

Myers, David Lee: That Which Is It
Myers, David Lee:
That Which Is It

(pulsewidth -- USA )


Price: $9.95    




In Stock

Using electronic and digital tools similar to those that fuel his Arcane Device project, New York sound artist David Lee Myers presents an accessibly engaging set of compositions using modular electronics, feedback matrices, guitar textures, voices, and frogs in 11 polyrhythmic adventures; quirky yet non-chaotic, sublime experimental works of tone and texture.

Futterman, Joel: Remembering Dolphy
Futterman, Joel:
Remembering Dolphy

(JDF Music -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Pianist Joel Futterman pays a tribute to late alto saxophonist Eric Dolphy through six Dolphy original compositions, plus one Mal Waldron track and two Futterman originals referencing Dolphy's well-known Blue Note record, "Out to Dinner" parts one & two, each track unedited with no overdubs and the album presented in the sequence in which it was recorded.

Futterman, Joel / Ike Levin Duo: The Present Gift
Futterman, Joel / Ike Levin Duo:
The Present Gift

(IML Music -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

A meeting in the studio in 2001 between frequent collaborators, pianist Joel Futterman, also performing on curved soprano saxophone & wooden Indian flute, and Chicago tenor saxophonist Ike Levin, also on bass clarinet and Brazilian Kalimba, beautifully capturing the extraordinary conversation of strongly articulated dialog between the two improvisers; impressive!

Futterman, Joel : The Fall
Futterman, Joel :
The Fall

(Creation Music -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

A three-part solo improvisation recorded in the studio and presented in complete unedited first takes with no overdubs, sequenced in the order recorded, from NY-area pianist Joel Futterman, performing "The Fall" in two parts, and "Recovery", each an epic journey through rapid technical virtuosity and nimble creativity, balanced with periods of deep reflection and introspection.

Brown, Chris: Retrospectacles [2 CDs]
Brown, Chris:
Retrospectacles [2 CDs]

(fo'c'sle -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

A fascinating 2-CD retrospective of the solo piano and computer work from 1990 to 2016 of San Francisco Bay Area experimental composer Chris Brown, whose work focuses on evolving paradigms of human-machine interaction through live signal processing, generative polyrhythmic textures, and a cohabitation of both formal control and indeterminacy.

Haden, Petra (w/ John Zorn / Jesse Harris feat. the Julian Lage Trio): Songs For Petra
Haden, Petra (w/ John Zorn / Jesse Harris feat. the Julian Lage Trio):
Songs For Petra

(Tzadik -- USA )


Price: $17.95    




Out of Stock

The songwriting team of John Zorn and Jesse Harris, who worked together on Zorn's The Song Project, wrote these beautiful melodies & lyrics that merge elements of rock and jazz for singer Petra Haden, performed in a quintet with Jesse Harris on acoustic guitar, keys & background vocals, Kenny Wollesen on drums, percussion, Julian Lage on guitar, and Jorge Roeder on bass.

Pavone, J. String Ensemble: Lost and Found [CASSETTE w/ DOWNLOAD]
Pavone, J. String Ensemble:
Lost and Found [CASSETTE w/ DOWNLOAD]

(Astral Spirits -- USA )


Price: $7.95    




Out of Stock

Jessica Pavones String Ensemble with Pavone and Abby Swidler on violas, and Erica Dicker and Angela Morris on violins, are recorded live at Firehouse 12 in a set of Pavone compositions combining traditional notation and improvisation, with a focus on sustained collaborative playing and the application of ideas exploring the healing potential of sonic vibrations.

Pavone, J. String Ensemble: Lost and Found [CD]
Pavone, J. String Ensemble:
Lost and Found [CD]

(Astral Spirits -- USA )


Price: $11.95    




Out of Stock

Jessica Pavones String Ensemble with Pavone and Abby Swidler on violas, and Erica Dicker and Angela Morris on violins, are recorded live at Firehouse 12 in a set of Pavone compositions combining traditional notation and improvisation, with a focus on sustained collaborative playing and the application of ideas exploring the healing potential of sonic vibrations.

Tsahar, Assif: ayn le-any
Tsahar, Assif:
ayn le-any

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

A freestyling solo album from NY/Israeli saxophonist Assif Tsahar, performing on tenor sax and bass clarinet in an exciting three-part improvisation of avant forms of technical dexterity and extended range through emphatic and sustained expression of long lines and cycling figures that shift and transform; a great example of Tsahar's skill and imagination.

Cooper-Moore / Assif Tsahar: America
Cooper-Moore / Assif Tsahar:
America

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Half protest statement and half call for renewal, America offers a wonderful combination of the familiar and the unexpected in improvised and heartland music.

Tsahar / Maneri / Black: Jam
Tsahar / Maneri / Black:
Jam

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Three creative young musicians in New York Tsahar, Mat Maneri and Black in a trio of warmly orchestrated free improv with witty restraint in extended conversation.

Tsahar, Assif / Tatsuya Nakatani: Come Sunday
Tsahar, Assif / Tatsuya Nakatani:
Come Sunday

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Performing at Astor Place in the East Village, NYC every Sunday for 3 years prior to this recording created the unique sound and tight interactions of these remarkable recordings.

Fernandez, Agusti / Peter Kowald : Sea Of Lead
Fernandez, Agusti / Peter Kowald :
Sea Of Lead

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

The duo of late bassist Peter Kowald and inside-and-out pianist Agusti Fernandez in a set of extraordinary energetical, rhythmic and irrepressible improvisations.

Tsahar, Sahar Project / Tatsuya Nakatani / The Kjla String Fourtet: Solitude
Tsahar, Sahar Project / Tatsuya Nakatani / The Kjla String Fourtet:
Solitude

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Alto saxophonist/composer Tsahar further investigates what 3rd stream music left behind, a gorgeous exploration of sound and movement with percussionist Nakatani and the KJLA String 4tet.

Dalachinsky, Steve / Matthew Shipp  : Phenomena of Interference
Dalachinsky, Steve / Matthew Shipp :
Phenomena of Interference

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

The duo of Downtown NY-ers poet Steve Dalachinsky and pianist Matthew Shipp improvising over 22 of Dalachinsky's sharply worded poems of "everyday" observation.

Cooper-Moore / Tsahar, Assif / Taylor, Chad : Digital Primitives
Cooper-Moore / Tsahar, Assif / Taylor, Chad :
Digital Primitives

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Prolific and working incredibly fertile creative ground, New Yorkers Cooper-Moore, Tsahar and Taylor release their first as a trio on Tsahar's Hopscotch label.

Digital Primitives (Cooper-Moore / Tsahar / Taylor) : Hum Crackle Pop
Digital Primitives (Cooper-Moore / Tsahar / Taylor) :
Hum Crackle Pop

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

The 2nd Digital Primitives release (Cooper-Moore, Asif Tsahar, Chad Taylor) digs in deep to fuse a new sound from blues, folk, jazz & funk, with accents from the music's African antecedents.

Tsahar, Assif & The New York Underground Orchestra: The Labyrinth
Tsahar, Assif & The New York Underground Orchestra:
The Labyrinth

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Tsahar's New York Underground Orchestra with an all-star set of New York players including Okkyung Lee, Oscar Noriega, Matt Lavelle, Tatsuya Nakatani, &c. &c performing Tsahar's 10 part "labyrinth".

Tsahar, Assif and the Zoanthropic Orchestra: Embracing the Void
Tsahar, Assif and the Zoanthropic Orchestra:
Embracing the Void

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Tsahar's 60-minute suite with his NY heavyweights Zoanthropic Orchestra is a sort of self-portrait in sound, drawing on auditory memories from his childhood on.

Tsahar, Assif / Rashied Ali / Peter Kowald: Deals, Ideas and Ideals
Tsahar, Assif / Rashied Ali / Peter Kowald:
Deals, Ideas and Ideals

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Part of bassist Kowald's 2000 US tour of solo and performances with local musicians, here with alto player Tsahar and drum legend Rashied Ali in a brilliant encounter.

Cooper-Moore: Solo - Deep in the neighborhood of history and influence
Cooper-Moore:
Solo - Deep in the neighborhood of history and influence

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Cooper-Moore's astonishing solo piano album live in Guelph shows his immense knowledge of jazz idioms crossed with mind-altering, outer-edge playing, Moore's "improvisation as lifeblood".

Ibarra, Susie Trio: Radiance
Ibarra, Susie Trio:
Radiance

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Drummer Ibarra's trio with Cooper-Moore and violinist Charles Burnham blur boundaries in a band of great versatility, taste and collective musicianship.

Kretzmer, Yoni Trio: Nevertheless
Kretzmer, Yoni Trio:
Nevertheless

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Israeli saxophonist Yoni Kretzmer now living in NY in a trio with NY drummer Mike Pride and Chicago/NY bassist Jason Ajemian, technical, lyrical, conceptual, and emotional jazz.

Digital Primitives: Lipsomuch & Soul Searchin' [2 CDs]
Digital Primitives:
Lipsomuch & Soul Searchin' [2 CDs]

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

The trio of saxophonist Assif Tsahar, drummer Chad Taylor and multi-instrumentalist Cooper-Moore in the 3rd Digital Primitives release, rhythmic and soulful improvisation with an inventive New York attitude.

Tsahar, Assif Brass Reeds Ensemble: The Hollow World
Tsahar, Assif Brass Reeds Ensemble:
The Hollow World

(Hopscotch Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Tsahar's 9-piece Brass Reeds Ensemble Herb Robertson, Chris Jonas, Rob Brown, Susie Ibarra, &c. is an ambitious and incredible undertaking of group improvisation.

Ayler, Albert: Spirits Rejoice & Bells Revisited
Ayler, Albert:
Spirits Rejoice & Bells Revisited

(ezz-thetics by Hat Hut Records Ltd -- Switzerland )


Price: $18.95    




In Stock

Revisiting two of the most essential and influential albums of saxophonist Albert Ayler's discography, both recorded in 1965 — Spirits Rejoice in a sextet and Bells in a quintet — both drawing from some of NY's finest players including Charles Tyler, Henry Grimes, Gary Peacock, Sunny Murray, Donald Ayler and Lewis Worrell, properly remastered to showcase Ayler's stunning conceptions in free jazz.

Jooklo Trio (Genta / Vanzan / Lopez): It Is What It Is
Jooklo Trio (Genta / Vanzan / Lopez):
It Is What It Is

(Relative Pitch -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

A raucous blast of free jazz, electrifyingly extending the Italian improv unit Jooklo Duo of drummer/percussionist David Vanzan and saxophonist Virginia Genta, here on amplified tenor & sopranino saxophones, with New York improviser Brandon Lopez on electric bass, burning six hair-raising pieces of aggressive free improv of exemplary relentlessness.

Courvoisier, Sylvie Trio (Courvoisier / Gress / Wollesen): Free Hoops
Courvoisier, Sylvie Trio (Courvoisier / Gress / Wollesen):
Free Hoops

(Intakt -- Switzerland )


Price: $17.95    




Out of Stock

With tracks dedicated to friends, family and musicians including Claude Thornhill & John Zorn, the 3rd album from The Sylvie Courvoisier trio with Drew Gress on bass and Kenny Wollesen on drums & "Wollesonics", is an exuberantly sophisticated album of slyly complex jazz compositions that both happily swing and leave room for creative exploration; extraordinary!

Lewis, James Brandon Quartet (w/ Taylor / Ortiz / Jones): Molecular
Lewis, James Brandon Quartet (w/ Taylor / Ortiz / Jones):
Molecular

(Intakt -- Switzerland )


Price: $17.95    




Out of Stock

Inspired by molecular biology, saxophonist and composer James Brandon Lewis developed a unique system of composing, creating a surprising and beautiful music for the debut of his new quartet with drummer Chad Taylor, pianist Aruán Ortiz, and bassist Brad Jones, bringing lyricism and joyful playing to his sophisticated approach to the jazz tradition.

Blum, John / Jackson Krall: Duplexity
Blum, John / Jackson Krall:
Duplexity

(Relative Pitch -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

A dynamic and red-hot album of free improvisation from two New York legends--pianist John Blum and drummer/percussionist Jackson Krall--both in jaw-dropping form as they present two extended improvisations, "Blood and Bone" and "Wind and Wing", appropriate for the energy and intense and seemingly physically-defying technical skill each brings to their playing.

Weinberg, Sam / Henry Fraser / Weasel Walter : Grist
Weinberg, Sam / Henry Fraser / Weasel Walter :
Grist

(ugEXPLODE -- USA )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

Hard-edged NY improvisation from the performing trio of Sam Weinberg on sax, Henry Fraser on bass and Weasel Walter on drums, who since 2017 have developed a group sound of powerful and fiercely determined free jazz roots using interesting instrumental technique, often muscular and urgent but also with periods of constrained interplay and dialog; an extremely well balanced band.

Ewen, Sandy / Damon Smith / Weasel Walter : ST
Ewen, Sandy / Damon Smith / Weasel Walter :
ST

(ugEXPLODE -- USA )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

Four unorthodox improvisations that evade idiomatic playing through "wantonly abstract" and unusual approaches to their instruments, keeping their listeners guessing where their playing might take them, from frequent collaborators Sandy Ewen on guitar, Damon Smith on bass, and Weasel Walter on drums & percussion, recording in the studio in Brooklyn, 2019.

Wooley, Nate: Seven Storey Mountain VI
Wooley, Nate:
Seven Storey Mountain VI

(Pyroclastic Records -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

Composer & trumpeter Nate Wooley presents the 6th composition of his SSM series exploring music's ability to bring catharsis and ecstatic release to the performers and listeners, in a large ensemble of 11 musicians and voice, in a stunningly sophisticated large work of modern orchestration through acoustic and electronic/amplified instruments; a masterwork.

Halvorson's, Mary Code Girl: Artlessly Falling
Halvorson's, Mary Code Girl:
Artlessly Falling

(Firehouse 12 Records -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




Out of Stock

The 2nd Code Girl release from guitarist Mary Halvorson presents an embraceable and ambitious set of songs from 8 poetic forms for which Halvorson composed words & music, 3 of which are sung by Robert Wyatt, the others by Amirtha Kidambi, in a band with Thumbscrew members Michael Formanek (bass), Tomas Fujiwara (drums), plus Maria Grand (sax) and Adam O'Farrill (trumpet).

Warriors of the Wonderful Sound Expanded Ensemble, The: Soundpath
Warriors of the Wonderful Sound Expanded Ensemble, The:
Soundpath

(Clean Feed -- Portugal )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

AACM legend Muhal Richard Abrams was commissioned by Philadelphia saxophonist Bobby Zankel to compose for Zankel's large ensemble Warriors of the Wonderful Sound, this monumental piece premiered in 2012, but only in 2018 was a 2nd performance possible, conducted by Marty Ehrlich and receiving 2 standing ovations, the band recording this studio version the next day at Drexel University.

Reid, Tomeka / Joe Morris: Combinations
Reid, Tomeka / Joe Morris:
Combinations

(RogueArt -- France )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

New York and Chicago string improvisers combine for an album of dense abstractions through individual lines that weave between the two players, briefly combining then moving off to independent methods, as guitarist Joe Morris and cellist Tomeka Reid meet in a Brooklyn studio to record ten improvisations, including one each dedicated to their home cities.

Parker, Charlie: Bebop Live  [2 CDs]
Parker, Charlie:
Bebop Live [2 CDs]

(ezz-thetics by Hat Hut Records Ltd -- Switzerland )


Price: $19.95    




In Stock

Remarkably remastered recordings of Charlie Parker's quintets from 1945-49, performing live at Carnegie Hall, Royal Roost, & Town Hall with configurations of Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Kenny Dorham, Red Rodney, Don Byas, Al Haig, Max Roach, Roy Haynes, Kenny Clarke, Tommy Potter & Curley Russell, allowing us to re-live the consistent brilliance of the leader and his sidemen.

Williams, Mars Presents: An Ayler Xmas Vol. 4: Chicago vs. NYC [2 CDs]
Williams, Mars Presents:
An Ayler Xmas Vol. 4: Chicago vs. NYC [2 CDs]

(Astral Spirits / Soul What Records -- USA )


Price: $17.95    




Out of Stock

This year's An Ayler Xmas, the 4th in the series from saxophonist Mars Williams, expands to a double CD with recordings from two bands: Josh Berman, Jim Baker, Kent Kessler, Brian Sandstrom & Steve Hunt (Chicago); and Steve Swell, Hilliard Greene, Chris Corsano, Nels Cline & Fred Lonberg-Holm (NYC); in incredible free jazz mashups and bash-ups of Holiday favorites.

Laubrock, Ingrid: Dreamt Twice, Twice Dreamt (Music For Chamber Orchestra And Small Ensemble) [2 CDs
Laubrock, Ingrid:
Dreamt Twice, Twice Dreamt (Music For Chamber Orchestra And Small Ensemble) [2 CDs]

(Intakt -- Switzerland )


Price: $29.95    




In Stock

The 2nd orchestral album from saxophonist Ingrid Laubrock, two very different but complementary sets of compositions using electronics in mostly acoustic settings: the 1st with the larger EOS Chamber Orchestra and guests including Cory Smythe, Tom Rainey, & Sam Pluta; the 2nd a smaller group of Laubrock, Smythe & Pluta + guests Adam Motlock, Josh Modney, and Zeena Parkins.

Pirog, Anthony: Pocket Poem
Pirog, Anthony:
Pocket Poem

(Cuneiform -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




Out of Stock

Blurring the lines between jazz and rock in ECM and blues-tinged playing in compositions with a solid melodic center, Washington-area guitarist Anthony Pirog presents an album of lyrical music tinged by electronics and rich with evocative environments, performed with Michael Formanek on acoustic and electric bass, and Chess Smith on drums, percussion & electronics.

Taylor, Cecil / Tony Oxley: Being Astral And All Registers - Power Of Two
Taylor, Cecil / Tony Oxley:
Being Astral And All Registers - Power Of Two

(Discus -- UK )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

Taken from the personal archives of UK drummer/percussionist Tony Oxley, this extremely well recorded duo session with frequent collaborator, iconoclastic NY pianist Cecil Taylor, are heard in a live performance at the Ulrichsberg Festival, Austria in 2002 for a brilliantly frenetic and masterfully controlled, creative set of two jaw-dropping extended dialogs.

Shipp, Matthew : The Reward [VINYL 2 LPs]
Shipp, Matthew :
The Reward [VINYL 2 LPs]

(RogueArt -- France )


Price: $29.95    




Out of Stock

One of the most distinctive and introspective voices on the piano in modern improvised music, New York pianist Matthew Shipp presents a solo suite in four movements, each movement a side of this magnificently produced double LP, released to coincide with his 60th birthday, including liner notes from late poet and collaborator Steve Dalichinsky; a wonderful gift for 2020.

Harnik, Elisabeth / Steve Swell: Tonotopic Organizations
Harnik, Elisabeth / Steve Swell:
Tonotopic Organizations

(Listen! Foundation (Fundacja Sluchaj!) -- Poland )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

The title referring to the spatial arrangement where sounds of different frequency are processed in the brain, New York trombonist Steve Swell and Austrian Elisabeth Harnik performing inside and out of the piano, are captured live at Martinsschlossl, in Vienna, Austria in 2019 for 8 free improvisations of immense creative drive and ebullient rapport.

Halvorson's, Mary Code Girl: Artlessly Falling [VINYL WHITE 2 LPs]
Halvorson's, Mary Code Girl:
Artlessly Falling [VINYL WHITE 2 LPs]

(Firehouse 12 Records -- USA )


Price: $39.95    




Out of Stock

The 2nd Code Girl release from guitarist Mary Halvorson presents an embraceable and ambitious set of songs from 8 poetic forms for which Halvorson composed words & music, 3 of which are sung by Robert Wyatt, the others by Amirtha Kidambi, in a band with Thumbscrew members Michael Formanek (bass), Tomas Fujiwara (drums), plus Maria Grand (sax) and Adam O'Farrill (trumpet).

Alcorn, Susan Quintet: Pedernal
Alcorn, Susan Quintet:
Pedernal

(Relative Pitch -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

An innovator in integrating pedal steel guitar into modern improvised music, Cleveland-born, Baltimore-based pedal steel guitar player Susan Alcorn's quintet enlists a superb set of New York players--Mark Feldman on violin, Michael Formanek on double bass, Mary Halvorson on guitar, and Ryan Sawyer on drums--taking on a diverse set of Alcorn compositions.

Lane / Grassi / Whitecage: Drunk Butterfly
Lane / Grassi / Whitecage:
Drunk Butterfly

(Clean Feed -- Portugal )


Price: $13.95    




Out of Stock

A superb trio of NY improvisers and composers whose collective work bridges the divide between free playing and jazz tradition, a kind of avant swinging bebop.

Wooley, Nate / Liudas Mockunas / Barry Guy / Arkadijus Gotesmanas: NOX [VINYL]
Wooley, Nate / Liudas Mockunas / Barry Guy / Arkadijus Gotesmanas:
NOX [VINYL]

(NoBusiness -- Lithuania )


Price: $22.95    




Out of Stock

An exceptional album of demanding collective free improvisation from the transatlantic quartet of Nate Wooley on trumpet, Liudas Mockunas on contrabass clarinet and saxophones, Barry Guy on bass, and Arkadijus Gotesmanas on drums & percussion, recorded in the studio in Vilnius, Lithuania while Wooley and Guy were artists in residence for the 2019 Improdimensions.

Shepp, Archie: Blase And Yasmina Revisited
Shepp, Archie:
Blase And Yasmina Revisited

(ezz-thetics by Hat Hut Records Ltd -- Switzerland )


Price: $18.95    




In Stock

Revisiting two of Archie Shepp's 1969 recordings released on the BYG label as Blasé, and title track to Yasmina, three tracks featuring the vocals of Jeanne Lee, with four band configurations including Dave Burrell, Malachi Favors, Lester Bowie, Roscoe Mitchell, Sunny Murray, Philly Joe Jones, &c., beautifully remastered to bring to light Shepp's pan-stylistic impulses.

Taylor, Cecil Mixed To Unit: Structures Revisited
Taylor, Cecil Mixed To Unit:
Structures Revisited

(ezz-thetics by Hat Hut Records Ltd -- Switzerland )


Price: $18.95    




In Stock

Bringing together two essential and impeccably remastered 1960's Cecil Taylor albums — Cecil Taylor Unit Structures and Cecil Taylor Unit Mixed — presenting both traditional influences and Taylor's unique approaches to modern jazz, featuring two septets with musicians including Jimmy Lyons, Henry Grimes, Archies Shepp, Ted Curson, Andrew Cyrille, Roswell Rudd, Sunny Murray, &c.

Rivers, Sam Trio (feat Joe Daley / Dave Holland / Thurman Baker ): Braids: Archive series Volume 4
Rivers, Sam Trio (feat Joe Daley / Dave Holland / Thurman Baker ):
Braids: Archive series Volume 4

(NoBusiness -- Lithuania )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

The fourth volume in the NoBusiness Records Sam Rivers Archive series is this live recording from Hamburg, Germany during River's 1979 tour of Europe, with the multi-instrumentalist performing on tenor & soprano saxophones, flute & piano in a quartet with Joe Daley on tuba, euphonium, Dave Holland on bass, cello, and Thurman Barker on drums.

Parker, William: Migration of Silence Into and Out of The Tone World (Volumes 1-10) [10 CD BOX SET]
Parker, William:
Migration of Silence Into and Out of The Tone World (Volumes 1-10) [10 CD BOX SET]

(Centering Records -- USA )


Price: $79.95    




In Stock

A 10-album collection in a solid box set of vocal and instrumental suites recorded expressly for this set between late 2018 and early 2020, with women's voices at its core (both on voice & other instruments), taking a vast view of music from around the globe through free improvisation and re-imagined sonic collage, performed by groupings of extraordinary performers.

Crispell / Prevost / Smith: ConcertOTO
Crispell / Prevost / Smith:
ConcertOTO

(Matchless -- UK )


Price: $17.95    




In Stock

American pianist Marilyn Crispell joined London Improviser's Orchestra saxophonist & clarinetist Harry Smith and AMM drummer Eddie Prévost for this 2012 concert at London's Cafe OTO, playing in a melodic free jazz mode of passionate interaction and deep communication, resulting in an unforced and naturally masterful set of thoughtfully lyrical improvisation.

Taylor, Cecil Quintet (feat. Harri Sjostrom / Tristan Honsinger / Teppo Hauta-aho / Paul Lovens): Li
Taylor, Cecil Quintet (feat. Harri Sjostrom / Tristan Honsinger / Teppo Hauta-aho / Paul Lovens):
Lifting The Bandstand

(Listen! Foundation (Fundacja Sluchaj!) -- Poland )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Though not well documented, free jazz legendary pianist Cecil Taylor's working band for 3 years in the late nineties was this quintet of Harri Sjostrom on soprano saxophone, Tristan Honsinger on cello, Teppo Hauta-aho on double bass, and Paul Lovens on drums, cymbals & gongs, heard in this energetic concert at Tampere Jazz Happening in Finland, 2018.

Cymerman, Jeremiah / Charlie Looker: A Horizon Made of Canvas [CASSETTE + DOWNLOAD]
Cymerman, Jeremiah / Charlie Looker:
A Horizon Made of Canvas [CASSETTE + DOWNLOAD]

(Astral Spirits -- USA )


Price: $7.95    




Out of Stock

A series of ominous duos on the dark side from NY improviser Jeremiah Cymerman on clarinets & pedals, and Charlie Looker (Extra Life, Psalm Zero) on guitars & piano, each of the five pieces exploring murky caverns of warmly bleak environments rendered through Looker's deep piano & guitar work, perforated by cracks of light through Cymerman's riffs & exclamations.

Cymerman, Jeremiah / Charlie Looker: A Horizon Made of Canvas
Cymerman, Jeremiah / Charlie Looker:
A Horizon Made of Canvas

(Astral Spirits -- USA )


Price: $11.95    




In Stock

A series of ominous duos on the dark side from NY improviser Jeremiah Cymerman on clarinets & pedals, and Charlie Looker (Extra Life, Psalm Zero) on guitars & piano, each of the five pieces exploring murky caverns of warmly bleak environments rendered through Looker's deep piano & guitar work, perforated by cracks of light through Cymerman's riffs & exclamations.

Lucas, Gary: The Essential Gary Lucas [2 CDs]
Lucas, Gary:
The Essential Gary Lucas [2 CDs]

(Knitting Factory -- USA )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

A retrospective of the work of guitarist and one-time Captain Beefheart Magic Band member Gary Lucas, in two CDs, the first devoted to songs recorded with Lucas' psychedelic jazz-rock band Gods and Monsters, the second devoted to solo works, rarities and collaborations, with an incredible list of performers reflecting Lucas' diverse 40-year career.

Fujiwara, Tomas (w / Brennan / Reid): 7 Poets Trio
Fujiwara, Tomas (w / Brennan / Reid):
7 Poets Trio

(RogueArt -- France )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Drummer Tomas Fujiwara composed these compositions specifically for his trio with Patricia Brennan (vibraphone) and Tomeka Reid (cello), beautifully orchestrated for the unique combination of instruments and the extraordinary technique of each player, resulting in lyrical improvisation performed with a clarity appropriate for each piece's dedication.

Shipp, Matthew / Evan Parker: Leonine Aspects
Shipp, Matthew / Evan Parker:
Leonine Aspects

(RogueArt -- France )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Meeting in France in 2017 for the Festival Météo de Mulhouse, Evan Parker alternating between soprano and tenor saxophones and Matthew Shipp on acoustic piano, present an epic extended improvisation that naturally evolves through several sections, followed by a brief post-script, each musician attentively focused as they support the clarity of each other's playing.

Dunmall, Paul / Matthew Shipp / Joe Morris / Gerald Cleaver: The Bright Awakening
Dunmall, Paul / Matthew Shipp / Joe Morris / Gerald Cleaver:
The Bright Awakening

(RogueArt -- France )


Price: $16.95    




Out of Stock

A brilliant example of trans-Atlantic collective free improv from the quartet of New York free jazz heavies Matthew Shipp on piano, Joe Morris on double bass, Gerald Cleaver on drums, and UK tenor saxophonist Paul Dunmall, playing in the tradition of ecstatic and extended free jazz in a nearly hour long live performance recorded at Roulette in Brooklyn in 2012.

Chase, Claire: Density 2036 [4 CDs]
Chase, Claire:
Density 2036 [4 CDs]

(Corbett vs. Dempsey -- USA )


Price: $29.95    




Out of Stock

Part of flutist Claire Chase's project to commission a modern body of work for the instrument, this 4-CD set features 17 works by 15 composers, including the multi-part album-long composition "Pan" by Brazilian-born Marcos Balter, with works for the entire flute family from piccolo to contrabass flute; participants include Tyshawn Sorey, Vijay Iyer, Pauline Oliveros, &c.

Dixon, Bill: In Italy - Volume One [VINYL]
Dixon, Bill:
In Italy - Volume One [VINYL]

(Soul Note Vinyl -- Italy )


Price: $22.95    




In Stock

Originally released in 1980, this album reissues late trumpeter Bill Dixon's recording from Barigozzi Studio, in Milano, Italy in 1980, performing Dixon's tapestry-like compositions with Dixon on trumpet & piano, Arthur Brooks on trumpet, Stephen Haynes on trumpet, Stephen Horenstein on tenor & baritone saxophones, Alan Silva on bass, and Freddie Waits on drums.

Ayler, Albert Quintet 1966: Berlin, Lorrach, Paris & Stockholm. Revisited [2 CDs]
Ayler, Albert Quintet 1966:
Berlin, Lorrach, Paris & Stockholm. Revisited [2 CDs]

(ezz-thetics by Hat Hut Records Ltd -- Switzerland )


Price: $19.95    




In Stock

Tenor saxophonist Albert Ayler's 1966 quintet brought a unique orchestration to his music, heard in these live performances in Berlin, Lörrach, Paris & Stockholm in November of 1966, four concerts presented chronologically as performed with the exemplary playing of brother Donald Ayler on trumpet, Michel Samson on violin, William Folwell on bass, and Beaver Harris on drums.

Mori, Ikue / Satoko Fujii / Natsuki Tamura: Prickly Pear Cactus
Mori, Ikue / Satoko Fujii / Natsuki Tamura:
Prickly Pear Cactus

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Extending their previous collaborations during the time of pandemic, NY electronic improviser Ikue Mori and Japanese improvisers Natsuki Tamura on trumpet and Satoko Fujii on piano developed this extraordinary ea-improv album via file exchange, starting with Fujii's piano improvisations to which Mori & Tamura added their layers, with Mori mixing the final, startling results.

Weiss, Dan Starebaby: Natural Selection
Weiss, Dan Starebaby:
Natural Selection

(Pi Recordings -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

The follow-up to NY drummer/composer Dan Weiss's 2018 release Starebaby is an unconventional compounding of electric jazz, doom metal, electronic music, and improvisation, performed with Matt Mitchell on piano & Prophet 6, Craig Taborn on piano, Fender Rhodes & synthesizers, Ben Monder on guitars, and Trevor Dunn on electric bass.



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