Max Johnson | Mark Whitecage | Steve Swell | Tyshawn Sorey | Quartet | Not Two Records

With the onset of fan donation pages all over the Internet artists, musicians and inventors of all sorts can now speak directly with their fans and solicit funds for all types of projects. Some are fantastical like ‘help me turn into a cat’ fund or ‘help make my paper clip rocket ship a reality’, but more often than not it is a musician with a book of songs that means the world to them and are looking for a way to make their vision a reality. There are even added perks to sites like these. They come in the form of incentives for the public’s donations, such as a copy of the completed album or even executive producer credits. The Max Johnson Quartet is a success story born from this new artist driven way to produce music. From a business model to recording and art work, (fantastic by the way if you can get a close look at it) to getting Not Two Records to back the recording. — Philip Coombs Continue reading

The Nu Band | The Dope and The Ghost | Live in Vienna | Not Two Records

Formed as a collaborative venture in 2000 The Nu Band consisting of Mark Whitecage on alto saxophone and clarinet, Lou Grassi on drums, Roy Campbell on trumpet and flugelhorn and Joe Fonda on bass explores in a very interesting way the intersection of mainstream and free jazz. It is clear that the musicians have a great respect for the jazz tradition and use that as a springboard for their compositions and improvisations on this album. “Lower East Side Blues” opens the album with a strong and deep performance, with the soloing and ensemble playing marking a fertile and earthy feel . . . This was a well played and thoroughly enjoyable album of progressive jazz that is quite accessible. The music is both thoughtful and exciting and the musicians involved have a deep sense of the jazz tradition without being beholden to it. — Tim Niland. Music and More Continue reading

The Nu Band | Live in Paris | No Buiness Records

The release of this, our fifth album, coincides with the tenth anniversary of our first concert together, in Philadephia in 2000. Thanks to all the friends, fans, promoters, and producers who have made it possible for us to continue playing, recording, and touring together all these years. It’s a privilege and pleasure for us and we look forward to sharing the next decade with all of you. — The Nu Band Continue reading