Charles Pillow Large Ensemble Set To Release 'Electric Miles 2' on October 6th

Charles Pillow Large Ensemble Electric Miles 2

The follow-up to acclaimed saxophonist/arranger Charles Pillow’s, “Electric Miles” , one of NPR’s top ten CD’s for 2018, is a further exploration of Miles Davis’ early electric period, 1969-74, arranged for a large jazz ensemble. This time Pillows’ arrangements add 3 french horns in addition to the usual big band format for more orchestral color possibilities.

Featured in the “Miles” solo role are Tim Hagans, Scott Wendholt and Clay Jenkins. A completely “stacked” band, other soloists include Alexa Tarantino, Jimmy Greene, Michael Davis, Alan Ferber, Pete McCann and Henry Hey, all backed by drummer Jared Schonig and bassists Chuck Bergeron & Ugonna Okegwo.

Pillow, known for his saxophone, flute and oboe playing is originally from Baton Rouge, LA, and has made his career in NYC for over 30 years. He has appeared on hundreds of jazz and pop CD’s. “I feel that Miles’ music from his early electric period is often mis-understood and I wanted to bring this music to light in a large ensemble setting” says Pillow. Some of the titles in this set utilize woodwinds, french horns and brass, the obvious model being ‘Gil Evans/Miles’ approach from the 1950’s-'60s.

“With skill and imagination, Pillow arranges the music that shocked the jazz establishment in 1969”. —Doug Ramsey, Celebrated jazz critic

“Electric Miles” succeeds at both paying tribute to Miles Davis’ early fusion records and finding a new and fresh way to interpret that material.” —Scott Yanow, jazz critic