Saturday, October 25, 2014

Dave Liebman And Expansions

     Dave Liebman has been on the jazz scene since the 1970`s, and he has been a very productive member. I`ve been watching a video of Dave Liebman, and his group Expansions, which consist of Matt Vashlishan (alto saxophone and clarinet), Bobby Avey (piano), Tony Marino (bass), and Alex Ritz (drums). This ensemble is running on all cylinders. This video recording of Liebman`s performance takes place at Cornelia Street Cafe in New York, NY.

     Liebman plays with the fire and urgency that one expects from him, and he does not disappoint. Liebman`s performance is intense.

     Alto saxophonist Matt Vashlishan plays with great control, but can, and does open up. Vashlishan offers a nice contrast to Liebman`s high energy, but this in not to say Matt Vashlishan can`t burn; he does!

     Dave Liebman played with Elvin Jones and Miles Davis back in the 1970`s. His music is free jazz and re-arrangements of jazz standards. Liebman`s career stretches over 40 years, playing with Chick Corea, John McLaughlin, McCoy Tyner, and of course Elvin Jones, Miles Davis, and others.

     Dave Liebman has received many awards, including the NEA Jazz Masters, and Jazz Educators Network Legends Of Jazz.

     Expansions represents Liebman`s expanded horizons, as well as honoring the jazz tradition of mentoring younger generations.

     Dave Liebman`s influences have been John Coltrane and Miles Davis, and you hear it in his playing. Not only his playing, but also his philosophy of growing and evolving.

     Samsara is Dave Liebman and Expansions recording of on-edge rhythms, highly complex harmonies, and group improv. Samsara is focused on free collective improvisation. This recording represents Dave Liebman`s honoring the jazz heritage and tradition of master musician mentoring, leading, and directing his younger artist.

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