Banquet

Album Description

Mark Dresser's "Banquet" is a captivating exploration of free jazz and avant-garde music, released in 1997 under the Tzadik label. This album is a testament to Dresser's innovative approach to composition and performance, featuring a unique blend of instruments and styles that push the boundaries of traditional jazz.

The album is structured into four movements, with the fifth track being "Loss Of The Innocents," adding a poignant and introspective piece to the collection. Recorded in November 1995 and March 1997, "Banquet" showcases Dresser's collaboration with Swiss flute virtuoso Matthias Ziegler, creating a double concerto for flute, string quartet, and bass. The interplay between Ziegler's intricate flute work and Dresser's masterful contrabass playing forms the heart of this album, offering a rich tapestry of sounds and textures.

"Banquet" is not just a display of technical prowess but also a deep dive into the expressive capabilities of the instruments involved. The album features a diverse lineup, including Erik Friedlander on cello and Chris Speed on clarinet, adding layers of complexity and depth to the music. The twisting timbres and dynamic performances make this album a standout in the realm of contemporary jazz and avant-garde music.

With a duration of 38 minutes, "Banquet" is a concise yet impactful journey through the creative mind of Mark Dresser. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album offers a fresh and engaging listening experience that highlights the beauty and innovation of modern jazz.

November 18, 1997

1997 Tzadik

About Mark Dresser

Mark Dresser is a Grammy-nominated, internationally acclaimed double bass player, improviser, composer, and interdisciplinary collaborator. Born in Los Angeles, California, Dresser has been a key figure in the creative music scene, known for his innovative approach to contemporary jazz, avant-garde, and experimental music. With over 130 CDs to his name, Dresser's music is characterized by his virtuosic technique, rich tone, and inventive use of extended techniques on the bass, including preparations and modifications that expand the instrument's sonic possibilities. He has performed and recorded with numerous notable artists and ensembles, including the Anthony Braxton quartet, the Arcado String Trio, and Black Music Infinity led by Stanley Crouch. Dresser's recent solo album, "Tines of Change," showcases his unique approach to the bass and his commitment to sonic experimentation. Beyond music, Dresser is also a professor at the University of California, San Diego, and an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, making history as the first openly LGBTQ+ President of the American Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics.