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Ralph Simon
Ralph Simon: As
by Glenn Astarita
As represents composer/saxophonist Ralph Simon’s second recording as a leader. Although originally recorded in 1981, As sounds remarkably fresh while consistently conveying a contemporary feel or vibe which is evident from the opening moments of Simon’s piece, “Kalimba”. Here, Simon and his bandmates elicit tropical themes enhanced by the late Gene Adler’s meticulous utilization of the kalimba along with vibraphonist Jeff Berman as Simon provides the ethereal treatments and acute expressionism via his soprano sax. Peppery yet low-key rhythms prevail ...
read moreRalph Simon and Magic Club: Music for the Millennium
by Glenn Astarita
Music for the Millennium is saxophonist/composer Ralph Simon’s second release for the Postcards label which in case you haven’t heard was an admirable early to mid 90’s jazz label featuring the creme de la creme of the jazz world. Thankfully, Arkadia Records has acquired the Postcards catalogue resulting in a venerable crop of reissues featuring the original artwork, and liners. Here Ralph Simon and “Magic Club” pursue an aggressive conceptual approach that articulates free-jazz, ethereal sonic soundscapes combined with ethnocentric ...
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