Jazz Articles about Steve Swell

like 246

Steve Swell/Perry Robinson: Invisible Cities

by Clifford Allen
July 6, 2004

With Invisible Cities, trombonist Steve Swell and clarinetist Perry Robinson have created a unique snapshot of duo improvisation that, as much as it sounds like a Saturday afternoon loft rehearsal when the rhythm section was too busy, is a compelling document of the affinity between improvisers.

Robinson, of course, is the veteran of the two, having recorded his first LP, Funk Dumpling, with Henry Grimes for Savoy over forty years ago, as well as working with Gunter Hampel, Archie Shepp, ...

like 189

Steve Swell: Suite for Players, Listeners and Other Dreamers

by Derek Taylor
January 22, 2004

Countless men and women find themselves seduced by the lure of unfettered musical expression only to find their efforts greeted by ambivalent ears. The creative hinterlands of jazz are notorious for swallowing talented players up in a fog of anonymity. Trombonist Steve Swell knows this reality well. He’s been working his way in from the fringes for years, in the process amassing a body of work that stands strong in the company of his progenitors on the instrument such as ...

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Steve Swell's New York BrassWood Trio: Still In Movement

by Derek Taylor
January 12, 2004

Requiring something of a leap of logic in interpreting its chosen name, Steve Swell’s trio repays listener imagination with serious improvisational interplay. Swell’s been on the scene for several decades and during that time he’s developed an approach to the trombone that builds on the best facets of tradition and innovation. His tone can easily run the gamut from Kid Ory-worthy tailgate smears to abstracted metallic breath sounds in line with the likes of Paul Rutherford.

Past ventures ...

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Steve Swell Trio: Flurries Warm and Clear

by Derek Taylor
May 1, 2000

Steve Swell remains one of the most athletic trombonists in improvised music. Earlier CIMP sessions have showcased his vigorous style in wide spectrum of groups. This most recent disc uncovers a different, but no less challenging side of his musical personality, and it’s one that he’ll hopefully decide to explore further in the future.

Creative improvising musicians have always shown a propensity for combining their instruments into new and exciting aggregations. Swell’s trio continues in that tradition blending the voices ...