Seth Misterka

Transit: Transit

by Tom Greenland
May 11, 2006

While improvising musicians thrive on novel combinations of instruments and musical personalities, there is also the sense that close and repeated creative camaraderie fosters group cohesion. Transit, the eponymously titled debut recording from the quartet of drummer Jeff Arnal, bassist Reuben Radding, alto saxophonist Seth Misterka and trumpeter Nate Wooley--all active on the grassroots avant jazz scene burgeoning in boroughs of New York--boasts both qualities, producing a satisfying blend of freshness and familiarity. The album exhibits a ...

Transit: Transit

by Troy Collins
February 15, 2006

A varied session with roots in cerebral European improvisation, AACM-inspired sound experimentation and New Thing-era ferocity, Transit's self-titled debut demonstrates expert communication, the key to any successful cooperative venture. Although organized by percussionist Jeff Arnal, the members of the quartet share writing credits, relying on collective improvisation as their principle strategy. Though Transit's music is rooted in free jazz, these players are not constrained by preconceived notions.

From the tumultuous vortex of sound that opens the album to ...

Jeff Arnal/Gordon Beeferman/Seth Misterka: Rara Avis

by John Kelman
March 25, 2004

Consisting of three relatively wet-behind-the-ears yet nonetheless daring improvisers, Rara Avis is notable for its obstinate devotion to pure instrumental sounds. Most artists working in the modern creative/avant-garde area of jazz are want to use prepared instruments, play inside the piano box or bow cymbals; here percussionist Jeff Arnal, electric pianist Gordon Beeferman and saxophonist Seth Misterka stick to a more traditional approach. Still, they manage to coax a variety of sounds out of their respective instruments, creating an inventive ...

Seth Misterka and the Misterka Clones: President's Day

by Glenn Astarita
April 12, 2002

New York City-based saxophonist/composer Seth Misterka has studied and performed with new music icon Anthony Braxton, while generally aligning his talents with many of the Northeast’s up and comers. (Or, to some extent, Braxton influenced composers and instrumentalists.)

President’s Day features Misterka’s quintet, who abide by the moniker Seth Misterka and the Misterka Clones. With this release, the musicians set themselves apart from many of their young peers! Not content to simply mimic proven formulas, this band dishes ...