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


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

(Relative Pitch -- USA )


Price: $11.16    




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: $11.16    




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: $11.16    




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    




In 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    




In 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: $15.95    




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.

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    




Out of 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.

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.

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    




Out of 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 (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: $12.76    




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    




Out of 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: $15.95    




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    




In 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.

Prevost, Eddie / NO Moore / Henry Kaiser / Binker Golding / Olie Brice: The Secret Handshake with Da
Prevost, Eddie / NO Moore / Henry Kaiser / Binker Golding / Olie Brice:
The Secret Handshake with Danger Volume Two

(577 Records -- USA )


Price: $16.00    




In Stock

The 2nd volume of the UK/US West Coast quintet of legendary AMM drummer Eddie Prévost, guitarist Henry Kaiser, N.O. Moore on "guitarisism", Blinker Golding on saxophone and Olie Brice on double bass, merging free jazz and free improvisation in a rollicking album of electric jazz recorded in London, adding two more exhilarating "Doors" of quick shifting improv.

Greenlief, Phillip / Scott Amendola: Stay with it
Greenlief, Phillip / Scott Amendola:
Stay with it

(Clean Feed -- Portugal )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

Their first duo album, Collect My Thoughts released in 1995 on Nine Winds, these live improvisations captured at Berkeley's The Shinebox in 2017 show the two West Coast collaborators--Phillip Greenlief on alto & tenor saxophones plus clarinet, and drummer/percussionist Scott Amendola--'staying with it' in an energetic set of five informed dialogs.

Amendola, Scott / Henry Kaiser / Michael Manring: Haunted by Eternity [2 CDs] + Trouble with the Tre
Amendola, Scott / Henry Kaiser / Michael Manring:
Haunted by Eternity [2 CDs] + Trouble with the Treble (Agren / Colby / Kaiser)

(Fractal -- USA )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

The West Coast power trio of Scott Amendola on drums & live electronics, Henry Kaiser on guitar and Michael Manring on bass are heard in this double album of 15 assertive tracks that balance heavy electronics and effects with intense soloing amidst unusual "soundtracks for quite a number of films that do not exist in our homeworld version of the Earth's infinite timelines."

Shiroishi, Patrick: I Was Too Young To Hear Silence [VINYL]
Shiroishi, Patrick:
I Was Too Young To Hear Silence [VINYL]

(American Dreams Records -- USA )


Price: $22.95    




In Stock

Using the resonance of the parking garage under the Jazz Cat in Monterey Park, California, Japanese-American multi-instrumentalist Patrick Shiroishi recorded nine solo improvisations, interacting with the environmental sound and reverberant ambiance through contemplative, curious and explosive moments, at times augmenting his saxophone with the metallic notes of a glockenspiel.

Evangelista, Karl (feat. Alex Hawkins / Tatsu Aoki / Michael Zerang): What Else Is There?
Evangelista, Karl (feat. Alex Hawkins / Tatsu Aoki / Michael Zerang):
What Else Is There?

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


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

Meeting in the studio in Chicago, the quartet of Oakland guitarist Karl Evangelista, UK pianist Alexander Hawkins, midwestern bassist Tatsu Aoki and Chicago drummer Michael Zerang combine Evangelista's open-ended compositions with a series of dialogic free improvisations around the concepts of music and family, instrumentally answering the question posed by the album's title.

Wind Tide (Andrew Weathers / Gretchen Korsmo): Blue Breaking Brown [CASSETTE + DOWNLOAD]
Wind Tide (Andrew Weathers / Gretchen Korsmo):
Blue Breaking Brown [CASSETTE + DOWNLOAD]

(Notice Recordings -- USA )


Price: $9.95    




In Stock

One "Small Dog" and one Big from the Texas experimental duo of Andrew Weathers on synth, lap steel, recorder & electronics, and Gretchen Korsmo on voice, keys & percussion, both members of the Full Spectrum Records collective, their confident collaboration morphing drones, sonic deformation, resonance, voice, bells and mysterious sources in two well-paced & passionate sonic journeys.

Cameron, Lisa / Alex Cunningham: Chasms
Cameron, Lisa / Alex Cunningham:
Chasms

(Waveform Alphabet -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

Improvising over the abyss, Texas drummer Lisa Cameron (Roky Erickson, ST 37) and violinist Alex Cunningham (Sandy Ewen, Damon Smith, Claire Rousay) present three extended interactions using conventional instrumentation in unconventional ways, augmented by feedback, bowed cymbals, electronics and objects, under the control of exceptional technique.

Djll, Tom: Thistle
Djll, Tom:
Thistle

(Soul On Rice -- USA )


Price: $9.95    




In Stock

Using analog computers that "require a lot of real-time intervention to flesh out their neurotic narratives", the typically trumpeter Tom Djll (Grosse Abfahrt) turns his attention to a series of prickly sound works of strange intention and direction, through fourteen works titled like a series of math equations mashed into a dictionary; good weird fun.

Surplus 1980: Illusion of Consistency [VINYL + CD + DOWNLOAD]
Surplus 1980:
Illusion of Consistency [VINYL + CD + DOWNLOAD]

(Surplus Industries -- USA )


Price: $19.95    




In Stock

Composed using an "exquisite corpse" method during the pandemic, where each player provided a partially complete track with instructions to expand their concept, enlisting an incredible set of musicians across the US & Europe, directed by Moe! Staiano, including Jesse Quattro, Fred Frith, Carla Kihlstedt, GW Sok, Amy X Neuburg, Darren Johnston, &c &c.

Durrant, Phil / Daniel Thompson: Live / Studio <i>[Used Item]</i>
Durrant, Phil / Daniel Thompson:
Live / Studio [Used Item]

(Bead -- UK )


Price: $10.00    




In Stock

The improvising string duo of stalwart London improvisers, Daniel Thompson on acoustic guitar and Phil Durrant on the octave mandola, are heard in two settings of texturally rich, intricate interactions, first at Cafe OTO in 2022 for an extended improvisation, then at Cable Street Studios two months later for six succint, impressively diverse dialogs.

Kaiser, Henry: The Lost Chord
Kaiser, Henry:
The Lost Chord

(Metalanguage -- USA )


Price: $10.95    




In Stock

Focused around a poem by Adelaide Anne Procter titled "A Lost Chord", West Coast guitarist Henry Kaiser invokes the spirit of Procter's words through a stunningly beautiful album of both contemplative and technically excellent work, his first solo album performed on the lower tuned baritone guitar, in 10 tracks inspired by Frith, Xenakis, Evan Parker, Ligeti, &c.
Includes a free copy of Trouble with the Treble while quantities last!

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 [VINYL]

(577 Records -- USA )


Price: $18.99    




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.

Coultrain: Mundus [VINYL]
Coultrain:
Mundus [VINYL]

(Positive Elevations -- USA )


Price: $18.99    




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.

Coultrain: Phantasmagoria [VINYL]
Coultrain:
Phantasmagoria [VINYL]

(577 Records -- USA )


Price: $18.99    




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.

Surplus 1980 + G.W. Sok: Kremlin Gremlin [VINYL 7'']
Surplus 1980 + G.W. Sok:
Kremlin Gremlin [VINYL 7'']

(Surplus Industries -- USA )


Price: $10.95    




In Stock

Reminiscent of the packaging of early releases from The Ex, the vocalist from that band--G.W. Sok--provides the words for the first tracks on this 7" from Sleepytime Gorilla Museum drummer/composer Moe! Staiano's long-running band, a brutal wordplay stab at Russian president Putin for his invasion of Ukraine; plus a dub remix of a song on the upcoming full-length Surplus 1980 album.

Chabala, Barry / Clara Byom: (un) natural
Chabala, Barry / Clara Byom:
(un) natural

(Roeba -- USA )


Price: $10.95    




In Stock

The first meeting between two improvisers also versed in contemporary and avant music - guitarist Barry Chabala and clarinetist and accordionist Claray Byom - recording live at The Jean Cocteau Cinema, in Santa Fe, New Mexico as part of the Sandbox Music Series, for five freely improvised works that include radio, objects, iPhone and toys as part of their expansive dialogs.

Chabala, Barry / Clara Byom / David Forlano: Morning Music
Chabala, Barry / Clara Byom / David Forlano:
Morning Music

(Roeba -- USA )


Price: $10.95    




In Stock

The second studio session for the freely improvising electroacoustic trio of Clara Byom, a contemporary classical and improvising clarinetist and accordionist, improvising guitarist Barry Chabala on acoustic, and multi-disciplinary artist David Forlano on electronics, in 11 succinct works to accompany a beautifully unconventional morning of open-ended conversations.

Chabala, Barry / Clara Byom / Muni Kulasinghe: Kit & Caboodle
Chabala, Barry / Clara Byom / Muni Kulasinghe:
Kit & Caboodle

(Roeba -- USA )


Price: $10.95    




In Stock

The collaboration between guitarist Barry Chabala and Clara Byom on clarinets and accordion is expanded through Chabala's audio samples and Byom's use of objects, as they join in a trio with Albuquerque violinist Muni Kulasinghe, also performing on objects, for seven distinctive, spaciously paced improvisations recorded live at The Sitting Room in Albuquerque, NM.

Rodrigues / Parrinha / McDonas / Flak / Oliveira: The Fleeting Nature Of Time <i>[Used Item]</i>
Rodrigues / Parrinha / McDonas / Flak / Oliveira:
The Fleeting Nature Of Time [Used Item]

(Creative Sources -- Portugal )


Price: $12.00    




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.

Davis, Anthony / Kyle Motl / Kjell Nordeson: Vertical Motion [VINYL]
Davis, Anthony / Kyle Motl / Kjell Nordeson:
Vertical Motion [VINYL]

(Astral Spirits -- USA )


Price: $19.95    




Out of Stock

Bassist Kyle Motl organized this 2018 studio session with pianist Anthony Davis and drummer Kjell Nordeson in San Diego, Nordeson and Motl having worked together for several years, their session with Davis focused on the pianist's literary-influenced compositions, the synergy in their trio playing of energetic and introspective interaction absolutely exemplary.

Terrazas, Wilfrido / Kyle Motl: Seven Gifts
Terrazas, Wilfrido / Kyle Motl:
Seven Gifts

(FMR -- UK )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

Seven Gifts as an offering through seven improvisations between double bassist Kyle Motl (Peter Kuhn Trio, Kyle Motl Trio) and Mexican flutist Wilfrido Terrazas, transforming their instruments through texture and tone to draw imagistic and free flowing stories in each conversation, applying unique and evocative approaches to their dialogs.

Dresser, Mark: In the Shadow of a Mad King
Dresser, Mark:
In the Shadow of a Mad King

(Tzadik -- USA )


Price: $17.95    




In Stock

Originally a foundational member of the Downtown NY scene now living on the West Coast, bassist Mark Dresser presents an album of inventive and engaging solo bass improvisations, performing on the double bass, and 4 and 5 string basses, on the epic title track accompanying the inspired and depictive words of celebrated late poet and close friend Jerome Rothenberg.

Staiano, Moe: Away Towards the Light [VINYL + DOWNLOAD]
Staiano, Moe:
Away Towards the Light [VINYL + DOWNLOAD]

(Edgetone -- USA )


Price: $19.95    




In Stock

An exploration of tonal interplay and contrasting rhythms from nine electric guitars, bass, and drums by West Coast percussionist and composer Moe! Staiano (formerly of Sleepytime Gorilla Museum), a work in three movements that features assertive rhythmic structures and intertwining string structures, balanced by beautifully ringing moments of introspection.

Surplus 1980: Illusion of Consistency [CD]
Surplus 1980:
Illusion of Consistency [CD]

(Surplus Industries -- USA )


Price: $12.95    




In Stock

Composed using an "exquisite corpse" method during the pandemic, where each player provided a partially complete track with instructions to expand their concept, enlisting an incredible set of musicians across the US & Europe, directed by Moe! Staiano, including Jesse Quattro, Fred Frith, Carla Kihlstedt, GW Sok, Amy X Neuburg, Darren Johnston, &c &c.

Reeder / Seward / Weathers : Two Ballads from the High Plains
Reeder / Seward / Weathers :
Two Ballads from the High Plains

(Glomar Editions -- USA )


Price: $9.95    




Out of Stock

Recording on an afternoon in Andrew Weather's studio Wind Tide, in Littlefield, Texas in 2023, from the electroacoustic trio of Kory Reeder on double bass, electronics & gongs, Ryan Seward on psaltery & electronics and Andrew Weathers on lap steel & tenor saxophone, the final compositions assembled from two improvisations using two different tunings that Seward brought with him.

Tilth And Wind Tide (Korsmo / McLauglin / Weather / Yantis): Anemoia
Tilth And Wind Tide (Korsmo / McLauglin / Weather / Yantis):
Anemoia

(Glomar Editions -- USA )


Price: $9.95    




In Stock

The debut of Andrew Weather's label Editions Glomar, releasing the work of the artists he collaborates with, here in a set of electroacoustic improvisations from his Wind Tide studio in West Texas with Gretchen Korsmo on electric piano & electronics, Nathan McLaughlin on modular synth, Cody Yantis on bass clarinet, piano & synth, and Weathers on guitar, lap steel & electronics.

Bradford, Bobby / Frode Gjerstad / William Roper / Alex Clive : Frice
Bradford, Bobby / Frode Gjerstad / William Roper / Alex Clive :
Frice

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


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

Featuring distinctively voiced collective free improvisation, this transatlantic quartet recording on the West Coast brings together legendary musicians Frode Gjerstad on alto saxophone and clarinet, and Bobby Bradford on cornet, alongside contemporary classical and improvising tuba virtuoso William Roper and drummer Alex Cline, delivering five dynamic improvisations with remarkable direction.

Chabala, Barry / David Forlano / Drew Gowran: Juno
Chabala, Barry / David Forlano / Drew Gowran:
Juno

(Confront -- UK )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock

The trio of Barry Chabala on acoustic guitar, objects & radio, David FoThe trio of Barry Chabala on acoustic guitar, objects & radio, David Forlano on laptop, EWI & live sampling and Drew Gowran on drums & percussion are heard in a set of four experimental soundscapes and improvised dialogs of great detail and diverse momentum, captured live at Juno Brewery + Cafe, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Ackley / Chen / Centazzo / DeGruttola / Kaiser / Manring: Two Views Of Steve Lacys The Wire
Ackley / Chen / Centazzo / DeGruttola / Kaiser / Manring:
Two Views Of Steve Lacys The Wire

(Don Giovanni Records -- USA )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

"Two Views of Steve Lacy's The Wire re-imagines a historic moment: that time when the American composer and soprano saxophonist Steve Lacy went into a Tokyo recording studio with some freshly made Japanese friends, where they recorded a...



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