Fred Hess - Extended Family - COMPACT DISCS [CD]

Fred Hess proves that jazz on the edge doesn't have to be a battle with the inexpressible - that even in it's explosiveness and unpredictability, there can be a level of stasis that's alluring to the most unaquainted fan. The musical ideas are launched in a historical context, with most cuts starting and ending on familiar ground. This CD features elaborately constructed nods to Duke Ellington on InchLoose LeavesInch and Lester Young on InchAfter the Leap.Inch the entire ensemble throws themselves into Mel Powell's InchClarinade,Inch emphasizing their devotion to collective creativity, and it proves to be an excellent springboard for their ideas. Album Tracks 1. Loose Leaves 2. Ninth Street Park 3. Pretty Little Gypsy/Chuggin' 4. Feynman Series, No. 5 5. After the Leap 6. Ho - T'u 7. Clarinade 8. Planet T 9. Close to the Beach

Fred Hess' newest contains music that represents his continued interest in developing improvisation from the melodic and rhythmic aspects of each piece, leaning more toward the linear concept of Lester Young as opposed to the non-thematic chord based compositions of Coleman Hawkins. He is joined again by the same talented musicians who were with him on his last , InchThe Long And Short of ItInch (TAP #76006), including Ron Miles, Ken Filiano and Matt Wilson. As always, Dr. Hess will surprise listeners with his unique approach to jazz composition and improvisation. Album Tracks 1. On Perry St 2. Zane 3. In the No 4. Knitwit for Tara 5. Funhouse 6. Clef's Visit Grandma's 7. Crossed Paths 8. Mystery Woman 9. Untying the Knot

This is an intimate duo recording, with Fred Hess on tenor sax and Marc Sabatella on piano. It's a model of like-minded musicians playing in tandem, bouncing off and challenging each other to create music that is spontaneous, fresh and absorbing. Album Tracks 1. Home Base 2. Right at Home 3. What Else? 4. Joe Said 5. Cathys Taffy 6. Notes and Values 7. Good Question 8. Going There 9. Luthers Promise 10. Boson 11. Feel It