Taylor Ho Bynum (trumpet) Stephen Haynes (trumpet) Amir El Saffar (trumpet), Jeff Hoyer (trombone) Steve Swell (trombone), Bill Lowe (bass trombone/tuba) Marshal Allen (alto sax), Bobby Zankel (alto sax) Sabir mateen (tenor sax) Elliot levin (tenor sax), Will Connell (alto sax, bass clarinet, flute) J. D. Parran (bass sax), Dominic Duval (bass) Jackson Krall (drums)
Cecil Taylor (March 15, 1929) is an indomitable musical spirit. One of the true originals of American music; a towering giant who sits atop the Mt. Rushmore of modern jazz giants - Bird, Trane, Miles, Ornette and Cecil. His contributions to the canon of improvised music cannot be disputed as has been documented on numerous recordings that have included collaborations with John Coltrane, Steve Lacy and Max Roach. His influence in free jazz circles has been absorbed in Europe too, where he has performed and recorded with some of the most important free jazz players on the Continent.
His ferocious playing is so trail-blazing that it made more of an effect on the whole concept of rhythm than all but a few drummers. His blending of jazz and modern classical sensibilities set both traditions on their ear and were never the same since then. Along with Ornette Coleman and John Coltrane, Taylor helped to usher in a turning point in the history of the music. Avant and free jazz would be unthinkable without his innovations and it's a testament to his work that it is still part of the mainstream with many performers today.
Now celebrating 50 years as a recording artist, Taylor also celebrates his 75th birthday with his BIG BAND at Iridium this week! Not content to rest on his much deserved laurels, Taylor practices piano constantly and always regales crowds with new pieces. He is a one-man multi-media presentation as he sings, chants, reads poetry, dances and plays the piano with phenomenal power, speed and intensity.
For more information contact All About Jazz.
