Travis – Starts with a fast groove. Sort of similar to what I wanted to play but smoother, spacier. I really can’t decide what to play now, I was so sure before we began but a small group and then the vibe changes for each song played. This has some really wonderful warm synth chords in the vibraphone section, really lush. But also rhythmic all the way through. Travis knows my weakness for vibraphone + it’s a nice mix against the washes of rhythm and synth. Love it. Maybe Brazilian? Not afraid of dissonance either. JAB – “6 Degrees of Separation” British jazz it’s happening right now!
Nawi – Christina & Michelle Naughton – Messiaen – “Visions de L’amen” Nawi says “End of the 1st movement, into the 2nd”. Messiaen, also not afraid of dissonance. The 2nd section is more chipper and has a dance feel to it. Two (or more) piano things have always felt a little dubious for distinguishing the player’s parts. Maybe thats the idea, some really cool effects are achieved in this piece.
Dan – Eugene McDaniel – “The Parasite (for Buffy)” – Such a crazy song. The bass’s evolution through the piece is incredible. A little epic tale of colonialism about my ancestors (Minnie Mary Bosworth on the Mayflower). A powerful protest piece with loads of passion. McDaniels wrote several important songs.
Dave – It’s getting rowdy in here… John Hicks – “Call the Fire Department” – Ratzo Harris on bass whom I think is another Rutgers Jazz History & Research Grad. Hicks is a monster, I thought Dave would play the early Blakey live performance but this a mature, in full command performance. Love Hicks’s lines sliding into each other at a burning tempo. Ratzo sounds great, hard tempo to maintain. Cliff Barbaro is also playing. Cool tune too. Travis says “He has McCoy Hand”
Found Sounds 