The Squid's Ear Magazine
West Coast/Pacific US Jazz


 
Renzoku (Kondo / Kaiser / Goodman / Oswald): Jump
Renzoku (Kondo / Kaiser / Goodman / Oswald):
Jump

(Metalanguage -- USA )


Price: $10.95    




In Stock

Revealing 40 years of collaborations between late trumpeter Toshinori Kondo and West Coast guitarist Henry Kaiser, in configurations of duos between Kondo & Kaiser--most notably a beautiful and extended 2016 improvisation--then earlier duos from 1978, a 1980 trio with pianist Greg Goodman, a 1979 trio with saxophonist John Oswald, ending with a wonderfully idiosyncratic 2020 duo.

Alexander, Sarah Ruth / Damon Smith: God Made My Soul an Ornament
Alexander, Sarah Ruth / Damon Smith:
God Made My Soul an Ornament

(Balance Point Acoustics -- USA )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

An unusual duo of double bass, voice, hammered dulcimer, recorder, slide whistle, and various objects, recorded in 2019 between bassist Damon Smith and Sarah Ruth Alexander, freely improvising through nine pieces that show the breadth of creative imagination and powerful technical skills of each; curiously compelling, unpredictable and marvelously diverse.

Brice, Olie / Binker Golding / Henry Kaiser / N.O. Moore / Eddie Prevost: The Secret Handshake with
Brice, Olie / Binker Golding / Henry Kaiser / N.O. Moore / Eddie Prevost:
The Secret Handshake with Danger Vol. One

(577 Records -- Italy )


Price: $16.00    




In Stock

A merging of free jazz and free improvisation in the UK/US West Coast quintet of legendary AMM drummer Eddie Prévost, guitarist Henry Kaiser on "ismguitar", N.O. Moore on "guitarisism", Blinker Golding on saxophone and Olie Brice on double bass, in a rollicking album of electric jazz recorded in the studio in London for two exhilarating "Doors" of quick shifting improv.

Coultrain: Phantasmagoria
Coultrain:
Phantasmagoria

(Positive Elevations -- USA )


Price: $16.00    




In Stock

West Coast songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Coultrain, aka Aaron Michael Frison or Seymour Liberty, in an collection of songs based around a sequence of images reminiscent of a dream, capturing the hazy state of mind that drove the process behind this album, as well as its dreamy effect; soulful and introspective, an album of poetic observation and reflection.

Flinn, Stephen: Red Bell
Flinn, Stephen:
Red Bell

(Creative Sources -- Portugal )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

An immersive album of solo percussion, slowly sculpted through bowed cymbals, tension across drum heads, resonance and extraneous percussive elements, from New York-based experimental percussionist, composer & improviser, each piece unfolding a meditative yet substantial story built of powerful elements, creating mysterious and often daunting soundscapes.

Greenlief, Phillip : Barbedwire: 37 Graphic Scores For Trio Volume One
Greenlief, Phillip :
Barbedwire: 37 Graphic Scores For Trio Volume One

(Creative Sources -- Portugal )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

Four trios perform selections from composer and reedist Phillip Greenlief's BARBEDWIRE - 37 Graphic Scores For Trio, featuring John Bischoff, Kyle Bruckmann, Mark Clifford, Evelyn Davis, Tim Decillis, Gabby Fluke Mogul, Jane Rigler, and Tim Perkis, each composition a unique sonic sculpture, creating a diverse set of unique recordings realized by consummate performers.

Jerkagram / Martin Escalante : Parkour
Jerkagram / Martin Escalante :
Parkour

(577 Records -- USA )


Price: $16.00    




In Stock

Ater a concert in Los Angeles with Martin Escalante on the same bill, the twin brothers, guitarist Derek Gaines and drummer Brent Gaines, asked the extreme saxophonist to join them in the creation of a new, cathartic form of improvisation, filled with angst and dramatic release, ending with an extended journey in sound and squawk; a gripping album of gritty improv.

Treesearch: Know More Knowledge
Treesearch:
Know More Knowledge

(577 Records -- USA )


Price: $16.00    




In Stock

West Coast/San Diego violinist Keir GoGwilt and bassist Kyle Motl are Treesearch, improvising on contrabass and violin with warm strength and expression, using a mix of traditional and creative approaches to their instruments as they bridge jazz and modern compositional approaches to create their own unique approach to free improvisation.

Treesearch (GoGwilt / Motl / Kuester): Birdward
Treesearch (GoGwilt / Motl / Kuester):
Birdward

(577 Records -- USA )


Price: $16.00    




In Stock

The 2nd album from the trio of Keir GoGwilt on violin, Kyle Motl on bass and Nicolee Kuester on horn, the pieces combining original poems written by GoGwilt and Kuester with precise musical arrangement and poetic structures, around which the trio improvise with melodic and unexpected approaches, fascinating their listeners with peculiar insight and superb playing.

Charming Hostess: The Ginzburg Geography
Charming Hostess:
The Ginzburg Geography

(Tzadik -- USA )


Price: $12.89    




Out of Stock

An examination of the lives and work of anti-fascist political activists Natalia and Leone Ginzburg during World War II, researched and developed by late vocalist and composer Jewlia Eisenberg, this album completed by her longtime collaborator Marika Hughes and performed with musicians including Nils Frykdahl, Darren Johnston, Dan Cantrell, &c.

Clucas, Dan / Kyle Motl / Nathan Hubbard: Daydream and Halting
Clucas, Dan / Kyle Motl / Nathan Hubbard:
Daydream and Halting

(FMR -- UK )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

A collective West Coast trio from double bassist Kyle Motl (Treesearch) with cornetist Dan Clucas, also on violin and moxeno (an Andean wind instrument) and drummer Nathan Hubbard, imbued with a spiritual and natural chamber jazz feeling, their improvisations influenced by concepts of daydreams, incandescence and zephyrs; a beautiful and open-minded album.

Thollem: Obstacle Illusion
Thollem:
Obstacle Illusion

(Astral Spirits -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Taken from concerts during Thollem's 3-month European tour, at Centro d'Arte dell'Università di Padova; AngelicA at Teatro San Leonardo in Bologna; and Rassegna di Nuova Musica 39, performing on acoustic pianos or a Korg Wavestate, showing his technically impressive, creative drive over a diverse set of approaches to solo piano improvisation.

Jones Jones (feat. Larry Ochs / Vladimir Tarasov / Mark Dresser): Just Justice
Jones Jones (feat. Larry Ochs / Vladimir Tarasov / Mark Dresser):
Just Justice

(ESP -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

The eccentrically named group "Jones Jones" is the trio of Lithuanian drummer Vladimir Tarasov, NY/West Coast bassist Mark Dresser and Rova Saxophone Quartet saxophonist Larry Ochs, since 2008 expressing humor and vexation at the world in sometimes meditative and sometimes explosive collective free improvisation, here in their 4th outstanding album and their 1st in the studio.

Carter, Daniel / Evan Strauss / 5-Track / Sheridan Riley: The Uproar In Bursts Of Sound And Silence
Carter, Daniel / Evan Strauss / 5-Track / Sheridan Riley:
The Uproar In Bursts Of Sound And Silence

(577 Records -- USA )


Price: $16.00    




In Stock

A collage of styles and experimentation developed over several years by bassist and multi-instrumentalist Evan Strauss, using long-form graphically notated conceptual compositions based on bird calls along with thematic material from Ursula K. Le Guin, expanded with narration and poetry from Daniel Carter and titled from an excerpt by Virginia Woolf.

Motl, Kyle / Patrick Shiroishi: Apparitions [CASSETTE w/ DOWNLOAD]
Motl, Kyle / Patrick Shiroishi:
Apparitions [CASSETTE w/ DOWNLOAD]

(Notice Recordings -- USA )


Price: $8.95    




In Stock

The second album on Notice Recordings for West Coast free improvising saxophonist Patrick Shiroishi is a duo with San Diego-based double bassist Kyle Motl, in an exceptionally well-balanced example of powerful expression from both players, free blowing and turbulent exchanges offset by experimental introspective passages in four extended and excellent improvisations.

Kaiser, Henry / Anthony Pirog: Figure / Ground
Kaiser, Henry / Anthony Pirog:
Figure / Ground

(Ramble Records -- Australia )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

A gorgeous album of duo work from West Coast guitarist Henry Kaiser and D.C. guitarist Anthony Pirog, creating "ground" structures of beautifully rich harmonics over which "figures" of virtuosic guitar playing emerge and submerge, the overlap creating almost hallucinatory effects as the listener is transfixed somewhere between exquisite foregrounds and backgrounds.

Flying Luttenbachers, The: Imminent Death [VINYL 2 LPs]
Flying Luttenbachers, The:
Imminent Death [VINYL 2 LPs]

(God Records -- USA )


Price: $29.95    




Out of Stock

The ever-shifting lineup of jazz/no-wave/avant/aberrant improvisers The Flying Luttenbachers, anchored by drummer Weasel Walters, brings multi-reedist Matt Nelson, two guitarists (Brandon Seabrook & Henry Kaiser), bassist Tim Dahl and Brad Laner on synth for an aggressively informed and excitingly unpredictable album of superb playing and possibly bad intention; recommended!

Magill, Rob: Blues Etudes
Magill, Rob:
Blues Etudes

(Kettle Hole Records -- USA )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

A series of reed and wind improvisations, including two pieces with electronics, from Southern California composer and improviser Rob Magill, each of the 9 tracks on this album focusing on a different instrument: alto saxophone, soprano saxpohone, clarinet, flute, bass clarinet, bass recorder, sheng and tenor saxophone, plus a multi-instrumental "misc".

Reeder, Kory  / Apartment House: Codex Vivere
Reeder, Kory / Apartment House:
Codex Vivere

(Another Timbre -- UK )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

A beautifully unfolding story in connected works forming a codex from Texas composer and Wandelweiser artist Kory Reeder, a long form work performed by the UK Apartment House Ensemble in a septet of strings, winds and piano, each section creating a loose narrative ark through several notational strategies envisioned with characters, scenes, diversions, and digressions.

Nakatani, Tatsuya / Kris Tiner: Dagny
Nakatani, Tatsuya / Kris Tiner:
Dagny

(Nakatani-Kobo -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

An extended improvisation in two parts at Dagny's Coffe Company in Bakersfield, CA: first a solo performance by Japanese percussionist Tatsuya Nakatani in a sweeping sonic manifestation of bowed gongs, cymbals, bass drums and objects, which then continues as a duo with trumpeter Kris Tiner for an exhilaratingly peak of adept brass excitement ending in a pensive reflection.

Nakatani, Tatsuya / Kyle Motl: Quicksand
Nakatani, Tatsuya / Kyle Motl:
Quicksand

(Nakatani-Kobo -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

Innovative Japanese percussionist Tatsuya Nakatani met with bassist Kyle Motl (Peter Kuhn Trio) at Nakatani Kobo Studio, in New Mexico to record these two extended improvisations, the 1st creating an aural environment through ringing metal and bowed contrabass, the 2nd a set of agitated and disruptive interactions through incredible technical skill and expressive dialog.

Parker, Jeff / Eric Revis / Nasheet Waits: Eastside Romp
Parker, Jeff / Eric Revis / Nasheet Waits:
Eastside Romp

(RogueArt -- France )


Price: $16.95    




Out of Stock

Though having worked together in various collaborations, the trio of Jeff Parker on guitar, Eric Revis on double bass and Nasheet Waits on drums had never recorded as a trio before this 2016 studio date in Pasadena, CA, each player contributing compositions for the album, along with one collective improvisation and a cover of Marion Brown's "Similar Limits".

Ball, Hugo (Jaap Blonk / Bart van der Putten / Pieter Meurs / Damon Smith): Six sound Poems 1989 & 2
Ball, Hugo (Jaap Blonk / Bart van der Putten / Pieter Meurs / Damon Smith):
Six sound Poems 1989 & 2013 [2 CDs]

(Balance Point Acoustics / kontrans -- USA )


Price: $21.95    




In Stock

Dedicated to Dada legend Hugo Ball, founder of the Cabaret Voltaire, through modern interpretations of six sound poems written by Ball in 1916, performed at BIMHUIS in 1989 by the trio of Jaap Blonk (voice), Bart van der Putten (saxophone) and Pieter Meurs (double bass); and in 2013 at radio station KUHF by the duo of Jaap Blonk and Damon Smith on double bass.

Blonk, Jaap / Damon Smith: Hugo Ball: Sechs Laut- Und Klanggedichte 1916 (Six Sound Poems, 1916) [CA
Blonk, Jaap / Damon Smith:
Hugo Ball: Sechs Laut- Und Klanggedichte 1916 (Six Sound Poems, 1916) [CASSETTE]

(Balance Point Acoustics -- USA )


Price: $10.95    




In Stock

Three free improvisations for voice & double bass + improvisations on Hugo Ball's Six Sound Poems from the duo of free improvising vocalist Jaap Blonk and double bassist Damon Smith.

Bruckmann / Djll / Heule / Nishi-Smith: Brittle Feebling
Bruckmann / Djll / Heule / Nishi-Smith:
Brittle Feebling

(Humbler -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

The title gives a sense of the unusual acoustic improvisation this West Coast collective perform, along with their description "prickles and bleats, an abrasive delicacy; fricative rasp and withheld breath seethe together in a discomfiting cuddle" — from Kyle Bruckmann on oboe & English horn, Tom Djll on trumpet, Jacob Felix Heule on floor tom, and Kanoko Nishi-Smith on koto.

Bruckmann, Kyle: Triptych (Tautological)
Bruckmann, Kyle:
Triptych (Tautological)

(Carrier Records -- USA )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

Performing on oboe, English horn and live electronics, West Coast double-reedist Kyle Bruckmann presents three extended solo works of deep electroacoustic binding, each dedicated to a writer, artist or musician: "A Spurious Autobiography for John Barth (2015)"; "An Extruded Introversion for Blixa Bargeld (2016)"; and "A Fuzzy Monolith for James Turrell (2015)".

Corcoran, Kevin / Jacob Felix Heule: Erosion [CASSETTE + DOWNLOAD]
Corcoran, Kevin / Jacob Felix Heule:
Erosion [CASSETTE + DOWNLOAD]

(Notice Recordings -- USA )


Price: $8.95    




In Stock

An improvisational investigation into two bass drums over two extended recordings from West Coast experimental improvisers Kevin Corcoran and Jacob Felix Heule, as they apply an arsenal of unusual techniques and engage every inch of the drums with a diverse set of objects, evoking strange sounds, pattering rhythmic echoes, metallic cries and deep rumbling effects.

Estamos Trio: People's Historia
Estamos Trio:
People's Historia

(Relative Pitch -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Taking song titles from the Arawak language, the Estamos Trio of Thollem McDonas (piano), Milo Tamez (drums) and Carmina Escobar (voice & electronics) brings together artists from the Mexican/U.S. border, creating beautiful creative works.

Estamos Trio (McDonas / Escobar / Tamez): Dire Warning
Estamos Trio (McDonas / Escobar / Tamez):
Dire Warning

(Relative Pitch -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Highlighting issues between the US & Mexican borders, Thollem McDonas' Estamos Trio presents their 2nd album, here with Carmina Escobar (vocals, electronics, guitarron), Milo Tamez (percussion, found objects, electronics) and Thollem (keyboard, vocals, clay pot) in a work commissioned by and recorded at the 2018 "Casa Tomada" (House Taken Over) in Santa Fe for SITE.

Gonzalez, Dennis Ataraxia Trio+2 (w / Phelps / Lakpriya + Derek Rogers / Jess Garland): Nights Enter
Gonzalez, Dennis Ataraxia Trio+2 (w / Phelps / Lakpriya + Derek Rogers / Jess Garland):
Nights Enter

(Ayler Records -- France )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

Unlike anything in trumpeter Dennis Gonzalez's discography, this album was developed from Moog recordings by Derek Rogers, whose shifting tonalities and colors led Gonzalez to a Jon Hassel-influenced approach, adding a rhythmic basis of tabla and djembe from Jagath Lakpriya and sitar-inspired harp from Jess Garland, underpinned by the rich bass work of Drew Phelps.

Gratkowski, Frank / Damon Smith / Jerome Bryerton: The Voice Imitator
Gratkowski, Frank / Damon Smith / Jerome Bryerton:
The Voice Imitator

(Balance Point Acoustics -- USA )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

German reeidst Frank Gratkowski in a trio with West Coast percussionist Jerome Bryerton and bassist Damon Smith, in an album of free music that blends the sensibilities of free improv with contemporary compositional music.

Surplus 1980: Pigeon Obstacle Course
Surplus 1980:
Pigeon Obstacle Course

(Surplus Industries -- Czech Republic )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

Created out of Sleepytime Gorilla Museum and drummer/percussionist Moe Staiano's Mute Socialite, this 7-piece improvising rock band turns rock on it's side in mostly instrumental, energetically complex and twisted rock pieces with acerbic social narrative, the band employing three drummers, bass & two guitars, piano and trumpet from Darren Johnston.

Tapscott, Horace Quintet: Legacies For Our Grandchildren: Live In Hollywood, 1995
Tapscott, Horace Quintet:
Legacies For Our Grandchildren: Live In Hollywood, 1995

(Dark Tree Records -- France )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

The French Dark Tree label continues its curation of the unreleased material of West Coast pianist and band leader Horace Tapscott with this exuberant and substantial collection of live sessions at Catalina's Bar & Grill in Hollywood with Michael Session on saxophones, Thurman Green on trombone, Roberto Miranda on double bass, Fritz Wise on drums and vocal stylist Dwight Trible.

Mines, Kelsey: Look Like
Mines, Kelsey:
Look Like

(Relative Pitch -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

The first complete solo release from Seattle, Washington bassist and vocalist Kelsey Mines, active in both classical music as a member of Yakima Symphony, Symphony Tacoma and the Paramount Orchestra, and as an improviser, here presenting a series of improvised solo-duets that explore how listening to our on-going internal dialogue helps us conjure honest, outward expressions.

Wong, Theresa: Practicing Sands
Wong, Theresa:
Practicing Sands

(fo'c'sle -- USA )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

A series of instrumental pieces and songs from Chinese-American composer, cellist, and vocalist Theresa Wong, inspired by the sounds of the natural world and a personal sense of "sonic genetic memory", her works merging composition and improvisation, the album recorded by Wong herself using specific microphone placement to bring out the warmth of her instrument and voice.

Baker, Duck: Contra Costa Dance
Baker, Duck:
Contra Costa Dance

(Confront -- UK )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

In 1980 Duck Baker's first label deal had expired and the label changed direction, as did Baker himself from arranging traditional tunes into compositions for improvisation; still, these well-recorded demos from 1982 held an appeal through song selection and a uniquely edgy yet lyrical approach to his playing, now finally released to the public 40 years later.

Boyce, David  / Phillip Greenlief: Mystery School
Boyce, David / Phillip Greenlief:
Mystery School

(Creative Sources -- Portugal )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

A confluence of reeds from Bay Area saxophonists David Boyce and Phillip Greenlief, both performing on and professing an open love letter to the tenor saxophone, the positioning of each clear through stereo placement as they improvise seven dialogs of intent listening and tremendous technique, from high speed intertwining to introspective contemplation.

Maroney, Denman / Scott Walton / Denis Fournier : O Kosmos Meta
Maroney, Denman / Scott Walton / Denis Fournier :
O Kosmos Meta

(RogueArt -- France )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

A truly inventive collective trio of free improvisers from Denman Maroney on hyperpiano (a conventional piano played with one hand on the keys and other inside the piano), West Coast double bassist Scott Walton and French drummer Denis Fournier, performing within the piano trio format and then turning it on its side with unexpected approaches to their conversations.

Titan to Tachyons (Gates / Dunn / Grohowski / Hollenberg): Vonals
Titan to Tachyons (Gates / Dunn / Grohowski / Hollenberg):
Vonals

(Tzadik -- USA )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

Led by West Coast-based New Zealand guitarist Sally Gates, the 2nd album from this genre-blurring heavy improv band of original members Matt Hollenberg on the 6-string bass VI and Kenny Grohowski on drums, now officially a quartet with prior guest bassist Trevor Dunn a fourth member, here in 6 tracks that shred and weave intricate layers of jazz, rock, blues and metal.

Bennett / Johnston / Mezzacappa / Rosaly: Shipwreck 4
Bennett / Johnston / Mezzacappa / Rosaly:
Shipwreck 4

(NoBusiness -- Lithuania )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

Named for Shipwreck Studios, this is the first meeting between San Francisco Bay Area improvisers Darren Johnston (trumpet), Aaron Bennett (sax) and Lisa Mezzacappa (bass) with Chicago drummer Frank Rosaly, for 6 tracks of outstanding interactive and playful improvisation.

Hartshaw / Aspelin / Smith / Bryerton: Ausfegen (Dedicated To Joseph Beuys)
Hartshaw / Aspelin / Smith / Bryerton:
Ausfegen (Dedicated To Joseph Beuys)

(Balance Point Acoustics -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Unusual improvisational forms from the quartet of saxophonist Paul Hartsaw, guitarist Kristian Aspelin, bassist Damon Smith and percussionist Jerome Byrerton, recording in Oakland, CA in 2006.

Josephson / Wachsmann / Lindsay / Smith / Blume: Zero Plus
Josephson / Wachsmann / Lindsay / Smith / Blume:
Zero Plus

(Balance Point Acoustics -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

The Triple D Trio of Aurora Josephson (voice), Jacob Lindsay (clarinet) & Damon Smith (bass) met with visiting European improvisers Philipp Wachsmann (violin) and Martin Blume (drums) to record these live concerts in Oakland and SF.

Rempis, Dave / Darren Johnston / Larry Ochs: Spectral
Rempis, Dave / Darren Johnston / Larry Ochs:
Spectral

(Aerophonic -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Inspired by Larry Ochs' Rova and Darren Johnston's collaborations with Rempis, this free-improvising trio began life in 2011, developing an "invisible architecture" that guides their playing, as heard in these seven superb recordings.

Robinson, Perry / Andrea Centazzo: The Journey
Robinson, Perry / Andrea Centazzo:
The Journey

(Ictus -- Italy )


Price: $13.95    




Out of Stock

In the spring of 2015 multi-reedist and wind player Perry Robinson travelled to Southern California for a series of concerts, recording this duo with Italian percussionist living on the US West Coast Andrea Centazzo, a free and open session with Robison on clarinet, micro ocarina & bird calls, and Centazzo also using a MalletKat & sampling.

Rova Saxophone Quartet: In Transverse Time
Rova Saxophone Quartet:
In Transverse Time

(Les Disques Victo -- Canada )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

Celebrating 40 years as a performing ensemble, the West Coast saxophone quartet ROVA of Bruce Ackley on soprano saxophone, Steve Adams on alto & sopranino saxophones, Jon Raskin on baritone saxophone, and Larry Ochs on tenor saxophone, reworked compositions from all members transversing their past 34 years, in an absolutely impressive and diverse album.

Spectral (Dave Rempis / Darren Johnston / Larry Ochs): Empty Castles
Spectral (Dave Rempis / Darren Johnston / Larry Ochs):
Empty Castles

(Aerophonic -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Spectral, since 2012 the working horn trio of Dave Rempis on alto & baritone sax, Darren Johnston on trumpet, and Larry Ochs on sopranino & tenor sax, split their time between San Francisco and Chicago, in their 3rd album of spontaneous, complex free improv, here using the setting of Bunker A-168 in Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve, CA, to influence their performance.

Ochs-Robinson Duo: A Civil Right
Ochs-Robinson Duo:
A Civil Right

(ESP-Disk -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




Out of Stock

Coming out of the tradition of saxophone and drum duos, Bay Area compatriots since 1991 in The Glenn Spearman Double Trio and Larry Ochs Sax and Drumming Core, saxophonist Larry Ochs and drummer Don Robinson, present their second album of creative original improvised music, employing energetic and intelligent approaches to jazz freedom that pay homage to those who came before them.

Red Fiction: Visions of the Void
Red Fiction:
Visions of the Void

(Tzadik -- USA )


Price: $15.45    




Out of Stock

Composer and guitarist Jason Schimme of Secret Chiefs 3 steps out on his own with a set of effusive and irresistible compositions for a large ensemble of primarily West Coast musicians, his works blending a wide variety of traditions and styles, from blues, jazz and surf rock to Balkan folk, shifting quickly within each piece in nimble and clever ways.

Coultrain: Mundus
Coultrain:
Mundus

(Positive Elevations -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

West Coast songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Coultrain, aka Aaron Michael Frison or Seymour Liberty, in a sequel to his Phantasmagoria album, a soulful, introspective and lyrical collection of songs based around a sequence of images reminiscent of a dream, capturing the hazy state of mind that drove the process behind this album, as well as its dreamy effect.

Lee, Ingrid: Mouth to Mouth
Lee, Ingrid:
Mouth to Mouth

(Another Timbre -- UK )


Price: $14.95    




Out of Stock

Hong Kong composer Lee Ingrid in four pieces from subtle beauty to harsh power, including a duo for piano and accordion, a piece for vibrating amplified snare drums, a work for piano, electric guitar and percussion, and one for string quintet and vibraphone.

Dewar, Andrew Raffo / John Hughes / Chad Popple: Reflejos IV-VII
Dewar, Andrew Raffo / John Hughes / Chad Popple:
Reflejos IV-VII

(Waveform Alphabet -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

A student of Steve Lacy & Anthony Braxton and active from NYC to the San Francisco Bay Area, soprano saxophonist Andrew Raffo Dewar is heard in these studio recordings with bassist John Hughes and drummer/vibraphonist Chad Popple, a follow-up to the 2018 trio album Reflejos on pfMENTUM, presenting a series of compositions based on reflection/refraction-based compositional forms.

Golia, Vinny / Max Johnson / Weasel Walter: No Refunds
Golia, Vinny / Max Johnson / Weasel Walter:
No Refunds

(Unbroken Sounds -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Recording in Brooklyn's Seaside Lounge in 2014, these five previously unreleased collective improvisations bring together West Coast reedist Vinny Golia, performing on clarinet, saxello, sopranino, baritone saxophones with double bassist Max Johnson and drummer Weasel Walter, an absolutely impressive example of free playing intent and well-balanced conversation.

Levin, Ike Trio (feat Shao-Way Wu / Tim DuRoche): ReEmergence
Levin, Ike Trio (feat Shao-Way Wu / Tim DuRoche):
ReEmergence

(Self Released -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

A set of original compositions from Portland saxophonist, bass clarinetist and composer Ike Levin, a frequent collaborator of pianist Joel Futterman, here with his trio of Shao-Way Wu on contrabass and Tim DuRoche on drums & percussions, performing eight pieces of structurally interesting forms yielding passionate playing, from free jazz energy to lyrical introspection.

Mazurek, Rob & Exploding Star Orchestra: Lightning Dreamers [VINYL]
Mazurek, Rob & Exploding Star Orchestra:
Lightning Dreamers [VINYL]

(International Anthem -- USA )


Price: $22.95    




In Stock

Led by trumpeter Rob Mazurek with Damon Locks (Black Monuments Ensemble), Jeff Parker (Tortoise), Nicole Mitchell, Gerald Cleaver, Angelica Sanchez, Mauricio Takara and Craig Taborn, this compact version of Exploding Star Orchestra performs Mazurek's deep space and wide-ranging electric jazz compositions, including a side-long, immersive journey evoking spirits past, present and future.

Lord, David: Forest Standards, Volume 3 [VINYL]
Lord, David:
Forest Standards, Volume 3 [VINYL]

(Big Ego / Astral Spirits -- USA )


Price: $19.95    




Out of Stock

The third volume in West Coast/Montreal/Kansas guitarist David Lord's series exploring the concept of what makes a jazz standard, in ten beautifully warm and lyrically rich Lord compositions performed with Chad Taylor on drums & percussion, Christine Tavolacci on flute, David Tranchina on double bass and Nathan Hubbard on vibraphone, marimba & percussion.

Williams, Chris / Patrick Shiroishi: Sans Soleil II [CASSETTE w/ DOWNLOAD]
Williams, Chris / Patrick Shiroishi:
Sans Soleil II [CASSETTE w/ DOWNLOAD]

(Astral Spirits -- USA )


Price: $7.95    




In Stock

The second chapter in the duo of West Coast improvisers Chris Williams on trumpet, cornet, objects & mutes and Patrick Shiroishi on alto, soprano and tenor saxophones plus snare drum, essentially a free jazz outing of six fascinating dialogs, from call and response to pointillistic interaction, a masterful display of assertive playing through intensive listening.

Williams, Chris Quintet (w/ Patrick Shiroishi / Joshua White / Eric Revis / Guillermo Brown): Live [
Williams, Chris Quintet (w/ Patrick Shiroishi / Joshua White / Eric Revis / Guillermo Brown):
Live [CASSETTE]

(Astral Spirits -- USA )


Price: $8.95    




Out of Stock

Trumpeter Chris Williams in a limited white label cassette release of a post-processed/collaged live concert at Blue Whale in Los Angeles, 2018, performing on trumpet & electronics with a quintet of incredible free players: Patrick Shiroishi on saxophones & objects, Joshua White on piano, Eric Revis on acoustic bass & electronics and Guillermo Brown on drums & electronics.

Dresser, Mark: Tines of Change
Dresser, Mark:
Tines of Change

(Pyroclastic Records -- Canada )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

A foundational member of the early Downtown NY scene, now West Coast-based double bassist Mark Dresser expands the sonic properties of his instrument in 12 succinct and forceful improvisations, expanding 4- & 5-string basses through metal tines, bowed and plucked, along with magnetic pickups amplifying nearly inaudible sounds from the strings and the instrument; awe inspiring!

Mitchell, Roscoe Orchestra & Space Trio: At The Fault Zone Festival
Mitchell, Roscoe Orchestra & Space Trio:
At The Fault Zone Festival

(Wide Hive -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

Adapting Roscoe Mitchell's large work "Distant Radio Transmission" for the 2022 Fault Zone Festival in a large ensemble conducted by Steed Cowart, along with four other compositions performed in varying configurations from very large ensemble, two pieces from the Space Trio of Mitchell, Thomas Buckner & Scott Robinson, and a duo with pianist Sarah Cahill and violinist Kate Stenberg.

Chefkirk / Crank Sturgeon : Nice To Err With You (2 CDs)
Chefkirk / Crank Sturgeon :
Nice To Err With You (2 CDs)

(Love Earth Music -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

Bringing together two aberrant sound artist--Chefkirk, aka Roger Smith, based in Oregon; and Crank Sturgeon, aka Matt Anderson currently based in Massachusetts--for two CDs of rhythmic mayhem layered and punctuated with electronics and mutilated sounds from objects & voice, with beats that feign steadiness but derail in amusing and embraceable ways; weird fun! Mastered by Squidco's own Carl Kruger.

Euphotic (Bryan Day / Tom Djll / Cheryl E. Leonard): Isopleths
Euphotic (Bryan Day / Tom Djll / Cheryl E. Leonard):
Isopleths

(Public Eyesore -- USA )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

A fascinating trio of West Coast sonic explorers exploring the isopleth, the zone of seawater that receives enough sunlight for photosynthesis to occur, from improvising trumpeter Tom Djll employing electronics with his horn, Bryan Day on invented instruments, and Cheryl Leonard using natural objects including driftwood, feathers, marsh reeds, penguin bones, &c.

Vinkeloe, Biggi / Mark Weaver / Damon Smith: Desert Sweets
Vinkeloe, Biggi / Mark Weaver / Damon Smith:
Desert Sweets

(Balance Point Acoustics -- USA )


Price: $9.95    




In Stock

Twenty two vignettes of improvised conversations named for desert fauna between alto saxophonist & flutist Biggi Vinkeloe, tuba & trombonist Mark Weaver, and double bassist Damon Smith, using a unique tuning choice for the band suggested by Vinkeloe, and applying a quality to the studio to create a uniquely orchestrated and resonant album of masterful playing.

Normal (Fred Frith / Sudhu Tewari): Moving Parts
Normal (Fred Frith / Sudhu Tewari):
Moving Parts

(fo'c'sle -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

A perfectly complementary pair of improvisers from the ever-inventive guitarist Fred Frith and instrument inventor Sudhu Tewari, Frith performing on home-made instruments as well-- string instruments he's developed since the 80s described as "planks of wood with strings"--as the two draw unexpected sonic environments and propulsive rhythmic passages through eight compelling dialogs.

Hartsaw / Aspelin / Smith / Bryerton: Ausfegen <i>[Used Item]</i>
Hartsaw / Aspelin / Smith / Bryerton:
Ausfegen [Used Item]

(Balance Point Acoustics -- USA )


Price: $7.20    




In Stock

Extreme improvisation from the West Coast, using dissonance, dynamics, harmonics, conversational interaction, extended techniques and energy, new viewpoints inspired by a mix of contemporary classical and jazz.

Turner, Roger / Henry Kaiser / Martin Kuchen / Damon Smith / Jeff Coffin / Ed Pettersen / Tania Chen
Turner, Roger / Henry Kaiser / Martin Kuchen / Damon Smith / Jeff Coffin / Ed Pettersen / Tania Chen / Jordan Muscatello:
Interstellar Transmissions

(Split Rock Records -- USA )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

Two fascinating experimental concepts executed by Roger Turner, Henry Kaiser, Martin Kuchen, Damon Smith, Jeff Coffin, Ed Pettersen, Tania Chen, & Jordan Muscatello; Disc 1, each musician improvised alone to NASA recordings from the Voyager spacecraft, the results mixed together over the Voyager track; Disc 2, three improvisers play together in response to Voyager tracks.

CARL (Damon Smith / Daniel Kamins /  Andrew Durham): Solid Bottom [CASSETTE w/ DOWNLOAD]
CARL (Damon Smith / Daniel Kamins / Andrew Durham):
Solid Bottom [CASSETTE w/ DOWNLOAD]

(Astral Spirits -- USA )


Price: $7.95    




Out of Stock

Two basses and a lower-end saxophone from the trio of Damon Smith on double bass, Andrew Durham on electric bass, and Danny Kamins on baritone sax, Durham also adding effects and "Radio Manipulation" to their deep sound, Durham & Kamins the core of CARL with Damon Smith adding extra underpinnings to their slowly developing, sometimes pensive, sometimes cantankerous, profound improvisation.

Russell, John / Ray Russell / Henry Kaiser / Olle Brice: The Dukes of Bedford
Russell, John / Ray Russell / Henry Kaiser / Olle Brice:
The Dukes of Bedford

(Balance Point Acoustics -- USA )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

Exploring the lineage of the Dukes of Bedford, the Russell lineage in Bedford, England, in groupings of acoustic & electric guitarists John Russell, Ray Russell, and Henry Kaiser along with double bassist Ollie Brice, from duos to quartets, eight Duke "Russells" from 1680 to 2003 are explored through intricate and joyfully creative and technically amazing string improvisations.

Gardner, Drew: The Return [CASSETTE + DOWNLOAD]
Gardner, Drew:
The Return [CASSETTE + DOWNLOAD]

(Astral Spirits -- USA )


Price: $8.95    




Out of Stock

A previously unreleased archival recording of drummer Drew Gardner's 1995 Bay Area quintet with a stellar set of free jazz collaborators--John Tchicai on tenor & soprano saxophones, Marco Eneidi on alto saxophone, Roberto De Haven on alto saxophone and Vytas Nagisetty on bass, beautifully recorded in the studio in Oakland, CA by Myles Boisen; exceptional!

Evangelista's, Karl Apura (w/ Wong / Scampavia / Mezzacappa / Andrew Cyrille): Ngayon
Evangelista's, Karl Apura (w/ Wong / Scampavia / Mezzacappa / Andrew Cyrille):
Ngayon

(Astral Spirits -- USA )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

Ngayon, the Filipino tagalog word for "Now" or "Today", effectively describes the immediacy of the second release from Bay Area guitarist and composer Karl Evangelista and his exceptional Apura band, performing five sophisticated original works.

Kaiser, Henry: Mahalo Nui
Kaiser, Henry:
Mahalo Nui

(Metalanguage -- USA )


Price: $9.95    




In Stock

Ten exceptional solo improvisations performed live without overdubbing on electric & acoustic guitars, using effects to expand the expressive capabilities of each guitar, as Henry Kaiser endeavors to sound like more than a single musician, inspired by improvisers like Evan Parker, Cecil Taylor or Derek Bailey, each improv providing a dedication or influence.

Centazzo, Andrea: U.S.A. Concerts [VINYL]
Centazzo, Andrea:
U.S.A. Concerts [VINYL]

(Ictus -- Italy )


Price: $32.95    




In Stock

Five concerts from percussionist and Ictus label leader Andrea Centazzo's 1978 US tour, performing in a duo with percussionist Alex Cline; in a trio with LaDonna Smith (violin) and Davey Williams (guitar); and in a quintet with John Zorn (saxophone), Tom Cora (cello), Toshinori Kondo (trumpet), Eugene Chadbourne (guitar) and Polly Bradfield (violin).

Rova Saxophone Quartet w/ Andrea Centazzo: The Bay [VINYL]
Rova Saxophone Quartet w/ Andrea Centazzo:
The Bay [VINYL]

(Ictus -- Italy )


Price: $32.95    




In Stock

Having just formed the prior year, the San Francisco Bay Area saxophone quartet Rova of Jon Raskin, Larry Ochs, Andrew Voigt, and Bruce Ackley met with Italian percussionist Andrea Centazzo during his 1978 US tour, recording this exceptional album demonstrating creative approaches to thematic and structural jazz forms, particularly the nearly side-long "Trobar Clus".

ROVA (Raskin / Ochs / Voigt / Ackley): Saxophone Diplomacy
ROVA (Raskin / Ochs / Voigt / Ackley):
Saxophone Diplomacy

(Hatology -- Switzerland )


Price: $19.95    




Out of Stock

A much needed reissue of the ROVA Saxophone Quartet's historic 1983 tour of Russia, Latvia and Romania, as Jon Raskin on alto, baritone & soprano sax plus clarinet, Andrew Voigt on alto, sopranino & soprano sax + flute, Bruce Ackley on soprano sax & clarinet, and Larry Ochts on tenor & sopranino sax tear apart six incredible multi-reed improvisations; incredible!

Sharp / Lopez / Kaiser / Amendola: Minus X - A Tribute to Iannis Xenakis
Sharp / Lopez / Kaiser / Amendola:
Minus X - A Tribute to Iannis Xenakis

(Erototox -- USA )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

A tribute to the music of composer Iannis Xenakis through 12 new works referencing and reconstructing the original works of Xenakis, the title of each piece an anagram that reflects the elements of its source, realized by Elliott Sharp on bass, guitars & synth, Brandon Lopez on bass guitars and mandocello, Henry Kaiser on guitars and Scott Amendola on drums & percussion.

Wood, Dorian / Thor Harris (w/ Carla Bozulich / Jarboe / Patrick Shiroishi / Heather Trost): You Are
Wood, Dorian / Thor Harris (w/ Carla Bozulich / Jarboe / Patrick Shiroishi / Heather Trost):
You Are Clearly In Perversion [CASSETTE + DOWNLOAD]

(Astral Editions -- USA )


Price: $8.95    




In Stock

A ritualistic narrative work from multidisciplinary artist Dorian Wood and percussionist Thor Harris (Swans), with Carla Bozulich and Jarboe contributing their voices in an ensemble of contemporary and experimental arrangement, alongside guests David Coulter, Heather Trost, Jeremy Barnes, Michael Corwin, Ignacio Carvajal, Andrea Calderon, Elizabeth Warren and Patrick Shiroishi.

Magill, Rob: Blues Etudes <i>[Used Item]</i>
Magill, Rob:
Blues Etudes [Used Item]

(Kettle Hole Records -- USA )


Price: $9.00    




In Stock

A series of reed and wind improvisations, including two pieces with electronics, from Southern California composer and improviser Rob Magill, each of the 9 tracks on this album focusing on a different instrument: alto saxophone, soprano saxpohone, clarinet, flute, bass clarinet, bass recorder, sheng and tenor saxophone, plus a multi-instrumental "misc".

Rodrigues / Parrinha / McDonas / Flak / Oliveira: The Fleeting Nature Of Time
Rodrigues / Parrinha / McDonas / Flak / Oliveira:
The Fleeting Nature Of Time

(Creative Sources -- Portugal )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

Excellent pacing with introspective richness and detail through five improvisations, as US pianist Thollem McDonas joins Portuguese improvisers Ernesto Rodrigues on viola, Bruno Parrinha on alto clarinet, Flak on acoustic guitar and Jose Oliveira on percussion for this studio recording in Lisbon, each passage reflecting a word from the title; inspired and beautiful.

Mazurek, Rob & Exploding Star Orchestra: Lightning Dreamers
Mazurek, Rob & Exploding Star Orchestra:
Lightning Dreamers

(International Anthem -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

A compact version of the Exploding Star Orchestra, trumpeter & composer Rob Mazurek's octet with guitarist Jeff Parker, drummer Gerald Cleaver, pianists Angelica Sanchez & Craig Taborn, flutist Nicole Mitchell, vocalist Damon Locks and percussionist Mauricio Takara present a far-ranging set of electric jazz, Miles-atmospheres and lyrically compelling music.

Tiner, Kris / Tatsuya Nakatani: The Magic Room
Tiner, Kris / Tatsuya Nakatani:
The Magic Room

(Epigraph Records -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

Continuing their collaboration from the trio of Nakatani / Tiner / Drake and the duo album Dagny on Nakatani-Kobo, trumpeter Kris Tiner (Empty Cage Quartet) and percussionist Tatsuya Nakatani are heard in a recording from the top floor of the historic Woolworth's building in downtown Bakersfield, CA, adding a beautiful layer of resonance to their deceptively contemplative dialogs.

Peters, Steve: Chamber Music
Peters, Steve:
Chamber Music

(ANTS Records -- Italy )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

Ten sonically beautiful pieces derived from recordings made in empty spaces, transforming the sounds that leak in from the outside world using filters and amplification to find sonic resonance in those sounds and in the room's natural frequencies, like light filering into the space, each piece then played back in the same room at low volume as part of an installation presentation.

Peters, Steve: Chamber Music [CD BOX + USB]
Peters, Steve:
Chamber Music [CD BOX + USB]

(ANTS Records -- Italy )


Price: $69.95    




In Stock

A series of sound installations derived from a single recording made in the empty spaces in which they are later presented, with no people present during the recording including the composer, filtered to isolate and amplify certain of the room's resonant frequencies, creating a series of drones which are the only sound materials used; no musical instruments are involved.

Masada String Trio; John Zorn (Saxophone): Haborym: The Book Of Angels Volume 16
Masada String Trio; John Zorn (Saxophone):
Haborym: The Book Of Angels Volume 16

(Tzadik -- USA )


Price: $13.95    




Out of Stock

The 16th release in John Zorn's series "The Book of Angels" reworking the Masada songbook, here with the Masada String Trio of Greg Cohen, Mark Feldman, and Erik Friedlander.

Frith, Fred / Susana Santos Silva: Laying Demons To Rest
Frith, Fred / Susana Santos Silva:
Laying Demons To Rest

(RogueArt -- France )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

An evocative album of sublime improvisation between guitarist Fred Frith and trumpeter Susana Santo Silva, recorded live for France Musique/Radio France at Motoco, Mulhouse as part of Festival Météo in 2021, the two inspiring remarkable force and assertive direction in a darkly spirited conversation of deep introspection and cathartic exorcism; magnificent!

Frith, Fred / Sudhu Tewari / Cenk Ergn: Lock Me Up, Lock Me Down
Frith, Fred / Sudhu Tewari / Cenk Ergn:
Lock Me Up, Lock Me Down

(Carrier Records -- USA )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

Recorded thirteen years before this release and rediscovered during pandemic lockdowns, the improvising and extremely open-minded trio of Fred Frith on electric guitar, Sudhu Tewari on percussion (or as credited, "recuperated junk") and Cenk Ergun on electronics recorded these seven superb improvisations in the studio at Expression College for Digital Arts, in Emeryville, CA.

Amba, Zoh / Chris Corsano / Bill Orcutt: The Flower School
Amba, Zoh / Chris Corsano / Bill Orcutt:
The Flower School

(Palilalia -- USA )


Price: $16.95    




Out of Stock

An enthusiastic and well-balanced studio recording in San Francisco from the trio of Zoh Amba on tenor saxophone, Chris Corsano on drums and Bill Orcutt on electric guitar, following Amba & Corsano's duo tour of the West Coast; this is a first meeting between Amba & Orcutt, who perform as a duo on two tracks, including a guitar duo with Amba on acoustic.



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