An Exciting List of Gems: Four Duos: Paul Dunmall & Roman Mints, Judith Insell & Joe Fonda, Joelle Leandre & Barre Phillips, David Dove & Jawwaad Taylor! A Couple of Trios: Petrella/Salis/Previte and Partipilo/Okazaki/Weiss! Devin Hoff Solo! Rarities From Sonny Sharrock, Bobby Previte ... and a LEO Label Overstock Sale [newsletter subscribers only] !




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Finally, some hope! A new performance space appears on the NYC live scene!

Le Poisson Rouge (formerly The Village Gate)
158 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012


Some of the great shows in upcoming weeks [sure to sell out quickly, so get yr tix now!]

September 4th, 2008
JOHN ZORN / BILL LASWELL / MILFORD GRAVES TRIO!
7pm show & 9pm show, [separate admissions]

September 2nd, 2008
JOHN ZORN & LOU REED plus PHANTOM ORCHARD (IKUE MORI & ZEENA PARKINS)
at 8pm

August 12th, 2008
BARBEZ plus SHELLEY HIRSCH
at 7:30pm


Tickets at
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/producer/8035


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The Downtown Music Gallery FREE IN-Store Sunday Music Series continues with:

Sunday, August 17th, at 7pm for FREE!

FRODE GJERSTAD & PAAL NILSSEN-LOVE!! Amazing Scandinavian reeds & drums duo!


Sunday, August 24th at 6pm -
CASPEROUS VINE - progressive sounds from another planet!

FREE at our store on de Bowery!


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IMPORTANT NOTE: For those of you who preordered this..

ANTHONY BRAXTON - The Complete Arista Recordings Of Anthony Braxton [LTD ED 8 CD Box Set + Book] (Mosaic LTD ED; USA)
[late October release date]


TWO THINGS:

FIRST:

Mosaic erred - they have confirmed that it only contains 13 [not 14] LPs worth of material on the 8 CDs [and no unreleased stuff]

WE ERRED as well - it is also confirmed that it DOES NOT INCLUDE the following two Braxton releases that were not original Arista productions but instead licensed from Freedom in Europe: The Complete Braxton (1971) [2 LPs] with Wheeler, Holland, Corea, Altschul; and the Time Zones [1 LP] duet album with Richard Teitelbaum

What it absolutely DOES CONTAIN is this:
*New York, Fall 1974 [1 LP] duet, quartet, and quintet: includes Jerome Cooper, Julius Hemphill, Oliver Lake, Hamiet Bluiett, Leroy Jenkins, Wheeler, Holland
*Five Pieces 1975 [1 LP] quartet with Wheeler, Holland and Altschul
*The Montreux/Berlin Concerts [2 LPs] quartet with Wheeler [Montreux], Lewis [Berlin], Holland and Altschul
*Creative Orchestra Music 1976 [1 LP] with Leo Smith, Karl Berger, Philip Wilson, Garrett List, Cecil Bridgewater, Jon Faddis, Lewis, Wheeler, Holland, Mitchell, Teitelbaum, Altschul, et al
*Duets 1976 [1 LP] with Muhal Richard Abrams
*For Trio [1 LP] with Mitchell/Jarman or Threadgill/Ewart
*For Four Orchestras [Composition 82] [3 LPs] Yep! Four orchestras + four conductors [woods/brass/string - but no saxes], all playing and conducted by Braxton at the same time!
*Alto Saxophone Improvisations 1979 [2 LPs] solo!
*For Two Pianos [1 LP] performed by Rzewski and Oppens

If the lack of The Complete Braxton 1971 album is a deal breaker, please INFORM US NOW and we will cheerfully cancel your advance reservation.


SECOND:

REJOICE!

WE HAVE LOWERED THE PREORDER PRICE! We originally took pre-orders at $160 + shipp. - Because of the great response we got a better break, so NOW everyone's PRE-ORDER PRICE is $150 + shipp., and, yes! that INCLUDES those who have previously reserved a copy!
[Price goes up to $170 upon release]

So, If you haven't pre-ordered this box set - which will BLOW YOUR MIND many times over - get on board PRONTO!

-MannyMunch-kin for DMG


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PAUL DUNMALL & ROMAN MINTS - Exodus (Quartz 2062; UK) Featuring Paul Dunmall on soprano sax & Roman Mints on violin. British reeds hero, Paul Dunmall, certainly need no introduction to those of us who read the DMG weekly newsletter. Mr. Dunmall is certainly one of the best living avant/jazz saxists and blew some minds once again at the Vision Fest earlier this year (June of 2008), as well as a few days later at the Living Theatre with Tony Malaby, Mark Helias and Kevin Norton. The Living Theatre set was recorded for Clean Feed and should be out in the not too distant future. I hadn't heard of the classical violinist, Roman Mints, before this disc but he is well respected on the other side of the pond and has recorded the works of Alfred Schnittke, Elena Langer and Ed Bennett.
This disc appears to be an entirely improvised acoustic duo. I love the way the duo work with similar sounds and textures. The seem to float together and swirl around one another closely, both playing cautiously and taking their time to come together. What is interesting is that Dunmall often sounds different than usual, his sound and interaction complementing Roman's expressive yet controlled sound perfectly. Both players blend their sound and bend their notes so that it is difficult to tell who is starting a phrase and who is ending one. There is a section on the third track where the soprano sounds like a distant ship passing in a fog while the violin sounds like a flock of birds flying overhead. That is the thing about great improvised music, when it works, it takes us on a journey or tells us a story, creating a scene and then letting the scene evolve. When both players get rambunctious, it gets quite exciting and erupts into an incredible conversation. I am not sure if this disc is limited, but we are getting just 10 copies and that's it. - BLG
CD $15


JOELLE LEANDRE/BARRE PHILLIPS - A l'improviste (Kadima 16; Israel) Featuring Joelle Leandre & Barre Phillips on contrabasses & vocals. Recorded live in Jerusalem in May of 2008. Anyone who was lucky enough to attend the Joelle Leandre/George Lewis set at this year's (2008) Vision Fest, witnessed one incredible set. Just contrabass and trombone with no electronics, laptop or effects. This set may eventually be released on the Rogue Art label, so there is a reason to rejoice. In the meantime, another reason to rejoice is this disc, an amazing contrabass duo featuring Ms. Leandre and Barre Phillips, recorded in Israel in May of this year (2008). Both of these bassists have long histories of collaborations with an incredible cast of players: Joelle has worked with Derek Bailey, Steve Lacy, Fred Frith, Francois Houle, Sylvie Couvoisier & Susie Ibarra. Barre Phillips long career stretches back more than forty years working with John Surman, Paul Bley, Evan Parker, Dave Holland, Peter Kowald and the Maneri's. Both of these did record together in a bass quartet tribute to the late Peter Kowald.
Both bassists are quite special as this disc shows. It is superbly recorded so that we can hear and feel the sounds of the strings and wood perfectly balanced. There are a great deal of odd, unique sounds like the banging of the bow on the strings or the rubbing of the strings with some object that give this such a distinctive and expressive sound. It is not easy to explain the magical quality of this music but we know it is there. It is often hard to tell who is who since both bassists are so experienced at playing those extended and unique sounds. At times it sounds as if we are at a seance conjuring up spirits. The caress of the strings, the warmth of textures, the haunting drone of long tones humming together. Sometimes fragile, sometimes intense, sometimes lyrical, sometimes explosive. Always amazing. Unlike some of the rhythmic grooves of William Parker, these two bassists deal more with surprising sounds and combinations of approaches. Most often what I hear is one solid integrated sound, as if one person had four hands... a completely marvelous sound/blend. The last piece features some most expressive and often hilarious vocal sounds from Joelle and later both musicians. It is a perfect to bring this incredible duo disc to a great close. - BLG
CD $16


JUDITH INSELL/JOE FONDA DUO - Darkwood Explorations (insell; USA) Featuring Judith Insell on viola and Joe Fonda on contrabass. I recall Ms. Insell from her days with the Soldier String Quartet when the performed with John Cale. She has also worked with Lee Konitz, Steve Coleman and Greg Osby. Contrabassist extraordinaire, Joe Fonda, remains one of the greatest of all local bassists and has worked with a plethora of downtown's best musicians: Anthony Braxton, Fonda/Steven Group, Conference Call and th Nu Band.
The duo open with Coltrane's "India," a fave of many Trane fans, myself included. This piece is quite powerful as Joe bass provides some thunder while Judith wails on top. What I love abut this is that the duo is able to provide those heavy spirits with just two string players. Bill Evan's poignant "Very Early" is done with taste and care. I dig the way Judith caresses each note, bending them like a tear rolling down someone's face. Joe takes one of his mighty fine bass solos here, an inspired one, righteous and filled with passion. Judith's piece, "Bill," is a haunting, melancholy song in which Judith plays the stunning melody while Joe just punctuates with a handful of well-placed notes that resonate just right. "In the White" features a touching double bowed melody as the theme. While Judith plays each note with intense concentration, Joe burns profusely underneath. Then the roles are switched while Joe bows with immense focus while Judith plucks quickly on top. Back and forth, back and forth, like a heated discussion that erupts and takes you along with it, never knowing where it will end but you know you are being uplifted nonetheless. Richie Beirach's "Elm" sounds like two ghosts hovering around one another, both with slightly bent drones. Judith plays that touching melody, making every note count, while Joe also extends the same spirit, again with just a few well-placed notes, plucked and then bowed. On "Baghdad Waltz," Joe explodes with one of those astonishing bass solos that must be heard to be believed. I haven't heard a string duo disc in a long while that is as good as this one. The last one that I can recall was Fred Hopkins and Deirdre Murray from more than a decade ago. Good company for this great contemporary duo. This fabulous duo will be playing here at DMG in a couple of months, so please stay tuned. - BLG
CD $10



Five new CIMP releases!

ESATrio [BILL GAGLIARDI/KEN FILIANO/LOU GRASSI] - Kenbillou (CIMP 370; USA) Bill Gagliardi (Saxophone), Ken Filiano (Bass), Lou Grassi (Drums). The ESATrio is Bill Gagliardi's latest venture into his wonderful world of improvisation. And who better to team up with than his old partner, Lou Grassi, and the phenomenal bassist, Ken Filiano. With these three musical minds at play you can expect grit and wit as they set up, dig in, and mine. Music of substance - pure and hip.
CD $16

DAVID HANEY/ANDREW CYRILLE - Clandestine (CIMP 367; USA) David Haney (Piano), Andrew Cyrille (Drums), Dominic Duval (Mallets) This isn't the first time David Haney and Andrew Cyrille have worked together, but these two sessions are the first time they have recorded together. With David, one can always expect the unexpected, whether it be Free Jazz, excursions, or an exploration of a traditional Blues. With Andrew one has come to expect simply the best in musical inventiveness. CIMP 367 is a duo; the addition of the substantial presence of bassist Dominic Duval changes the whole dynamic (as it should) on CIMP 369. To further emphasize the differences, five of the compositions appear on both the duo and the trio sessions. Hear and analyze this bracing and embracing music
CD $16

DAVID HANEY/DOMINIC DUVAL/ANDREW CYRILLE - Conspiracy A Go Go (CIMP 369; USA) David Haney (Piano), Dominic Duval (Bass), Andrew Cyrille (Drums). This isn't the first time David Haney and Andrew Cyrille have worked together, but these two sessions are the first time they have recorded together. With David, one can always expect the unexpected, whether it be Free Jazz, excursions, or an exploration of a traditional Blues. With Andrew one has come to expect simply the best in musical inventiveness. CIMP 367 is a duo; the addition of the substantial presence of bassist Dominic Duval changes the whole dynamic (as it should) on CIMP 369. To further emphasize the differences, five of the compositions appear on both the duo and the trio sessions. Hear and analyze this bracing and embracing music.
CD $16

CHRIS KELSEY QUARTET With JOHN CARLSON/FRANCOIS GRILLOT/JAY ROSEN - The Crookedest Straight Line Vol 2 (CIMP 368; USA) Chris Kelsey (Soprano Saxophone), John Carlson (Trumpet), Francois Grillot (Bass), Jay Rosen (Drums). Chris Kelsey is a distinct soprano saxist, an intense player, and very discriminate in his artistic expositions. He rarely is heard with another horn player but here Chris invites John Carlson to join his longstanding trio. Together they ponder the unknown with deliberateness and purpose. Just what you have come to expect from all of Mr. Kelsey's releases and as good an introduction as any.
CD $16

ERNIE KRIVDA - The Art Of The Trio (CIMP 366; USA) Ernie Krivda (Tenor Saxophone), Peter Dominquez (Bass), Ron Godale (Drums) This is only the second time Ernie Krivda has recorded in trio, the first occurring in 1995. This is pure Ernie, no-holds barred. And he's accompanied by a fleet rhythm section that negotiates Ernie's energy and twists with the same accuracy and energy one would expect from his long-time compatriots. Dynamic playing, memorable compositions.
CD $16


JAWWAAD TAYLOR/DAVID DOVE - Scattered Remains In The Now [ltd #'d 100 copies] (El Cangrejito 01; USA) Featuring Jawwaad Taylor on electronics, voice & trumpet and David Dove on trombone. These two characters hail from Houston, Texas, which is where this disc is recorded at KUHF in July of 2008. I know of trombonist, David Dove, from his work with Pauline Oliveros, as well as his collaborations with my friend and Victo buddy Don White. This unique duo played a fine set here at DMG last Sunday (8/3/08) and left us with this disc. David does a great job of getting those unique/odd sounds that only new music trombone players can get. Jawwaad switches successfully between subtle, spooky electronics, sly spoken words and swell trumpet. There is a consistently stream of dialogue that goes back and forth throughout. As David concentrates on different approaches to his trombone, long tones, bent, breath-like and fractured notes, Jawwaad spins his story with dark, real images and observations. Jawwaad's electronics are often eerie, stark and selectively used. At times I am reminded of Nick Evans' strange-sounding trombone playing on Hugh Hopper's '1984' album. Some of this is pretty minimal, making each sound count that much more. - BLG
CD $15


DEVIN HOFF - Solo Bass (Hoff 01; USA) Thanks to all-star bassist Trevor Dunn & ace harpist Shelley Burgon, who have curated at The Stone this month (August of 2008), we have an opportunity to hear a number of amazing bassists, playing in solos and duos. The line-up includes Michael Formanek, Mark Dresser, Mark Helias, Thomas Morgan, Drew Gress, Percy Jones and Devin Hoff. Devin played a great solo set at The Stone last week and left us with copies of his self-produced solo CD. You should know West Coast bassist, Devin Hoff's name from his work with Nels Cline, Scott Amendola, John Ettinger, Fred Frith, Larry Ochs aaand that great duo with Ches Smith, Good for Cows. On the cover of this disc is the definition for "anarchism," mentioning that all forms of government rest on violence and are wrong and harmful." There is a lesson in there, which seems more appropriate right now while our government causes all sorts of harmful rules behind our backs.
Devin has a superb touch and a distinctive sound on his contrabass. "The Idea" is first and is a lovely, lyrical, contemplative way to have things begin, delightfully and delicately plucked. "The Alarm" is perfectly balanced between bowed and pizzicato sections. The melody played in the bowed part sounds most familiar and gets more intense as the song progresses. Each of these pieces is like a long lost song buried somewhere in our collective memories. This is not a case of showing off how many weird sounds one can make on their bass, but a way to reach inside and touch us with some universal melodies or short stories. Much of this is closer to folk music than to jazz, often being elegant, touching and thoughtful. On "The Blast," the eerie bowing at the beginning really stands out, like ghosts howling in a graveyard. "Regeneration" reminds us that one can say so much, paint so many images and create an entire band with just one acoustic bass. As Devin strums his bass, it is like an entire rock band churning out their own hypnotic melody. This disc is a particularly strong solo effort, it sounds like so much more than just solo bass. - BLG
CD $10



Two More Great CD's from Gianluca Petrella on Blue Note:

GIANLUCA PETRELLA INDIGO 4 + STEVEN BERNSTEIN - Kaleido (Blue Note; Italy) Featuring Gianluca Petrella on trombone & live electronics, Francesco Bearzatti tenor sax & clarinet, Paolino Dalla Potraon bass and Fabio Accardi on drums plus Steve Bernstein on slide-trumpet & Michele Papadia on Hammond organ & Wurlitzer piano. Mr. Petrea is quite an extraordinary trombonist with twisted sense of humor. Who else would title their tunes "Jazz Funeral" or "Pussy Hair" or even better, "Jazz Has Just Left the Building and Now is Fighting Against Me." And then Gianluca goes to cover a couple of standards by Thelonius Monk ("Evidence") and Duke Ellington's " Almost Cried." "Jazz Funeral" opens like a New Orleans funeral march made more modern with some sublime trombone and trumpet harmonies. "Pussy Hair" also features a fine, laid-back, stripped down older sound with swaggering trombone, slide trumpet and clarinet. What makes this so interesting is that on a piece like "Water Everywhere" combines some quick drum 'n bass rhythms with a tasty jazzy trombone solo. I dig that 70's sounding electric piano on "Land Movement in 5/4," a sound we don't here enough nowadays. Petrella does a swell job on combining the old and new sounds into one strong group sound. Both Petrella and Steve Bernstein pull off a number of great solos each and together, as does sax & clarinetist, Francesco Bearzatti, who has three discs out on the Auand label. Monk's "Evidence" gets a twisted, over the top and almost free rendition, which slowly winds down to a more restrained conclusion. This disc is completely different from Gianluca's discs on Auand, yet it is still most creative on other levels. - BLG
[Import only]
CD $20

GIANLUCA PETRELLA INDIGO 4 - Indigo 4 (Blue Note; USA) Gianluca Petrella, the Italian trombonist, has made a startling record label debut with Indigo4. It is an eccentric yet compelling blend of traditional jazz, electronica, and avant-garde compositions. Petrella's version of Thelonious Monk's "Trinkle, Tinkle" opens the set. The track is built upon the quartet's real-time performance of the Monk standard, taken at its typical medium tempo with trombone and tenor saxophone stating the theme. Petrella adds electronica using computerized samples of Monk's own recordings to make this one of the more innovative tracks on the program. "The Middleman" is the first of seven Petrella originals and it pulses with a trip-hop style of energy. He uses live effects with skill and aplomb on this tune. "Lazy Moon" features Petrella's muted trombone, while two Duke Ellington standards, "I Got It Bad" and "Mood Indigo," feature a laid-back bass intro by Paolino Dalla Porta and a buoyant atonal remix of riffs from Francesco Bearzatti's clarinet and tenor saxophone, respectively. "Two in a Hole" is funky, and "There Comes a Time" is a poignant reminder of Tony Williams' compositional integrity. Gianluca Petrella's presence on the international jazz scene should improve as a result of Indigo4 because of his unconventional approach to the trombone as a lead instrument and because it is a serious study of the avant-garde style of jazz. - Paula Edelstein, AMG
CD $17



Two new ones on Auand!

BOBBY PREVITE/GIANLUCA PETRELLA/ANTONELLO SALIS - Big Guns (Auand 9015; Italy) Featuring Gianluca Petrella on trombone & effects, Antonello Salis on piano, Hammond organ & Fender Rhodes and Bobby Previte on drums. A few years ago, I hadn't heard of the great trombone player, Gianluca Petrella. When I heard his first disc on the Auand label, "X-Ray," I was completely knocked out. So was everyone I played it for over the past year. It turns out that Petrella also has a couple of fine discs out on Blue Note US & Blue Note Italy, which we just got in stock for the first time. This new trio disc is very different from Petrella's first disc on Auand. Pianist Antonello Salis is another diverse musician who has worked with Evan Parker and has two duo discs with Paolo Angeli and Nana Vasconcelos. Downtown all-star drummer, composer and multi-bandleader, Bobby Previte, is way too diverse and creative to list here since we know and dig what he does so much.
"Landscape" opens with eerie echoplex trombone, stark and suspense-filled piano and drums. "Control Freak" features Bobby's pounding and precise drums in the center with the trombone played through some strange effects. I dig when Previte just layers his sly drum parts into a swirling mass like he does on "PM," letting the electric piano and trombone slowly add their parts on top. The title piece sounds like the type of song that Bobby wrote for The President or his own records in the late 80's/early 90's. A great drum groove with a powerful trombone part on top and selective tack piano spinning around the groove. I dig the explosive sounds on "The Battle of Cannae" with some remarkable piano by Salis, burning 'bone from Petrella and ferocious drums by Previte. On each piece the trio switches instruments or roles or parts to keep things interesting throughout. There are a great deal of surprises in store here we never know which direction the trio will take next. - BLG
CD $16

GAETANO PARTIPILO/MILES OKAZAKI/DAN WEISS - I Like Too Much: Live In Sogliano Cavour (Auand 9014; Italy) Featuring Gaetano Partipilo on alto sax & laptop, Miles Okazaki on guitar and Dan Weiss on drums. Although guitarist Miles Okazaki is currently based in NY, I hadn't heard of him until recently and was much impressed by a recent solo offering on yet another fine Italian label. I certainly haven't heard of Gaetano Partipilo before this but drummer & tabla player, Dan Weiss, is another rising star on the downtown scene, a diverse and in-demand musician. "12 in Sogliano" has one of the great M-Base grooves with smokin' alto sax from Gaetano and tight, swirling guitar and drums interplay supporting and pushing him. In the second half of this piece, the Gaetano puts his sax through some device and starts twisting it into odd shapes without overdoing it. On "Celluloide," the trio drifts around one another in intricate swirls, quite nicely done, elegant. I like the way "Dave Moss" slowly builds from a more restrained beginning. Miles takes a great solo that glides and soars gracefully, getting quicker as it goes. Gaetano's sax follows the same route by spinning more and more quickly and then adding some shifting effects. On the title track, the trio slowly build things up and then gently glide back down, the interplay is subtle yet demanding. I dig the way these piece build and slowly shift and turn themselves inside out, as the piece move through different sections. Intricate, yet seemingly effortless. At least that's the way it sounds. An excellent trio that just keeps getting better each time I check this out. - BLG
CD $16

[See further below for Auand backcatalog restocks]



IMAGINE THE SOUND: CECIL TAYLOR/BILL DIXON/ARCHIE SHEPP/PAUL BLEY//RON MANN, dir. - Imagine The Sound [DVD] (Sphinx/FilmsWeLike 1972; USA) "This important and historic film was produced in 1981. Long out-of-print on video and more often traded as a bootleg, this 90 minute DVD features selective interviews from all four of these avant/jazz giants as well as some great live and in-the-studio footage. Since all four of these influential musicians came to popularity during the sixties, this is often the topic that is the most discussed. Everyone makes interesting observations on those crazy days. Bill Dixon recalls feeling so passionate about free/jazz that he wanted to hit people to wake them up and notice the power of this music. Dixon talks about the early sixties, when there was little competition between the players and artists of all disciplines collaborated freely. Paul Bley mentions the evolution of freedom in jazz, when bassists and then drummers finally gave up on playing time and moved beyond those boundaries. Archie Shepp speaks of how Martin Luther King's non-violent marches and protests worked better than the more extreme tactics of Malcom X. Cecil Taylor mentions how there are different part of the performance that just as important as the music like dance and poetry. He illustrates this by doing some of his unique dance moves and reciting his own distinctive poetry. The in-the-studio and live footage is what makes this disc so special. Often filmed up close, with great sound and well selected so that everything flows together as one long piece. The only drawback is that none of the other musicians are named. I believe that Bill Dixon is playing with Art Davis and Freddie Waits, all three playing superbly together and often at an ultra-subtle level. The director has done a fine job of showing the more reflective side of these musicians' playing as well as their thoughtful interviews. The shots of Cecil Taylor playing a Bosendorfer in a stark white background is really well done and the riveting live footage of Archie Shepp singing his civil rights gem, "Mama Rose", are just two of the many highlights. A hour and a half long and consistently fascinating throughout." - BLG
DVD $20



LEJAREN HILLER - A Total Matrix of Possibilities (New World 80694; USA) "Lejaren Hiller (1924-1994) was a musically eclectic composer, often combining several different types of techniques in the same piece. In the mid-'60s, he asserted that his 'objective in composing music by means of computer programming is not the immediate realization of an aesthetic unity, but the providing and evaluating of techniques whereby this goal can eventually be realized.' In this sense, Hiller was a forward-looking composer, in that each piece was an experiment that lead toward the next piece. The three works contained in this collection -'Computer Cantata' (1963), 'Quartet No. 6 for Strings' (1973), 'A Portfolio for Diverse Performers and Tape' (1974) -- demonstrate his love of musical diversity and eclecticism. These works also exhibit other trends that are common in Hiller's music, including collaboration, an interest in microtonality, symmetrical and arch forms, and indeterminate instrumentation. The works span a little more than a decade, from 1963 to 1974, which were amongst his greatest years as a composer. The works also use a variety of instrumentations, from purely acoustic to electronic, and computer music with live ensemble. Reissue from the CRI LP back-catalog."
CD $15


JOHN BAKER TAPES - Vol 1: BBC Radiophonics - Rare & Unreleased Workshop Recordings 1963-1969 (Trunk 028; UK) "John Baker is one of the top three well known BBC Radiophonic workshop musicians, alongside Delia Derbyshire and David Cain. Besides the tons of tv show themes, wacky commercial sound designs, and musical projects for himself, Baker also worked on film scores for Ridley Scott's first film and he also contributed to the soundtrack on The Beatles "Help". His abstract sound collages are so strange yet so comforting, giving you what is expected from the BBC Radiophonic Workshop and then some. His stylistic cut-up approach differs from his peers, Derbyshire and Cain, by incorporating traditional instruments in conjunction with the musique concrete built sound approach that the BBC Radiophonic Workshop were known for. In this first ever retrospective dedicated entirely to a single composer from the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, the Trunk label captures the quirky, jazzy, and sometimes outright insane rare & unreleased recordings from 63-74. RECOMMENDED!" - Chuck Bettis/DMG
CD $16


MICHAEL ZENTNER With FRED FRITH/DAEVID ALLEN/PERCY JONES/PETER BLEGVAD/CARLA BLEY et al - Present Time (Ozone 06; USA) This is a long lost early downtown/progressive gem that most folks have most likely never heard of or just plain forgotten about. Recorded in 1979 & 1980 and featuring a stellar cast with Michael Zentner on violin, guitar, harmonica & voice, Fred Frith on piano & e-bow, George Bishop, Carla Bley & Alan Braufman on saxes, John Greaves, Percy Jones & Hansford Rowe on bass, Bill Bacon, Kenwood Denard & Steve Moses on drums and Daevid Allen, Peter Blegvad & Lisa Herman on voices. This was recorded during the very early days downtown scene when musicians like Fred Frith, John Greaves & Daevid Allen had just come to NYC for the first time. If my memory serves me well, Michael Zenter was also a member of Robal, one of the local highlights of Zu Manifestival in November of 1978. What has happened to Michael Zenter since those days nearly 30 years ago is a matter of conjecture. Just googled him and found out that he creates music today in LA.
"Parts" opens and reminds me of Fred Frith's quirky pop records that he made for Ralph Records like 'Gravity' & 'Speechless'. Sort of. This song is quite catchy yet creative with some great words by Daevid Allen. The guitars and sax swirl tightly around one another with an infectious glee. Nice to hear that distinctive slinky Percy Jones fretless electric bass sound soloing throughout "The Search" while a charming, goofy vocal chorus sings along, as well as tasty violin solo from Mr. Zentner. What I dig about this is that this music is playful and uplifting, with none of that show-off-your-chops nonsense that some progressive musicians ended up wallowing in. At times, it seems as if Zenter is trying too hard to fit too many ideas or changes into certain songs, but unpredictable and eclectic music must be admired for its crafty spirit. Zentner takes an inspired violin solo on "A Piece of OOO" which also features some tight H. Cow-like saxes in spurts. In some ways, this might sound a bit dated, however it is still creative enough to be an unexpected delight. Not bad - for a budget priced disc. - BLG
CD $10


RAZ MESINAI'S BADAWI With KODE 9 or JUAKALI - Den Of Drumz//Crows [12"] (ROIR 8108; USA)
LP $8



Restocks from Auaund:

PAOLO ANGELI/ANTONELLO SALIS - MA.RI (Auand 9005; Italy) Featuring Paolo Angeli on prepared Sardinian guitar and Antonello Salis on piano & accordion. This amazing duo disc was recorded at three different concerts in Bologna, Italy in February, March & December of 2002. Nobody plays guitar quite like Paolo Angeli and it helps that nobody has that unique custom-made guitar that Paolo owns and plays. Antonello Salis has a few discs on Splasch and has recorded with Evan Parker, Nana Vasconsuelos and Riccardo Fassi. Starting with "Craul" the duo jump into a twisted, percussive exchange with Paolo banging on his strings while Antonello plays both inside the piano and on the keyboard with intense abandon. This is an extraordinary duo that is constantly changing in the way they attack their respective strings. Since Paolo has a unique system of pick-ups for his guitar, he can select certain strings and manipulate or distort them at will. It as if some scary electric guitar fragments soar in at times when you least expect it. Considering this is just a duo, it is amazing how many different sounds and approaches are used throughout each piece. Antonello seems to be drawing from older classical traditions at times, as well as providing other surprising twists and turns. Their first long piece ends with a delightful broken music box sort of melody. "Carta D'Imbarco" features some haunting accordion and more acoustic sounding guitar, the blend is just right. Paolo uses a bass drum pedal (on his guitar?) that adds even more suspense to this piece. Still, it is Antonello's bizarre accordion playing that is from another world. Midway through "Vasche," Antonello starts rubbing the strings of his piano while Paolo also plays some bent melodies along with him. Perfect music to make one's skin crawl. An unexpected delight is the duo's version of The Beatles "Mother Nature's Son," which gets turned inside out yet retains the charm of that sweet melody. The duo ends with a wonderfully mysterious piece called "MA. RI," in which the accordion wheezes melodically while we hear some heavy alien breathing. Strange yet truly transformational. - BLG
CD $16

JULIAN ARGUELLES/RONAN GUILFOYLE/JIM BLACK - Live In Dublin (Auand 9009; Italy) Featuring Julian Arguelles on tenor sax, recorders; Ronan Guilfoyle on acoustic bass guitar and Jim Black on drums. British born saxist, Julian Arguelles, has certainly gotten around and played in a number of important bands, working with Django Bates, later period Brotherhood of Breath, Carla Bley Big Band, Kenny Wheeler & John Taylor. Julian has a-half dozen discs as a leader, as well as playing for/with his brother drummer Steve Arguelles. I am not familiar with the bassist on this disc but everyone show know of that local sensation, the great Jim Black on drums. Most of the six pieces on this disc are long and includes covers by Ornette, Don Cherry and the standard, "I Wish I Knew." Ornette's mid-sixties classic, "Broadway Blues" is first and sounds different on tenor sax especially with Jim Black's unique drumming. The trio eventually hit their stride when the play the theme and Julian takes a long, spirited solo. Julian's only original tune, "FASA," features him on two recorders at once with Jim using chains and metal objects on his drums, giving this piece a charming folky sort of sound. Don Cherry's rarely heard "There is The Bomb" is next and it has some fine festive laid-back tenor from Julian. That old standard, "I Wish I Knew" is done as a most poignant ballad with skeletal percussion from Jim Black, exquisite bass and Julian's marvelously touching tenor. The bassist, Ronan Guilfoyle, contributes a great, uptempo groove tune called "Tenski" with some truly spirited drums. The final piece is oddly enough called, "Grunge" and it is a hard rocking tune with smokin' tenor and Jim Black's thwacking drums! This is a fun-filled gem through and through. - BLG
CD $16

FRANCESCO BEARZATTI BIZART TRIO With EMMANUEL BEX/ALDO ROMANO - Virus (Auand 9002; Italy) Francesco Bearzatti sax, clarinet; Emmanuel Bex organ, electronics; Aldo Romano drums Special Guests: Enrico Terragnoli guitar on # 4,10; Mauro Ottolini trombone on # 4,7,8; Stefano Senni double bass on # 6; U.T. Gandhi percussion on # 4,6
CD $16

FRANCESCO BEARZATTI BIZART TRIO With EMMANUEL BEX/ALDO ROMANO + ENRICO RAVA et al - Hope (Auand 9007; Italy) Featuring Francesco Bearzatti - tenor sax & clarinet, Emmanuel Bex - organ & electronics and Aldo Romano - drums with special guest Enrico Rava on trumpet. I hadn't heard of Italian reeds wiz, Francesco Bearzatti, or Emmanuel Bex before this disc, it turns out that Mr. Bearzatti has three CD's out on the Auand label, as of now (5/08). The other members of this quartet are pretty well now: Enrico Rava has long been the busiest of all jazz trumpet heroes from Italy with some dozens of discs out on ECM, Soul Note and Philology. Aldo Romano remains one of the most creative and in-demand drummers for nearly as long, having worked with Don Cherry and Steve Lacy.
Starting with "T Tango," which is a pleasant sort of tango with some lovely trumpet from Enrico and cheesy organ from Emmanuel. "Soap Bubble" features some tasty old-school tenor from Francesco with lovely trumpet harmonies. "From Halab to Damascus" has a nice middle-eastern groove with some sly snake-charming clarinet up front. There is something about that cheesy organ that I dig when it's used right. Most of this disc is laid back with some sunny melodies that sound just right for the tenor sax and trumpet, who seem to favor the more melodic side of things. Out of nowhere comes "End of This Love" with some heavy rockin' guitar from Enrico Terragnoli (who records for the El Gallo Rojo label). While I do dig this cut, it does sound quite out of place amongst the more somber and melodies ditties. Drummer Aldo Romano actually plays some lovely acoustic guitar behind Rava on "Assenza," an instrument that I didn't know he played. When Francesco switches to clarinet, the music sounds like the soundtrack to an Italian movie, quirky and fun. "Body-Trap" has a great, funky organ groove with some fine, simmering tenor by Francesco. It sounds like a song that Naked City might cover. Francesco Bearazatti does have a strong, warm tenor tone, well-seasoned sounding well beyond his youthful appearance. For the concluding piece, "Hope," bits of echoed drums and funky sampled voices add an odd sort of charm to this long, dub-like, soundtrack-ish work. - BLG
CD $16

FRANCESCO BEARZATTI SAX PISTOLS With STOMU TAKEISHI/DAN WEISS - Stolen Days (Auand 9011; Italy) Featuring Francesco Bearzatti on tenor sax, clarinet & electronics; Stomu Takeishi on electric bass and Dan Weiss on drums. For Italian saxist, Francesco Bearzatti's third disc on the Auand label, he chose the fine NY-based rhythm team of Stomo Takeishi (Threadgill's Make a Move, Dave Tronzo & Myra Melford) and Dan Weiss (for Dave Binney, Carl Maguire & a leader on his own) on drums. Besides the originals of Mr. Bearzatti, this trio does select some odd choices of covers like Nirvana and a Led Zep suite. Starting with "Resurrectio" this trio blasts off into punk space with what sounds like electric guitar but must be distorted electric (?) sax! Stomu's thick, eerie, fretless el. bass is featured on "Black Hole Sun" with some heavy sax from Francesco, which again sounds more like lead guitar than sax. I like the way the trio strip down "Smells Like Teen Spirit" down its bare essentials with the drums only keeping rocking power at the center. What is odd/unique about this disc is that it does often rock out with the sax sounding more like an electric guitar. Francesco even plays the dreaded wah-wah sax on "Ri-Virus" which doesn't sound all that bad, the rhythm team sounds consistently interesting no matter what. I wasn't sure why any jazz folks would want to do a Led Zeppelin medley, but it is an odd yet strangely appealing choice. "Black Dog"? "Heartbreaker?" "Moby Dick?" Should I lie and say that I actually like those songs? Hmmm. A barrel of fun either way you look or listen to it. - BLG
CD $16

DAVE BINNEY/JEFF HIRSHFIELD - A Small Madness (Auand 9004; Italy) Featuring David Binney on alto sax & electronics and Jeff Hirshfield on drums. This fine duo disc was recorded in the studio in 2002 and released in 2003. Considering that downtown alto sax great, Dave Binney, now has some 10 discs as a leader, this one is his only duo recording. The odd thing is that it doesn't sound like a duo, since Binney is also playing electronics which adds bass and/or guitar-like parts to the duo's sound. Dave wrote all but two of the pieces here, with one cover by Wayne Shorter and one more traditional song. The opening piece is Shorter's "Dolores" and there are no electronics involved or needed as the duo do a splendid version of this hard swinging standard, originally found on the 'Miles Smiles' album. Dave's synth adds an eerie aura on "The Mystery of Influence," yet the duo still swings together superbly after the synth ends. "Mallari" sounds like a dreamy, old folk song and Dave plays it with a touching grace, his warm tone closer to tenor than alto sax. Tanya Henri adds a lovely vocal flourish on this piece which fits perfectly. I dig the way the title track seems to balance between a swinging and funky groove with some strong alto by Dave, the synth is a bit on the cheesy side tone-wise though. There is one live track (from the 55 Bar) here and it is a smokin' duo excursion that works perfectly as just one solid duo. Overall, this entire disc works well since this duo sounds as if they are hooked up to the same thing. - BLG
CD $16

ROBERTO CECCHETTO - Downtown (Auand 9013; Italy) Featuring Roberto Ceccetto on electric & acoustic guitars, loops & all compositions, Giovanni Maier on double bass and Michele Rabbia on drums, percussion & loops. Although I hadn't heard of the Roberto Cecchetto before this, I know is bassist Giovanni Maier from his work with Zeno De Rossi, Stefano Battaglia and as well as his own disc called 'Turtle Song' from last year. Drummer Michele Rabbia has worked also with Stefano Barttaglia, as well as Salvatore Bonafede (Cam Jazz) and Pasquale Innarella (Rai Trade). "Where are You" opens and reminds me of a more straight ahead sounding Bill Frisell, with some tasty jazz guitar slightly rocking out. "Uptown" features spooky loops of bowed bass and eerie guitar sounds. "Do It" has a bluesy groove with cool acoustic guitar and bits of funky wah-wah guitar. I dig the way the guitar and percussion are looped and used selectively on Oslo Hotel". While the bass plays a slow groove, the guitar and drums swirl around one another, with eerie samples mysteriously gliding by. Roberto has a unique way of layering his guitar parts but never using too many notes or sounds, creating evocative landscapes that are often haunting. "Downtown" actually does remind me of the way Marc Ribot often epitomizes the "downtown sound" by adding layers of eclectic guitar parts into a swirling mass while keeping a central theme/thread that holds it all together. It is always nice to hear some of our Italian brothers dipping into the "downtown" aesthetic and doing it so successfully. If Bill Frisell would've strolled down the path of creativity instead of the path of mediocrity or at least inconsistency, this is where he might have ended up. - BLG
CD $16

DOMINO QUARTET [SEAN BERGIN/GIANLUCA PETRELLA/ANTONIO BORGHINI/HAMID DRAKE] - Radio 3 Sessions (Auand 9008; Italy) Featuring Sean Bergin tenor sax & flutes, Gianluca Petrella on trombone. Antonio Borghini on double bass and Hamid Drake drums. The (Italian-based) Auand label appears to do a great job of bringing together selective international groups with creative musicians from both sides of the Atlantic. The Domino Quartet is another fine example with Dutch reeds wiz Sean Bergin, Chicago drum master Hamid Drake with two great Italian musicians. Trombonist, Gianluca Petrella, has an amazing quartet disc out on this same label, as well as two fine but overlooked discs out on Blue Note. Three of the four members of this quartet contribute pieces to this disc.
Starting with "Navigation #14," the walking bass-lines keep switching tempos while both horns play righteous, bluesy harmonies, bending their notes together perfectly. "Aimlessley" (sic) is certainly not aimless, but it does have a short free section. I dig the way Sean's swaggering tenor works with Gianluca's equally spirited trombone. "Zulu Wedding" features some strong earthy flutes, crafty hand drums and occasional trombone punctuation. Antonio's "Red Lights" recalls a Duke Ellington-like laid-back and bluesy melodic with some mighty fine old-school tenor sax wailing. Double bassist, Antonio Borghini, the least known member of this quartet is consistently strong throughout this disc and often at the center, the heart and bottom of each piece, working perfectly with Hamid Drake. His writing on each of his three contributions is also the most memorable ones of the batch. This consistently solid disc concludes with one cover tune, Mingus' "Peggy's Blue Skylight," which gets a most festive and passionate reading. A most thoughtful and righteous conclusion to another gem from the grand Auand catalogue. - BLG
CD $16

GIANLUCA PETRELLA With JAVIER GIROTTO/PAUL ROGERS/FRANCESCO SOTGIU - X-Ray (Auand 9001; Italy) Featuring Gianluca Petrella on trombone, Javier Girotto baritone saxophone, quena & soprano sax, Paul Rogers on 5-string double bass and Francesco Sotgiu drums. Outstanding! Considering that this is the debut disc from the Auand label and that we've only heard of one member of this Italian quartet previously, (British) bass master Paul Rogers, it is certainly a surprise that this disc is one of the best little known gems that we have encountered in quite a while. It turns out that the leader, trombonist Gianluca Petrella, has since signed to Blue Note and has two fine discs out that garnered little of no attention.
'X-Ray' blasts open with a most impressive burning tune called "Broken Head," the rhythm team exploding powerfully right from the first note. Petrella takes the first of many amazing trombone solos here. The title track features some tantalizing harmonies for the trombone and bari sax with more of that most impressive bass and drum work. That barely contained excitement factor reminds me of the undeniable energy found in the classic 'Dedicated to You, But You Weren't Listening' album by the Keith Tippett Group! Three members of this quartet contribute all of the material here and each piece is a standout in one way or another. Javier's "G8" features some tight complex bari sax and trombone interplay while Paul's "Femtosecond" is a slow, mysterious work for poignant bari sax and a most enchanting melody overall. It almost sounds as if they are about to break into "Silent Night," but perhaps this is just wishful thinking as the dog days of summer approach. "Crunch," also by Paul, contains some immensely propulsive bass and drums underneath an incredible chorus of bari sax and bone blasting bravado! One of the great things about this disc is how well it is recorded, the powerful and resourceful rhythm team is immense and vibrant throughout, cushioning and pushing the trombone and saxes into turbulent yet tight territories time and again. Another interesting point is that there are a few superb ballad-like pieces on the second half of this disc and each one is a gem. The final piece, "Araucanos," features Javier on flute (or quena) & soprano sax and is a most haunting piece with a solemn melody that you will not forget for a long time to come. When I played this disc for my friends on our way to the Victo Fest, each one was knocked out by this magic music. Now it is your time to reap the rich rewards of Gianluca Petrella's 'X-Ray'. - BLG CD $16

PAOLO SORGE TRINKLE TRIO With MICHEL GODARD/FRANCESCO CUSA - Trinkle Trio (Auand 9003; Italy) Featuring Paolo Sorge on guitar & electronics, Michel Godard on tuba and Francesco Cusa on drums & percussion. Once again the consistently inspired Auand label from Italy introduces to some new musicians well worth hearing. I had never heard of either Paolo Sorge or Francesco Cusa, before this disc, however I do know tuba wiz, Michel Godard, from his work with Rabih Abou-Khahlil, Sylvie Courvoisier and Louis Sclavis.
This disc is unique tribute to Thelonius Monk with the trio covering just the songs of Monk with only the opening and closing pieces by Mr. Sorge. The opening piece is a spirited freer work for crafty drums and intense jazz/rock guitar with tuba just used as occasional punctuation. Monk's "I Mean You" is next and the melody is played by the tuba with Paolo altering his guitar into odd fragments while the drums just play a skeletal rhythm. On "Evidence," the drums spin quickly while the guitar and tuba play the melody in their own strange way. Michel plays in high flying tuba solo while Paolo plays dreamy chords underneath.
CD $16

GIANCARLO TOSSANI'S SYNAPSER - Beauty Is A Rare Thing (Auand 9006; Italy) Featuring Achille Succi on alto sax & bass clarinet, Giancarlo Tossani on piano, Tito Mangialajo Rantzer on double bass and Cristiano Calcagnile on drums The Auand label, out of Italy, has uncovered a wealthy modern jazz scene with a dozen fine discs out and a number of Italian musicians who we haven't heard of until now. Pianist Giancarlo Tossani is not very well known even in Italy, yet he is a mighty fine pianist. He is also a fine composer and wrote seven of the nine songs here with a striking Ornette cover and an adaption of a piece by J.S. Bach. "Faites Votre Remix" opens with strong (M-Base-like) tight alto sax and piano interplay. "Audioglobe" is a delicate, haunting piece with some lovely bass clarinet. While Succi repeats this hypnotic phase over and over, the quartet swirl around him in magical circles, spinning a dreamy web. Drummer, Cristiano, is a marvel as he provides the creative (rhythmic) force behind nearly every piece. On "Souvenirs from the Future" he dances around the drums while Succi plays his bass clarinet on top of each beat. Giancarlo often writes these pieces that are moderately paced a dream-like with Succi's haunting bass clarinet floating on top, with a bit of echo added to give the clarinet a more cerebral quality. The title piece is by Ornette Coleman and is taken slower with a lovely laid-back vibe and sublime alto sax from Achille. All four members of this fine quartet are gifted musicians and each gets a chance to shine. It is difficult to tell at times who the leader is except for the fact that Tossani wrote most of the pieces. Another wonderful jazz treasure that will most likely never be heard on WBGO. For shame! - BLG
CD $16

GIANCARLO TOSSANI'S SYNAPSER - Coherent Deformation (Auand 9012; Italy) Achille Succi alto sax, bass clarinet; Giancarlo Tossani piano; Tito Mangialajo Rantzer double bass; Cristiano Calcagnile drums
CD $16



OUT-OF-PRINT Last copies from Mr Previte himself!
Bobby Previte is a longtime legend of the Downtown Scene - both out- and jazz- musics - and the best always play with him!

BOBBY PREVITE EMPTY SUITS With MARTY EHRLICH/ELLIOTT SHARP/JEROME HARRIS/ROBIN EUBANKS et al - Empty Suits (Gramavision 79447; USA) [Bobby Previte file copy - still sealed]
CD $25

BOBBY PREVITE'S LATIN FOR TRAVELERS With JEROME HARRIS/MARC DUCRET/JAMIE SAFT - My Man In Sydney (Enja 9348; Germany) ) [Bobby Previte file copy - still sealed]
CD $15

BOBBY PREVITE'S LATIN FOR TRAVELERS With JEROME HARRIS/STEW CUTLER/JAMIE SAFT - Dangerous Rip (Enja 9324; Germany) ) [Bobby Previte file copy - still sealed]
CD $15

BOBBY PREVITE With BILL FRISELL/WAYNE HORVITZ/GUY KLUCEVSEK/RAY ANDERSON/JOEY BARON et al - Claude's Late Morning (Gramavision 79448; USA) ) [Bobby Previte file copy - still sealed] CD $25

BOBBY PREVITE'S WEATHER CLEAR TRACK FAST With DON BYRON/MARTY EHRLICH/ROBIN EUBANKS et al - Hue And Cry (Enja 8064; USA) ) [Bobby Previte file copy - still sealed]
CD $25

BOBBY PREVITE'S WEATHER CLEAR TRACK FAST With CUONG VU/JAMIE SAFT/LINDSEY HORNER et al - Too Close To The Pole (Enja; USA) ) [Bobby Previte never-used file copy]
CD $25

BOBBY PREVITE'S WEATHER CLEAR TRACK FAST With DON BYRON/MARTY EHRLICH/ROBIN EUBANKS et al - Weather Clear, Track Fast (Enja 6082; USA) ) [Bobby Previte file copy - still sealed]
CD $15

BOBBY PREVITE With MARK FELDMAN/HERB ROBERTSON/MARK HELIAS/CAROL EMMANUEL/JEROME HARRIS et al - Moscow Circus Stage: Music Of The Moscow Circus (Gramavision 79466; USA) [Bobby Previte file copy - still sealed]
CD $25



and out-of-print Sonny Sharrock - last copies!

SONNY SHARROCK BAND With MELVIN GIBBS/ABE SPELLER/PHEEROAN AkLAFF/BILL LASWELL - Seize the Rainbow (Enemy 104; USA) The follow-up to Sonny Sharrock's entirely solo comeback album, Guitar, Seize the Rainbow puts the guitarist at the helm of a rock-styled power trio featuring bassist Melvin Gibbs and Abe Speller and Pheeroan akLaff on drums (producer Bill Laswell also plays bass on one cut). The overall sound of the album is surprisingly straightforward, heavy metal-tinged jazz-rock, though the caliber and taste of the musicians makes it something far more than what rock guitar virtuosos of the period were recording. Still, there isn't too much way-out craziness, aside from some of Sharrock's trademark slide-guitar explorations on the spiritual title track and the riff-driven rockers "Dick Dogs" and "Sheraserhead's Hightop Sneakers." For the most part, Sharrock's playing on Seize the Rainbow is more concerned with melodic themes and traditional single-note solo lines than textural experiments. Fortunately, his tone is still gloriously skronky, and his playing is no less passionate. Bill Laswell's production is bright and immediate, and the rhythm section's agility breathes a spark into the straight-up rock rhythms they're often asked to play. Sonny Sharrock's 2nd-to-last great studio effort (check out the great 'Ask The Ages' recording with Pharoah Sanders from 1993, now sadly out-of-print as well) with Laswell helping him focus his best efforts in the studio.
CD $20

SONNY SHARROCK BAND - Live In New York (Enemy 108; USA) Recorded live at the old Knitting Factory in New York City, this disc showcases the late Sonny Sharrock in his garage-y rock band incarnation, a different kettle of fish for those familiar with his early jazz roles or his later incendiary work with Last Exit. The results are better than his earlier, more obscure trio date on Marge largely due to the far superior rhythm section of bassist Melvin Gibbs and drummers Abe Speller and Pheeroan akLaff, but they're also marred byDave Snyder's schlocky keyboards and Ron Cartel's pedestrian vocals on two of the pieces. Sharrock seemed to vacillate throughout his career between the ecstatic free jazz epiphanies he produced in the '60s with Pharoah Sanders (or in the '80s along with his partner Peter Brotzmann) and the simpler, bluesier feel of bands like this one. If what you're after is an above-average bar band with an at times amazing guitarist and a consistently solid rhythm section, Live in New York will do just fine. Listeners who came to expect something on a more inspired level will have to content themselves with nearly contemporary albums like his solo venture 'Guitar' or band effort 'Seize the Rainbow (both also on Enemy) or the stellar Ask the Ages. -- Brian Olewnick
CD $16

SONNY SHARROCK BAND - Highlife (Enemy 119; USA) Highlife was Sonny Sharrock's first studio album in three years, and it bore witness to several slight modifications in the guitarist's approach. Gone were bassist Melvin Gibbs and drummer Pheeroan akLaff, who had moved on to other projects; they were replaced by Charles Baldwin and Lance Carter, respectively, who joined additional drummer Abe Speller. Dave Snider's Korg synthesizer also makes its studio debut (he had appeared on the Live in New York set), which immediately makes the overall ensemble sound simultaneously brighter and tinnier. Even past the added timbre of the keyboards, Sharrock seems to be searching for ways to push his music forward, as he begins going farther afield for material and revisiting his past in the process. In addition to three full-fledged originals, he covers two traditional folk songs, the West African standard "Highlife" (learned in one of his earliest gigs with drummer Babatunde Olatunji) and the Harry Belafonte-associated "All My Trials"; he adapts several themes from Kate Bush's prog pop hit "Wuthering Heights" into "Kate"; and he returns to his legendary appearance on Pharoah Sanders' Tauhid album with a medley of two Sanders themes, "Venus/Upper Egypt." It's fascinatingly eclectic, but the results are undercut to a degree by all the keyboard polish, which tends to rob Sharrock's most furious licks of a certain element of danger (even if it does occasionally bring out his more playful and spiritual sides). In the end, Highlife is something of a transitional album, catching Sharrock in the midst of figuring out where to take his music next, yet that searching quality makes it a compelling listen for fans. ~ Steve Huey, AMG
CD $16


*****************


LEO Overstock SALE! (Through August '08 only)
(newsletter subscribers only)

Good while supplies last, so hurry - only 1 to 3 copies in many cases!


AARDVARK JAZZ ORCHESTRA [MARK HARVEY et al] - American Agonistes (Leo 508; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

AARDVARK JAZZ ORCHESTRA [MARK HARVEY et al] - Trumpet Madness (Leo 423; UK)
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FRANZISKA BAUMANN & MATTHIAS ZIEGLER - Voice & Tides (Leo 495; UK)
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ANTHONY BRAXTON - 4 Compositions (Ulrichsberg) 2005 - Phonomanie VIII [4 CD set] (LEO 468-471; UK)
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JOHN WOLF BRENNAN - Pictures In A Gallery: Solo Piano (LEO 464; UK)
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JOHN WOLF BRENNAN/ALEX CLINE/DANIELE PATUMI/TSCHO THEISSING/JOHN VOIROL - Shooting Stars & Traffic Lights (Leo 477; UK)
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JOHN WOLF BRENNAN/PEGGY LEE/DYLAN VAN DER SCHYFF - zero heroes (Leo 373; UK)
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RICHARD CARR/MIKE NORD/GEORG HOFMANN - In Walks Art (Leo 401; UK)
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RICHARD CARR/MIKE NORD/GEORG HOFMANN/ART MADDOX - Biosphere (Leo 456; UK)
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STEVE COHN - The Blair Recordings (Leo 335; UK)
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STEVE COHN With REGGIE WORKMAN/JASON KAO HWANG/TOM VARNER - BRIDGE OVER THE X-STREAM (Leo 288; UK)
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COLLECTIVE 4TET (Heinz Geisser/Mark Hennen/Jeff Hoyer/William Parker) - ORCA (Leo Lab 031; UK)
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COLLECTIVE 4TET (Heinz Geisser/Mark Hennen/Jeff Hoyer/William Parker) - Synopsis (Leo 380; UK)
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COLLECTIVE 4TET (Heinz Geisser/Mark Hennen/Jeff Hoyer/William Parker) - The Ropedancer (Leo Lab 021; UK)
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CONSPIRACY OF EQUALS [HARRY S FULCHER/AARON STANDON/PETE BRANDT/MARCO ANDERSON - Conspiracy Of Equals (Leo 479; UK)
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BERTRAND DENZLER/NORBERT PFAMMATTER - Nanocluster 02/2000 (Leo Lab 073; UK)
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DOMINIC DUVAL C. T. STRING QUARTET With TOMAS ULRICH/JASON HWANG/RON LAWRENCE - Under The Pyramid (Leo 279; UK)
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DOMINIC DUVAL EQUINOX TRIO With TOMAS ULRICH/MICHAEL JEFRY STEVENS - Equinox (Leo 267; UK)
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DOMINIC DUVAL w/HERB ROBERTSON/BOB HOVEY/JAY ROSEN - ASYLEM (Leo 316; UK)
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DIETRICH EICHMANN ENSEMBLE - The Hot Days (Leo 486; UK)
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MISHA FEIGIN - Both Kinds of Music (Leo Lab 060; UK)
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JOACHIM GIES/LAUREN NEWTON - Tenderness Of Stones (Leo 481; UK)
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MASASHI HARADA/MAT MANERI - The Soul With Longing For Dim Hills And Faint Horizons (Leo 442; UK)
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JON LLOYD QUARTET - HEAD (Leo 186; UK)
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RAMON LOPEZ - Swinging With Doors: Drums Solo II (Leo 491; UK)
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RAYMON LOPEZ FLOWERS TRIO With SOPHIA DOMANCICH/JOELLE LEANDRE - Flowers Of Peace (Leo 438; UK)
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FABIO MARTINI INTRIO - Practicality (Leo 392; UK)
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VLADIMIR MILLER/VITAS PILIBAVICIUS/VLADIMIR TARASOV - Frontiers (Leo Lab 016; UK)
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LIVIO MINAFRA - La Dolcezza Del Grido (Leo 384; UK)
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MATTHEW MITCHELL/DUNCAN HAYNES - Biathanatos (Leo 393; UK)
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MATTHEW MITCHELL/DUNCAN HAYNES - The Urban Choreographic (LEO 466; UK)
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MOMENTUM [JOHN WOLF BRENNAN/BERTRAND DENZLER/CHRISTIAN WEBER/CHRISTIAN WOLFARTH] - Momentum 3 (Leo 355; UK)
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MOMENTUM [JOHN WOLF BRENNAN/GENE COLEMAN/CHRISTIAN WOLFARTH/ALFRED ZIMMERMAN] - Momentum 2: The Law Of Refraction (Leo 296; UK)
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MOMENTUM [JOHN WOLF BRENNAN/GENE COLEMAN/CHRISTIAN WOLFARTH] - Momentum (Leo 274; UK)
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MOMENTUM [JOHN WOLF BRENNAN/GENE COLEMAN/THOMAS K J MEJER/MARC UNTERNAHRER] - Momentum 4: Rising Fall (Leo 440; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

MOSCOW COMPOSERS ORCHESTRA [MCO] With SAINKHO NAMCHYLAK [NAMTCHYLAK] - An Italian Love Affair (Leo Lab 019; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

SIMON NABATOV/NILS WOGRAM - Jazz Limbo (Leo 492; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

SAINKHO NAMCHYLAK [NAMTCHYLAK] - Letters (Leo 190; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

TEMENOS Feat. SAINKHO NAMCHYLAK [NAMTCHYLAK], SHELLEY HIRSCH, CATHERINE BOTT - Temenos [sndtck] (Leo 303; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

LAUREN NEWTON/PARK JE CHUN - 2 Souls in Seoul (Leo 509; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

MARK O'LEARY/EYVIND KANG/DYLAN VAN DER SCHYFF - Zemlya (Leo 507; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

PAGO LIBRE [JOHN WOLF BRENNAN/DANIELE PATUMI/ARKADY SHILKLOPER/TSCHO THEISSING] - Phoenix/Live in Salzburg & Zurich (Leo 377; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

PAGO LIBRE [JOHN WOLF BRENNAN/DANIELE PATUMI/ARKADY SHILKLOPER/TSCHO THEISSING] - Wake Up Call: Live In Italy (Leo 272; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

EVAN PARKER & SEPTEMBER WINDS With PETER A SCHMID/HANS ANLIKER/RETO SENN/JURG SOLOTHURNMANN - Alder Brook (Leo 379; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

EVAN PARKER & SEPTEMBER WINDS With PETER A SCHMID/HANS ANLIKER/RETO SENN/JURG SOLOTHURNMANN - Short Stories (Leo 428; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

IVO PERELMAN With ROSIE HERTLEIN/DOMINIC DUVAL/NEWMAN BAKER - Introspection (Leo 455; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

PATRICK SCHEYDER - Solo Piano II (Leo 362; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

ARIEL SHIBOLET - Metal Tube & Consciousness: Soprano Saxophone Solo (Leo 414; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

WALLY SHOUP/TOSHI MAKIHARA/BRENT ARNOLD - Confluxus (Leo 399; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

GOLDEN YEARS OF SOVIET JAZZ [V.A.] - Volume II: Rezitsky & Jazz Group Arkhangelsk/Orkestrion/Mikhail Chekalin featuring Sergey Trofimov New Jazz Trio/Vysniauskas/Ganelin/Vysniauskas/Talas (Leo GY 405-408; UK)
NORMALLY $45, NOW $37!

SUN RA & His SPACE ARKESTRA - What Planet Is This? [2 CD set] (Leo GY 024/025; UK)
NORMALLY $30, NOW $24!

NATSUKI TAMURA - A Song For Jyaki (Leo Lab 039; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

GEBHARD ULLMANN/CHRIS DAHLGREN/JAY ROSEN - CutItOut (Leo 457; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

REGGIE WORKMAN ENSEMBLE - ALTERED SPACES (Leo 183; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

WWW [MICHEL WINTSCH/CHRISTIAN WEBER/CHRISTIAN WOLFARTH] - WWW (LEO 467; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!

CARLOS ZINGARO/JOELLE LEANDRE/SEBI TRAMONTANA - The chicken check in complex (Leo 340; UK)
NORMALLY $17, NOW $12!


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THE CREATION - Psychedelic Rose (Cherry Red 256; UK) "Their songs have been covered by acts as diverse as Ride, Boney M and the Sex Pistols; they impressed Pete Townshend so much that he asked their guitarist to join the already successful Who; said guitarist pioneered the use of the violin bow on guitar strings -- a trick promptly lifted and made famous by Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page; they inspired the name of Creation Records, the most influential record label of the '90s; they have been cited as an influence by Paul Weller, Alan McGee, Ride, Pete Townshend, John Lydon and others. Yet The Creation never had a bona fide hit single in either Britain or the US. They had a recording career that spanned merely mid-1966 to early 1968 and never -- in their original incarnation -- released an album on either side of the Atlantic. The Creation are pop's quintessential example of Never Mind The Career Width, Feel The Musical Quality. Their compositions 'Makin' Time,' 'Painter Man,' 'Biff Bang Pow,' 'Nightmares,' 'Can I Join Your Band,' 'Life Is Just Beginning,' 'Through My Eyes,' 'How Does It Feel To Feel' and others helped define psychedelia and pop art and are cherished by several different generations of music fans. The Creation were undoubtedly one of the most under appreciated bands to emerge from the UK during the 1960s, but their legend has grown with time and this album, recorded in 1987 and 1988 and never been released before in any form, is a testament to their enduring legacy. You know the story, you know the legend, this is the long lost album."
CD $17

DINO VALENTE - Dino Valente (Cherry Red/RPM 289; UK) "A fascinating enigma of the San Francisco psychedelic scene, Valente is most famed as the author of the song 'Get Together.' This definitive '60s love-and-peace anthem was recorded on the Jefferson Airplane's first album, and taken into the Top Ten by the Youngbloods. Valente was an original member of Quicksilver Messenger Service, and his one off solo single in 1964, a folk pop song called 'Birdses' became the inspiration for Gene Clark to name his new band the Birdses, amended of course, to the Byrds, because of his admiration for Valente's single 'In 1968,' following a spell in jail for drug possession, he got a deal with Epic Records, recording an album produced by Bob Johnston (most famous for overseeing much of Bob Dylan's classic '60s output). It was idiosyncratic even within the psychedelic community. Valente sang elliptical, stream-of-consciousness hippyisms without much in the way of narrative, beginning, or end, but with an evocative lyricism. The accompaniment is mostly stripped down guitar playing pleasingly haunting minor folk-jazz acoustic chords, swelled by wads of studio reverb. In March this year, Mojo's 67 Lost Albums You Must Own article included this album: 'On leaving Quicksilver Messenger Service after changing his name to avoid the taxman, the chemically deranged but incredibly charming Dino Valente knocked off this beautifully elongated acoustic ramble, then promptly disappeared. Emotional, aching and gloriously daft in places, its stream of lo-fi consciousness spawned generations of bedroom strumming by moody suicidal peaceniks. All a bit intense on the surface, it's wonderfully engaging even today. (DH)' RPM make this album available once with this timely re-press and in a package with an insightful essay by Nina Antonia. In the current climate of Devendra Banhart, James Yorkeston et al, Valente sounds neither out of place nor out of time."
CD $17


REUBEN WILSON - Got To Get Your Own (Dusty Groove 3013; USA) "A standout funk session from organist Reuben Wilson -- a Hammond player best known for his Blue Note albums of the early '70s, but who steps out wonderfully here in a rare date for Chess Records. The setting is quite unique -- a mixture of Wilson's soaring organ lines with some heavy funk backings from maestro Brad Baker. There's a fair bit of soul in the record too -- vocals that bring an extra 'umph' to some of the grooves, but still leave plenty of room for instrumental solos. Players include Bernard Purdie on drums, Richard Tee on keyboards, and Alfred 'Pee Wee' Ellis on saxes -- and the album includes the classic rare groove tracks 'Tight Money' and 'Got To Get Your Own.' First time on CD anywhere in the world, and a much-loved funky classic!"
CD $12


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