Ariel Shibolet - soprano sax fire

Dig this three minute improvisation by Israeli soprano sax player Ariel Shibolet. Shades of Evan Parker's technique are certainly present, but there is something more assertive and firey in the message. Parker's soprano sax circular breathing expositions and improvisations have a more cerebral result. Shibolet sounds as if his bones are going to come through his skin.



Another delightful improvisation featuring Shibolet and bassist Damon Smith shows another facet of his skills.



At only 32, Shibolet looks like one to keep eyes on.

Anthony Braxton' s New Release Coming Soon

Here is a delightful preview clip of the new Anthony Braxton release on Taylor Ho Bynum's Firehouse 12 Records.

Mr. Braxton seems to be surrounding himself with young players, all of which must be crack sight readers. Yow!

I saw him perform as the artist-in-residnece at the University of Wisconsin River Falls some years ago. There, too, he was surrounded by many young players. We met afterwords -- he asked if I played anything. I told him that I only played the records. He said, "Well, we are all musicians."