Pandemic Duets

"Pandemic Duets" is a captivating exploration of free jazz and avant-garde music, born out of the unique circumstances of summer 2020. Originally planned as a series of five duet recordings, Stephen Gauci and his collaborators expanded the project into a collection of nineteen improvisational pieces. The album you're listening to is a curated selection of eight tracks from this extensive series, each a testament to the spontaneous creativity and deep musical connection between Gauci and his fellow musicians.

Recorded over the course of several months, these duets feature Gauci on saxophone, accompanied by a rotating cast of esteemed collaborators, including Gerald Cleaver, Wendy Eisenberg, and Michael Bisio. Each track is a unique conversation between two musicians, a snapshot of a moment in time where improvisation reigns supreme. The result is a diverse and engaging collection that showcases the breadth of Gauci's musical vision and his ability to adapt and innovate in the face of uncertainty.

The album's eight tracks, each titled "Improvisation" followed by a Roman numeral, clock in at just over 31 minutes, making it a perfect introduction to Gauci's improvisational style. From the opening notes of "Improvisation I" to the final sounds of "Improvisation VIII," "Pandemic Duets" is a journey through the boundless possibilities of free jazz and avant-garde music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Stephen Gauci or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.