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PAUL DUNMALL and various artists!!!
The Entire 50 CD Collection on FMR! [BOXSET1]

To celebrate its first 25 years FMR proudly releases a series of special limited box sets the first featuring our most prolific artists the incredible Paul Dunmall!!! the box set has an out sleeve detailing the releases and individual limited edition serial number of 100 and is signed by Paul himself. Inside the Strong magnetic clasped box is a specially prepared 273 page full colour book and a ring binder containg the 50 cd's The book contains not only all the information and anecdotes and notes re the 50 releases, but Pauls complete 'Music in the Big Key', many many pages of colour photographs, and much of his art, full colour etchings, drawings and paintings!!! an absolute bargain at 99!!!!


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DELTA SAXOPHONE QUARTET
FORMOSA- [DSQCD001]

Deleted

Christian Forshaw (soprano saxophone), Peter Whyman (alto & soprano saxophone), Gareth Brady (tenor saxophone), Chris Caldwell (baritone saxophone) The reason for this limited release album is two fold, in part it is a celebration of where the Delta Saxophone Quartet is after nearly twenty years of music making with the added opportunity to make a CD specifically designed to mark the quartet's second tour of this inspirational island of Formosa (Taiwan), the first being an amazing success back in November 2001. Following hot on the heels of its Facing Death release in 2002, somewhat dark in nature, this album shows a slightly lighter shade of the DSQ, looking back and looking forward with something old (Mishima - recorded on DSQ's first full album) something new (A Kaval Playing/Rhodopski Melody) something borrowed (July - not a DSQ commission) and something ever so slightly blue (Borrocco Number 1).


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Tim Garlands
Points on the Curve [FMRCD01-V011988]

The first album under his own name, this wonderful suite is influenced by the poetry of Phillip Larkin and proves beyond doubt that Garland is a major original force in British Jazz. Unlike the highly successful 'LAMMAS' that came later, this record is a conventional two horns and rhythm section, but the writing is fresh and full of authority.


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Lammas
Lammas [FMRCD04-V0791]

Since their original concerts Lammas have developed into one of the major groups of its type on the scene. Led by Tim Garland this record received rave reviews and continues to do so. Packed with a host of fine players including such great established jazz artists as Kenny Wheeler and Norma Winstone. The bassless ensemble works magic on Garlands highly original and emotive writing. This is a milestone in British jazz.


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Marc Copland/Stan Sulzmann
Never At All  [FMRCD05-V28193]

Marc Copland is fast becoming a major force in American jazz, currently playing with names like Ralph Towner, John Abercrombie and Gary Peacock. While in the UK some years ago he made friends with Stan Sulzmann and later they recorded this CD which shows a fascinating interplay and empathy,


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Mike Osborne
Outback [FMRCD07-L031994]

Winner of many alto polls in the '70's Mike Osborne was THE altoist of the era, full of fire and invention his career was unfortunately cut short by illness. OUTBACK was one of the success stories of the time. Available for the first time on CD this important music is long overdue a second lease of life.


Howard Riley/Keith Tippett
The Bern Concert [FMRCD08-V71994]

Featuring two of the undoubted leaders of European free music, Howard Riley and Keith Tippett have groomed a long running partnership from the '60's to produce a stunning recording of great clarity and sensitivity. Recorded in Bern by Swiss Radio the recording quality is the highest possible and perfectly focuses the inspired playing of the two on two wonderful Steinway grand pianos.


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The Eddie Parker Group
Transformations of the Lamp [FMRCD09-111994]

Eddie Parker has gained a reputation as Britain's formost flautist. A player of exceptional talent talent as well as a great composer, this is the bands first eagerly awaited CD. Featuring yet another great British group of outstanding player. Always interesting, the compositions are fresh and vital yet controlled by an experience and maturity.


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Tony Woods Project
High Seas [FMRCD-1]

Tony Woods debut as a band leader features some excellent compositions inspired by his love for the sea. Original, sometimes folk-tinged, these new set of compositions reflects a talent of great strength and creative intelligence. A CD of superlative compositions played exquisitely by a wonderfully talented group.


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ROWLAND SUTHERLAND
MISTURA COAST TO COAST [FMRCD101]

Formed in the late 1980's by flautist, composer and arranger Rowland Sutherland (during his period with Jazz Warriors, founded by the prominent saxophonist Courtney Pine) Mistura is a culmination of Rowland's experiences in Brazilian, Latin and African jazz, funk and dance music. The added inspirations of a thriving jazz dance club scene in London and across the UK led to Rowland's strong desire to fuse all these sounds into a live band which became known as Mistura. 'Latin Jazz Brazilliance'


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PULSE
PETE WHYMAN TRIO [FMRCD102]

Terrific first solo cd is his own name from one of the most respected and versatile saxophonisits on the scene


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DELTA SAXOPHONE QT.
FACING DEATH [FMRCD104]

'Facing Death' One of the ,ost dynamic, resourceful and highky successful contemprary saxophone ensembles around, Delta's new release 'Facing death' takes its title from the Dutch composer Louis Andriesen and is based on Jazz legend Charlie Parker. The quartet has a reputation for offering a wide variety of stimulating music, thoughtfully programmed to provide amazing contrast, and this new CD is no exception, with stimulating compositions by wonderful composers such as Graham Fitkin, Javier Alvarez, Joe Duddell and Christopher Fox. A fabulous ensemble caught at its peak!


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BADAL ROY & GEOFF WARREN
KOLKATA ROSE  [FMRCD106-j1002]

Badal Roy (tablas/percussion), Geoff Warren (flutes/sop sax), Stomu Takeishi (bass guitar) Wonderful recording of British born/Italy based flautist Geoff Warren and Indian percussion maestro Badal Roy. Another beautiful, fine, and much welcome addition to the growing Indo/jazz ouvre. Featuring new compositions and accompanied by the electric bass of Stomu Takeishi.


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EDWARDS /ADAMS
OUT FROM THE CAGE [FMRCD107-I0602]

Paul Dunmall's third outing on FMR combines his pairing with Tony Bianco (on the recent IYOU CD), EastWestNorthSouth's excellent guitarist John Adams and drafting in regular bassist John Edwards. This is another lesson in free flowing improvisation, through three blistering tracks. we can jump on board with them, vicariously partake of the encyclopaedic sweep their wealth and depth of knowledge brings to the genre, and its capacity to touch hidden layers within us. John Wickes


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TREVOR WATTS
WITH ONE VOICE  [FMRCD108]

Following in the footsteps of the recently released Amalgam CD, Trevor Watts world famous Moire Music ensemble return with this classic 1988 recording originally released on the Arc imprint. For the first time on CD, this wonderful collection of musicians include the tenor of Simon Pickard, improv piano maestro Veryon Weston, Colin Gibson on bass, Richard Granville-Smith on piano accordian, Liam Genockey on drums, Watts'regular African percussionists Nana Tsiboe and Kofi Adu, plus the then unknown vocalist/pianist Liane Carroll. A gem!!


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Mike Osborne
Shapes [FMRCD10-L021995]

Following Mike Osbornes highly successful re-release of OUTBACK we have the opportunity to release new material never previously available. Featuring an all star band the session was recorded originally in 1972, the music is equally as dynamic as OUTBACK but with the larger frontline that later became famous as the outstanding SOS group


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FRODE GJERSTAD & LASSE MARHAUG
TOU [FMRCD110]

Saxophonist Frode Gjerstad's third outing on FMR is another duo recording of improvisations this time with the electronics of Lasse Marhaug. This CD includes five stunning improvisations between these two masters of their field, with Frode's saxophone blending perfectly with Lasse's wonderful electronics.


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VANISHING PICTURES:
AS LIT FROM WITHIN [FMRCD113]

Following on from Vanishing Pictures' self titled debut group CD, Dirk Wachtelaer's improvised electronic infected percussion ensemble returns with 'Lit As From Within. Featuring an extended line up to the previous release, with Paul Lytton, DJ Grasshoppa, Stevie Wishart. Plot Verbist, Jim Donley, Stave Hubback, Michael Weilacher and Gerrit Vaickenaers, all sampled and reworked in Dirk's own original. mesmerising way.


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TREVOR WATTS
ANOTHER TIME [FMRCD116-L0203]

First time outing on CD for this classic Amalgam recording originally released on Berlin's Vinyl Records in 1976 and part of a programme of reissues of all Amalgam material by FMR onto CD!. Trevor Watts heads a highly experienced line up which includes Steve Hayton on guitar, the bass guitar of Pete Cowling and the confident drumming of Liam Genockey and features six mostly Watts composed original quartet pieces. Titles are 'Jive', 'Tribute to Trane', 'Just East of Mars', 'Chips' and the title track 'Another Time'.


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PAUL DUNMALL
SOLO BAGPIPES [FMRCD118-L0603]

As well as being one of the worlds foremost voices on the saxophone, Paul Dunmall has also established himself as the lost authoritive sounds on the bagpipes, a brilliant instrument which has been given a very bad press by artists only interested (or capable of) exploiting its clichd effects and 'world drone'!. Actually in the hands of a brilliant musical craftsman such as Dunmall, the instrument produced an astonishing range of sound and is often unrecognisable such is the diversity of sounds, techniques and ideas he produces on the Gaida as well as Northumberland and Border bagpipes, all of which produce different sound in themselves.


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TREVOR WATTS
INNOVATION [FMRCD119-L0203]

First time outing on CD for this classic Amlagam recording.


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AMALGAM: WIPEOUT
AMALGAM: WIPEOUT [FMRCD11-L0203]

Trevor Watts (saxophones), Keith Rowe (guitars), Liam Genockey (drums) plus Colin McKenzie (bass), George Lyle (bass) Without question one of the most important releases for Trevor Watts Amalgam and available for the first time on CD, this excellent 3CD digibox set was originally released on Impetus in the early eighties. The three discs feature live recordings of twelve original Amalgam performances which originally consisted of six LPs, and a booklet duplicated exactly here. Featuring excellent guitar improvisor Keith Rowe and regular drummer Liam Genockey, plus the bass work of Colin MacKenzie and George Lyle. This is an unmissable part of Amalgams output, one of the most creative periods for the band and of British jazz itself!


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Buckley Batchelor
The Whole And The Half [FMRCD11-V0295]

Originally planned to promote a UK tour, this CD was the first by the wonderful duo of Steve Buckley and Chris Batchelor, increasingly in demand as one of Britains best brass sections! This excellent first album see's them share the writing equally and with two pianoless quartet's they achieve a strikingly powerful and probing excursion into straight ahead modern jazz.


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OLIVIER MESSIAEN
CLASSIC RECORDINGS OF MESSIAEN BY MESSIAEN  [FMRCD120-L0403]

Compiled and edited by Malcolm Ball, this new CD is a major coup by FMR as it offers the only recording of Messiaen and Yvonne Loriod captures playing his pieces together. Conceived and produced by Malcolm Ball (the webmaster of the Messiaen website.....and self confessed Messiaen fanatic) he has persuaded the British Library to allow this music to be compiled onto CD with Malcolm using extremely sophisticated software to clean up the 78 records limited. The CD features Messiaens 'Visions de I'Amen' for 2 pianos and 'Quatre Etudes de Rythme' performed by Loriod and the composer, and this release makes a major contribution to this wonderful composers available repertoire on CD


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THE INTUITIVE ART
ENSEMBLE:NOW [FMRCD121-L0703]

Paul Dunmall (saxophones), Phillip Gibbs(Guitar), Andrew Ball (Piano), Neil Metcalfe (flute), Hilary Jeffreys (trombone), Trevor Taylor (percussion, sound sculptures). 1st release from a new and fantastic collection of the uk's most prolific improvisers.


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FRODE GJERSTAD TRIO
ST. LOUIS  [FMRCD122-10503]

Frode Gjerstad (saxophone), Oyvind Storesund (bass), Peal Nilssen-Love (drums) Recorded in St. Louis, this is the first recording for FMR that features Gjerstad in a none duo setting


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Evann Parker/Philipp WACHSMANN/ HUGH DAVIES/EDDIE PREVOST
888 [FMRCD123-I0803]

Evan Parker (saxophones), Philipp Wachsmann (electronics), Hugh Davies (invented instruments), Eddie Prevost (percussion) This fantastic collection of musicians performed as part of the New Music Days series of events at the 2nd Southend International Jazz Festival at 8pm on the 8th day of the 8th month in 2003, hence the title 888. Although on the night, the musicians played in solo, duo as well as quartet situations, this CD represents what was considered some of the best music and contains all the solos and the final ensemble piece. None of these musicians need any further mention as they are without question, some of the most inspirational artists working in improvisation throughout the world today.


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PAUL TOWNDROW
COLOURS  [FMRCD124]

Debut CD from young Scottish saxophonist/ songwriter who is making such a stir at the moment having won many recent competitions such as the Montreux Saxophone competition and the Peter Wittingston awards. A stunningly warm and clean sounds, his music and compositions are dynamic as well as beautiful.


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TREVOR WATTS'
AMALGAM: SAMANNA  [FMRCD125-L0503]

Trevor Watts (Alto and percussion), Dave Cole (guitar), Colin McKenzie (bass guitar), Pete Cowling (bass guitar), Liam Genockey (drums) Samanna features four original pieces recorded and originally released in 1977, featuring (at the time) the return of former Amalgam members Dave Cole and Pete Cowling. And it is this use of these two bassists that fires this excellent session, which came at a time of great debate around the jazz/rock fusion: is it valid or not? critique, of which this album proves it is. The music on this album is a natural culmination of practising and rehearsing together week after week developing the music of which this CD transcends any one style of playing.


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FRODE GJERSTAD/PETER BROTZMAN
SORIA BORIA [FMRCD126-L0603]

Another wonderful duo recording from saxophonist Gjerstad, this time with legendary German saxophonist Peter Brotzmann.


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QUINTESSENCE:
DISC ONE  [FMRCD128-C0803]

Susanna Hodder-Williams (flute), Rebecca Wood (oboe), Victoria Loram (clarinet), Alison Bryce (horn), Jo Turner (bassoon) Quintessence was formed in 1995 for the first ever wind chamber music course at the Britten-Pears School for Advanced Musical Studies. Since then, the group has performed at many UK festivals including the Aldeburgh Festival and given broadcasts on BBC Radio 3. This CD includes the quintet's first commission from Tansy Davies, the exquisite Pinnacles, Three Movements for Wind Quartet (1998). Since then, Quintessence has been active in commissioning mainly young British composers to write new works


Peter Jacobsen
Ever Onward [FMRCD12-V0295]

Peter Jacobsen is well known as one of the countrys premier Jazz pianists, and his credits as a side man is an impressive who's who of British Jazz. Known for an incredible technique and mature musicianship, he has for some time been performing solo piano. This CD, amazingly the first in his name, captures perfectly his wide musical repertoire, from free improvisation to jazz standards and his own pieces. A must for serious piano enthusiasts.


BORAH BERGMAN/ FRODE GJERSTAD:
RIVERS IN TIME [FMRCD130-I0803]

Frode Gjerstad (saxophones), Borah Bergman (piano) For this release Borah Bergman (now resident in New York) sits in with Frode Gjerstad on a stunning duo session, the first in the series featuring the piano. Unlike most of the other releases in the series Borah also plays solo and hits a very creative mood, with nods to the memory of Gil Evans and although the two have not played together that often, sparks flew at this session bringing the best out of both players.


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THE WORKING PARTY:
STARTING POINT: ZERO  [FMRCD131-I0903]

Scottish based collective The Working Party take their inspiration from John Cages theories on improvisation and combine music, performance, singing and Foley techniques to create a uniquely absorbing CD. The Working Party is a Glasgow based art company set up in December 2000, it brings people of different cultures together to make creative things happen, in particular, in Scotland and abroad. The concept for this album was how improvisation can be used in many other ways other than purely musical. All the tracks have been chosen to show contrast in these activities which make this CD highly original and thought provoking.


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FREDDY STUDER / PIERRE FAVRE:
CRISSCROSSING [FMRCD134-I1103]

Fredy Studer (percussion) Pierre Favre (percussion) In the world of percussion two Swiss percussion names stand out. Fredy Studer and Pierre Favre have long careers as drummer and percussionists as well as both working with the Paiste company to produce an incredibly creative range of cymbals, gongs and percussion instruments. Strangely, although friends for over 30 years this is their first recorded duo, but it was worth the wait!! Beautifully recorded in Switzerland this CD will become a classic to all serious drummers and percussionist who will be amazed by their subtlety and creativity as well as spellbinding technique!


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ENSEMBLE Q
UNTOLD [FMRCD135-C1103]

Susie Hodder-Williams (flute, alto flute, bass flute), Emma Feilding (oboe, cor anglais), Stuart King (clarinet), Jos Lluna (horn), Jo Turner (bassoon, contra bassoon), Chris Walters (bass clarinet), Fiona Ritchie (percussion) Quintessences new line-up change demanded a new name and Untold is the debut recording from the group under their new monica Ensemble Q. The groups choice of material remains the same, concentrating on new compositions by talented younger composers such as Joe Duddell, DSQs Gareth Brady, and another wonderful piece from Tansy Davies. Performing: James MacMillan Untold (1987, rev. 1999), Philip Cashian among the bleached stars and suns (2000), Joe Duddell Endgame I,II,III (2001), Gareth Brady Skara Brae (2002), Tansy Davies Fern (2003).


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George Burt/Raymond MacDonald Octet
POPCORN [FMRCD136-I1203]

George Burt (guitar), Aileen Campbell (voice, popcorn machine, hairdryer), Lol Coxhill (soprano saxophone), George Lyle (double bass), Nicola MacDonald (voice, melodica), Raymond MacDonald (alto/soprano saxophone), Allan Pendreigh (drums), Christoph Reiserer (soprano saxophone) Scotlands Burt/MacDonald axis continues its partnership with Englands Lol Coxhill on FMR with this larger group offering, featuring special guests Christoph Reiser, doubling with Coxhill on soprano sax, and Aileen Campbell providing voice, hairdryer and popcorn machine (hence the name!). This is another formidable example of truly great group improvisation!!


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STEVE HUBBACK - PAAL NIELSEN LOVE
Arrows [FMRCD138-1203]

This CD represents the outstanding percussion playing of Britsh Percussionist and Sound Sculpture'ist Steve Hubback playing his own instruments , and the well know Norweigan virtuoso Paal Nielsen Love. They are both wonderfully sensitive musicians and there duo provides both explosive and dynamic playing to quiet and subtle areas. The recording quality is excellent allowing for the wide dynamic range of their hundreds of instruments to fully come through


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The glasgow improvising orchestra
LIVE IN GLASGOW AND MUNICH [FMRCD139-I0104]

Kenneth Broom (ts), George Burt (g), Matthew Cairns (ct), Richard Craig (fl), Tom Crossley (g), Neil Davidson (g), Peter Dowling (as), Nick Fells (shakuhachi), Robert Henderson (t), Giles Lamb (p), George Lyle (db), Raymond MacDonald (as/ss), Una MacGlone (db), Alexander Neilson (d), Peter Nicholson (cello), Daniel Padden (p, clt & perc), Emma Roche (fl), Matthew Studdert-Kennedy (fl), Evan Parker (ts/ss), Christoph Reiserer (ss), Graeme Wilson (ts) Yet more evidence of Glasgows glowing improv scene is here in the form of the first release from The Glasgow Improvising Orchestra. These live recordings performed at The Einstein, Munich (with special guests including the sax maestro Evan Parker) and The Centre for Contemporary Arts, Glasgow is a wonderful example of large scale improv at its best.


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PAUL DUNMAL SEXTET:
SHOOTERS HILL [FMRCD141-I0104]

Not Available

Paul Dunmall (tenor saxophone), Paul Rutherford (trombone), Jon Corbett (trumpet), John Adams (guitar), Roberto Bellatalla (bass), Mark Sanders (drums) Paul Dunmall continues his successful relationship with FMR with a classic example of UK group improvisation. Dunmalls ability to intermingle talented performers and instruments to astoundingly creative effect is ably demonstrated with Shooters Hill, a collection of three improvised pieces recorded all in one day at Londons prestigious Gateway Studio. The tapes, which have been in the possession of the saxophonist since 1998, capture seven magnificent performers in fine form and Paul Dunmall has been eager to share them with an audience ever since. This is wonderful stuff and it is fantastic to see their long awaited release, at last!


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PETE CORSER
BREATHING OUT [FMRCD142-I0204]

Pete Corser (tenor saxophone) Paris based UK saxophonist Pete Corsers solo recording is an affectionate celebration of, as Bruce Coates liner notes indicate, perhaps the most fundamental but most overlooked of the saxophonists tools: breath. Featuring six exquisite impov-based compositions Corser explores not just the melodic and rhythmic aspects of circular breathing but also its technique to highlight the other forms of breath that he employs - in effect breath becomes a structural and thematic device within the piece. Breathing Outs six parts, represent a single work, composed and elaborated from a foundation of intensive technical practice with each composition played and recorded live and as a whole, there are no multi-tracks or loops.


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FRODE GJERSTAD/PAUL HESSION:
May DAY  [FMRCD144-I0304]

Frode Gjerstad (saxophones), Paul Hession (percussion) Paul Hession is one of the most respected drummer/percussionists in Europe, and Frode Gjerstad has to be commended for selecting him for this new duo recording. Saxophone and drums have often been heard in the freely improvised duo setting (and there is certainly no lack in Frode output in this series), but each musician has enough imagination and talent to push the boundaries beyond the usual terrain. Hessions intricate, rhythmic structure and Gjerstads fluttering lines produce another stunning addition to the excellent duo series created by this unique, unsung hero of the saxworld


DHA
Dha: [FMRCD145-J0204]

Paul Brimmer (tenor saxophone), Mehboob Nadeem (sitar), Hanif Khan (tabla), Stan Adler (cello and double bass), Adrian Northove (soprano saxophone) Continuing FMRs involvement with jazz and Indian musical fusion, Dha features two of the most respected new Indian musicians working in Britain.. Hanif Khan studied tabla at Darlington College with Pandit Shanda Sahai, the renowned tabla virtuosi from the Benares Gharana.He has been active on the London jazz circuit for the last 15 years, while Mehboob Nadeemfrom Bombay and comes from the illustrious Agra Gharana and has been the recipient of many prestigious music scholarships and awards. Their wonderfully seductive rhythms are completed by bandleader Paul Brimmer and Adrian Northoves beguiling saxophones, and with the flowing double bass of Stan Adler, this is yet more evidence of the fantastic music these two (initially separate) soundworld can create.


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PLAY BLACKWELL & HIGGINS
AMALGAM [FMRCD146-0304]

Trevor Watts (alto), John Stevens (drums), Ron Herman (bass), Jeff Clyne (bass) Watts and Stevens are today considered true legends of the British jazz scene, and this spellbinding 1973 Amalgam release demonstrates there status wonderfully. Dedicated to drummers Eddie Blackwell and Billy Higgins for their contribution to jazz music. Without them, Watts sleeve notes reveal, 'Ornette Coleman's music could not have developed as strongly as it did, even though Ornette was one of a handful of 'pure-rhythm' horn players. Playing with John Stevens and being his best friend for years had helped tremendously in making Watts a more rhythmically aware saxophonist and this re-release is as much a dedication to Stevens' contributions to music as of his heroes Billy Higgins and Eddie Blackwell. This continues FMRs list of excellent re-released Amalgam CDs bringing incredible music to a new audience.


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METAL MOVES
ILLUMINATOR II [FMRCD148-i0206]

Steve Hubback and Bertus Fridael ( Sonorous Sculptures created by Steve Hubback) Music created with fire and anvil. Metal Moves perform unique music with a deep energy and feel, percussion music that is something unto itself. All the instruments and musical sculptures are forged by hand by percussionist, sculptor and bronze/blacksmith Steve Hubback who has invented an amazing collection of gong and cymbal sculptures, a multitude of one off percussion sculptures and mobiles, Iron Mountain Horns, resonating steel sculptures and harps. Steve Hubback and Bertus Fridael return with the third release from Metal Moves on FMR, where they continue to explore their ever expanding sound pallette of Hubbacks spellbinding sound sculptures. Always a unique experience Illuminator II is not to be missed!!


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UNDRAVERK:
Festival of sound sculpture from reykjavik  [FMRCD149-I0704]

This CD is a live recording of the fantastically successful Undraverk Festival concert in Reykjavik organised by master percussionists Steve Hubback, Erik Qvick along with Sif G. The evening was broken up into four parts all recorded hear. The first was by British percussionist Trevor Taylor playing the Baschet Soundsculptures followed by a solo performance by Swedish percussionist Erik Qvick. This was followed by spellbinding performances by Metal Moves featuring Steve with Danish percussionists Tineke Noordkoek and Birgit Lokke playing Hubbacks spellbinding sound sculpture with the evening completed by a mesmerising solo performance by the enigma and trance specialist Z'ev.


Riley/Castronari/Marsh
Wishing On The Moon [FMRCD14-V0595]

For over 30 years Howard Riley has been at the front of improvised piano music and this great CD shows why! Featuring his highly creative trio which includes the subtle Tony Marsh on drums and Mario Castronari on bass, this record is a tour de force of trio improvisations, and is an interesting contrast to Rileys previous duo release with Keith Tippett.


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FRODE GJERSTAD/KEVIN NORTON
NO DEFINITIVE  [FMRCD150-I0604]

One can expect good things from any session with Kevin Norton's name listed in the personnel, New York's All About Jazz has said of Gjerstads latest musical partner. The American vibesman (also known as one of the finest drummers on the scene today) has worked alongside such greats as Anthony Braxton, and has been described as a precision merchant (The Penguin Guide To Jazz on CD). For this recording he brings his acuteley devised accents and polytonal rhythmic perspectives (Downbeat) to Frodes ever excellent sound world. The recording features much of Nortons fine vibraphone work as well as Frodes excellent and visionary playing.


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JAMES FULKERSON
JAMES FULKERSON [FMRCD151-I0704]

James Fulkerson (trombone, electronics) Trombonist and electro/acoustic master James Fulkerson's latest release, and a first for FMR is, like the recent Hilary Jeffery CD, a wonderful exploration of an often under-used instrument, combined with his own inspiring electronic sound manipulations. An American now living in Holland and exceptionally creative and active, Fulkerson has had many pieces written directly for him by some of the greatest, most creative composers, most notably John Cage, produces here a masterful solo recording, using all his creative powers. A stunning CD demonstrating Fulkersons dynamic electro/acoustic soundworlds.


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GEORG GRAEWE, Kent Kessler, hamid drake:
FOR TRIO (16 Fantasiestcke)  [FMRCD153-I0704]

Celebrated pianist Georg Graewe brings his excellent improvising trio to FMR. 16 Fantasiestcke is a collection of (16) delightful trio improvisations and is a veritable hotpot of talent and technique. The trio demonstrate their skills with an almost telekinetic ability and it is a testament to them that this is music with not just a brain but with a soul as well. With Kent Kessler and the always excellent Hamid Drake, this is one of those mesmerising trio recordings that shouldn't be ignored! Listen to it alot and it will unveil myriad layers of new beauty and expression. Beautifully recorded and an excellent example of how a conventional piano jazz trio format have transformed the genre into a completely new language.


Ultralyd
ULTRALYD  [FMRCD154-I0704]

Kjetil Brandsdal (electric bass), Frode Gjerstad (altosax, clarinet), Anders Hana (electric guitar), Morten Olsen (drums) This Norwegian quartet was brought together by enigmatic saxophone legend Frode Gjerstad. Formed solely with young musicians in mind, this is powerful rock inspired free music of the highest order. Gjerstad should be highly commended for the way he has seemingly guided these fine, talented new musicians into their current direction. These improvisations never get bogged down in the rock tradition and they balance the freshness of the best free music with the well worn jam sensiblity perfectly, creating a surprisingly breezy and hugely enjoyable CD recording.


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FRODE GJERSTAD / NILS HENNIK ASHEIM
THE SHORTEST DAY  [FMRCD155-I1204]

Frode Gjerstad (saxophones), Nils Hennik Asheim (organ) Nils Hennik Asheim is a musician in an unusual yet highly enviable position, that of being an insightful, creative musician who specialises in an instrument that hasn't really been explored fully in the world of free improvisation. And this recording certainly exposes the amazing potential of the classical church organ when in the hands of such an open and talented musician as Nils Henrik Asheim. This wonderful musician is caught in full flight with the great Frode Gjerstad for this duo recording and it is the perfect example of a creative partnership made in heaven, the ethereal Asheim sound merging with the signature twisting sax of Gjerstad. Highly recommended this release brings us close to the end of volume one of Gjerstads excellent duo series!


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AXON
CONSTANT COMMENTS [FMRCD156-I1204]

Deep Listening and communication by four internationally celebrated greats of the free music scene. AXON is a group with unique instrumentation and similarly distinctive musical personality. The group was formed in 1991 as a trio and has since toured extensively throughout Europe. Since 2000 the group has worked together extensively with pianist Fred van Hove. The legendary Phil Minton has redefined the voice and its role in music over the decades, Marcio Mattos, originally from Rio de Janeiro has become one of the most in-demand musicians on the London circuit, Fred Van Hove may stand as the preeminant exponent of modern piano improvisation on this planet (Glen Astarita) and Martin Blumes drive is not just his own rhythmic energy but above all the accord with the other instrumentalists (Reinhard Kager)


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VANISHING PICTURES
LIKE ONE FEATHER [FMRCD159-I0105]

Third outing for percussionist Dirk Wachtelaers superb Vanishing Pictures project. This time he has selected an even wider range of musicians from all over the world. Traditional Chinese music merging with free improvisation, North African vocals meeting laptop electronics. Its music that can only be made today impossible without the past indicating a possible future. Also features a magnificent live track And The Sun, recorded in 2000 at the Beursschouwburg, Brussels, a classic electro-acoustic performance by a truly stellar line-up that includes Philipp Wachsmann and turntable and electronics guru Otomo Yoshihide and DJ Grazzhoppa. This is a collection of staggeringly executed music, taking in all the corners of world, electronic, and free improvised music to create a beautiful, complete whole. An album that not only crosses continents but bridges the divide between them


Wachsmann/Curphy/Wastell/Jackson/Taylor
Icarus [FMRCD15-V1298]

Formed in early 1995, this quintet has quickly developed a freely improvised sound that is both lyrical and abstract. The three string players produce a complex web of sound - each musician alternating between Arco and pizzicato, applying extended instrument technique. The percussion acts as a mediator between each musical twist and turn - whether subtly underlying a vocal passage or pushing the ensemble to a spine tingling crescendo.


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FREDY STUDER/HAMID DRAKE/MICHAEL ZERANG:
DRUMMIN' CHICAGO [FMRCD160-0505]

Fredy Studer (drums, cymbals, gongs, metal, multiple percussion), Hamid Drake (drums, cymbals, metal, frame drum, tabla, multiple percussion), Michael Zerang (drums, cymbals, gongs, metal, darabuka, zither, tambourine, whistles, bells, multiple percussion).This recording in Chicago while Fredy Studer had a residency took place over the course of one day and night, and covers an enormous breadth of stylistic terrain, from heavy textural improvising to deep and inventive grooves. In some places, the three musicians contribute in extremely different and readily audible ways, while elsewhere their personalities merge into a startling group sound. From Zerang's amazing friction-percussion on snare drum, through Studer's other-worldly evocations on a giant gong, played with a mallet that's outfitted with a superball on its end, to Drake's infectious reggae rhythm on drum-kit (and this is just on track one!!) John Corbett


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THE DARTINGTON TRIO Keith Tippett, Julie Tippetts, Paul Dunmall
LIVE AT THE PRIORY [FMRCD161-I0205]

Recorded live at The Priory, Priory Park, Southend-on-Sea as part of the 3rd Southend International Jazz Festival on Sunday 8th August 2004.


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FRODE GJERSTAD/JOHN STEVENS
LETS JUST KEEP GOING [FMRCD162-I0405]

Norwegian saxophonist Frode Gjerstad recorded this wonderful, spirited meeting with his friend, the late, great John Stevens in 1994 and it is finally seeing a release on FMR. John and I did a few duos over the years and this is the last one we did. It was a warm up for a concert we were going to play with Kent Carter on May 2nd (which was released on Cadence as 'Last Detail'), I had just got my ADAT and this was the first recording I made on the machine. Listening back to the tape now, brings back a lot of memories. In between the tracks there is a bit of talking and joking. As we drove to the airport we talked a bit about future projects and he commented about what we had just done over the last few days, It's good what we've done, let's just keep going. In retrospect, those words get another meaning late-on Frode Gjerstad


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DIDKOVSKYROGERS/NORTON:
THE BRIGHT LIGHTS, THE BIG TIME [FMRCD163-I0505]

Four of the greatest improvisers around meet in New York. I will say a few words about this music ... I love Nick and Paul as human beings and musicians. We decided to do a concert at the Bowery Poetry Club in New York City on January 31, 2004. It was wonderful; the space had a wonderful vibe and the listeners received the music warmly and enthusiastically. I decided that we should record in a studio to capture all the details of the sounds we can make because live recordings (as exciting as they can be) tend to miss the quiet stuff. I knew it would be great because of the humanity and talent. Turn off the lights and listen..... Kevin Norton


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GEORGE BURT/RAYMOND MACDONALD SEPTET
THE GREAT SHARK HUNT [FMRCD165-0305]

George Burt (guitar), Raymond MacDonald (alto/soprano saxes), George Lyle (double bass), Nicola MacDonald (voice/melodica), Bill Wells (piano), Daniel Padden (clarinet/voice/percussion) with Lol Coxhill (soprano sax). Recorded in East Kilbride Arts Centre, this is the fifth chapter in the celebrated saxophonist Lol Coxhills adventures with Burt and MacDonald. This new recording features the hugely successful pianist Bill Wells along with the presiding genius of The One Ensemble - Daniel Padden, a stalwart of the Glasgow Improvisers Orchestra. Lol plays his bent soprano on this session (like a tiny alto) and features the first ever recorded duet between bandleaders George Burt and Raymond MacDonald


MARTIN SPEAKE SAXOPHONE QUARTET:
MARTIN SPEAKE SAXOPHONE QUARTET [FMRCD165-0805]

One of Britain's leading saxophonists Martin Speake brings together this extra special quartet for an extremely rare performance of highly skilled improvised music. Although a saxophone quartet is a familiar grouping in the classical world its presence in jazz is a rare beast, and here each member of the group, using the full selection of horns, stamps their mark on proceedings. Considering the difficulties in combining such similar instrumentation and the fact that this is the first time Martin Speake has taken on such a project, he and his hand picked group of highly gifted saxophonists have surpassed themselves with a recording of sublime integrity and sonic wonder!


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PAUL DUNMALL
SOLO SOPRANO [FMRCD167-I0805]

The exceptional British improviser is captured on this recording during a magnificent solo set at The Priory in Southend on Sea during its 5th International Jazz Festival. Concentrating for this recording on solo soprano saxophone, an instrument for which he excels, this recording is a must for all collectors of this virtuoso saxophone collossus. Nothing more need be said but to simply listen to one of the worlds great virtuosos on a solo voyage of great beauty!


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BARRY GUY
GLASGOW IMPROVISERS ORCHESTRA [FMRCD168-i0905]

Emma Roche (fl, baroque fl), Matthew Studdert-Kennedy (fl), Nick Fells (shakuhachi), Daniel Padden (cl,voc,perc), Nicola MacDonald (voc), Pete Dowling (as), Raymond MacDonald (a&ss), Graeme Wilson (t&bs), John Burgess (ts,bcl), Robert Henderson (tr), Matt Cairns (tr), George Murray (trb), George Burt (g), Neil Davidson (g), Peter Nicholson (cel), Una MacGlone (db), George Lyle (db), Mike Travis (dr), Bill Wells (keys), Maya Homburger (baroque v), Barry Guy (db) The third recording from one of the most exciting groups in Scotland! GIO have amassed performances with Evan Parker, Maggie Nicols, Keith Tippett and John Surman and now here are some stunning dialogues with the worlds greatest virtuoso bass player Barry Guy! An exceptional live recording, that also features, along with some of Scotlands most gifted improvisers, top pianist Bill Wells and violinist Maya Homburger. This is an example of how successful a large ensemble of improvised musicians can actually be.


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John Surman
Westering Home [FMRCD16-L795]

John Surman has finally become recognised as an international jazz superstar. Many of his earlier releases however have not been available on CD. We are proud to release the Peter Eden produced Westering Home (originally released on the Turtle imprint). From a period when he began experimenting with multitracking and electronics this was his first solo record to be released (a format that John has continued to pursue through his association with ECM). This is a fine example of an artist who has grown into a major voice in contemporary music.


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ROB HALL
THE BEATON PATH [FMRCD170-C0505]

The Beaten Path is the much anticipated release from the Scottish-based contemporary duo of Rob Hall and Chick Lyall . Pooling their respective writing talents, both musicians contribute compositions, interspersed with a series of short, free improvisations. Their expressive range merges jazz, contemporary classical and Celtic sonorities, and this new CD recording exemplifies the fluid and engaging language these two fine musicians have developed over a two year period of performing together. The duo of Rob Hall/Chick Lyall has performed throughout the UK from concert halls to ceilidh rooms and is equally at home in jazz and multi-arts venues. British saxophonist Rob Hall has made a substantial impression on both the local and European scenes in recent years The Guardian. Chick Lyall is the most adventurous Scottish pianist of the current generation Penguin Guide to Jazz.


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PAUL DUNMALL/TREVOR TAYLOR
ILLUMINATIONS [FMRCD171-I0805]

Although old musical colleagues for over thirty years this is the first duo recording featuring in this case the saxophones and bagpipes of Paul Dunmall with the large sound sculpture, percussion and live electronics of Trevor Taylors new set up. The last recorded outing was with the larger ensemble, the Intuitive Art Ensemble (also on FMR), but here we have the more difficult medium of mixing live electronic sound with acoustic playing and the two succeed spectacularly. Dunmall of course is no newcomer to improvisation with drummers and percussionists and is often propelled to great creative heights when in the company of stimulating percussionists! But this is normally in a more formal jazz acoustic situation, so in that respect this is a different kind of music perhaps reflecting an even wider range of sound palette.


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KEVIN NORTON
QUARK BERCUSE [FMRCD172-I0505]

This is a brand new solo recording by one of North America's leading percussionists. Indeed, I could say that this music is inspired specifically by three musicians (Steve Lacy, Anthony Braxton and Haewon Min), but it is ultimately my music and I take responsibility for it. I've been developing this total percussion in improvised music idea for many years now and I feel that it's been encouraged by people like Anthony (amongst many others). This is an important journey for me and it will continue. Quark Bercuse is a culmination of where the musician has been heading in the last few years and an important platform for Norton's musical research and communication.


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MAYAS/NUTTERS/OLSEN/GALVEZ
ITS DIRTY IN THE DIFFERENT TRADITION [FMRCD173-I0505]

Recorded in Studio Kockjoy in Berlin this brand new, firey quartet have burst onto the improvising scene to great effect. Abstract yet clearly a group working as a whole, Magda Mayas, Carlos Galvez, Koen Nutters and Morten J. Olsen clearly live inside the music they create, the players act as improvised music while the music acts as a real-time anchor ! .This music isn't easy to sum up in words, though the title of the recording gives the best description of this wonderful collection of seven joyous improvisations:


WATT?: THE LONGEST MAUVAIS QUART DHEURE [FMRCD174-I0505]

Ibadet Ramadani (Voice/live electronics), Jorge Isaac (Blockflutes/live electronics), Charly Zastrau (Keyboards/live electronics), Jos Zwaanenburg (Flutes/live electronics), Tom Myrmel (Sound diffusion/tech support/anything else) Using a combination of strong software and traditional instruments to create a surprising world of electro-acoustic sound, songs and improvisation, the music of The Longest Mauvais Quart d'Heure, originally a music theatre piece uses E.M. Forster, B monster-movies, Beckett's shorter plays and blatantly old-fashioned science-fiction novels to supply the models for the sound, structure and imagery in this stunning performance. Within this wonderful work WATT? uses a live sampling program and a video-to-MIDI program developed by STEIM Amsterdam in which the vocalists movements are recorded by a digital video camera that triggers sounds stored in a computer. Although meant as a live performance piece it is presented here in a special CD version which preserves the feel of its original format to spellbinding effect.


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FRODE GJERSTAD/SABIR MATEEN
GOOD QUESTION [FMRCD175-I0705]

Following on from the excellent duo release with the legendary John Stevens, comes this dynamite duo recording with fellow saxophone guru Sabir Mateen recorded in New York City. Featuring ten improvisations which ably convey both players unique styles, skilfully interweaving, blending and playing off of each other in ways only the most competent saxophonists can. This is a must for all serious saxophone enthusiasts, and a wonderful document of two of the worlds most able players in the ever interesting duo setting and a continuation of Frode Gjerstads brilliant Duo Series.


TONY BIANCO
TONY BIANCO: AVYAYAH - DRONE DRUMS [FMRCD176-I0505]

My concept for this recording is that each drum piece serves as a meditation. A flame. An invocation. Inspired from the images from the great spiritual epic, The Mahabharata I called this record 'The Avyayah Drone Drums. 'Avyaya' is a Hindu word (one of the names of Vishnu) meaning constant, no change, that is a drone. I believe that the drone is an aboriginal or primal instinct in ancient music. One is of course reminded of the didgeridoo and of the distinctive tampura drone in Indian music. Along with the images of the Mahabharata I keep a war-like trance (by keeping a drone in the drums) consistent in all pieces. I hope this recording is enjoyed and hope that in some way my over-active imagination may have invoked some valid energy from the images of this great epic. Tony Bianco


CALLING SIGNALS [FMRCD177-I0505]

Coming after the major success of recent groups involving Frode Gjerstad such as Ultralyd' and his St Louis' Trio on FMR this is strangely different! Perhaps its the sound of the bandeon played by the wonderful Norwegian Ilvind Hendriksen that provides a more laid back and introspective texture for the groups overall sound. And again it is less frenetic, more folky and opens new frontiers for group improvisation and its sound palette.Fans of Frode Gjerstad will, however, not be disappointed, as with musicians such as as Paal Neilsen Love as well as Frode, British bass player Nick Stevens and the inclusion of Hendriksen, the outcome could only be as it is: highly stimulating improvisation, that like much of Frode Gjerstads music, breaks new ground!


ERIK QVIK/STEVE HUBBACK:
WONDEROUS SOUNDS [FMRCD179-I0805]

This duo recording features two of the most original percussionists on the planet, the explosive drummer/percussionist/sculptor/smith Steve Hubback, a Welshman living in Iceland, and one of Swedens leading drummer/percussionists Erik Qvik. For this recording Steve uses his usual set up of sound sculptures made entirely by himself while Erik employs a more traditional acoustic drum kit with added sound sculpture and effects. Their styles are surprisingly different, but they quickly establish a healthy empathy and the wide range of stimulating percussion improvisations proves without doubt their status in the world of creative music.


Dick Pearce
Big Hit [FMRCD17-V0895]

This is Dicks debut album as a leader, which marked his departure from the ranks of Ronnie Scotts Quintet. After a decade of touring and playing at Ronnies club he decided to follow his heart and pursue his own ideas. He says "over those years I wrote music, some for Ronnies band and some for a band I heard in my head. The band in my head now exists with John Donaldson, Mike Bradly and Val Mannix". The music on this album consists largely of original material composed by Dick, plus a couple of standards that have been given a unique and fresh treatment by the group.


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Roger Smith/Adam Bohman
LIVE  [FMRCD180-i0905]

Roger Smith (guitar), Adam Bohman (found objects) Recorded live at The Dixon Theatre, Westcliff-on-Sea this exhillarating music features the unlikely combination of Roger Smith?s acoustic guitar and Adam Bohman?s found objects and although this is their first CD release as a duo they have played together extensively. Needless to say, Smiths totally original and exhaustive exploration of the sound possibilities of the acoustic guitar are equally combated by Adam Bohmans vast array of fascinating household and industrial instruments. Together they traverse the well worn boundaries of noise and music, searching for pertinent music landscapes, no matter how abstract. A wonderful combination!


CALLING SIGNALS
LIVE IN THE UK [FMRCD181-i0805]

Frode Gjerstad (clarinets), Tony Marsh (drums), Eivin One Pedersen (accordeon), Nick Stephen (acoustic bass A brisk return outing for Nick Stephens and Frode Gjerstads improvising quartet. Recorded at the 2005 Southend International Jazz Festival, this stirling performace captures Gjerstads clarinets and Stephens controlled bass stunningly. Eiven One Pedersens accordeon is again included to great effect, its sound opening up whole new avenues for this exceptional unit. Also featured in this recording is Tony Marsh, stepping in on percussive duties, an exceptional drummer whose name alone can usher in new depths of creation and add that extra special emotive spark.


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Elton Dean, Tony Bianco, Jon Wilkinson
NORTHERN LIGHTS FREEBEAT [FMRCD182-i1105]

The concept of Freebeat came through Tony Biancos realisation that time signature is another way of phrasing. In Freebeat you will feel the pulse, it kind of feels like 4/4, but when you try to count youll find that you cant count anything into it. Its a combination of beats and phrasing, more like the way speaking occurs. Three of these pieces freature my bass parts looped (sometimes up to a hundred bars), then I play the drums to the bass track, afterwards adding keyboard chords, then Elton and Jon add their parts where I was able to open up the pieces into more of a free zone, while still feeling the pulse.. All tracks were first takes by all on board. The great work that both Elton Dean and Jon Wilkinson contributed is obvious. Straight and Free. Chaos and Order. Liberty and Responsibility combining for Freebeat. Tony Bianco


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DIRK WACHTELAER
RECONSTRUCTION [FMRCD184-i1105]

Dirk Wachtelaer (acoustic drums, electronics), Luc Mishalle (sax (track2)), Michael Weilacher (percussion (track6,8)), Toshinori Kondo (electric trumpet (track12)) Dirk Wachtelaers companion piece to his impressive konstruction/deconstruktion (FMRCD84-0701) features all the components that make this percussionist/electronicsist such an intriguing talent. Processing and sampling his own acoustic drum samples, Dirk then triggers these using an Octapad, in turn creating whole new rhythms and sound. This excellent CD comprises twelve tracks of experimental, yet infectiously rhythmical music and features additional performances from regular contributors: saxophonist Luc Mishalle, percussionist Michael Weilacher and Japanese (electric) trumpeter Toshinori Kondo. Those who havent entered Dirk Wachtelaers soundworld before could do no better than through this great new recording.


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Paul Dunamll/Paul Rogers/Tony Bianco
COSMIC CRAFTSMEN [FMRCD185-i1105]

Paul Dunmall (saxophones), Paul Rogers (6-string bass), Tony Bianco (drums) A superbly recorded slice of free improvisation from three of the leading exponents of creative music. Recorded at the Jackson lane venue in Highgate, London during a wonderful free improv event organised by the music specialist record shop Sound 323. Seperated into three sections, the performance begins with a performance of Tony Biancos Drone style drumming, followed by Paul Rogers and Paul Dunmalls exquisite dynamic exchanges on 6-string bass and saxophone respectively. The recording is rounded off by a glorious trio performance. which cements the players reputations as the cosmic craftsmen we already know them to be.


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FEAT. DAVE LIEBMAN
TONY BIANCO'S MONKEY DANCE  [FMRCD188-i0106]

Tony Bianco - drums, bass & piano, Dave Leibman - saxes & wooden flute, Eric St-Laurent - guitar Ali Keita - Balaphon, Adam Lennox - Producer Expert US drummer Tony Biancos great new band was put together with his long term friends, producer Adam Lennox and saxophone legend Dave Leibman. A culmination of three friends appreciation of each others work. Bringing in Eric St-Laurent on bass and the great balaphon player, Ali Keita, do a piece with Dave. The resulting recording has an uncanny quality. With the pieces concentrating more on form due to Biancos suberbly devised repetitive chord changes, Daves sense of space and Erics taste for rawness bring out that primal simplicity that brings the whole thing into focus. I have for the theme of the recording Hanuman the monkey god, who serves the cause of Rama. Each piece reflects his adventure in the great Indian spiritual and romantic epic The Ramayana. Tony Bianco


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PAUL DUNMALL/TREVOR TAYLOR/PAUL ROGERS
ZOOCHOSIS [FMRCD189-i0106]

Paul Dunmall (saxophones), Trevor Taylor (percussion & electronics), Paul Rogers (7 string ALL double bass) Fresh from their recent highly succesful BBC radio 3 broadcast witht the 7 piece expanded group heres the trio recording .what does zoochosis mean? Zoochosis: Youre likely to find this word used by animal rights activists in reference to what they see as the degrading effect of zoos on the animals they contain. Many animals, especially the large carnivores, become deeply depressed, even psychotic, as the result of captivity. Symptoms of zoochosis include nervous pacing, head rocking, and self-mutilation. In this recording the three musicians experiment with a different form of Improvisation than they have been known for, by multitracking different sections over a period of time instead of in one live session. This has been done deliberatley to 'build' various sections and atmosheres in a form of composition created yet still by Improvisation. The results are stunning!!!!


Raymond MacDonald/Neil Davidson
FLAPJACK [FMRCD190-i0106]

Raymond Macdonald (alto/soprano saxophone), Neil Davidson (guitar) Following on from a series of recordings and performances with Satoko Fijji, and Tatsuya Nakatani amongst others, this is the first duo CD by two players from the burgeoning Glasgow free improvised music scene. Neil Davidson and Raymond MacDonald are both members of the Glasgow Improvisers Orchestra. They have worked together in various other scenarios, with Satoko Fujji and Natsuki Tamura, in a quintet with Tatsuya Nakatani, Nick Fells and Peter Nicholson and in various groups under the aegis of the kite flying club in Tchai Ovna. Neil Davidson has recently completed an artists residency in Munich (Villa Waldberta) involving collaborations with musicians in Munich. He is currently working on a project with sound artist Aileen Campbell. Raymond MacDonalds recent work has included a Japanese tour in December 05 and a concert in Milan with George Burt and Walter Prati.


PAUL DUNMAL/ROBERTO FILOSETA/TREVOR TAYLOR
OPEN FORMS [FMRCD192-i0306]

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Chick Lyall David Garret: GREEN ROOM
UNDERTOW [FMRCD193-0206]

UNDERTOW is the latest release from GREENROOM after an interval of ten years. Originally working as a trio,percussionist David Garrett,along with pianist Chick Lyall and guitarist David Baird forged a musical language which drew from such wide sources as jazz,modern 'Classical music' and the radical sonic experiments of John Cage and Karlheinz Stockhausen. Conventional instruments such as piano, drums and guitars could be combined with electronic sounds driven by computer as well as newly constructed instruments and found objects. Since 1998 Chick Lyall and David Garrett have continued to evolve the music of Greenroom by means of a combination of live improvisation with prepared computer generated sequences. On UNDERTOW they produce an even wider range of colour than before. Multi timbral explorations are combined with detuned acoustic instruments,flutes,sampling and electronic programming. Composition and improvisation exist simultaneously and the music is somehow arrived at through a dialectic of structure and freedom.


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PAUL DUNMALL/PAUL ROGERS
DISTANT [FMRCD194-i0206]

Paul Dunmall (clarinets), Paul Rogers (7 string ALL bass)


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PAUL DUNMALL/PAUL ROGERS
FAR [FMRCD195-i0206]

Paul Dunmall (soprano saxophone, bass clarinet), Paul Rogers (7 string ALL bass)


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LARRY STABBINS/HOWARD RILEY/TONY WREN/MARK SANDERS
SLEEPER ST CYPRIANS [FMRCD196-I0506]

Larry Stabbins (saxophone), Howard Riley (piano), Tony Wren (bass), Mark Sanders (drums) This live quartet recording captures four of Britains elite players in full flow and at their highest creative peak. Recorded in the fabulous St. Cyprians venue. Look out for a later release by a similar line up recorded in the now defunct Vortex club in Londons Stoke Newington. This music will enthrall all lovers of improvised music and the balance between these acoustic players is perfect in all respects. A splendid affirmation of the quality of modern improvised music.


ENJAMBRE ACUSTICO URUKUNGOLO /TREVOR WATTS/GIBRAN CERVANTES/JAMIE HARRIS
MUTUALITY [FMRCD197-0206]

Trevor Watts (saxophones), Gibran Cervantes (urukungolo), Jamie Harris (percussion) Watts has forged his own path to become reknowned for his collaborations with musicians from different continents such as his Moire Music Drum Orchestra recordings with African drummers. Recent trips to Mexico led to him meeting percussionist Gibran Cervantes. His instrument, the urukungolo: a large wooden frame with a series of differently tuned Berimbaus are wired together, he can pluck or strike them with sticks, and bend notes. The sound is akin to a Grandfather Hammered Dulcimer or Finnish Kantele. (it also, on this CD, sounds like a slapped bass guitar). Recorded at the Lewes Literature Festival, they are joined by rising percussionist and Watts proteg Jamie Harris for this fine, original live recording.


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Trevor Watts Drum Orchestra
BURUNDI MONDAY [FMRCD198-0206]

Peter Knight (violin), Mmadi Kamara and Nana Tsiboe (African percussion), Ernest Mothle (bass), Liam Genockey (drum), Trevor Watts (saxophone) This CD represents in some ways a first, marking as this recording does a previously unreleased line-up, the Trevor Watts Drum Orchestra of the early 1980s. This was a crucial turning point in Trevors evolving career, following a succession of Amalgam line-ups in which this alto saxophonist, with an already deserved international reputation for contributions to the evolution of free jazz and improvised music outside the American diaspora, was evolving a complex, polyrhythmically-driven approach to spontaneously generating new ideas capable of sustaining ongoing developing structures.


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Gary Smith/Joe Gallivan/Pat Thomas
POWERFIELD [FMRCD199-0206]

Gary Smith (stereo guitar), Joe Gallivan (moog synthesizer, electronic percussion), Pat Thomas (keyboard & electronics) Powerfield comprise of three highly individual performers and stalwarts of the electro-acoustic scene. Gary Smith has, over the last few years, led his own field of stereo processed guitar techniques, demonstrated on his previous FMR release Forgotten Room with Chairs (FMRCD52-V0798). Pat Thomas has supplied his breathtaking electronics to much of the best electro-acoustic & improv releases over the course of his career. Along with the highly reputed talents of Joe Gallivan, here with his electronic percussion and moog, this is sterling stuff for all fans of the genre.


Claire Foster
CLAIRE FOSTER SINGS WAYNE SHORTER [FMRCD-2]

Clare Foster (voice), Bernardo Sassetti (piano), Wayne Batchelor (bass), Dre Pallemaerts (drums), Toon Roos (tenor/sop saxes), Carlo Ulrichi (percussion) For many years 1 have been a great admirer of Wayne Shorters' compositions. His raw, human sound through the saxophone first drew me to his music. When 1 listen to his tunes, they speak to me in a very natural way 1 wrote some of the lyrics upon my own themes, but others were written with his ideas in mind. If you are looking for sincerity and delight 1 hope you will find it in this CD. It was all made possible by a group of very fine musicians from all over Europe, and of course it would never have been possible at all without Wayne Shorter himself. Clare Foster.


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Paul Dunmall (saxophones & Electronics), Hilary Jeffery (trombone & Electronics), Roberto Filoseta (piano & Electronics), Trevor Taylor (percussion & Electronics)
CIRCUIT [FMRCD200-0606]

Although recorded over a two day period as part of a BBC radio 3 'Paul Dunmall' broadcast, 'Genesis' has a different quartet yet again. setting Paul Dunmall and percussionist Trevor Taylor with the amazing British Trombonist Hillary Jefferies (now resident in Holland) and the Italian pianist Roberto Filoseta As usual this continues the groups philosophy of having no fixed personnel with its main aim is to explore electronic and electro acoustic music through improvisation using the latest computers and processors. The title alludes this it's actually Circuits first album although not released until now this includes Circuits 'Epiphany' and 'Kitaoka' FMR218 plus Circuit Pyro released this week


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TIN MAN
GREEN ROOM [FMRCD201-0506]

Chick Lyall (acoustic piano, multi timbral modules, sound synthesis, computer programming, sound samples, flute), David Garrett (percussion, prepared piano frame, prepared dulcimer, thumb piano, sound sampling) Pianist Chick Lyall and percussionist David Garretts second offering as Green Room continues their own personal exploration in the jazz and electronics idiom with style and plenty of substance. Tin Man is the rapid follow up to their recent debut release Undertow, in which the pair take their contemporary jazz roots through improvised and electronic soundscapes. But this recording is perhaps different in the sense of being more introvert, more subtle and with new directions and musical tangents.


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BADAL ROYGEOFF WARREN/MARCELLO SEBASTIANI
FRAMMENTI DAMINI [FMRCD202-0506]

Badal Roy (tablas, percussion), Geoff Warren (concert & alto flutes), Marcello Sebastiani (double bass) Frammenti danima or Fragments of the soul is the product of three expert players working in different genres of music and this is their second release after the well received Kolkata Rose. Speaking of the music flautist Geoff Warren says: This is not a free jazz album, its an album of improvised ethno-jazz, or, if you like, just three people playing music: an Englishman, an Italian and an Indian. Cue for a joke? Potatoes, pasta and papadoms? But there was no flag-waving when the music happened, just cohesion, co-operation and chemistry. Sebastianis bass seems born to the tablas, and Badals grooves just make the melodies happen


ERIK QVIK
PICTURES OF ME [FMRCD205-0506]

Not Available

Erik Qvik (drums, percussion, electronics, rhodes) with Daniel Sderberg and Agnar Mar Magnusson This is Erik Qviks first release on FMR (although he had a solo track on the Undrawerk CD recorded live in Iceland and released last year). For this recording Erik has added two colleagues to produce a stunning collection of sometimes dramatic, sometimes witty compositions. The mixture of drums and percussion, keyboards and electronics works incredibly well here and Erik we are sure will gain many new friends and admirers for his subtle but creative playing and interesting compositional approach


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FRODE GJERSTAD (Clarinets), EIVIN ONE PEDERSEN (accordeon), KEVIN NORTON (vibraphone)
THE WALK  [FMRCD206-0606]

Kevin Nortons recent releases on FMR have shown that he is a truly gifted and imaginative percussionist as well as vibesman. Here he joins forces with other FMR regular and improv giant Frode Gjerstad (here dedicated solely on clarinet) for a wholly international musical journey. Along with the luscious accordeon of Eivin One Pedersen, whose supplied the wonderfully original and quite beautiful textures to Gjerstad and Nick Stevens recent Calling Signals releases


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PAUL DUNMALL (tenor/soprano saxophones), PETER BRANDT (bass), TONY MARSH (percussion)
DEEP WELL [FMRCD207-0606]

Three of Europes finest players in their fields unite for this tremendous improvised trio recording. Paul Dunmall has played regularly with both Peter Brandt and Tony Marsh for over 30 years and the deep well of the title refers as much to the deep well of experience they have as a unit, as it does to the deep well of ideas and pure creativity they exhibit on these blistering seven tracks of sterling improvisation. An essential purchase for any true fan of the medium.


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JAMES FAULKERSON/MICK GREEN/DAVID MURPHY
IN THE SAME BREATH [FMRCD208-0906]

James Fulkerson (trombone), Mick Green, David Murphy In the 1980s James Fulkerson taught at Dartington and naturally got to know some of the musicians who lived nearby in Totnes and the surrounding area. Mick Green and David Murphy are among the best of these, luminaries of the local jazz scene as well as freeform improvisers. Fulkerson eventually relocated to Amsterdam, but one night in August 2004 the trombonist passed through Totnes, marking the occasion with a concert of improvised music in the back room of the Kingsbridge Inn. The music was recorded by Richard Douglas-Green and the result is this CD of exquisite improvisation.


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PAUL DUMALL (saxophones & Electronics), JONATHAN IMPETT (trumpet, electronics), TREVOR TAYLOR (percussion,electronics) NIK STEPHENS (double bass)
EPIPHANY [FMRCD209-0906]

CIRCUIT: ELECTRO ACOUSTIC ENSEMBLE The music recorded here is the first in a series of recordings by CIRCUIT using varying personnel, all of whom had shown an interest in using live electronics to expand their music. The musicians were also chosen for their expertise in improvisation and their dedication and openness in creating and exploring new musical language. The advent of much faster computer processors has challenged the musician to use this speed to utilise far more sophisticated alogrithms and complex programs that can modulate sound in incredible ways and provide unprecedented real time control What you hear here is exactly what was played live, there was no post production manipulation or overdubbing of any kind


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Hilary Jeffery (trombone and electronics)
SOLO TROMBONE & ELECTRONICS 2 [FMRCD210-0606]

The follow up to UK trombonist Hilary Jefferys astounding debut solo recording Solo Trombone & Electronics displays this hugely creative musicians developments since 2003. Recorded in the Netherlands (Amsterdam, Utrecht and Haarlem), Jeffery has produced an exceptional set of eight tracks that explore this often underused instrument, combining and interweaving electronics to dramatic (yet subtle) effect. This CD is a fine display of a truly gifted experimentalist.


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Paul Dunmall (tenor/soprano saxophones), Peter Brandt (bass)
OCCASSIONAL RAIN [FMRCD211-1106]

Creating true music for me is to play from the heart. Not fashion, not what you think people want to hear, but music played with total inner conviction. If that happens to produce some small progress in the development of music then fine, if not, it doesnt matter as long as it is played with honesty. It may even help ones spiritual development. I believe it has for me. You must be prepared for anything and let music lead you and not let the conscious mind get in the way. I have been playing with Peter for almost 30 years in many different situations and he is an open minded and very creative musician. On this session there is a wonderful sensitivity and gentleness in the music and I hope you feel this too. Peace and joy (PD)


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Frode Gjerstad (alto saxophone & clarinets), Fred Lonberg-Holm (cello), Amit Sen (cello), Paal Nielsen Love (drums)
THE CELLO QUARTET [FMRCD212-0906]

Norways expert reedsman Frode Gjerstad ventures into more new terrain here, for his latest FMR release. This time, along with the ever excellent percussion of Paal Nielsen Love, Gjerstad has recorded a wonderful set accompanied by the hauntingly beautiful sound of two cellos. The imaginative playing of Fred Lonberg-Holm and Amit Sen, captured in left and right speakers respectively, radiates a pitch perfect middle ground between the (always) fine alto sax/clarinet and drums of two of Europes heavyweight performers.


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SIMON ROSE (solo alto saxophone)
PROCESSION [FMRCD213-1106]

This superb release from saxophonist Simon Rose was recorded during three sessions, at Londons Jackson Lane Centre and Bonnington Centre, and at the Oklahoma Caf/Gallery in Manchester and captures this musician in fine form. Spread over three 19 minute sessions, Procession reveals a player that understands the risks involved in undertaking a solo performance on such an instrument. That an individual voice is just as important as the creative freedom which comes with producing such a project. Simon Rose exhibits these qualities and more with Procession. A player that displays all the key ingredients to a successful solo saxophone recording, of which, this new release is definitely one of them!


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MARK O;LEARY
SIGNS  [FMRCD214-1106]

Mark OLeary (guitar) Steuart Leibig (6-string electric contrabass), Alex Cline (drums, percussion) From the poignent acoustic guitar opening track this album promises something special and Signs covers an amazing amount of musical ground from slow and haunting electronica to hi energy free improv. Recorded in California, the success of much of this music is down to the excellent playing of leading American musicians Alex Cline and Steuart Leibig. If anything Signs is an interpretation of Irish guitarist Mark OLearys wide musical language from cool jazzer to post Derek Bailey, each track appears to succeed on its own merits


Mike Osborne (saxophone), Paul Rogers (bass) John Stevens (drums)
LIVE AT THE PLOUGH '79 [FMRCD215-1106]

In Production

Recorded at the legendary Plough (Stockwell, London) in 1979, this long lost live performance is proudly released by FMR. Not unlike The Red Rose in Finsbury Park today, The Plough filled a function from the mid-70s to the mid-80s performing improvised music on a weekly basis. Curated by John Stevens, the gigs would feature the likes of Elton Dean, Lol Coxhill, Evan Parker, Larry Stabbins, Trevor Watts, Nick Evans, Marc Charig, Paul Rutherford, Mike Osborne, Dudu Pukwana, Paul Rogers as well as Peter Brtzmann and Peter Kowald. One evening, the 30th March 1979, Mike Osborne at the height of his powers, a very young Paul Rogers playing most impressive and John Stevens filled the stage. They played some standards and some originals sharing an incredible interplay between them. Although a little rough around the edges, this recording is an incredible document of a truly creative time in British music.


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PAUL DUNMALL, TONY ORRELL, JIM BARR
DEEP SEE [FMRCD217-0207]

Paul Dunmall (tenor/soprano saxophones), Jim Barr (bass), Tony Orrell (drums) This tremendous improvised trio recording features improv sax giant Paul Dunmall in yet another exchange of musical ideas with specially selected and equally vocal musicians. Jim Barr and Tony Orrell provide a top-notch rhythm section, and whether providing the stunning backdrops for Dunmalls twisting horns or coming forth with their own strong bass and drum voices, this is a stunning trio performance. Deep See is another quality recording for Paul Dunmalls sonic adventures on FMR.


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CIRCUIT: ELECTRO-ACOUSTIC ENSEMBLE
KITAOKA [FMRCD218-0207]

Pat Thomas (keyboards & Electronics), Gary Smith (guitar & Electronics), Roberto Filoseta (piano & Electronics), Trevor Taylor (percussion & Electronics) The third part in a series by the electro acoustic group Circuit, a group with largely variable personel. Like the other CDs this music was recorded at Phoenix studio late last year and included the guitarist Gary Smith, the pianist Roberto Filoseta as well as the fantastic keyboardist Pat Thomas and leader/percussionist Trevor Taylor and is influenced by the japanese artist and illusionist Akiyoshi Kitaoka who perhaps serves as a metaphor for some of the musical ideas created by the group. All are experts in the improvisational process as well as being extremely proficient and prodigious in the use of electronics and live modulation, an area of great excitement these days with computer processor speeds fast enough to run extremely complex alogrithms in real time!


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MOTSOL
STRAP ON [FMRCD219-0207]

Stine Janvin Motland (vocal), Stle Liavik Solberg (drums) Co-produced by saxophone legend Frode Gjerstad, fellow Norwegian duo Motsol present their unique take on the duo format. With just drums and vocals, Strap On presents through its eight tracks, a stunning take on improvisation featuring the drums of Stale Liavik Solberg and vocalist Stine Janvin Motland. Both original and satisfying, this debut recording is yet another great contribution from Norway, one of the worlds leading hotspots of modern music.


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STEVE HUBBACK / DEITMAR DIESNER:
LIVE IN HALBERSTADT [FMRCD220-0207]

In Production

Steve Hubback (drums, percussion), Deitmar Diesner (saxophone, electronics) Recorded in 1988 during a tour of the then East Germany with saxophonist Deitmar Diesner, this is a fantastic opportunity to hear one of Steve Hubbacks earlier performances. Made just prior to the production of his very first sound sculpture, this DDR performance features one of Steves earliest drumset ups, a more regular diy kit (for him anyway). This Halberstadt duo recording is a fantastic musical document that acts as a marker to Steves creative beginnings, and where he has travelled from to become one of the finest and most individual sculptor and percussionists in the world.


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FRODE GJERSTAD
DUOS [FMRCD222-0207]

In Production

Frode Gjerstad (saxophones/clarinet) Duos with: Borah Bergman (piano), Steve Hubback (percussion), Terje Isunget (percussion), Peter Brtzmann (clarinets), Lasse Marhaug (electronics), Derek Bailey (guitar), John Stevens (percussion), Sabir Mateen (saxophone), Paul Hession (percussion), Kevin Norton (percussion), Nils Hennik Asheim DUOS is a new compilation featuring highlights from Frode Gjerstads astounding series of duo recordings on FMR. Featuring the Norwegian saxophonist in conversation with major musicians such as Derek Bailey, Peter Brotzmann, John Stevens, Sabir Mateen, Paul Hession, Lasse Marhaug, Kevin Norton, Borah Bergman, Terje Isungset, Nils Hennik Aseim and Steve Hubback. This is an outstanding opportunity to sample one duo track from each of these spectacular collaborations!!!


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THE CONVERGENCE QUARTET
LIVE IN OXFORD [FMRCD223-0307]

Taylor Ho Bynum (cornet/flugelhorn), Harris Eisenstadt (drums) Alexander Hawkins (piano/small instruments), Dominic Lash (double bass) The Convergence Quartet, featuring an international line up of expert improvisers, present their first release for FMR. This live set was recorded at the prestigeous Jacqueline Du Pr Music Building in Oxford. .....youll be listening even more closely the second time around, rather than sticking the CD on your shelf with the comfortable expectations-fulfilled assertion yes, I really like that kind of music, and therefore I really liked that album. After all, that would be too easy, and music can offer a much richer experience. Thank heavens the Convergence Quartet are prepared to stick their necks out on our behalf.... Simon H. Fell


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AS NOWHERE AS ANYWHERE
BLAST 6TET [FMRCD229-0407]

Hans Koch (sop saxophone, bass clarinet), Saadet Trkz (voice), Dirk Bruinsma (baritone saxophone, flute and electronics), Paed Conca (bass, clarinet), Frank Crijns (guitar and devices), Fabrizio Spera (drums) Blasts sixth release in their eighteenth year of existence. The core of the group plays together since 2000 and consists out of Fabrizio Spera (I-drums,percussion), Paed Conca (CH-bass), Frank Crijns (NL-guitar) and Dirk Bruinsma (NL-reeds, flute,electronics). Joined by the Turkish-Kazakh singer Saadet Trkz and the Swiss reed player Hans Koch, on this CD Blast is playing a program of fully improvised music. Saadet's singing is a fusion of modern vocal techniques with elements of the Turkish-Mongolian music tradition. Hans Koch is known for his longstanding work in trio with Koch/Schtz/Studer, and for various international collaborations in the circuit of improvised music. This combination makes an obstinate music with moments of raw expression and refined lyrical quality.


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DIRK WACHTELAER / MICHAEL WEILACHER
LIVE IN BRUSSELS [FMRCD230-0307]

Dirk Wachtelaer (electronic drums, octopad with sampler, processed drum sounds), Michael Weilacher (acoustic percussion) Dirk Wachtelaer has worked with fellow percussionist Michael Weilacher many times, particularly within the group Vanishing Pictures. This live duo recording in Brussels, captures the pair exploring their sound parameters of both electronic and acoustic drum set ups, exchanging sounds to create a unique and whole percussive landscape.


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PAUL ROGERS/EDWARD PERRAUD
TWO LOOSE [FMRCD231-0407]

Paul Rogers (7 string A.L.L. bass with 14 sympathetic strings), Edward Perraud (percussion) Recorded live at the Thtre du Pave in Toulouse, French percussionist Edward Perraud is joined by leading Brit-bassist Paul Rogers for this stirring fully improvised set. As proved by his recent collaborations with Paul Dunmall (Cosmic Craftsmen, Zoochosis, Far and Distant - all here on FMR) Rogers has a wealth of creative ideas about him, leaving none of his 7 string A.L.L. bass unturned, whilst percussionist Edward Perraud applys his own signature to proceedings. Over the CDs 60 minutes these two loose and dynamic performers present two loose improvisations of the highest order!!


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TREVOR WATTS MOIRE MUSIC
LIVE IN KARLSRUHE [FMRCD232-0307]

Trevor Watts (Leader/Composer/alto & sop saxes), Lianne Carroll (Voice, keyboards), Richard Granville Smith (accordion), Veryan Weston (piano), Liam Genockey (drums), Colin Gibson (Bass Guitar), Simon Picard (sop/tenor saxes), Nana Tsiboe & Nana Appiah (African Percussion) Recorded at the Karlsruhe Festival, this is a rare 1989 live recording from Trevor Watts influential outfit. Boasting Moire Music regulars, and huge names in their own right, Lianne Carrol, Richard Granville, Veryon Weston, Lian Genocky, Colin Gibson and Simon Picard, as well as pulsing African percussion (a staple of the Moire Music sound) from Nana Tsiboe and Nana Appiah. Taken from Trevor Watts incredible archive of unreleased live material, this is an unmissable performance and a rare treat for the astute jazz fan!


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JEZ FRANKS' COMPASSIONATE DICTATORSHIP
COUP D'ETAT [FMRCD233-0507]

British guitarist Jez Franks has been on the UK scene for a number of years, becoming one of Britains guitarists of choice for many of Europes most respected jazz groups. FMR are proud to present Jez Franks Compassionate Dictatorship, an accomplished quartet of excellent musicians with whom Jez has an instinctive rapport. His electric and baritone guitars share a wonderful dialogue with Tori Freestones saxophone, and the dazzling backing of Ben Reynolds and Jasper Hoiby on drums and bass respectively create a winning formula for this unique and spellbinding guitar quartet.


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EXTRAORDINARY IMPROVISATIONS
BETWEEN THE NOTES [FMRCD234-0707]

Matthew Barley (cello, director), Paul Griffiths (guitar), Fraser Trainer (piano/keyboards), Sam Walton (percussion), Peter Whyman (clarinet & saxophone) This CD was made after a competition ran in the BBC Music Magazine to find ideas on which to base improvisations - the idea was to explore how music can come from non-musical sources like concepts, words, pictures and so on. The contemporary classical quintet Between The Notes asked for entries in 9 categories and chose their favourite one of each, then recorded two or three versions of each, then picked the best one to be on the disc. This disc, recorded in a day and with no editing at all, is a remarkable project that successfully combines both contemporary classical and improvisation to spellbinding effec


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STEVE HUBBACK
LONDON VAULTS [FMRCD235-0707]

In Production

Steve Hubback (percussion, gongs & sound sculpture) Welsh percussionist/bronzesmith and FMR artist Steve Hubbacks new live performance was recorded in the depths of the London Vaults and accompanied a performance entitled Dark Lantern by the White Rope Performance Group. The music needless-to-say stands up on its own merits as another breathtakingly original slice of Hubbacks unique soundworld. In conjunction with Paiste AG of Switzerland Hubback created a selection of gongs with hammered reliefs and other gongs more in his sculptural line plus 2 ride cymbals, a Shaman Stick, small Shell gong chymes, a horned gong, Glockenchymes and many smaller forgings. The performances in London Vaults were the first public exhibition of these works and the recordings are what you hear on this CD.


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FRANCOIS CARRIER.MICHEL LAMBERT
KATHMANDU [FMRCD236-0607]

Franois Carrier (alto saxophone), Michel Lambert (drums) Two leading lights in the Canadian Improv scene descended on Nepal on invitation, to play the Jazzmandu Festival, and this fine recording is the result of two concerts that they gave to the very welcoming and enthusiastic local contingent. These 11 improvisations capture the two players in fine song, delivering performances that embraced the love and spiritual energy that greeted them upon there arrival. An energy that will never leave them, and one that will hold the listeners attention for a long time to come!!


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PAT THOMAS , PHIL MINTON , DAVE TURNER , ROGER TURNER
SCATTER [FMRCD237-0607]

Scatter were originally formed by Oxford based keyboard player Pat Thomas in the early 90s and first performed at the China Pig Club in East London. Other concerts around London & Oxford were also performed in the years since as well as an Arts Council tour of England.


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MARK O'LEARY/DYLAN VAN DER SCHYFF/WAYNE HORVITZ
FLUX [FMRCD238-0607]

Mark OLeary (guitar), Dylan van der Schyff (drums, percussion), Wayne Horvitz (piano, prepared piano) The Irish guitarist Mark OLeary follows his debut FMR release Signs (FMRCD214-1106) with this improvising trio recording. For Flux, OLeary exchanges musical dialogue with ace drummer/percussionist Dylan van der Schyff and the dazzling piano and prepared piano of Wayne Horvitz over 15 taut improvisations that reveal these players as unique and individual performers of the highest calibre. This is another exceptional disc from the up and coming guitarist Mark OLeary, a player who has definately broken into the upper echelons of the more-forward-thinking realms of jazz and improvisation. One to watch!!


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MARK O'LEARY, TERJE ISUNGSET
SHAMANIC VOICES [FMRCD240-0807]

Mark OLeary (El guitar, el baritone guitar, table top guitar, 12 string baritone guitar, E-bow, implements, electronics) Terje Isungset (Drums, percussion, stones, bells, wood, gongs, jews harp) Mark OLeary has paired up with the immensely creative percussionist Terje Isungset, well known throughout Europe for his use of natural found objects( stones, wood and ice sculptures). The pair explore some beautiful soundworlds over the course of 13 tracks, using guitar, electronics and percussion to outstanding effect.


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PAUL DUNMALL QUARTET
FOUR MOONS [FMRCD241-0807]

A new quartet recording spearheaded by one of Europes busiest and most productive musicians. Four Moons by the Paul Dunmall Quartet, a hand-picked group of formidable musicians from the current new wave of jazz and improv players, is a collection of four pieces recorded at Bristols University of West England.


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PAUL DUNMALL, PAUL ROGERS, MARK SANDERS
DEEP WHOLE [FMRCD243-0807]

Paul Dunmall (tenor, soprano saxophones), Paul Rogers (7-string bass), Mark Sanders (drums) Continuing the series of small-group improvisations by saxophonist Paul Dunmall that has featured impressive performances by the likes of Peter Brandt (Occasional Rain, Deep Well), Tony Marsh (Occasional Rain), Tony Orrell and Jim Barr (Deep Sea), comes Deep Whole. Featuring excellent drummer/percussionist Mark Sanders and regular Dunmall partner in crime Paul Rogers on bass, this is a more than welcome recording of three of Britains top flight improvisers in top flight form.


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DIRK WACHTELAER AND KHN
EVENING AND MORNING [FMRCD245-1207]

Dirk Wachtelaer (acoustic drums), Jrgen de Blonde (live electronics) In March 2007 Jrgen de Blonde (aka Khn) and Dirk Wachtelaer were working together with two Chinese musicians for a Vanishing Pictures project in Antwerp, Belgium. This music is the result of the two musicians working late one evening and early one morning during the course of these two days of sessions, producing a unique sound that has a life of its own, complete as a seperate body of work all its own.


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CROSSING (FMR 247-1107)
PAUL DUNMALL, EVELYN CHANG, TREVOR TAYLOR [FMRCD247-1107]

.The title 'Crossing' was penned by the group as a metaphor for the way in which their individual experience and musics meet and interact, fueled by a common love of improvisation. Evelyn Chang is an exciting young concert pianist regularly giving concerts around the world, but who since meeting Paul Dunmall, discovered the totaly different world of free improvisation and found a liberating force for her expression. Paul Dunmall need no introduction as one of the UK's finest saxophonists ded- icated totaly to free improvisation, and Trevor Taylor comes somewhere in between with experience as a free improviser as well as a life-time interest in other serious musics as well, including electronics


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LADEN WITH RAIN (FMR249-0208)
STIAN WESTERHUS - TERJE ISUNGSET [FMRCD249-0208]

.TERJE ISUNGSET is one of Europes most accomplished and innovative percussion- ists. With over two decades experience in jazz and Scandinavian music he is taking these types of music far beyond their traditional boundaries, becoming more like a cross between a sound artist and a shaman. STIAN WESTERHUSon the other hand is one of Norways hardest working young improvisers working in bands such as Puma, Monolithic, Bladed, Khan and Fraud as well as in solo format. Having been blessed with little or no respect for the guitar Stian Westerhus seeks to push the boundaries for live use of the instrument with- out loosing the melodic instinct. On this album he uses mainly the baritone guitar as his main weapon of choice.


John Taylor
Pause, And Think Again [FMRCD24-L1295]

With the success of projects like Azimuth and recent recordings on ECM with the likes of Peter Erskine and Jan Garbarek its not hard to justify the statement that John Taylor is one of the worlds finest musicians. Pause... was his first ever LP as leader and originally appeared on the Turtle label in 1971 produced by John Surman. It captures an artist at the outset of his musical explorations and certainly stands the test of time. With an all star British line up the Cd confirms what a talent he was even then, as the recording has become a favourite of many modern jazz aficionados and a must for all collectors.


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TREVOR WATTS' MOIRE MUSIC
MOIRE MUSIC [FMRCD250-0208]

Trevor Watts (as,s), Lol Coxhill (ss), Simon Picard - t/ss), Keith Beal (b/bass/ss), Peter Knight (v), Steve Dunachie (v), Veryon Weston (p), Ernest Mothle (bg), Liam Genockey (dr), Nana Tsiboe (marimba/talking drum/congas) FMR are proud to present the CD release of the classic album Trevor Watts Moir Music!!!! Recorded live during the Arts Council Contemporary Music Network Tour in January 1985 and featuring an all star line up, this classic British jazz recording finally gets its debut on CD!!!!! Watts has wed the flexibility and organic strength of the jazz idiom to the rigorous drive and depth to be found, for instance, in the music of Philip Glass, bringing an energy and fire to substantial composition. Moir Music - for the head, heart and feet. (Kenneth Ansell)


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BOB GLUCK TRIO (FMRCD251-0108)
SIDEWAYS [FMRCD251-0108]

Bob Gluck Piano and Electronics, Michael Bisio bass, Dean Sharp This stunning trio recording brings a uniquely creative yet disciplined edge to jazz per- formance. All three musicians are known for their blend of virtuosity and deep musical- ity. The trios watchwords are collaboration, listening and response, and collective dynamism. Structured tunes flow in and out of free improvisation, taking the performers and listeners alike to unexpected imaginative places. Critics have noted bassist Michael Bisios diverse array of timbre and technical skill, Dean Sharps percussive mystery and grace, and Bob Glucks melding old and new into a sensory melange of auditory awakening. Glucks piano sounds subtley range between the purely acoustic and digitally transformed, joined by Sharps broadly rang- ing sonic array of percussion and Bisios distinctly physical approach to the string bass.


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THAT IS A STEP (FMRCD253-0108)
PETTER O HANNA [FMRCD253-0108]

. This one of the surprise succesful releases so far this year! On the face of it a difficult combination turns out a most spectacular success with Hanna Gjermundrods seductive voice the perfect foil for Petter vaganns hard punching live electronics! The secret is both their ability to supply a uninterupted stream of constantly changing creative ideas. With the addition of live electronic modulation on the voice and the lapsteel as well the soundworld becomes thicker and more menacing, but always enticing and never fails to hold your attention and delight! Petters crackly electronics supply a constantly chattering barrage of bumps and squeaks with the electronic oscillators often raw and crude one moment, and dense and complicated the next! while Hanna is sometimes ethereal and otherworldly and then suddenly manic and threatening with the sampling and looping creating yet another dimension making it almost a trio!! !Even the title 'That is a step' is unlikely , taken from Shakespeares Macbeth. Just back from a successful tour of North America promoting the album This first recording of the duo is a masterpiece always challenging, stimulating and constantly rewarding, perfect improv!!!!!


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MARK OLEARY
ELLIPSES [FMRCD254-0208]

Mark O'Leary (guitar, electronics), John Herndon (drums), Stle Storlkken (synths/samples) Recorded in Cork, Fermoy and Chicago. Members of Tortoise and Supersilent join the hugely talented guitarist Mark OLeary in a recording that pushes the boundaries on all levels, Post Miles Electronica could be an adequate description. Fusion, Rock, Soundscapes, Electronica all combine to create a kaleidoscope of musical images not too dissimilar from the manipulated film frame images of Stan Brakhage, whose work adorns the cd cover and lends its name to this recording.


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WISHFUL THINKING (FMR 255-0108)
ORLA MURPHY [FMRCD255-0108]

This is up and coming Vocalist, Orla Murphys debut album, which she co-produced with Simon Wallace. The album is gaining notable praise from jazz musicians and critics alike. A big fan of Stevie Wonder and Joni Mitchell Orla pays homage to them by her emotion- al interpretations of their respective songs Make Sure Your Sure and Be Cool. However, her unique cover of Stings Fragile with guitarist Ping Lee sets the tone of the wonderful album. The first thing that strikes you when listening to this debut album from Belfast-born, London-based Vocalist Orla Murphy is her lustrous timbre. Sounding like the forgotten lovechild of Joni Mitchell and Terry Callier - seamlessly combining the liquid phrasing of the former with the soulful sonorities of the latter - Murphys captivating tone really draws the listener into the song. It comes as no surprise when she dusts down Mitchells Be Cool midway through the set. The 11-track collection is nicely balanced


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MICHEL LAMBERT - RAKLAM BOB MOSES (FMRCD 256-0108)
MEDITATION ON GRACE [FMRCD256-0108]

.. Drums and visual art seem to me to go together. Many great drummers are also painters. Do we paint like we play or do we play like we paint or does it even relate? With two drummers playing together then drawing together does this help me understand the incredible process of creation? I embarked on the road to find out. I contacted Rakalam Bob Moses in Boston to see how his powerful drum language and expression with his intriguing visual art style would interplay with my sound and images iconographies. These are conceptual ideas and the real creative experience was beyond concepts. What a day! I arrived in Quincy late morning, just south of downtown Boston. I rang Rakalam's doorbell. I had driven a couple days before from Montreal and that morning, left my family behind in an hotel in rainy Old Orchard Beach hoping the sunshine would finally show up. We were in mid summer, July 15, 2004. Rakalam had already prepared two well furnished drum sets. Soon after, PJ showed up with his portable recording studio. We played non stop for quite a while....took a little break and then back at the drums again. Once I had stepped into Rakalam's door, I had entered the raw unknown, a world so magnificent! While playing, I was busy working with the multiple layers of sounds, creating, sculpting, conversing. Only later on did I realize the proportion, this encounter had taken. Much later, dark outside, we sat down and worked on a couple of small paintings together... In contrast with the afternoon work, our drawing session was very calm and playful. Late that night, we drove down the street to a small Asian restaurant and had some food, hung out little more. In the car, Rakalam played me a, then, recent tape of his and while listening, a clear vision came to me, one of galactic luminosity rising straight up from his drums. I will never forget this and, as you, Rakalam, express it so well, "To my brother in sound healing," ...Hu Rakalam, "love always"... Michel


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FRODE GJERSTAD HAMMID DRAKE WILLIAM PARKER (FMRCD256-0208)
ON READE STREET [FMRCD256-0208]

Hamid, William and I have made 3 records prior to this one.Remember to forget and Ultima were recorded during our first Scandinavian tour in October 1997. The other side was a studio recording from Chicago during our North-American tour in January 2000. And On Reade Street was recorded in New York, January 2006. Hamid and William are two very nice people who also play their music very well. I think my fascination for their art partly lies in the fact that they have played a lot together. They have a certain thing they bring to the table and its quite a challenge both to go with it and also to go against it because its a very strong thing and its very personal. They will sometimes invite me into territories that I normally stay away from the jazz thing. To me, this is both frightening and exciting. I feel like walking on the edge with one foot in open air! Frode Gjerstad


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Paul Dunmall (saxophones), Evelyn Chang (piano), Philip Gibbs (guitar), Trevor Taylor (percussion & electronics)
ATMOSPHERES WITHOUT OXYGEN [FMRCD258-0508]

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PAT THOMAS
Plays The Music Of Derek Bailey & Thelonious Monk [FMRCD259-0508]

Pat Thomas (piano, keyboards) The Derek Bailey transciptions were performed at the Holywell music room in October 2005 as part of a concert organised by Fran Ryan, who wanted to hear the celebrated pianist play piano in a more composed setting. Thomas agreed to play music based on Derek Baileys early recordings and brilliantly transcribed by Chris Burn as well as the music of Thelonious Monk


LIam Noble
Close Your Eyes [FMRCD25-V0895]

Liams career has already seen him appear in a wide range of ensembles, primarily in duos or quartets with Stan Sulzmann and Anita Wardell and with John Stevens Quartet, with Wardell and Ron Matthewson, shortly before his passing. Other associates include John Taylor and Kenny Wheeler. Liam has toured Europe with cult American composer Moondog, and recorded an album. His first recording under his own name, this is a solo piano outing that enables the listener to fully appreciate his style while he explores the potential of the instrument without being limited to purely jazz styles.


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THE ARTICLES
Goodbye Silence [FMRCD260-0508]

Pat Thomas (keyboards), Mats Gustafsson (Sax, electronics), Roger Turner (percussion)


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EMERGE
VANISHING PICTURES [FMRCD261-0606]

Dirk Wachtelaer (percussion), plus guests The Center for World Cultures Zuiderpershuis is the temple of world music in Belgium and enthusiastically dedicated to their mission : artistic communication between western and non-western cultures. It is that location and ethic that Wachtelaer and a vast erray of musicians from around the globe converge.


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RED SQUARE
THIRTY THREE [FMRCD262-0508]

JON SEAGROATT (bass clarinet & soprano saxophone), IAN STAPLES (guitar & violin). ROGER TELFORD (drums & percussion) The release of this album documents a remarkable, pioneering British group that formed in 1972 and broke up in 1978. The material on Thirty Three was recorded between those years, but was considered too extreme for release at the time.


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THE MANCINI PROJECT
Views of Mancini [FMRCD263-0808]

Pat Thomas (piano), Simon h. Fell (double bass, prerecordings), Han Bennink(drums), Steve Noble (turntables, manipulations) The Mancini Project has the specific intention of combining the groups love of the original Mancini compositions with a relish of the experimental, squaring that particular circle and hopefully producing a true fusion; a meeting of musical minds (and generations) rather than a simplistic and fashionable nod to mainstream accessibility.


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JASPER VAN'T HOF & FREDY STUDER
Pangramm [fmrCD264-0808]

Jasper Vant Hof (keyboards, synthesizer, sound modules) Fredy Studer (drums, percussion, electronic devices)


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MATTHEW SHIPP & MARK OLEARY
LABYRINTH [FMRCD265-0508]

Matthew Shipp (piano), Mark O'Leary (guitar) Celebrated pianist Matthew Shipp joins Irish guitarist Mark O;leary for his follow up to his excellent Ellipses release on FMR. Mark and Matthew explore the many colloquial corridors of improvisation which manifest from their collective lexicons. Meditative, intense, dynamic, even ambient in parts, it is a new discourse in the history of Piano/Guitar duo.


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JANNE TUOMI (Percussion)
Resonance [FMRCD266-0908]

Janne Tuomi (percussion) Recorded in the beautiful church of Kulhmalahti in Finland , Resonance features the solo percussion of percussionist Janne Tunomi. The church is recognised as having a spectaculary good acoustic as is evident on the sound his drums and percussion in this recording, excelently captured by Jussi Saivo Janne is one of those new breed of extremely talented musicians who are equally home playing complex and demanding contemporary classical music, tradional music as well as free improv, and for this opportunity he decided to explore free improvisation, something he is very passionate about


AMALGAM
Mad [FMRCD267-1008]

Deleted

Trevor Watts (saxophones), Willem Kuhne (electric piano), Colin Mckenzie (bass), Liam Genocky (drums)


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Acksjns Kapell
CRIME SCENES [FMRCD268-0209]

Andreas Hiroui Larsson (drums, percussion), Alexander Zethson (upright piano), Daniel Karlsson (electronics, cornet, voice), Johan Jutterstrm (saxophones) Crime Scenes are a Swedish quartett currently residing in Stockholm and Paris and one that proposes the sound of the new generation of free-improvisers of Sweden. With influences ranging from impressionism to noise, focus on playing together as one, rhythm and melody, Crime Scenes are an orchestra more interested in how the music feels than how it sounds. The album was recorded in Acksjns Chapell, Karlstad, Sweden, 2008.


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FRODE GJERSTAD/JOHN EDWARDS/MARK SANDERS
Bergen [FMRCD269-0209]

Frode Gjerstad (alto sax and clarinets), John Edwards (acoustic bass), Mark Sanders (drums and percussion)


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ALEXANDER HAWKINS ENSEMBLE
No Now Is So.. [FMRCD270-0209]

Alexander Hawkins (piano), Orphy Robinson (steel pan), Otto Fischer (electric guitar), Hannah Marshall (cello), Dominic Lash (double bass), Javier Carmona (drums, percussion)


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Paul Dunmall (saxophones), Evelyn Chang (piano), Philip Gibbs (guitar), Trevor Taylor (percussion & electronics)
ATMOSPHERES WITHOUT OXYGEN2 [FMRCD271-020908]

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ARE LOTHE KOLBEINSEN/TERJE EVENSEN & MARIA CASTRO
For Those Who Have Everything  [FMRCD272-0309]

Are Lothe Kolbeinsen (guitar/live looping), Terje Evensen (percussion), Maria Castro (electronics & arrangement on Svngjenger)


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GARY SMITH SOLO ELECTRIC GUITAR
MAGNIFY FMRCD273-0509 [FMRCD273-0509]

Guitar virtuoso Mark O'Leary is joined by Danes Stefan Pasborg and Jacob Andersoskov for his latest offering on FMR. Recorded in Copenhagen, its where Kid A meets Post-Ecm. A post surreal voyage influenced by the works of Lovecraft, Tarkowski, Komeda, Hesse and Coleridge. A worthy successor to the classic Ellipses recording and an embarkation towards new conceptual realms. Unmissable.


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PAUL ROGERS
PAUL ROGERS FREEDOM ORCHESTRA [FMRCD274-0708]

Speaking at the festival promoter Udo Preis said ' there re on a few musicians in the world of jazz who are able to live this pure deep going and uncompromising form of free improvisation on stage. And a great many consequences have come out of English jazz clubs, and they belong to the circle around Paul Rogers and Paul Dunmall!..'. It was 3 very intensive and fantastic days near the Austrian /Hungarian border, highlighted by these astounding musicians celebrating together with young Austrian talent. It was a 1o hour long listening pleasure at the Chilli Jazz Festival Rudserdorf Austria with Limmitationes now available on this double CD! (Udo Preis)


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SPLINT
INTELLIGENT DESIGN [FMRCD276-0909]

Scandinavian electro-improvisers Splint! are back with a new album, their first on FMR. Intelligent Design is a collection of contrasting pieces, from minimalist soundscapes to electro-chaos, every tune with its own unique sound and tense atmosphere. The working method is collective improvisation mainly on acoustic instruments with heavy use of loopers and other live-electronics. The result is carefully post-produced to bring out the essence of the music. The song "The Brick" features Gothenburg singer Malin Dahlstrm (known from Midaircondo and The Dora Steins), aka Disdishdance, who wrote lyrics and a melody to an improvisation recorded live in concert. The title is a tribute to the human creative force and is an attempt to reclaim the term "Intelligent Design" from the creationist movement


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PAUL DUNMALL Saxophones PAUL ROGERS 7 string bass
REPERCUSSIONS [FMRCD277-0708]

A brand new recording by the dynamic duo of virtuoso Paul Dunmall and Paul Rogers following their highly acclaimed release 'Regeneration' The title 'Repercussions' gives a glue as the duo are aided and abetted on the title track by some percussion as well Recorded at the Unitarian Chapel in Warwick in Feb of this year it features Paul Dunmall playing soprano and as well as clarinet and his famous bagpipes and Paul Rogers wonderful 7 string custom bass. As always the music is fast moving and constantly inventive! unsurprising considering these two virtuosos pedigree! Fabulous music


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DUNMALL / GIBBS / SANDERS/EDWARDS
BOUNDLESS [FMRCD278-0709]

Boundless energy, boundless creation,, and boundless musical integrity! These musicians , the finest improvisers in the uk produce here a never ending stream of highly stimulating improvised music . The music threads its way through endless permutations of mood and dynamic range , but always with a total and uncanny empathy.No musical ideas are excluded, its all valid and there areas of extreme free jazz feel to electronica as well as collective improv. But what words can you use to describe the musical range, its so large, so full, so rewarding . Listen with unbounding enthusiasm and elation to the musical outpourings of masters of the genera!!! A two guitar setup could have been a bit busy but it works perfectly as the two disparate approaches complement perfectly Sanders sublte drums and the ever brilliant paul Dunmall


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MARK O'LEARY Guitar STEFAN PASBORG Drums JACOB ANDERSKOV Rhodes
ATMOS [FMRCD279-0709]

Atmos features Mark O'Leary on Guitar, with Danes Stefan Pasborg on Drums and Jacob Anderskov on Rhodes. Recorded in Copenhagen, its where Kid A meets Post-Ecm. A post surreal voyage influenced by the works of Lovecraft, Tarkowski, Komeda, Hesse and Coleridge. Nordic lyricism juxtaposed with dark neo gothic landscapes and infused with the arcane. Three of the pieces were composed by O'Leary, the rest were composed spontaneously during the session. A worthy successor to the classic Ellipses recording and an embarkation towards new conceptual realms.


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Howard Riley
Flight [FMRCD27-L0895]

Originally released on the Turtle label, FLIGHT must be considered one of Howard Rileys most important documents. Recorded in 1971, the music represents a transitional period in Howards trio sound, this session also includes the input of Oxleys electronic frame and amplification and Guys amplifier and foot pedal. Howard wrote "...in the course of one improvisation we can use instrumental sounds traditionally association with music, or sounds associated with electronic music, or we can combine the two elements simultaneously. It adds up to a broader range of feelings and ideas..".


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JANNE TUOMI (Percussion)
ELG  [FMRCD280-0709]

Finnish percussionist Janne Tuomis second FMR release, was recorded in a studio located in a 100-years old cowhouse that has 1-meter thick stone-walls in Old-Ulvila, on the west coast of Finland. Over two spellbinding recording, Tuomi demonstrates his controlled grasp of his oeuvre. All the effects are created using old analogue devices, operated manually during mixing, leaving the music as a whole, organic and beautifully crafted recording.


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RHYME OR REASON
ROB HALL Saxophones CHICK LYALL Piano [FMRCD281-0909]

For their second FMR release, Rob Hall (saxophones & clarinet) and Chick Lyall (piano) draw from a wide range of sources forging a deeply engaging and intimate musical dialogue. The music ranges from lyrical melodic driven improvisation through post bop, classical chamber music and touching on Celtic traditional music. New compositions from both musicians are interspersed with four freely improvised interludes which stand as a connected suite in their own right. Two non-improvised movements from Halls Sonata for Clarinet and Piano are deftly worked into the programme. This new recording was funded by the Scottish Arts Council and shows this fine duo continuing their musical journey between composition and improvisation, poetic lyricism combined with exploratory jazz soloing.


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COORDINATES
GRID MESH [FMRCD282-0210]

The Trio GRID MESH, consisting of Frank Paul Schubert (alto and soprano saxophones), Andreas Willers (el. guitar and devices) and Rudi Fischerlehner (drums, percussion) perfoms suspenseful, multi-dimensional improvised music with a fascinating blend of acoustic and electric sounds. Its an energetic, subtle and intelligent musical trip on which the development of ideas and the interplay of these masterful musicians are equally impressive as their command of a modern, biting jazz language. This stands effectively alongside more abstract, fragile structures and massively archaic walls of sound that even can knock back into irony. Thus a band sound is revealed that can truely be termed as 21st century improv music.


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HUBBACK AND PEIJNENBERG
ARROWS [FMRCD283-0210]

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CASH COWS
COMPASSIONATE DICATORSHIP [FMRCD284-0310]

Described as catching the current wave of Brit Jazz by Jazzwise Magazine, this guitar and sax led quartet evolved out of the long standing collaboration between Jez Franks and Tori Freestone who then joined forces with bassist Jasper Hoiby and drummer James Maddren. Since their debut album Coup dEtat in 2007 they have toured extensively, and are now promoting their second album Cash Cow. The band play original material drawing from a wide and eclectic range of influences from folk to free and contemporary jazz, creating fresh sounds and atmospheric textures within interesting harmonic frameworks and varied meters, over bubblling grooves blending four distinct voices into one.


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PAUL DUNMALL TONY BIANCO DAVE KANE
RITUAL BEYOND [FMRCD286-0210]

'The band were smoking, they were burning, they were on fire! Just some of the expressions used to denote a truly affecting jazz experience, but not to be taken literally, so wrote John Sharpe a witness to this incredible performance and recording the pairing of American Bianco and Kane with reedman paul Dunmall was a repeat performance of a Vortex gig almost a year before Typicall of Dunmall this was a totally improvised outing without any prior discussion of destination, played over two sets weighing in at almost 90 minutes. By the end , the metaphor had matched reality. They truly were on fire


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STIAN OMENAS Trumpet ARE LOTHE KOLBEINSEN Guitar, prepared guitar ULBRIC THORSRUD Drums
PARALLAX - LIVE IN THE UK [FMRCD287-0310]

Norweigan based Parallax is one of those rare and lucky collaborations where there is a great sense of chemistry from the very beginning. since forming the group in 2008 they have toured and recorded extensively in Europe, and present a selection of this material on this their debut album Live in the Uk The three musicians are musically so far inside each others heads that their improvisations seem to border on the telepathic, and have forged their own unique tale on improvising that seamlessly draws on an array of influences from Asian folk music to traditional jazz and abstract landscapes


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FRODE GJERSTAD, FRED LONBERG-HOLM, MICHAEL ZERANG
SUGAR MAPLE [FMRCD289-0410]

Caught live on an American tour with Frode Gjerstad during oct 2009, this recording focuses on two other great improvisers well know to FMR listeners, Fred Longerg Holm and Michael Zerang Sugar Maple is the name of the club in Milwaukee USA where this wonderfully stimulating music was recorded by Bruno Johnson. Unlike the title the music is not sweet but hard driving stimulating improv by three of the greatest improvisers in the genere!


Beck/Sulzmann/Laurence/Clarvis
Once Is Never Enough [FMRCD28-E0495]

A recording from four of Britains most outstanding jazz musicians. Gordon, Stan and Chris need no introduction at all, each musician has been at the forefront of jazz since the late sixties and has helped to establish British music on the world stage. Paul Clarvis is a more recent acquaintance with a fast growing reputation in the field of contemporary classical as well as jazz, he sounds as though he has played with the others for ever. The tracks, written by Gordon and Stan, were recorded in 1962 at Gateway Studios and each musician is given ample opportunity to stamp his personality on the proceedings.


Kate Cuzner
Fly By Wire [FMRCD28-UG0197]

Flautist/multi-instrumentalist Cuzners debut CD is a fascinating exploration of her passion for flight, both musically and emotionally, featuring several of her own compositions and some totally improvised pieces with percussionist Malcolm Ball, the keyboardist Alistair Gavin and double bassist Bernard ONeil. With the assistance of Sound Engineer Jim Butler, Kates beautiful electronically enhanced soundscapes make a warm, gentle and passionate debut.


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Paul Dunmall (saxophones), Nik Stevens (double Bass) Phil Gibbs (guitar), Trevor Taylor (electronic perc)
ATMOSPHERES WITHOUT OXYGEN 3 LIVE IN CHATHAM [FMRCD290-0410]

Recorded late last year live at Chatham's basement Jazz Club this concert was promoted by Colin Erswells 'Brutally Honest' organisation dedicated to presenting exciting cutting edge new music Small though the club is the audience is always knowledgeable and you can hear a pin drop, very much appreciated by these serious musicians whose dynamic range can take them from that pin dropping to a thunderstorm in seconds! Such is the variety and creativity of these four musicians who need no introduction here as four of the most talented and exciting in British free music. Saxophone, electric guitar, doubel bass and electronic percussion blend perfectly in this one long set, and their third CD in this lineup


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SUSIE HODDER-WILLIAMS CHRIS CALDWELL
MARINER'S WAY [FMRCD291-0510]

A combination of improvisations and duets using gamelan, singing bowl, flute, alto flute, bass flute, soprano saxophone and bass clarinet, exploring the mythical journey of the mariner, traveling across Dartmoor, on the ancient track known as the Mariner's Way. As heard on BBC Radio 3's Late Junction. Tradition has it that for centuries there has been an ancient trackway which runs from Bideford in North Devon and Dartmouth in South Devon. The purpose of this route was for sailors to travel between the two ports when transferring from one ship to sail on another, hence the name, The Mariner's Way. 

As heard on BBC Radio 3's Late Junction, with broadcasts in UK, Belgium & Holland.


...the flute and soprano sax float around one another sublimely... 

While listening to this disc, I felt as if I were entering a calm dream-world, sitting on a raft in the middle of the ocean, peaceful and adrift. (Downtown Music Gallery, New York)

A beautiful evocative album that can work like a movie, a silent landscape documentary. (Radio Antwerp ****)

New, ambient soundscape music... (Dutch Radio)


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BOB GLUCK TRIO
RETURNING [FMRCD292]

True to its title, Returning reprises the energetic trio led by pianist/composer Bob Gluck on his first critically acclaimed jazz recording Sideways. The 2008 date, "a potent first document of this expansive trio," (Cadence) has been described as "a near classic work of art." (JazzTimes Community) "Returning" is also an apt successor to Bob Gluck's recent "Something Quiet"


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PAT THOMAS
4 COMPOSITIONS FOR FOR ORCHESTRA [FMRCD293]

For his most recent FMR recording on FMR Pat thomas has assembled 4 seperate compositions. Composition 786 made of of unusual instruments 'Tales' (for story teller, female voice and orchestra) Shock Tactics based on the form principles of Charlie Mingus, and Concerto for Philip Wachsmann written for the wonderful improvising violinist


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BOB GLUCK , JOE GIARDULLO, CHRISTOPHER DEAN SULLIVAN
SOMETHING QUIET [FMRCD294-0810]

Recorded in new New York State in 2010, 'Something Quiet' is Bob Gluck's second album for FMR since the highly regarded 'Sideways ' (FMR 251) in 2008 It's a Trio format again , but this time with Christopher Dean Sullivan rather then Michael Bisio on bass, and Joe Giardullo on soprano saxophone rather than the drums of Dean Sharp. A drummer less trio obviously gives a different feel from the 7 compositions, all original part from the classic Herbie Hancok track Dolphin Dance. Don't be put off by the title though! this is exciting , creative and innovative music of the highest calibre! Bob Gluck is an extremely underrated pianist and composer !!highly recommended!!


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Paul Dunmall, Phil Gibbs, Nik Stevens, Trevor Taylor
ATMOSPHERES WITHOUT OXYGEN 4 LIVE IN OXFORD [FMRCD295-0810]

Live recording from Oxford Improv Club in 2010 opposite Red Square With Paul Dunmall saxophones, Phil Gibbs electric guitar and electronics, Nik Stevens double bass and Trevor Taylor electronic percussion


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PAUL DUNMALL, PHILIP GIBBS, MILES LEVIN
MANU [FMRCD296-0810]

Paul Dunmall steps out again with long standing compatriot guitarist Philip Gibbs and interestingly Miles Levin, the son of fellow MUJICIAN drummer Tony Levin, one of the finest Jazz Drummers the UK has ever produced. Its tantalising to make comparisons, but first thing that hits you is Miles levin is his own man, with all the technique and artistry of his father but fused into a different generation with its own sound and style. Phil Gibbs is always interesting with his multidirectional guitar and electronics ever changing but always enduringly interesting, while Dunmall continues his quest and never ending search for meaning through the music in his colossal instant compositions. A major voice that just gets stronger and stronger!!!!


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DEEP JOY TRIO
LIVE IN AUSTRIA [FMRCD298]

Three quarters of the famous Mujician Qt, the Deep Joy Trio has established itself as one of the truly great free improv trios. The incredible Paul Dunmall powered by one of the greatest powerhouse rythm sections in Jazz, Paul Rogers bass and Tony Levin Drums . Tony Levin died just before this cd was released and it is dedicated to him


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FRODE GJERSTAD DAVID WATSON KEVIN NORTON
TIPPLES [FMRCD299]

This is unique trio features David Watson on electric guitar, Frode Gjerstad on alto sax & clarinets and Kevin Norton on vibes, marimba & drum-set. I know that Frode and Kevin have played and recorded together on several occasions but this is the first time either have worked with Downtowner (& former New Zealander) David Watson, also known as fine bagpipes player and someone not so well-recorded. Right from the gitgo, this is tight, high-end improv at its most exciting. This trio is extremely well balanced and tight as they work together and interact quickly.


Respectable Groove
Tell Tale Ducks [FMRCD29UG0197]

David Gordon has been making heads turn for a while now as a harpsichordist of great invention. It is testament to him and recorder player Evelyn Allen to have created this excellent quartet which also includes Richard Jefferies on double bass and percussionist Ichiro Tatsuhara (one of a few japanese bodhran players). There sound brings in classical, irish traditional, samba and minimalist jazz and the end result is something not to be missed.


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NEIL METCALFE AND OLIE BRICE
BRACKISH [FMRCD301]

Im pleased to announce the release of a duo album with the great flautist Neil Metcalfe. The album is called brackish, and is on FMR. It was beautifully recorded, mixed and mastered by Sherry Ostapovitch. Neil and I have been playing together every week for about a year and a half now. We initially worked together in a quartet with Mark Hanslip on tenor and Tony Marsh on drums, and also did a quartet gig with Evan Parker and Tony Marsh. We decided to start playing as an acoustic duo, and the process of developing that together has been one of the most rewarding musical experiences Ive had. Olie Brice


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CHRIS CALDWELL SUSIE-HODDER WILLIAMS GRAHAM ROBERTS
NORTHERN LIGHTS [FMRCD303]

Play the music of STEPHEN GOSS * 'utterly captivating' 'bristling intensity...music from the subtle side of things' Downtown Music Gallery, New York The new CD of Steve Goss' music includes the premire recording of Northern Lights (for the trio) and The Sea of the Edge (for solo flute). Other works on the album are Autumn Song (for flute and guitar) a new arrangement of Welsh Folksongs and a piece inspired by The Cosmic Garden of Speculation


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KIM-ERIK PEDERSEN KIM JOHNANNESEN CHRIS CORSANO
DOOR TO DOOR [FMRCD304]

Featuring Kim-Erik Pedersen on alto sax, Kim Johannesen on guitar and Chris Corsano on drums. This disc was recorded live in Oslo, Norway in November of 2009. Chris Corsano is one of the most creative and distinctive drummers to come down the pike in many years. Each time I see & hear him play (with Evan Parker or Joe McPhee or Sir Richard Bishop), he knocks me out. He has a completely unique approach to playing drums so until you get a chance to see him live, you have no idea how he gets certain sounds. . Except for certain more distinctive sounds, it is difficult to tell who is doing what on this disc. Suspense and space between the sounds is well-utilized throughout as well as spirited interaction and a strong balance between all three musicians. Even those over-the-top moments are well-placed. Bruce Lee Gallanter, Downtown Music Gallery


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PYRO
CIRCUIT [FMRCD305]

Most recent of the Circuit release, an ensemble that aims to explore electronic and electro acoustic music taking advantage of the much faster current processor speeds giving amazing real time potential. As usual the group features a varied personell, this time with Taylor the only original. Jon Seagrott plays soprano sax and bass clarinet , Rob Stevenson alto sax, Wx7 and Geof Harris Electric upright and bass guitars. Taylor him self used acoustic modified drum kit, extensive percussion and his normall Kat Mallet electronic setup. All modulated their sounds via their own systems, many granular sytnth software, hardware and pedals including


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PAUL DUNMALL
SUN INSIDE [FMRCD306]

Paul Dunmall takes off one more time, and sets sail for the sun with more interstellar explorations of improv at the galactic edge! Aided by the dream team of ridiculously talented and highly esteemed improvisational compatriots guitarist Phil Gibbs, flautist Neil Metcalfe and the incredible 7 string bassist Paul Rogers. Music is three pieces 'Sun Inside' Dissolving a Rock' and 'Inside the Sun'


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FRODE GJERSTAD STEVE HUBBACK
ONE FOOT MOVING [FMRCD307-0211]

Legandry concert by master percussionist Steve Hubback with Norweigan saxophonist Frode Gjerstad here playing clarinet and B clarinet. Recorded at the Lille Konsertsat in Stavanger Norway in 2001


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DAVE DRAPER / NTSHUKS BONGA
SNOW IN NOVEMBER [FMRCD308]

We have played together in countless settings over the years, ranging from Daves large African music/Improvising China Pig Orchestra down to a duo. The duo music on this CD is based on the traditional approach where two musicians engage in an instrumental dialog, reacting spontaneously to each other and changing the music as and when they see fit. A very significant further element is added by the ability to reintroduce recorded sounds the musicians have just played, recorded in real time and often looped and/ or processed so that although their origins can often be deduced, they have their own character, produce their owns sonic impact, and being autonomous to the live musical sounds, they cange the musical landscape in very often unexpected ways. This CD is made up mostly of two long improvisations recorded on 30th November 2010, when we had unseasonal snow (hence the title), and the three shorter pieces recorded in 2005 & 2006, all of which have distinctive musical characteristics. This CD allows us to document and celebrate our music collaboration that stretches almost two decades.


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SAKA
POSH [FMRCD309]

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INSULT
VDC  [FMRCD310]

Fine new improv recording from Norweigan group VCDC. Strong deep improvisations from well known saxophonist Frode gjerstad, with cellist Fred Lonberg-Holm , drummer Stale Liavik Solberg and singer Stine Janvin Motland


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FRANK PAUL SCHUBERT MATTHIAS MULER
FOILS [FMRCD311]

Somehow, even though both Matthias and Frank play with a lot of the same musicians in and around Berlin (including me) I have never imagined they would play together. That wasn't a judgement about compatibility, or class, but essentially about desire - I always figured they were on separate paths, and wanted different things from their music. So when this recording landed in my hand, with the invitation to listen and write about it Although coming from different generations, and backgrounds, both Matthias and Frank share something very rare, and something very specific. They are both deeply sceptical musicians who, nonetheless, are looking for transcendence in their music. CLAYTON THOMAS


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FRODE GJERSTAD FRED LONBERG-HOLM
TISTEL [FMRCD313]

Fabulous new set of improvisations from long term collaborators saxophonist Frode Gjerstad (here playing clarinet) and cellist fred Lonberg-Holm 9 fascinating duo's showing these musicians endless creative ideas


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BBC Concert Orchestra , Brian Irvine Ensemble , Paul Dunmall
MONTANA STRANGE [FMRCD315]

Fantastic recording showing Dunmall reacting to an orchestral and small ensemble setting with free improvisation, and boy does he deliver the goods!! Irvines compositions are wonderfull, creative, playful and constantly stimulating!


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Jos Zwaanenburg
20 ODD YEARS [FMRCD316]

Dutch flautist Jos Zwaanenburg has been commuting between Holland and Britain since the very beginning of his career as a professional flutist. Over the ears he has drawn attention to his use of electronics as an extension to the traditional instrument. He was also fortunate to work with quite a number of British based composers that share his interest in electronically processed flute sounds. This CD ia a documentation of works written for him over a 20 year period hence the title


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PAUL DUNMALL sax NICK JUDD bass jim bashford drums
THE REALISATION TRIO [FMRCD317]

Check out Dunmall's new trio of great new young players, extremely on song at the lamp Tavern Birmingham in June 2011 7 Tracks recorded by Chris Trent again


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ALEX WARD , TIM HILL, DOMINIC LASH , MARK SANDERS
PREDICATE [FMRCD318]

6 Fantastic pieces/ improvisations from this great group of master British improvisers whose names are at the forefront of this genre. The cd starts with the great percussion of Mark Sanders like an i approaching menacing storm, dark and atmospheric. A long composed line moves the music forward. Courtesy class (track 2) picks up the tempo with a more frantic pace and extrovert nature and the music. All through the cd the music is utterly convincing , creative and inspiring. Passion in abundance! A truly great cd full of variety and individual craft


G.P.Hall
Figments of Imagination [FMRCD31-V0762]

Halls twenty five years as a professional musician; Blues, Flamenco, Jazz and hard Rock are the styles that most influence his musical formation. On this c.d. Peter creates layered sound sculptures which intersperse with beautifully melodic sections. Using a startling array of tools; Velcro strips, battery operated fans, battery razors, spatulas and crocodile clips etc that are combined with acoustic /electric and bass guitars, this CD recorded between 1974 and 1995 sees Hall in a variety of settings, both solo and group, performing with some of the countries finest jazz musicians.


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Larry Stabbins, Howard Riley, Tony Wren, Mark Sanders
ST CYPRIANS 2 [FMRCD320]

The second in the series recorded at St Cyprians church in London with fantastic improvisations by 4 world class improvisors!


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Francois Carrier, Michel Lambert , Alexey Lapin
ALL OUT [FMRCD321]

Our trip to Russia was brief. We flew from Montreal to Moscow on December 18, 2010. We played our first concert on December 19 at the DOM Cultural Center in Moscow which is a very fine venue near Red Square. The music was great and as I always do we recorded the entire concert . Right after the concert we took a ten hours train to St-Petersburg. We arrived in a very bad hotel at around 11h00 in the morning under very heavy snow, just like home. We finally changed hotel to a much better one were we rested for a couple of hours. We took a walk to the JFC Jazz Club in St-Petersburg which is normally a mainstream Jazz club and we played our Melodic Improv Music. "All Out" is this first concert in St-Petersburg. The night after we played at ESG-21 Club in St-Petersburg. So, you know what? This brief trip to Russia was very intense, inspiring and productive I guess! Love, Joyfulness and Playfulness to us All!


POWER TRIO
JAZZ [FMRCD322]

Not Available

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CHRIS CALDWELL / PETE WYMAN / FRANK VAN DER KOOIJ Pyongyang Express
AIRKRAFT [FMRCD324]

This CD is the retrospective recording which was the result of this ten day adventure back in the Spring of 2009. It is a travelogue which combines the trios collective improvisations, Frank Van De Kooijs musical sketches with field samples taken from the streets and state media of the DPRK.


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PAUL DUNMALL saxophones,bagpipes,voices NICK JURD bass JIM BASHFORD drums
SALT DOLLY [FMRCD326]

More stunning improvisations from Dunmalls young Realisation Trio! Paul Dunmall on tenor & soprano saxes & bagpipes, Nick Jurd on bass and Jim Bashford on drums. This is the second disc from the Realisation Trio, who are Paul Dunmall's new, younger unit. I hadn't heard of either of Dunmall's rhythm section mates before the first disc and still haven't heard anything else from these young men. Unlike their first disc, this one was recorded at the Victoria Rooms studio in Bristol, UK by the consistently great Jonathan Scott, Dunmall's most reliable recording engineer.


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PAUL DUNMALL Saxophones STEVEN DAVIS Drums DAVE KANE Bass
CLOWN [FMRCD327]

5 Great new pieces by a new Dunmall trio recorded in Northern Ireland in 2001 but never previoulsy released, this little classic seems all the better for finally finding the light of day, its such terrific music where Dunmall adds pipes to his usual saxophone armoury


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PAUL ROGERS Bass PAUL DUNMALL Saxophones PHIL GIBBS guitar
TRIBUTE TO TONY LEVIN [FMRCD328]

When we lost Tony levin recently we lost one of the finest and most creative drummers Britain has ever produced!! In this touching memorial 3 of his close compatriots pay tribute in 7 wonderful improvisations joined by three other great admires from foreign climes wishing to pay homage to a wonderful life in music, Bern, Rudi mad Otto Recorded In Bristol in June last year and mixed mastered by Jonathan Scott


John Law Trio
Giant Leaves (Autumn Steps) [FMRCD32-V0862]

This recording presents the Trio in original material by Law. though the music certainly belongs to all three members who all have a free role with a lot of leeway to express themselves. In keeping with their long-term aim, to explore the classic jazz standard language from an open, improvised perspective, there are also references to well known jazz tunes - though everything is performed in a new and fresh way. With the release of this recording and the Thelonious Monk project (FMR 36), the reputation of the John Law Trio will grow in stature and given time will be spoken of in equal terms with the great trios of Bill Evans and Keith Jarrett.


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PHILLIP WACHSMAN Violin HOWARD RILEY piano TONY WREN double bass
ST CYPRIANS 3 [FMRCD331]

Last of the 3 cd trilogy of wonderful improvisations recorded live from St Cypians!


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PAUL DUNMALL- SAM WOOSTER- MARK SANDERS - CHRISS MAPP
THE ICEBERG QUARTET [FMRCD332]

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PAUL DUNMALL bagpipes and MARK SANDERS drums
PIPE AND DRUM [FMRCD333]

A fantastic new recording of the musicians who often play together in different ensembles but rarely together!!


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PAUL DUNMALL saxophones NEIL McGOVERN saxophone
INTERVENTION [FMRCD334]

This cd sees Paul Dunmall playing using his book, '60 studies for Saxophone' as a basis along with classical saxophonist Neil McGovern. Matt London also joins the fray in a somewhat different direction from Dunmall but never the less a fascinating insight in do his ideas about saxophone technique from an undisputed virtuoso of the instrument!


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NICK MALCOLM Trumpet ALEXANDER HAWKINS piano OLIE BRICE Bass MARK WHITLAM Drums
GLIMMERS [FMRCD335]

Led by trumpeter Nik Malcom this cd is a combination of free improv and composed pieces Talking about the band Nik said 'although the band is only about a year and 4 months old, Ive been playing with them all for quite a few years now. Theyre close friends and weve done a fair bit of learning and developing together and theyre just an amazing bunch of musicians. I think whats so special about them is that theyre very distinctive musical personalities rather than just being great musicians. Thats something that is really important to me I really want the way those personalities interact with each other through improvising to come out in the music.'


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VYV HOPE-SCOTT piano, loops TONY ORRELL drums percussion, loops
THE JELLILALAS [FMRCD336]

This is the first commercial outing by the duo of composer/pianist Vyv Hope-Scott and free jazz drummer and percussionist Tony Orrell. Both players contribute loops and electronic sounds that form the starting point of the pieces, occupying a musical terrain somewhere between free improv and ECM. The project uses looped samples and delay patterns as a sort of armature around which free improvisation can be wrapped; then at the mixing stage these loops might be included, replaced with something else, or removed altogether. As well as providing a pulse where necessary, this subtractive approach makes it easier for the musicians to not play, eliminating the urge to fill the spaces with notes, allowing still or silent passages to form form within busy soundscapes. The resulting textures vary from simple piano and cymbals (Veljo) to something much more like IDM electronica (While She Drew), but always with the spontaneity captured at the original live recording sessions.


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JON SEAGROAT Bass Clarinet,soprano, flute TIM CHATGIGIANNIS Laptop TREVOR TAYLOR Percussion electonics
CIRCUIT ILLUSION [FMRCD337]

Circuit is an ensemble with no fixed personel that aims to explore improvisation using electronics and electro acoustic instruments taking advantage of the far higher processor speeds that make real time manipulation of sound so much more exciting! Circuit have recorded 5 cds over 5 years GENESIS EPIPHANY KITAOKA PYRO ILLUSION


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PETE JACOBSEN piano and various keyboards
FOR PETES SAKE [FMRCD338]

For all that knew him Pete Jacobsen was very special It was clear to all those that heard him in those early days that here was a quite extraordinary musician. A prodigious technique, perfect pitch, a formidable musical memory and an encyclopaedic knowledge of a vast area of music set him apart from his contemporaries. He was completely eclectic and could play authoritatively in almost any style. But for all his talent Pete was no Prima Donna. He gave himself generously to every band he played with. He was a uniquely sensitive accompanist and a strong group player. No matter what the musical context Pete would commit himself wholeheartedly to the enterprise. This is vol1 compilation of his work curated by Mick Sexton


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STIAN LARSEN guitar ERIK AHLSEN guitar
KOOK [FMRCD339]

Norweigan guitarists Stian Larsen and Erik Ahlsen provide a tantilisingly wonderful selection of soundscapes in this, their first outing for FMR noth are expert in not just playing the guitar but the use of live electronics which can of course provide endless possibilities . 7 contantly changing textures and ideas from two of Europes greatest and most creative improvisors


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NEIL MECALFE GUILLAUME VILTARD DANIEL THOMPSON
GARDEN OF WATER AND LIGHT  [FMRCD341-0812]

Three masters of improvisation in a perfect setting!! These improvisations were played on a calm and beautiful autumnal evening in winter. It is the complete set from this trio's live performance, which took place in the extraordinary space of St leopards Shoreditch Church in Hackney, London in Dec 2011 This was the first time we had played together as a trio. The seeds, it seems, had been sewn right here!


MAX JOHNSON Bass KIRK KNUFFLE Cornet ZIV RAVITZ Drums
ELEVATED VEGETATION [FMRCD343-0812]

Recorded in New York in Feb 2012, this recording by American Trio Elevated VegetaTION is led by bass player Max Jognson and shows a very sophisticated marriage of Tune and improvisation, where the line and importance of each are blurred very effectively The music however has a lot of energy with its roots in jazz but horizons in free improv lovely creative trio with the terrific album artwork by Victoria salvador highly recommended!


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FEDERICO UGHI Drums DAVID SCHNUG Alto sax MAX JOHNSON Bass KIRK KNUFFKE Cornet
FEDERICO UGHI QT [FMRCD344]

fantastic first release from this New York based group led by ace drummer Federico Ughi!


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PAUL DUNMALL Flute, soprano sax PHILIP GIBBS Electro acoustic guitar TREVOR TAYLOR acoustic and Electric percussion
NEW ATMOSPHERES [FMRCD345]

Recorded at the white house Essex in late 2012 these three improvisations vary enormously The first features Paul Dunmall rarely on Flute, with electro acoustic guitar and percussion/ electronics, whilst the mood moves up a notch when he moves to soprano for the second of these three highly stimulating impovs


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JIANNIS PAVLIDIS Guitar ADAM NUSSBAUM Drums GIORGOS KONTRAFOURIS organ
MIGRATION [FMRCD346]

This truly fantastic Internaional trio have been touring since 2007 and have finally released their first CD which certainly doesn't disappoint!!! with really, great tunes, great groove and stunning solos from all!! featuring Swedish born Greek Jiannis Pavlidlis on guitar, Greek compatriot Giorgos Kontrafouris on organ and the virtuoso legandary American jazz/fusion drummer Adam Nussbaum The musical approach the trio follows is open with a strong reference on groove.The material is mostly original as well as reworked standards with a new twist, and with refreshingly quirky arrangements. During the last tour (March 2011) the trio decided to record this, their first album, a decision made due to the natural chemistry between the three musicians.Good job they did , its terrific!!


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PAUL DUNMALL flute, soprano sax PHILIP GIBBS Electro acoustic guitar
DREAMWORLD [FMRCD348]

Dreamworld is Paul Dunmall's 51st cd for FMR and features a sparkling series of duos with guitarist Philip Gibbs Speaking of the music Paul says . 'In the subtle body music can come directly out of the heart region without any instrument being necessary. Whatever you feel and hear can emanate from the hear, full of love, beauty and devotion, one in a million, anything is possible because it is the sound which is being projected. The fellow listeners can feel all of what you wish to express, there are no boundaries, the music isn't heard through ears but through the subtle body'


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FRANCOIS CARRIER
SHORES AND DITCHES [FMRCD349-0512]

Recorded while touring in Dec 7th in the wonderful acoustic of St leonards Church, London this CD is the third on FMR by the brilliant Canadian alto saxophonist Francois Carrier, who is based in Montreal, Canada The cd pit's him with his long time companion and excellent fellow Canadian drummer Michel Lambert, and English musicians flautist Neil Metcalfe, Guitarist Daniel Thompson and double bassist Guilaume Viltard The results are 58 Mins of sparking and tantalising improvisations of supreme quality and creative achievement alongside the music the album artwork includes many mini snapshots of Carriers other love photography, in which his astute ear is matched by his ever open eyes that capture the unusual, the abstract, that often missed in the pace of modern life Altogether the two paint a picture of a whole human being totaly alive and open to his existence and who can eloquently echo his experiance in music and art A major new voice in improvisation!!


Various Artists
New British Music Vol.1 [FMRCD34-A1262]

The debut release on FMR AVANT features twelve compositions by major composers from the Essex area, those represented include Lutyens, Maconchy, Parsons and Bullard. With pieces written between 1971 and 1962 but the accent falls very much on recent compositions. It showcases the magnificent musical abilities of the Mercia Ensemble, a group of young but very experienced musicians led by violinist Lesley Larkum. Their dedication to performing contemporary music is responsible for their fast growing reputation on the scene. Also features the beautiful soprano voice of Lindsay Gowers.


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Pat Thomas
SKIP [FMRCD350]

brilliantly original innovator Pat Thomas suprises with a 9 track set of jazz standards accompanied by equally esteemed rythm section of Mark Sanders on drums and Dominic Lash double bass recorded at Brunel University, theres titles from the worlds greatest players and composers such as Ornette Coleman,Sam Rivers, John Coltrane, Monk, Sonny Rollins, Wayne Shorter, Joe henderson and Charlie Parker!!! here another side to Pat Thomas!!


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TREVOR WATTS
CELEBRATION BAND LIVE IN MACEDONIA [FMRCD351]

Trevor Watts Celebration band live in Skopje Macedonia 2004, with Amy Leake, Rob Leake, Marcus Cummins, Geof Sapsford, Roger Carey, GIampaolo Scalto, and Jamie harris percussion!!! 4 saxophones, drums, percussion and bass. The friendship Ship' was a vehicle used as a workshop ,. So we invited our Macedonian friends to come on stage and take part. On this occasion musicians from all the communities took part, Roma, Macedonian and Albania to play alongside their UK and Italian colleagues


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ROB HALL CHICK LYALL
CHRONICLES [FMRCD352]

Exciting saxophonist Rob Hall now living in Scotland teams up again with long term partner and incredibly talented and creative pianist Chick lyall. Chronicles is a tour de force of great writing and free improvising that merge imperceptively into wonderful music As usual Chick uses electronics in a thoroughly creative and imaginative way as well as piano, prepared piano and synthsizer , while Rob Hall is a master of Sopranino, Soprano and alto sax as well as the beautiful sounding bass clarinet Each new release sees these two raise the bar and are as good as any players in Europe who manage to extend the jazz heritage in a subtle but exciting way. great music from two totally great musicans who deserve much more respect. Listen!!!!!!!!!


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Susie Hodder Williams Chris Caldwell
3 MEDITATIONS [FMRCD353]

The dynamic duo emerge from deepest Darmoor to record 3 meditations, using flute and the gamelan at Kingston University where it was recorded by Ebby Acquah This cd comes after the extremely well received 'Northern Lights' that saw them playing the stunningly beautiful music of Stephen Goss along with virtuoso classical guitarist Graham Roberts. As usual the duo explore the beauty within the sound. Fabulous, pure, sonorous!!


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PAUL DUNMALL MARK SANDERS PAT THOMAS
DESCENT III [FMRCD354]

A rare recording with Pianist Pat Thomas, these these 5 pieces were recorded in Birmingham in Feb this year the tracks are 1. Clouds that obscure the Sun 2. Descent III 3. abandon all Sorrow 4. The ocean bridged 5. The aerial car departed


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PAUL DUNMALL ED RICARD MARK HANSLIP PHILIP GIBBS
WEEPING IDOLS [FMRCD356]

Recorded in Bristol in 2012 the cd features 4 great improvisations including 1. 4 Souls , 8 Eyes 2. Bhutan 3. Better Than Words and 4 Weeping Idols oustanding music as always from the groups around Paul Dunmall


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TREVOR WATTS
MOIRE MUSIC DRUM ORCHESTRA  [FMRCD357]

featuring Trevor Watts with Nana Tsiboe, Nee-Daku Patato, Nana Appiah, Jojo Yates, Liam Genockey, and Colin Gibson Continuing our look at Trevor Watts old as well as new music, this cd of 4 pieces was recorded in Venezuela as well as Mexico in 1990


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FRODE GJERSTAD KEVIN NORTON DAVID WATSON
lIVE TIPPLE [FMRCD358]

This a live recording made in Middletown Conneticut while the group was on tour in the US in 2013


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TREVOR WATTS DEREK BAILEY JOHN STEVENS
Dynamics of the Impromtu [FMRCD360]

Fantastic never before released recording by this legendary and seminal trio!!!!!!! 3 of the undoubted pioneers of improvised music! Unreleased material like this is rare, and gives further insight into the beginnings of this incredible movement and its subsequent development


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NATURA MORTA
Decay [FMRCD361]

Recorded at the bunker studios in Brooklyn, NY in March 2012. The group Natura Morta featuring Frantz Loriot, viola , objects; Sean Ali double bass and objects; and Carlo Costa drums percussion play 4 improvisations. "Sirens", "Miasmata", "The burial of Memories" and "As the Dawn fades". To sum up the music the group quotes Shelley - "Nothing beside remains. Round the decay of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare. The lone and level sands stretch far away" the enigmatic graphic on the front of the cover (by Jaques Mandelbrojt) without out any titles creates an aura of enquiry and wonder equally revealed through the music-


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THE SHETLAND IMPROVISERS ORCHESTRA
First Steps [FMRCD362]

"Shetland Improvisers Orchestra grew out of a series of workshop sessions where we worked with Raymond MacDonald and George Burt. This is the group's first CD and features some of the work that grew out of the workshops as well as pieces played at Shetland Jazz Festival and a complete set from Glasgow Improvisers Festival. There is also a tribute piece dedicated to Lol Coxhill recorded the day after he passed away. These are Shetland Improvisers' first steps."


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ENRIQUE MENDOZA
Below Sea Level [FMRCD363]

Recorded at the conservatorium of Amsterdam in July 2013 Below Sea Level contains 4 compositions performed by Enrique Mendoza, and two others by Boglarka Nagy and Dutch flautist Jos Swannenburg. All feature extensive electronic composition, much using STEIMS Lisa X software. With this alto saxophonist Nagy, flautist Swannenburg and composer Mendozas guitar do great battle producing highly stimulating sound fields enticing and stimulating electro acoustic music


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PAUL DUNMALLwith others
Red Dahl [FMRCD364]

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FRODE GJERSTAD LUIS CONDE
Mirrors Edges [FMRCD365]

Well dear listener, that you have in your hands looks like an impossible action, unreal object...moreover, borrowing a little from Groucho Marx style,(only his moustaches) we could also declare that this object will sound as an impossible music,so.let ́s give up all the ambiguities, because you have two ears and normally they don ́t fight between themselves. ,you can listen to this music and simply mean oh!, this is impossible!,which it will be well receibed too. In Fact., if you could imagine our lifes ,from Stavanger ,Norway to Almagro, Buenos aires,Federal District , you wouldn ́t believe on a strange good man with his horns and two fellows from his tro going ashore at the muddy waters of the very southest River Plate ́s coast only for playing in a few special places for an avid public,but it was true!,and you wouldn ́t say about this story is more unreal than this almost bizarre cd ,wouldn ́t you?? But the the subject/issue happened, and the unknown argentinian, who plays the same instruments as the norwegian, proposed to him to make a little session hurriying up to catch the come back plane.And this is all that you have in your hands, music from stolen moments played with the lot of energy that could bring the collision of our distant lands and our pretty heads. Luis Conde


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GIO (Glasgow Improvisers Orchestra) & GEORGE LEWIS
Artificial Life 2007 [FMRCD366]

arttfical life 2007 3 tracks were recorded at the CCA ib Glasgow in early Dec 2012 and was produced by Una Macglone and one of the saxophonists with the band Raymond Macdonald GIO (Glasgow Improvisers Orchestra) have not thoroughly established them selves as one of the most interesting and creative large improvisin ensembles in the UK, and had done man collaborations with great improvisers across the globe GIO first worked with Geroge Lewis in 2003 This new version of George Lewiss Artificial Life 2007 was recorded at Glasgow Improvisers Orchestras tenth-anniversary festival in 2012. The innovative US trombonist and composers score is a set of instructions, presented graphically on a grid, which the musicians respond to as they see fit. When, what and how to play is up to them, unless indicated otherwise. The result is an extremely detailed music, based on textural rather than harmonic or rhythmic development.


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Francoise Carrier Michel Lambert Alexy Lapin
THE RUSSIAN CONCERTS VOLUME 1 [FMRCD367]

Eloguent and passionate Canadian alto saxophonist jones forces with fellow and long time partner drummer Michel Lambert for a tour de force recording while on tour in Moscow


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TONY BIANCO'S UTOMA QUARTET
TONY BIANCO'S UTOMA QUARTET [FMRCD368]

Ace US drummer and now UKM resident Tony Bianco leads a great new two horn front line playing his quirky new tunes experimenting with Tonys fascination with long lines and looped synchronicity. Great players and highly creative writing as ever . Font line is Mike Fetcher alto and flute joined by Mark Handslip on tenor with Colin Somerville on double bass excellent stuff


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FRODE GJERSTAD LOUIS MOHOLO
Sult [FMRCD369]

After the recent recording with Argenteenian reeds man Luis Conde, Frode continues one of his favourite formats , the duo with legendary South African drummer Louis Moholo! Again sensitive, creative and always engaging music prevails!!


John Law Trio
The Onliest [FMRCD36-E1062]

A unique CD presented as a collaboration between music and art: totally original renditions of eleven classic Monk tunes with full colour reproductions of eight abstract artworks based on his music, by the artist Melanie Day. As an unusual touch, six very short, increasingly abstract versions of the tune "Thelonious" are interspersed as in the Promenade from Mussorgskys Pictures At An Exhibition. All the members of the Trio get a chance to show their individuality and all three play a solo tune. And the music swings!


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Paul Dumall Mark Sanders Paul Rogers
DEEP TRIO WHOLE [FMRCD370]

One of the most seminal imrov groups on the scene today! little to say except sit back, fasten your seat belts and enjoy these three master at work


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LUIS VICENTE RODRIGO PINHEIRO HERNANI FAUSTINO MARCO FRANCO
Clocks and Clouds [FMRCD371]

Great improv from Portugese musicians Luis Vicente trumpet, Rodrigo Pinheiro piano, Henani Faustino double bass and Marco Franco drums recorded in lisbon by Joaquim Monte in April last year and featuring 7 pieces, Irredescence, ophidian dance, strangely addictive, compression test, trios, hunting song, and smoke blows back


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PAUL DUNMALL PAUL ROGERS PHILIP GIBBS
Clocks Turned Silver [FMRCD372]

recorded at the Victoria rooms Bristol in May 2013, the enigmatic trio play 4 great improvisations, Nag Maheshay , The darkness descends, Sixty and the title track The clouds turned Silver File under the best improv your likely to hear!


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THE BUTTON BAND
The Button Band [FMRCD373]

The Button bands first album features all kinds of delights! recorded in London In June 2013 the band is Andrew Button Guitar, Andrew Woolf Tenor Sax Dave Manington bass and Johnathan Ormston drums and percussion Although a seven track set of tunes somehow the players breath fresh live into what can be a well trodden format, proving theres live in the old dog that is mainstream jazz yet A breath of fresh air this recording introduces some truly delightful playing, simple , melodic but still creative and adventurous and overall the band together has a light but enquiring sound!


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Mark Sanders Mikolaj Trazaska Olie Brice
RIVERLOAM TRIO  [FMRCD374]

while in new York excellent drummer and percussionist Mark Sanders, joined forces with Brit bassist Olie Brice and Alton Saxophonits Mikolaj Trazska to produce a stung collection of improv music, 1, Grasping Ivy, 2, Beware of Porter part 1, 3, beware of Porter part 2 4, danzig blues 5, grub party, 6 Elephant trees , 7 Inem Gortn


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Geoff Warren
THE QUARTET ALBUM [FMRCD375]

Flautist Geoff Warren in his first record in a conventional quartet line up, presents his compositions from the eighties to the present, in styles ranging from straight ahead to Canterbury jazz-rock. Recorded in Verona with an Italian piano trio: Raffaele Pallozzi piano, Marco Di Marzio bass, Walter Caratelli drum


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PAUL DUNMALL NEIL METCALFE PHILIP GIBBS
The Ravens Look [FMRCD376]

For Paul Dunmalls latest FMR Recording he uses soprano sax along with clarinets and the wonderful contra bassoon and does battle with the extraordinary flute of Neil Metcalfe and stunning guitar of Philip gibbs The 'Ravens look' recorded in Bristol last year, but sounds as fresh as a daisy! truly wonderful music


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Trevor Watts
VERACITY [FMRCD377]

Trevor Watts first and amazing solo saxophone recording takes him into new territory great to see a musician of this statue totally in his own space!


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Masdar
Far away [FMRCD378]

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FRODE GJERSTAD FRED LONBERG HOLM
Life on Sandpaper [FMRCD379]

Frode Gjerstad returns with another of his famous formats , the duo This time its with long time colleague cellist Fred Lonberg Holm 9 pieces recorded in 2012 but never previously released featuring Frode working on both Bb as well as bass clarinet as well as that incredible instrument, the bass saxophone!


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Paul Dunmall Sextet
LIFE IN FOUR PARTS [FMRCD380]

Recorded for his 60th birthday celebrations this all sta recording includes Mike Fletcher, Percy Pursglove, Mike Hurley with Chris Mapp on bass and Mark Sanders on drums plus special quests Simon hall on Bass trombone (and Bethan Jones bass drum) music more precious than diamonds!


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Ola Djupvik
Idiophonics  [FMRCD380_115]

Young virtuoso percussionist from Norway , Ola Djupvik produces a fascinating first album of percussion treats ! Some purely abstract some purely rhythmic in 6 varied titles. It says acoustic drum kit on the tin, but don't be deceived Ola Djupvik knows how to intellgently explore each part as an individual instrument as well as a whole Excellent first album from very up and coming young player, check it out!!!


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Francois Carrier
Live in Russia Vol 2 [FMRCD381]

Eloquent and passionate Canadian alto saxophonist joins forces with fellow and long time partner drummer Michel Lambert, with Russian pianist Alexey Lapin, for a second tour de force recording while on tour in Moscow These three musicians recorded in St Petersburg at The experiment Sound Gallery and at the IFC Jazz Club during April last year. As before the trio reach new heights in wonderful free improvisation!


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WILLI KELLERS PAUL DUNMALL CLAYTON THOMAS FRANK PAUL SCHUBERT
Life in a Black Box [FMRCD382]

Great new improv from four of the masters , Paul Dunmall, Clayton Thomas, Frank Paul Schubert and ace drummer Willi Kellers, who propels the two sax front line with his usual power and energy!


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THOMAS HEBERER Cornet PASCAL NIGGENKEMPER Double bass
Miners Pick [FMRCD383]

Recorded in Brooklyn New York in Feb of this year, the duo produce an amazing variety considering its only two players. these are some of the fine young US artists excelling at free improv. Classy and subtle improvisations of excellent creative and fluid music


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Francois Carrier Michel lambert
iO [FMRCD384]

After their stunning two cds Live in Russia Vol 1 and 2, eloquent French Canadian saxophonist and drummer par excellence Michel Lambert excel yet again in 9 new improvisations recorded at Resonance studios in their home town of Montreal They are ever becoming a powerful and confident voice in the music!!


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Louis Moholo-Moholo Frode Gjerstad Nick Stevens Fred Lonberg Holm
Distant Groove [FMRCD385]

frode Gjerstad adds to his impressive catalogue on FMR with a terrific quartet album which includes regular fellow compatriots British Bassist Nik Stevens, with Norwegian cellist Fred Lunberg Holm and wonderful South African drummer Louis Moholo Moholo


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Frode Gjerstad Jon Rune Strom Paal Nilssen-Love
Miyazaki [FMRCD386]

Frode again this time with different long time fellow players the excellent drummer Paal Nilseen Love and bassist Jon Rune Strom Recorded on tour in Japan in Miyazaki Three great tracks from masters of the art form


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Peter Van Huffelel, Oliver Steidle, Andreas Willers
The Scrambling Ex [FMRCD387]

The Scrambling Ex, powerful trio featuring 3 major European improvisers!


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Tom Jackson Benedict Taylor Daniel Thompson
Hunt at the Brook [FMRCD389]

All three of these musicians are earning a reputation as wonderful improvisers. The lineup of clarinets with Guitar and Viola is a truly beautiful combination of sublte and moving sounds that mesh into mesmerising editions of truly creative contemporary music Its different, almost like a classical ensemble, the talent creativity and integrity of these musicians shines


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Chris Caldwell Susie Hodder-Williams Trevor Taylor
Unlimited the Sound Within [FMRCD390]

Following on from their critically acclaimed albums of Mariners Way & Northern Lights, Susie Hodder-Williams (flute/alto flute/piccolo) & Chris Caldwell (sop/alto sax & bass clarinet) join forces with the percussionist, experimental jazz drummer and contemporary music label owner of FMR Records, Trevor Taylor, for the musical exploration of The Sound Within FMR CD390-0115. If Mariners Way evoked the mythical journey of the ancient mariner across the moors of South West England, The Sound Within journeys to a place which is within all of us, totally familiar yet often overlooked, a place where insights are created. This is where the formless becomes form, through the process of being in the moment. The three musicians weave an improvisational tapestry responding to what's happening around them. Their individual thoughts creating their feelings and responses both through the texture, length and quality of the note they produce and the often overlooked power of stillness. The musicians here came along with an openness of not being tied to any formalised agendas or attachment to outcomes. Through this they touch the beauty of being truly free, a place where universal mind, personal thought and consciousness exist together in perfect harmony.


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Paul Dunmall Tony Bianco
Autumn [FMRCD392]

Paul Dunmall in another epic improv session this time in duo with the great American drummer Tony Bianco , now resident in the uk


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Marcelo dos Reis Luis Vincente Theo Ceccaldi Vlentin Ceccaldi
Chamber 4 [FMRCD393]

Recorded live on the first of three concerts that occurred in Lisbon, Coimbra and Porto, this fascinating combination of instruments results in this beautiful crafted music by Portuguese and French ensemble, Chamber 4, based in Lisbon and Paris. Acoustic guitar, violin with cello and some rich voices combining with an exquisite trumpet. These are incredible gems of improvisation, subtle, intelligent and very moving


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Chick lyall David Garrett
Green Room Concertante [FMRCD394]

Chick Lyall and David Garrett have worked together as improvisers since the 70's. At that time they had only the most primitive and paltry means at their disposal, an out of tune piano, various sound objects used as percussion and a range of household implements to create a ragbag of sonorities This new cd (their 3rd for FMR) contains wonderful but precarious balance between pre-prepared material, sequenced segments, lyrical piano interludes and minimalist debuted riffs in a shifting combination of electronic and acoustic instruments. Recommended!!!


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Frode Gjerstad Roger Turner Borre Molstad
Blood Samples The Cabinet Trio [FMRCD395]

Another step out for fascinating Norwegian saxophonist Frode Gjerstad this time on Alto Sax and Bb Clarinet alongside the unusual combination of ace drummer/ percussionist Roger Turner and fellow Norwegian tuba player Borre Molstad a rarified musical setting that provides exciting and creative playing from all , proving that on the contrary , unusual musical setting and combinations can often produce the most interesting music The cd was recorded at Cafe Mir in Oslo at the 'Blow Out' festival in 2013


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Malcolm Ball Kate Cuzner
NA Compos Mentis [FMRCD396]

Delightful and eclectic improvisations by Malcolm Ball using percussion and Ondes Martinot and Kate Cuzner on flutes , piano and live electronics


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Paul Dunmall Phillip Gibbs Alison Blunt Neil Metcalfe Hanna Marsh
I LOOK AT YOU [FMRCD397]

Paul Dunmall leads a highly stimulating session of almost classical improvisers ensemble The guitar of Philip Gibbs is balanced by the strings of Alison Blunt and Hanna Marsh, fast making big waves in the improvising circles with their musicality and creativeness All of this topped of with the serene sound of flute virtuoso Neil Metcalfe and off course Dunmall himself, ever omnipotent, providing the spark and trigger for these often ultra delicate excursions into sound this record is a milestone in just how good improvisers are, sounding often as if they played together every day and rehearsed for long periods difficult introverted written contemporary music, but no its all improvised . Fabulous music!!! that will these musicians reputation no harm at all. The sting players are are stunningly good and add so much to the music!


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Billy Hart, Eddie Henderson & Chris Sullivan with Bob Gluck
INFINITE SPIRIT [FMRCD398]

'Infinite Search' is Bob Glucks 4th album for FMRfollowing 'Sideways', 'Returning' and 'Something Quiet' An exciting exploration of the musical vocabulary and searching spirit that inspired Herbie Hancocks seminal sextet, the Mwandishi band. This new quartet of jazz explorers includes two musical masters from the original ensemble. The musical performances sparkle with a plenitude of sonic colors and textures, robust grooves, melodic lyricism, and collective musical intuition


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Michael Dymny Vasco Trilla
CAVE CANEM [FMRCD399]

This powerful duo emerged in Krakow from a colaboration of Discordian Records (Barcelona based label) with some Polish improvisers As a result , the duo played a few gigs in Poland and Spain, toured Europe and recorded an album entitled Cave Canem . The cd features saxophonist Paulina Owczarek as a special guest and was recorded by master Rafal Drewniany in Alchemia ,Krakow. Michał Dymny is an improvising musician, playing the electric guitar. He has developed an individual style based on sonoristic techniques and instrument preparations that he applies in free improvisation. He has participated in a number of events organized by the Krakow-based group Improvising Artists, as well as in projects known as Entropy and Process Laboratory of Intuition. Vasco Trilla just doesnt stop moving, from one sound to the next, his economy of motion is almost as impressive as the sounds he makes. At one point, he bends low, blowing through the hole in a cymbal resting on the drum before him so hard as to lift it momentarily while simultaneously detuning the drumhead; the resulting vibration fills the room. Vasco Trilla is theclockwork alchemist of percussion.Dave Foxall


Hugh Davies
Interplay [FMRCD39-V0697]

Born in 1943 Hugh Davies has been a leading light on the British Music scene for 30 years, not only as one of the major forces in early British improvised music but also as a composer, inventor of musical instruments and founder of the Electronic music studio at Goldsmith college, university of London.This recording is a wonderful documentation of his activities in improvised music containing new solo material, duos with trombonist Hilary Jeffery and Max Eastley, and trios with his his long standing group with Roger Turner and John Russell


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FRANCOIS CARRIER STEVE BERESFORD MICHEL LAMBERT JOHN EDWARDS
OUTGOING [FMRCD400]

Now forming an impressive collection on FMR (previous cds included Kathmandu, All out, Shores and Ditches, IO , and the Russian concerts in 2 releases), OUTGOING was recorded on tour in Europe. The music here recorded at one concert at londons Vortex club in May 2014 The mainstay are Canadian Musicians saxophonist Francois Carrier and drummer Michel Lambert with British bass player extraordinare John Edwards and legend Steve Beresford piano added to the already wonderful ensemble brimming with talent and creativeness!


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Frode Gjestad saxophone with Monkey Plot
MONKEY PLOT AND FRODE GJERSTAD [FMRCD401]

Recorded by Frode Gjerstad at a play with the young Norwegian members of the quartet, Monkey Plot, who play incredibly quiet and sensitive improvisations The outcome is startlingly fascinating music of great depth and tension A marriage made in heaven and yet another step in Frodes wonderful musical journey


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Paul Dunmall John Edwards Tony Marsh
TO BE REAL [FMRCD402]

Doyens of this music will know that Tony Marsh passed away a few years ago now, and this was one of his last recordings. A much loved drummer percussionist of supreme talent and the backbone of many ensembles. Consisting of 4 tracks the first was recorded live at the Vortex in London in 2010 by Gus Gusseti, whilst the the remaining 4 where recorded in the studios of the University of England in Bristol in 2007, With none of this music previously released we are lucky this great trio (that also boasts the incredible bass player John Edwards) can be heard at their peak.


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Parnassia Palustris
UDO SCHINDLER FRANK PAUL SCHUBERT [FMRCD403]

Parnassia Palustris takes its name from a form of grass A perennial, shortly rhizomatous herb of base-rich flushes in short grasslands Recorded at the 51st 'Salon Klang and kunst in krailling. Munich, Germany in Jan 2015 , the music features only the improvisations of two saxophonists playing only soprano saxophones Udo Schindler and Frank Paul Schubert. An encounter full of rewarding contrasts! The two musicians play often very differently, but this makes it all the more interesting in their often conflicting ideas


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Dialogues for Ornette!
TREVOR WATTS VERYAN WESTON [FMRCD404]

This tribute to Ornette Colman, consists of to separate recordings. The first recorded at the Bim Huis in Amsterdam on the 13th of June this year, consists of a live recording of 3 pieces Although recorded live, the sound is excellent and the duo engage on an enduring and fast moving landscape of music . having played together so much their empathy is fast, exciting and engaging! The second recording consisting of two improvisations was made while on tour recently in rio De Janerio and although a different kind of venue both players reach great heights of improvisation creativity


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JOAO PAULO ESTVES DA SILVER NELSO CASCAIS JOAO LANCASTRE
NO PROJECT TRIO [FMRCD405]

NO PROJECT TRIO is a Portuguese free improvisation trio, They don't compose in advance, just meet in a risky and paradoxical world where composition coincides with playing and rehearsals with studio or public sessions. To let the music flow out at the moment is their only project, a no project , in fact , but never the less , a project! And what a project , 8 improvisations of great passion, pathos and often sublime introspection All musicians Joao Paulo Esteves Da Silva on piano, Nelson Cascais on bass and wonderful drummer Joao Lencastre aqquit themselves with high distinction. Music and great Improvisation knows no borders, only ears eager to capture these sublime creations. Highly Recommended!


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Paul Dunmall Phillip Gibbs Trevor Taylor
CIRCUIT ELCTRO ACOUSTIC ENSEMBLE [FMRCD406]

The three musketeers meet again for yet anther tussle of the sound titans! This is the 7th cd by the ensemble that has no fixed personnel, and whose members are only interested in using state of the art electronics as part of their weopandy, a group started and largely curated by Taylor a long time lover of electro music and improvisation its also interesting in that for the first time Paul Dunmall uses (to great effect) an electronic wind instrument the WX11, capable of the most amazing sounds and octave stretches when in the hands of a musician with ultra sense of musical integrity Attibutes Dunmall has in droves!! Hes also at his best here acting as a foil for Gibbs rich guitar tapestries and Taylors large percussion setup and electronic mallet keyboard soundscape, always creative wether on the WX11 as here or also on flute and saxophone on other of the 5 engrossing tracks!


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Stefan Keune Paul Lovens
Live 2013 [FMRCD407]

3 Great new improvisations from ace improvisers , Keune and Lovens recorded in 3 three locations around Europe! Stefan Keune and Paul Lovens have been working together in various ensembles since the early nineties ,. In 2013 they had the opportunity to perform as a duo, the results were these are these fabulous recordings


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Paul Dunmall Phillip Gibbs Ashley John Long
NOW HAS NO DIMENSION [FMRCD408]

fantastic new improvisations recorded in Cardiff and introducing a major new and wonderful voice on FMR , bassist Ashley John Long! nothing more can be said part from just sit down and listen!


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Paul Dunmall Phillip Gibbs Ashley John Long Trevor Taylor
CARDIFF [FMRCD409]

Recorded in Cardiff School of music on the 13th of Feb 2016 this cd contains wonderful improvisations of both electronic and pure acoustic nature and introduces a major new voice in the music, the wonderful virtuosic playing of bassist Ashley Long who shines on the 5 tracks


The Amazing Band
Roar [FMRCD40-L0797]

Unearthed during research for the book "Wrong Movements - a Robert Wyatt History" this CD contains two pieces that were originally recorded for l.p. release in 1970. Although Amazing Band never had a recording issued during their time, they did perform frequently during the 60s/70s and were broadcast by the BBC on two occasions in 1970 and 1979. A must for Robert Wyatt devotees, we must not overlook the valuable input from the rest of the group - especially Mick Brannan and the late Mal Dean, and his wonderful cartoons , also published in the booklet.


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Frode Gjerstad Fabiana Galante Luis Conde
Give and Take [FMRCD410]

the results of another of Frode Gjerstads South American trips, this time with Luis Conde again but joined by the wonderful Fabiana Galante


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John Bacon Jonathan Golove Esin Gunduz Michael McNeill
resonance MIGRATION [FMRCD411]

Somewhat a departure for FMR this music was recorded at the University of Buffalo New York state in 2014, and features the original music of the American based group ResAUance. Many of the pieces have a Turkish flavour. which can be ascertained from the titles such as Kizilciklar Oldu Mu , Bir Firtina, and are based on Turkish folk songs however much of the music is Jazz based in feel, with plenty of improvisation from an ensemble of very competent players! refreshing and original using an unusual combination of piano,Vibes, voice, cello, drums/percussion


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Frode Gjerstad Ramiro Molina
Unseen Seas [FMRCD412]

I first met Ramiro Molina in 2013. I was touring in South- America with my trio and Ramiro helped me setting up some gigs in Chile. After our arrival, he took us to the fish market and I had some of the most beautiful fish dishes in my life - so sim- ple and so tasty! That was my main reason for wanting to go back. the fish market. Ramiro invited my back in September of 2015. I did a workshop there and we played some gigs together as well as recorded the music for this CD. It is great to meet someone on the other side of the globe and to be able to play in a meaningful way after only a few minutes. Thanks for a very nice stay in your house and for the music! Frode Gjerstad


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Rob Hall Chick Lyall
Myth [FMRCD413]

Scottish duo of Rob Hall (Saxophones, clarinet )& Chick Lyall (piano)has developed a highly distinctive musical language and identity. Their music is informed by a very wide range of genres from Baroque chamber music to free jazz, contemporary classical and folk idioms, connecting with the broader European music tradition though often articulated with an American attitude. The central thread through all their work is the intense musical dialogue that they are capable of building between them. MYTH is the fifth release by the duo for the FMR label. As with previous albums, MYTH explores a variety of approaches ranging from Jazz to 20th cen- tury classical composition and freely improvised interludes, the centrepiece of which is a suite of music written by the Greek composer and conductor Giannis Konstantinidis. Originally grouped as a set of 44 Miniatures for Piano, 12 are performed here with extended improvisations


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Trevor Watts Stephen Grew
Confluent [FMRCD414]

This exuberance that bursts out like tropical juices. In front of our instru- ments and within a few seconds, somehow the music unfolds in a particular way and you follow that to the ends of the earth. The pieces were improvised in a series of unusual stages. Trevor and I first performed in London last September, we liked what happened and Trevor suggested making music at a distance, especially as I was living on the west coast of Lancashire and he on the south coast. Trevor then suggested I send him some solo piano music. The solo piano pieces were material from a solo recording I did with Charlie Mc Govern at the Lit & Phil in Newcastle, an excellent venue with a really nice Kawai B, grand piano. Charlie then sent the solo music which has since become a solo album and Trevor improvised his lines over the top of the pieces, as we didn't have quite enough material for a whole album, I then returned to Newcastle to record a live gig in May 2015, Trevor worked his magic on the remaining material, consequently the music was pieced together to form this album. The first three tracks having a slightly different feel, not surprisingly to the last three tracks


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PAUL DUNMALL Wx11 wind synthesizer PHILLIP GIBBS. Guitar
Electrosonics [FMRCD415]

Long time musical compatriots embark on a journey of pure electronic sound This is the first time Paul has recorded exclusively with the wind synth (a Yamah WX11) and along with the electric guitar they produce nine tracks of outstanding creative music!


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Udo Schindler Marco Von Orelli
LUFT.SPIELE [FMRCD416]

Udo Schindler's second cd for FMR features the trumpeter Marco von Orelli as well as Udo himself playing Soprano and Tenor saxophone. But also (and rarely seen in woodwind players) he also plays the cornet What follows are 9 great improvisations recorded in Sept 2015, at the 58th Salon for Klang+Kunst in Munch


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Vasco Trilla prepared drums and assorted percussion
RAINBOW SERPENT [FMRCD417]

Vasco is really one of the modern masters of a new 'free' approach to drum set and percussion Defying the accepted conventions of speed, and 'flashy' drum set playing, making an incredible musical statement. Taking us through myriad of tones and emotions along a varied and tonally hybrid journey. A must have for all drum set players who want to add something a little different to their sound world!


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PAUL DUNMALL LIAM NOBLE JOHN EDWARDS MARK SANDERS
Chords of Connection [FMRCD419]

Recorded at Birmingham University in Jan 2016 and mixed by Simon Hall, these three tracks show unequivocally Pul Dunmalls statue as Saxophonist supreme,alongside an ensemble also full of virtuosos The front cover also features another of his creative streams, art and shows one of his recent abstract lino cuts theres little to say about the music anther than its strong , creative and utterly compelling


John Law
The Hours [FMRCD41-V0697]

This completes John Laws well received solo piano trilogy, like the previous recordings The Hours has been based on plainchant, this in particular from the Liber Usualis. "Finding common plainchants for the hours three and five and for the hours four and six I tried listening to the sound of each chant, to give each Hour a different feel/texture which I then explored in that movement; and I planned the textures so that they would give rise to a strong overall structure. In a way I planned the whole work as a composition though, in effect, almost all the actual detail was freely improvised" John Law


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SONIFICATIONS [FMRCD420]

Not Available

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Mia Zabelka Nicola Hein
THE HONEY PUMP [FMRCD421]

This duo from Vienna and Cologne plays free improvised music. The music is created in the moment, without previously agreed concepts or compositions. Beside the pleasure in free improvisation itself, a further strong basis the musicians share is the process of extending traditional instrumental techniques (both with and without preparation and tools), with which the group creates dense but dynamic sonic landscapes with significant room for silence. The heterogeneous instrumentation - string instruments, whether plucked or bowed - provides an enormous acoustic field of potential; nonetheless, it is not always clear which instrument is the source of the sound heard at a given moment.


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Ntschuks Bonga Andy Champion Cory Mwamba
PAPERSTONE SUITE [FMRCD422]

The Bonga/Champion/Mwamba Trio was formed in the summer of 2012. At the time Ntshuks was in Newcastle on tour with the RSC and approached Paul Bream of Jazz North East about the possibility of playing whilst in town. Ntshuks suggested asking Corey to play and Paul suggested Andy Champion as the third member of the group. Corey & Andy have a long and varied musical history, and Ntshuks and Corey played as part of Orphy Robinsons Spontaneous Cosmic Raw Xtra, as well as in Coreys own group, Heralds. Paul programmed the trio to appear at the Very Long Splinter end of season concert at the Bridge Hotel. The musical rapport was instantaneous and each subse- quent meeting has been explosive. The trio appeared at the Gateshead International Festival in 2013, supporting the Louis Moholo-Moholo / Alexander Hawkins Duo. The music on this CD was recorded at the Paperstone Studios in Nottingham in Nov 2013. The trio spent a day playing in a beautiful room performing a series of improvisations that form the Paperstone Suite parts I-VII.


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CHRIS CUNDY : GUSTAV LOST
Fyfe Dangerfield, Mat Martin, HHannah Marshall, Dominic Lash, Mark Sanders, and Chris Cundy [FMRCD423]

For several years now bass clarinettist Chris Cundy has kept a steady recording output that represents mainly free improvisation and experimental music, but hes also worked as an arranger and accompanist alongside a string of alt-pop artists including Little Annie, Ladan Hussein (aka Cold Specks), Baby Dee, Devon Sproule, and Fyfe Dangerfield. There have also been pictorial soundtracks made in collaboration with the electronica group Longstone and he has produced music for theatre. With Gustav Lost ( a play on the composer Gustav Holst perhaps?) he presents an album of instrumentals played by an ensemble who take on a broad range of Cundys musical ideas, while allowing a spontaneity of its own.


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Ramiro Molina Luis Conde Nicolas Rios Bateria
RULEMARES [FMRCD424]

In this work there isi a common territory of sounds. It could be like an imaginary landscape map, created by walks, talks, learning and playing together through night and days of to big lands with the desert in between. The music score for this kind of work doesn't exist. Therefore, the only thing that we know so far, is that there is a long way form one Housed door to the other


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Francois Carrier Michel Lambert Alecy Lampin
FREDOM IS SPACE FOR THE SPIRIT [FMRCD425]

5 new sparkling improvisations from their European tour recorded live at Experimental Sound Gallery in St Petersburg Russia in may 2014!


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ED GAUDEN MARK HANSLIP
And how the who can think the what..... [FMRCD426]

This is the third outing on CD from Mark Hanslip and Ed Gauden, but the first for FMR. This time as a duo The pair were originally billed to play a concert as a trio with a pianist, who had to drop out at the last minute, forcing the two remaining musicians to do a duo set. They enjoyed it very much, and felt it was good enough to get their duo on tape, so they went into the studio and this is the result


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Onno Gevaert Marcelo dos Reis Luis Vincente Krisdtjan Martinsson
INLAYERS [FMRCD427]

Tantalising improvisations from a great and eclectic group of Portugals very best improvisers Luis Vicente and Marcelo will be well known by FMR followers Recorded in Amsterdam in April last year the cover of the cd is a wonderful piece of art by chris Ripken that gives the album its title 'Inlayer' The group features Onno Gevaert on drums, Marcelo dos Reis acoustic guitar , Luis Vicente on trumpet and Kristjan Martinson on piano the titles of the tracks are Glaze, Fresco, Varnish, Tempera, Pentimenti, Underdrawing


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Paul Dunmall Quintet
DREAMTIME [FMRCD428]

This gig was part of a very short three-date tour, assembled by Birmingham promoter Tony Dudley-Evans. Saxophonist Paul Dunmall's free jazz and improvising eminence has now cloaked the entire globe, so his regular Stateside tours have helped forge relationships with some of his finest American counterparts. The Chicagoan drummer Hamid Drake is one of these sonic allies, and a further collaboration between the pair is destined for natural success, both of them being powerful and thoughtful in equal proportions. Dunmall has penned an extended work for this gig in the intimate, and very nearly sold out Hexagon Theatre, The Dreamtime Suite retaining a free- form mien even though set within a pre-determined structure.


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Frode Gjerstad Alvin Fielder Damon Smith
THE SHAPE FINDS ITS OWN WAY [FMRCD429]

This trio happened at the No Idea festival in Austin, Texas, February 2016, as an ad hoc combination. I came to Austin with a flu, and felt while playing, I was unable to get any decent sound out of my horn. I was really struggling! I was quite surprised when I heard the recording. Which to me sounds good! Damon and Alvin have played together for some time. I knew Damon a little bit, but I never even met Alvin before. I knew he was a very early member of the AACM in Chicago when they first started and he played with the people that we all know about. He is a historic person. Damon is a bassplayer who has worked with a lot of important European and US improvisers and so have I. Frode Gjerstad


The Jazz Percussion Quintet
All Bluff and Porterage II [FMRCD42-E0697]

Formed by Chris Baron, the culmination of a long term desire for a truly versatile but practical ensemble, with a wide repertoire of world percussion compositions as well as commissioned and original works by the group members. Featuring some of the finest percussionists in the UK scene, with a collective experience second to none, the members have encompassed rock, jazz, classical and world music and unlike many percussion ensembles have quite deliberately limited their sound palette to develop a unique disciplined sound and style.


Kelvin Christiane
Salute the Sun [FMRCD43]

Saxophonist Christiane has an enchanting way about his playing and this collection of self penned jazz. Kelvin brings together some of his favourite musicians, and is another of Britains up and coming jazz musicians to prove that local talent is not hard to come by.Watch this name as one of he new tenor Lions.


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Evan Parker John Russell Ian Brighton Philipp Wachsmann Marcio Mattos Trevor Taylor
Reunion at Cafe Uno [FMRCD430]

On August 14th 2016 Cafe Oto staged a reunion of a group of old friends , the group Stringthing featuring Ian Brighton Electric Guitar, Philip Wachsmann Violin, Trevor Taylor Percussion and electronics and Marcio Matttos cello , with Evan Parker saxophone and john Russell acoustic guitar String thing had not recorded through circumstances since 1988 when they recorded 'Eleven years from Yesterday (FMR02) Coincidently only the second cd in the FMR catalogue


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Bernd Reincke John Hughes Chad Popple
Play the trio [FMRCD431]

Reincke//Hughes//Popple focus on the music of "The Trio" and thus the compositions of John Surman, Barre Phillips and Stu Martin. Formed in 1969, The Trio" was one of the most original and inspirational European or European-based bands (Martin and Phillips were American expatriates), whose music has unjustly been forgotten. Their compositions are often short and varied, generally setting specific parameters of rhythm, dynamics, or harmonic lattices. Reincke//Hughes//Popple provide their own original interpretations, using the tunes as a springboard for powerful swinging moments, free improvisations, sizzling duets and unexpected energy explosions. 



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IKEBANA Reinhold fried Hannes Strobl Elena Kakaliagou Nora Kraal
P.O.P. Psychology of perception [FMRCD432]

Fascinating drone music from this interesting German ensemble ! ikebana takes its name from the tradition of Japanese flower arranging which dates back to the 7th century. The 8 track names are related to this such as Shoka, Rikka, Nigeria and Morimono


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Ashley John Long double bass
PSI [FMRCD434]

Fabulous improvisations by the new virtuoso bass player and his premier release!!!


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PAUL DUNMALL JOHN EDWARDS JOHN EDWARDS LIAM NOBLE
Go Straight around the square [FMRCD435]

yet another outing for FMR stalwart Paul Dunmall, this one was recorded last year at the Vortex live, hence its title Just go straight round the square His fellow cahoots for this spirited outing including top players on the scene, John Edwards, Mark Sanders and the wonderful pianist Liam Noble Pauls also a pationatte painter and engraver and choose this wood engraving Quad Two by Peter Lawrence


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PAUL DUNMALL. ASHLEY JOHN LONG TREVOR TAYLOR PHILIPP WACHSMANN
CIRCUIT [FMRCD436]

CIRCUIT ELECTRO ACOUSTIC ENSEMBLE with PAUL DUNMALL / PHILIPP WACHSMANN / ASHLEY JOHN LONG / TREVOR TAYLOR - December (FMR 601-0221; UK) Masters at work here, make no bones about it. Individually and collectively, these four veterans of the British improv scene are responsible for some of the most thought-provoking, challenging, and damned-well involving music to inhabit its respective genre, however much said genre migrates, mutates, and morphs.


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EDWARDS MAGLIOCCHI METCALFE NORTHOVER THOMPSON
Runcible Quintet [FMRCD437]

They dined on mince, and slice of quince, which they ate with a runcible spoon, and hand in hand, on the edge of the sand, they danced by the light of the moon (from the owl and the Pussy cat (1871) by Edward Lear the music here was recorded at Iklectik on 18th April 2016


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WRAITH ISLAND [FMRCD439]

Not Available

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UDO SCHINDELR OVE VOLQUARTZ
Answers and maybe a question [FMRCD440]

Making music on the same instruments in a duo, could have turned out as boring. Usually in this setting, musicians will move in a fairly limited sonic space. Not so with ad hoc improvisation. As for the possibilities of sound generation, this field knows virtually no boundaries The duo by no means stuck to the lower register. Bass and contrabass clarinets have a large range and are able to reach extremely high pitches in skillful hands. Additionally, a freely improvised approach can resort to overtones that, within the scope of the Salon in Krailling, were at times blasted out in strident attacks. By this means, Volquartz and Schindler were able to supply their musical dispute with the intonations of spoken language and strong emotional fervor... A musical experience full of warmth and surprise!


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Robert Burke George Lewis Paul Grabowsky Mark Hellias
SHIFT [FMRCD441]

The music on this CD (their first on FMR) is the result four great musicians - Burke, Lewis, Grabowsky and Helias- with a background in Jazz coming together to experiment and create music without the need for critics approval either from institutional oversight or industry-enformed norms and prerequisites. And because each is free to express himself asa collaborating individual without genre based limitation, the music they create is free music


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VASCO TRILLA SZILARD MERZEI MARINA DZUKIJIEV
If You Still [FMRCD442]

Surprising and tantalising improvisations of wide ranging creativity from three great players, Szilard Merzei on viola and Marina Dzukijev on piano , led by the irrepressible and wonderful drummer Vasco Trilla, his third album for FMR. With this combination you don't know what to expect, chamber music?, sombre quiet introverted? none of it!


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Peter Urpeth Silence Ensemble
SPEECH John Cage [FMRCD443]

Great news for fans of wonderful composer John Cage! A new release by the Silence ensemble led by pianist Peter Urpeth featuring three pieces all featuring radio. Radio Music (for 1-8 performers)(1956) Imaginary Landscape No 5 for any 42 recordings (1952) and Speech for 5 radios with news reader (1955) with the news read by John Cavanagh. members of this recording include Peter Urpeth who directs Stuart Wilding, Gerry Loose, Jon Macleod, and John Cavanagh


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Francois Carrier Michel Lambert
ONENESS [FMRCD444]

'Oneness' is the dynamic Canadians latest release Francois says There are moments when everything flows. When it occurs , one disappears . No more thoughts, no more image, no more anything. Travelling is fascinating, especially when playing music. Michel, Rafal and i gathered at Alchemia Klub on the afternoon of May 25th, 2015 for this session The previous night we were playing in front of an audience at the same place and the recording of this concert 'The Joy Of Being was released in December 2016. I don't have much memories of the music but I remember the feeling, I ws sick and It took all my energy to take care of a bad fever. What strikes me the most is the resonance. As if we were possessed by a higher source of energy. I am speechless. I can't describe to speak about music. Al I can really do is play


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PEDRA CONTIDA
Amethyst [FMRCD445]

Recorded live in concert by Jose Martins on November 2016 this new recording by Portuguese group Pedra Contida features five tracks, Scree, Chalk Agate, Obsidian, Touchstone titled Amethyst the group has an eclectic line up of Harp, Alto saxophone, computer,electric guitar and drums and produce the wonderful thoughtful and creative improvisation we have come to expect With familiar names like Marcelo Dos Reis and Joao Pais Phili[e etc the music will not


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PAUL DUNMAL MATHEW SHIPP JOHN EDWARDS MARK SANDERS
Live in London [FMRCD446]

The 'A' team this time with terrific pianist Mathew Ship play two extraordinary sets at Londons Cafe Oto in Feb 2010 and never released till now!!


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Crux Trio MARK HANSLIP COLIN SOMERVELL ED GAUDEN
Believe [FMRCD447]

The second cd for FMR, Believe contains 8 tracks recorded at Oak Farm with excellent improvisations from leader Ed Gauden on drums, Colin Somervell on bass and saxophonist Mark Hayslip, now a trio after their duo previous release. Crux Trio takes is name from the idea that we keep trying to achieve something that can't be mastered for rewarded. Crux the latin word for cross and the crux or important part of an issue


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DANNY KAMINS DAMON SMITH ALVIN FIELDER JOE HERTENSTEIN
After Effects [FMRCD448]

These four great American improvisers present wonderful Free Improvised Music
! The wonderful Front cover painting by Jerome Bryerton, oil on canvas and the music was recorded and mastered at Sugarhill Studios in Houstan Texas on April 1st 2016 by Jonathan Chan
Mixed and mastered by Jonathan Chan Check it out!


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STEVE BERESFORD TREVOR TAYLOR IAN BRIGHTON
Kontakte Trio [FMRCD449]

The Kontakte Trio ( Beresford , Brighton and Taylor) evolved from one FMR's 30th year anniversary recording sessions at the Toni Visconti studio in Kingston University earlier this year. Taylor and Brighton had been playing together since the early 70's yet never had the opportunity to work with pianist and electronics improviser Steve Beresford. The primary objective as a trio was to explore their common interests in the electronics aspect of improvised music as well as that of the acoustic instrumentation. The recorded output, they feel, is uncompromising and surprising.


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LAWRENCE CASSERELY VIV CORRINGHAM
Anemoi [FMRCD450]

Viv and Lawrence have worked together since the 1990s, in Colourscape and various other venues. In April, 2014 they spent a day with ace record- ing engineer Matt Saunders in the wonderful environment of Piggotts in Buckinghamshire. It was so quiet that the subtle suggestions of life around them, from a bee to a passing light aircraft, simply became part of the performance. In ancient Greek myth, the Anemoi (Greek: Ανεμοι "Winds") were wind gods who were associated with various seasons and weather conditions. They were sometimes represented as mere gusts of wind, were personi- fied as winged men, or depicted as horses kept in the stables of the storm god Aeolus, who provided Odysseus with the Anemoi in the Odyssey. We have named our tracks after winds from other cultures as well as the Greek. They form a compass rose of winds from around the world.


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Jose Lancastre NAU QUARTET
Fragments of Always [FMRCD451]

beautifully haunting improvisations played by the cream of Portugals improvisors, Rodrigo Pinheiro on piano, Hernani Faustino on bass , Jose Lancastre Alto Sax and led by wonderful drummer Joao Lancastre The 6 Aphorisms as a suite of many musical directions was recorded on 18th December 2016 at Timbuktu studios in Portugal. Wonderfully inventive free improv group that has its own special 'Sound' lyrical but busy and inventive


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Schindler Kolb. Tramontana
MUNICH RAT PACK [FMRCD454]

Spontaneous, accidental, uncalculated, surprising, unheard-of ...All this and much more applies to improvised music! As in life, the unexpected cannot be ruled out.
But sometimes even everyday situations call for improvisation.
As part of the soundart series Akustronik at the Knstlerhaus Streitfeld in Munich, curated by Rainald Schwarz and myself, I had planned a trio with brass player Philipp Kolb and a guitarist with electronics equipment for the performance #5 on 31 May 2014. On the mornig of the gig, the electronics partner, resoundingly and painfully, canceled his participation. Hectic calls around of course failed to find a suitable replacement. Always willing and motivated, Sebastiano Tramontana, our Italian trombone poet living in Munich, stepped in. However, in a guaranteed ACOUSTIC fashion. To meet curatorial guidelines, Philipp Kolb and I spontaneously activated our electric/electronic equipments, complementing the acoustic instruments.


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Francois Carrier Michel Lambert
OUT OF SILENCE [FMRCD455]

Freeley improvised music from the masterful duo of Canadian Saxophonist Francois Carrier and Drummer/percussionist. Michel Lambert, performing live at Ryans bar in Stoke Newington, London in 2015. seven tracks showing great depth and discussion between the two long standing collaborators , supporting and pushing each other to great heights!!


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Szilard Mezei. Tim Trevor Briscoe. Nicola Guazzaloca
EXUVIA [FMRCD456]

Great release from Slovenian violist. Szilar Mezei along with Tim Trevor Briscoe on alto and tenor sax and Nicola Guazzaloca. Very interesting and quirky compositions combined with excellent and gutsy improvisation highly recommended


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Udo Schindler Dine Done Johannes. Ollinger
WATERWAY [FMRCD457]

A live recording from November 20th 2015, this music was recorded at the Pollat Pavilion Munich and features the trio of Udo Schnldler clarinets, saxophones , cornet, euphonium with Johannes Ollinger amplified acoustic guitar and toys and Dine Done on double bass, water-heone and toys, as part of Udo Schindlers Salon for Klang Kunst Exceptional improvisations by seasoned improviser on the vibrant Berlin scene!


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GLASGOW IMPOROVISERS ORCHESTRA
THE WORD FOR IT NOW [FMRCD458]

A great new release from GIO featuring two main pieces. 'Bit in the air' is a collaboration with GIO and artist Cath Keay whilst A peculiar slumber 1 (For whichever Angle) A peculiar slumber (Near and Remote) is a response by GIOs Graeme Wilson to theatricality of the CGA Spain when the ensemble rehearse


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Alan Tomlinson. Dave Tucker. Phillip marks
OUT AND OUT [FMRCD459]

Recorded at various locations including the Lamp Tavern Birmingham, Lancaster, London and the Harwich festival, Our and Out documents the tremendous power and intensity of this groups improvisations


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ON THE SHORE OF DREAMS [FMRCD461]

Not Available

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Frode Gjerstad. Fred Lonberg Holm
THE HOUDEN [FMRCD462]

The Houdan is a title taken from this 4 track CD recorded at the Kongsberg Festivalin July 2017 and the engaging front picture on the cd (by Peter Ganusrshkinn) shows Frode with one of his long time musician compatriots Fred Longberg Holm playing Cello and electronics


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Paul Dunmall. Percy Pursglove. Tony Orell
Nothing in Stone [FMRCD463]

Great new session by the incredible Paul Dunmall, this time with Percy Pursglove doubling bass and Trumpet and Tony Orell. on drums , percussion Recorded at Jazz at the Fringe, Bristol, 13th September 2017. Recorded, mixed, mastered by Chris Trent. Special thanks to Jon Taylor. Photographs Jon Taylor. Front cover artwork by Trevor Taylor (3 Musicians after Picasso)


Carlos Godinho Luis Vicente Jan Daelman Thijs Troch. Nils Vermeulen Elias Devoldere
KABAS+VICENTE. LIVE AT SMUP [FMRCD466]

its a long time since FMR put out a double album, but its worth the wait with these two separate recordings, one at SMUP and the other featuring NEGEN (KABAS plus Luis Vicente)


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PETER KUHN KYLE MOTL NATHAN HUBBARD
Intention [FMRCD467]

The Peter Kuhn Trio is back with Intention, in this exciting new release on FMR Records. In this music, Kuhn, Motl, and Hubbard display an ever-deepening rapport and nuanced communication that reflects their clear commitment to musical excellence as individuals and a working trio


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ELAINE EDWARDS JAMIES HARRIS. KEN EDWARDS
Triality [FMRCD468]

AFRIT NEBULA takes elements of avant-jazz, rock, Middle Eastern and Afro-Cuban sounds to forge a distinctive musical identity. The trios nine-track debut album,Triality, to be released on the FMR label this month, showcases eight original compositions ranging from the haunting to the incendiary. AFRIT NEBULA features Elaine Edwards (tenor & soprano saxes, flute, keyboards), Ken Edwards (fretless bass guitar, vocals), and Jamie Harris (percussion, vocals).


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The Dinner Party [FMRCD469]

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G.P.Hall
Mar-Del-Plata [FMRCD46-V0997]

The second release to feature the unique guitar capabilities of G.P. Hall. Although Halls improvisation techniques are highly evolved, he doesnt rely on them as a means to an end, preferring to enhance them through the use of composition. Contained on this c.d. is one of Halls finest moments, at twenty five minutes long "The Estates" is an attack on the establishments preference to erect new towns, in the process destroying age old communities. The piece is scored for guitars, two piano frames, percussion, bass and clarinet. The remainder of the disc is full of some truly beautiful musicianship.


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Billiana Voutchkova vioin Alexancder Frangenheim double bass Antonis Anissegos piano
FROST BURNING [FMRCD470]

The front cover of this great new cd is by the excellent photographer by Nicholas Hughes and titled Aspects (verse II) 4 (2012) and the music too is no less rewarding. Recorded by Antonio Pulli in Berlin in Feb 2016 it was missed and mastered by Alexander Frangenheim and Dietrich Petzold.tonus, Marcus, in March 2017 its music of great excitement and virtuosic playing Three internationally renowned protagonists of the experimental music field explore together various new ways of musical ad hoc. They investigate different forms of improvisation such as following or resisting the creative impulse, relaying on flow and the extremes of it, manipulating or ignoring the sense of timing, spontaneously changing solo-duo-tutti configurations as well as a three-voiced continuous perfect counterpoint depending on musical parameters like density, fluctuating tempi or sound-noise-conglomerates. The trio uses and creates extremely personal original musical language. This is their first album.


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SOUND ENERGY TRANSFORMATION
Udo Schindler Krhan Erle Sebastiano Tramontana.  [FMRCD471]

great set of high quality improvisation continues Udo SchIndlers recent work on FMR!


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Paul Dunmall. Frank Paul Schubert. Sebatsiano Dessanay. Jim Bashford
Sign of the Times [FMRCD472]

Recorded at the Lamp Tavern Birmingham, 10/10/2017. and Recorded, mixed Matthew O'Malley. This wonderful improvisation features 3 tracks 'Sign of the times', Talior' and 'Blues in the colour on my beloved' Wood engraving Paul Dunmall. Produced for FMR by Trevor Taylor.


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CHRIS CALDWELL. GRAEME BLEVINS. PETER WYMAN. TIM HOLMES Bowie, Berlin and Beyond
Delta Saxophone Quartet [FMRCD473]

Great new release from the DELTA saxophone quartet, featuring 14 tracks , a mix of the imaginary footsteps of David Bowie and his Berlin years The music here explores and revisits the period when Bowie experimented with the ambient world of Brian Eno, free improvisation , and the minimalist works of classical composer Phillip Glass


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Cink [FMRCD474]

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JASNA JOVICEVIC SEXTET
FLOW VERTICAL [FMRCD475]

Flow vertical is a research of sound vibrations though music, and its direct impact on our body, mind, and enegy. I explore certain sound freqyuencies through creative process, conceptually dividing seven compositions according to seven main psychic centres in the human body - from Mooladhara t0 Sahasrara charka. We all travelled this journey together , leaving our own prints with love and blessing. Jasna


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Paul Dunmall John O'Gallagher John Edwards Mark Sanders
FREEDOM MUSIC [FMRCD476]

esis a recording of a great gig at the Mac Birmingham, with the dream rhythm section of Edwards and Sanders , the master Dunmall and the wonderful American saxophonist John O'Gallagher!


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Francois Carrier Michel Lambert Rafal Mazur
BEYOND DIMENSIONS [FMRCD477]

Music recorded by Francois Carrier saxophone, Michel Lambert drums and Rafal Mazur live at Aethernatv ,Timisoara, Romania on May 26th 2016 as part of their 2016 Europen tour


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Peter Kuhn Alex. Cline. Dan Clucas. Dave Sewelson Scott Walton
Dependent Origination [FMRCD478]

3 great tracks Aspiration, The Nibble, The Way Out, Recorded live at the Open Gate Theatre Sunday evening concerts series, Center for the Arts, Eagle Rock, CA, 6 November 2016 The second release for American Peter Kuhn on FMR leading on clarinet and Bb Clarinet, saxophone and bass clarinet We are very happy to introducen this great new voice to FMRs catalogue Outstanding and gutsy improvisation of high order!


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HAJNALI APN [FMRCD479]

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Jon Lloyd Sextet
Praxis [FMRCD47-V0198]

Jon Lloyd is probably best known for his work with his own quartet, which he has led since the early 1990s. The quartet has released 3 c.d.s, toured the U.K. and appeared at festivals both here and on the Continent. Here, Jon has written a brand new suite of compositions and has chosen to use a larger ensemble, featuring a couple of members of the fertile Berlin new music scene, Aleks Kolkowski on violin and Marc Boukouya on trombone. The writing bares all the typical Jon Lloyd hall marks - intelligence, full throttle intensity, passion and a distinct sense of purpose. A welcome addition to Lloyds expanding discography.


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KAGE COMETA [FMRCD480]

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Frode Gjerstad Jonny Mbizio Dyani John Stevens
DETAIL 83 [FMRCD481]

this music is from the first trio tour we did. we drovbaround Norway in my old landcover 110 not the fastest car onnthe road, but it was pretty safe in the snow. I do not remember how many gigs we did, bt the tour lasted about a week. One cgi I remember was at Jazz Alive in Oslo. We had to play three sets and this was some kind of night club with people who came in for a drink or five and were mostly not into jazz music, and definitely not what we had to offer. In the third set I felt blood in my mouth.Afterwards when Told Johnny he said if you have not been bleeding you have not been playing! Standing with John Stevens in the middle and having Johnny on my the other side made me feel like a king!


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CRUX TRIO [FMRCD482]

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OMELETTE [FMRCD483]

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Paul Dunmall Phillip Gibbs Neil Metcalfe Ashley John Long
SEASCAPES [FMRCD484]

6 new improvisations based on the sea and colours featuring 4 of the UKs great improvisers including the great Paul Dunmall!!! plus paintings by Dunmall wife Lynda!


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GILES THORNTON BIG BAND
BE IN TODAY [FMRCD485]

The first ever big band recording on FMR ! This has been an incredibly ambitious and rewarding project, which has involved a lot of people. I am truly grateful for their hard work. Thank you to all who pledged in my crowdfunding campaign. With your help, I was able to create the album, that I wanted to make. I hope you enjoy listening to the album, as much as I did enjoy creating it! Giles Thornton


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Head Under Water
ROBERT BURKE TONY MALABY MARK HELIAS [FMRCD486]

After their first great FMR album ' Shift' (FMR CD 441) the Australia masters present a new trio record featuring the talents of Robert Burke but this time with Paul Grabowsky as well as the great acoustic bass player Mark Helias. There's 16 relatively short tracks in a truly international project as the music was recorded in New York and mixed in Italy!


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SEZU [FMRCD487]

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RUNCIBLE [FMRCD489]

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Ben Davis Group
Double Dares are Sometimes Different [FMRCD48-E0498]

Young, talented British cellist and composer Ben Davis debut studio recording featuring Chris Biscoe. "If the chosen instrumentation is a trifle unusual, listeners will without doubt be open to its possibilities. One recalls a disc by the lamented Mr Eric Dolphy entitled Out There....this could be seen as a homage to it, whether intended or not. However, it exists in its own right and in its own terms...It is my considered view, having heard this recording that Davis is clearly a strong and capable improviser and also a skilled composer of no little skill" Biscoe excels!


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DAVE SEWELSON STEVE SWELL WILLIAM PARKER. MARVIN BUGALU SMITH
MUSIC FOR A FREE WORLD [FMRCD490]

Music for a Free World is Mr. Sewelsons first recording as a bandleader in almost 40 years since the 1979 release of Synchro-incity on TFYM Records with the 25 OClock Band. Since the late 70s he has appeared on more than 50 recordings with a variety of artists including the recent FMR Release, Dependent Origination with his old compatriot Peter Kuhn, Alex Cline, Dan Clucas and Scott Walton. Notable recordings include Scaribari (two baris, one mind, and a bass) with Claire Daly and David Hofstra and the Jesse Dulman Quartets vinyl masterpiece Live at Downtown Music Gallery on RRGEMS.


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FRAME TRIO [FMRCD491]

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ZEPHYR [FMRCD494]

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FREE PANTONE TRIO [FMRCD496]

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Philipp Wachsman Trevor Taylor Marcio Mattos Ian Brighton
STRINGS [FMRCD496B]

Following hot on the heels of their live recording at Cafe Ono 'Reunion' the group (here now celebrating over 40 years of great music together) went into Visconti Studios to record a new studio album.exactly one year ago (in June 2018) the music here is good as ever with the klangfarben melody style of echoing phrases across the instruments as fresh as it was all those years ago. The group developed a very special form of tight but fast moving improvisation technique that's quite rare these days


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IAN BRIGHTON
IMAGININGS [FMRCD497]

When I look back over 45 years of involvement with improvised music I consider myself very fortunate to have played with so many great musicians. Reflecting recently on these past events, it occurred to me that the acoustic ambience and environment in where we played had a significant bearing on the outcome of the music, whether it was created within a small studio, a club, concert hall, or a cathedral. This album, albeit recorded in a studio, in a way attempts to recreate some of those environments by imagining situations that all of those taking part, have experienced at one time or another, without limiting the scope of the overall improvisation. Some tracks involve musicians who I have played with for what seems a lifetime, namely Trevor Taylor, Philipp Wachsmann, Marcio Mattos and Jon Seagroatt. The others I have either met since returning to improvised music in 2016, as is the case with Neil Metcalfe and Francois Carrier, or with Steve Beresford, someone I played with just the once in the very early seventies and become reacquainted with in 2017 when he, I and Trevor recorded The Kontakte Trio (FMR ). Regardless of where and when, all of the musicians involved are outstanding improvisers who have my sincere thanks for their interest and support.


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Francois Carrier Michel Lambert John Edwards
ELEMENTS [FMRCD501]

A new release in the ever growing FMR list by this group of wonderful Canadians with a dash of Uk added into the mix in the shape of the incredible John Edwards Elements and Roar of Joy were recorded live at Ikletic as part of there Horse Improv club in London on May31st 2016, while Wilderness was recorded as part of they European tour this time at the 20th Festival of Jazz at Cerkno, may 22 2015, a year earlier


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VISION PIT [FMRCD502]

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FREE TRIO [FMRCD503]

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PERCEIVED ORDER [FMRCD504]

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JOSE LENCASTRE NAU QT [FMRCD505]

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Paul Dunmall - Alan Niblock - Mark Sanders
DARK ENERGY [FMRCD506]

Its wonderful Paul Dunmall has finally got the recognition he deserves with his recent stunning Hamlyn award win! and testament to FMR continued support for him and his fantastic playing, an artist who stands at the top of his art and can hold his own with any saxophonist on the planet !!! now with his FMR releases into the 90s over 30 years we offer a very new recording featuring him on tenor Saxophone along with the ever wonderful Mark Sanders on drums and percussion and Alan Niblock bass not much to say abut the music, its as riveting, illuminating and compelling as ever!!!


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CIRCUIT [FMRCD507]

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TALK TO ME [FMRCD508]

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ALVERT MARCOS [FMRCD509]

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SZILARD MEZEI
CITROMFA [FMRCD510]

A wonderful double album from Szilard, fast becoming a very serious composer as well as improviser. Here he uses a 12 piece ensemble (Tula Tiszan Innen Ensemble )for 9 pieces over the two discs The music was recorded at the Kuturni Centar Novi Sad in Serbia and also includes a graphic score interpretation by Erzsebet Mezei Watch out for Szilard a very big player composer on the Serbian scene


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Susie Hodder Williams Chris Caldwell
COACLE OF LIFE [FMRCD511]

Coracle of Life features 10 tracks of original music inspired by the sculptures of Andre Wallace Virtuosos on their instruments for this recording Chris plays soprano, alto saxophone and baritone saxophone as well as bass clarinet , gamelan, piano and Harmonium!! whilst Susie plays (only!) Flute, piccolo, and Bass drum Slowy these two musicians are carving a very personal and original sound that will delight


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Paul Dunmall Julian Siegel Percy Pursglove Mark Sanders
AS ONE DOES [FMRCD512]

Paul Dunmall is always interested in recording using different and electric combinations of musicians and this release is no different featuring long time great player like Sands and Pursglove along for the first time with the excellent Julian Siegel on tenor Saxophone and bass clarinet two titans of the tenor duel together . The whole thing gells really well and produces yet another free improv hit for Paul!


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Paul Dunmal, Phillip Gibbs, James Owston, Jim Bashford
INNER AND OUTER [FMRCD513]

Recorded at Rain Studios in Kings Heath Birmingham in Aug 28th 2018 Inner and Outer continues Paul Dunmall's relentless recording schedule that provides a rare insight into the development of an artist. As one of the UKs and worlds undenied saxophone stars Paul never fails to produce incredible music whatever of the many many groups he's been involved with . Here he's joined by regular Guitarist Phillip the terrific drummer Jim Bashford and james Owston on bass Like all Dunmall recordings this is highly recommended


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Pat Thomas, Pete McPhail, Richard Chapman, Geoff, Serle
SHOCK TROOPS [FMRCD514]

Terrific album from cult group of major improvisers recorded original in 1989 6 Tracks include Radio Galaxies, Black Line, Korma, Disauder, Vandals on the moon and Central Dada Time Quirky and great fun


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Pat Thomas Dominic Lash Lawrence Casserley
VALID TRACKTOR [FMRCD515]

Valid Tractor features three of the most creative improvisers in the uk, now in an outstanding creating and quirky Trio. Pat Thomas on both piano and electronics, with the incredible energetic double bass player Dominic Lash and the extraordinary lawrence Casserley on signal processing 10 excellent tracks by perhaps an unlikely combination that reality works incredibly well!!!


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HORIZONS [FMRCD516]

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Daniel Vaczi
RETICULAR [FMRCD517]

Some very interesting music and compositions from this talented Hungarian saxophonist Daniel Vaczi! Recorded in Budapest in 2018 there's 12 mesmerising tracks that includes fellow musicians Janos Aved, Marton Fenyvesi, Balas Horvaith, and Zsolt Sarvari Kovacs also featured is 4 tracks include the programmed player piano


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FIELDS [FMRCD518]

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GIO featuring Evan Parker and Marilyn Crispell
PARALLELMOMENTS UNBROKEN  [FMRCD519]

Stunning new double cd from GIO featuring evan Parker nd Marilyn Crispell !! The 20/27 piece navigates its way through 7 pieces on cd1 and 11 on cd2 recorded at City Halls in Glasgow in june 2014. Finally made available the work began in 2013 when Raymond Macdonald was commissioned to write a new piece fo the BBC using graphic scores, through composed sections, photographs and artwork, all based on his past musical experiences with the musicians involves especially the wonderful Evan Parker and Marilyn Crispell!!!


Martin Speake and Nikki Iles
The Tan Tien [FMRCD51-V0998]

After meeting at the Glamorgan Jazz Summer School where they were both teaching in 1962, The saxophonist and pianist found time to practice and play some tunes together; "We talked about music and found we had common influences - Evans, Konitz, Motian, Haden, Coltrane, Charlie Parker, Paul Bley, Ravel, Debussy, Vaughan Williams... I thought it would be a good idea to record some freely improvised duets and new tunes."The result is this excellent set of duets, unique and playful.


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Ian Brighton guitar
MARSH GAS [FMRCD520]

This classic release (originally on Bead records) features Ian Brightons first record in his name and features some great improvisers of the day including Phillip Wachsmann, Radu Malfati, Marcio Mattos, Roger Smith and Jim lIvesey The background to this recording originated when Ian played a concert at Battersea Town Hall in 1975. The music, specifically written for children was composed and partly improvised. Entitled The Sun Tamer': a Polynesian folk tale, the children participated by playing a blown or percussion instrument. All under the guidance of the narrator As the story unfolded such was their involvement and enjoyment they approved oblivious to the music being played!


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Ian Brighton guitar
MARSH GAS [FMRCD521]

This classic release (originally on Bead records) features Ian Brightons first record in his name and features some great improvisers of the day including Phillip Wachsmann, Radu Malfati, Marcio Mattos, Roger Smith and Jim lIvesey The background to this recording originated when Ian played a concert at Battersea Town Hall in 1975. The music, specifically written for children was composed and partly improvised. Entitled The Sun Tamer': a Polynesian folk tale, the children participated by playing a blown or percussion instrument. All under the guidance of the narrator As the story unfolded such was their involvement and enjoyment they approved oblivious to the music being played!


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imminente [FMRCD523]

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Frode Gjerstad Dag Magnius Narvesen
LIVE AT TOU [FMRCD524]

Frode loves the duet and has released many on FMR of all kinds of instruments from Kevin Nortons percussion , to duos with Borah Bergman, Sabir Mateen, Nils Henrik AsheimFred Lonberg Holm and other fine drummer percussionists such as Paul hessian and John Stevens and now a very fine duo with the Norwegian drummer/percussionist DagMagnus Narvesen for this Frode used both alto and tenor saxophones as well as alto flute and Bb clarinet the result is tantalising as well as engaging Frodes high altitude harmonics battling with Narvesens excellent playing, which is energetic as well as intelligent. His advanced extended kit contains a wide palette of percussion sounds and he plays them well, very well


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Pei Ann Yeoh. violin. Ash Trigg electric bass. Jim Bashford drums
TRIYEO  [FMRCD525]

Triyeoh os a project that started when I was doing my postgraduate at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. the idea is always to elevate what the violin can do in an avant grade jazz setting. The movement of contrasts, in and between pieces, is what I hope to achieve with this ensemble. I am indebted to Jim and Ash in putting together this ensemble. Jim is one of the most imaginative, versatile, and humble drummers I have worked with and Ash instinctively knows where to place himself in the music and constantly gave us fresh ways of playing off each other. this recording has been a long time coming. Thus I am grateful for the financial support of the arts and humanities research grant from Kings college London which has allowed me to complete this process. Hopefully , the journey is not a futile one


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DRY WET [FMRCD526]

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Gary Smith
Forgotten Room with Chairs [FMRCD52-V0798]

I spotted a series of photographs by Dylan Collard in the Royal Photographic Gallery in Bath and was immediately mesmerised by the five sepia toned prints entitled Forgotten Room with Chairs, Having made contact with Dylan and agreed to find a musical partner for this project, I immediately felt that the spontaneity and honesty of improvised music would be ideal, and something solo. The answer came a couple of months later on listening to some of Garys new tapes. After talking, we all agreed to a combined project unifying the music and photography.


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MICHEL DONEDA MATHIEU BEC
A Peripheral Time [FMRCD530]

Great new duo improvisations from the virtuoso saxophonist Michel Doneda and excellent percussionist Mathieu Bec! Recorded in the chapel of La Chappelle St Sylvester in Brussels with an interesting acoustic the 4 tracks produce over an hour of fascinating improvising and duo battling! the Legandry Evan Parker and Han Bennink battles came to mind but this is very different The cover was designed by Guillaume Chevreau and the audio was recorded by Stephane Clovis step in and immerse your self in no holds barred stimulating great creative improvisation!


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Paul Dunmall Phillip Gibbs Benedict Taylor Ashley John Long
LANDSCAPES [FMRCD533]

Recorded at the Victoria Rooms Bristol in September 2018 and mixed by Jonathan Scott this engaging quartet continues Paul Dunmall incredible journey with yet another inspired combination Phillip Gibbs is along standing guitarist off course but the addition of Benedict Taylor on Viola and the ultra virtuoso bass player Ashley John Long complete an impressive ensemble with 6 outstanding improvisations. Not much more today about just listen!!


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Jos Ison Dan Banks Trevor Taylor Jose Canha
LUMINOS [FMRCD534]

First recent recording of this groups collective improvisation! Luminos features 4 tracks varying in high intensity to subtle and sublime quite moments of piano string arpeggios , revolving roto bells, arco bass and saxophone harmonics imposible to categories this music knows no barriers, its influences coming from Jazz , contemporary classical music, free improv and a myriad of others! The music was recorded at Visconti studios London with the four pieces titled Sky, Cloud, Night, and light reflection the front image of the cd. Recommended!


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PARAELEL [FMRCD535]

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Paul Dunmall Percy Pursglove Steve Tromans Dave Kane Hamid Drake
SOULTIME [FMRCD538]

Energy and lots of it is the initial thing that strikes you here! In fact there's so much that after listening to the first track I thought I was listening to a James Brown cover band! and I even had to check the instrumentation to see if it was the right music! Not that things settle down, they just move into a just as energetic freeer feel. Off course the trumpet/tenor frontline gives the eventual free jazz vibe with both Hamid Drakes powerful drums and Steve Tromans off the wall piano shaping the uncatergusable sound full on power, utterly extrovert, powerful and as I said full of enthusiastic energy. All excellent with occasional forays into short simple tunes sandwiched by great improvising . even onfirast hearing I feel this is going to be an absolute classic. Outstanding


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David Leahy double bass. Philipp Wachsmann violin
TRANSLATED PLACES [FMRCD539]

Translated space is a new recording by the thoroughly delightful duo of Philipp Wachsmann and David Leahy, a multimedia project also including painter Catherine Hope-Jones who created the paintings used on the cover (title;- ' Inscription in Waves' the music consists of 12 short tracks at 52.50 overall If you know (and should1) Phillips work you'll know he is an artists of the highest calibre with a great creative voice of subtlety abnd sophistication, matched here by the wonderful counterpoint provided by bass player David leahy. Music that requires plenty of listening to pick out its magical dialogue Elab the sound of a stream flowing, beyond perception we play across space, paradoxically near and far surveying the changing landscapes we helped to create drawing on pasts in remote islands from where we plot a course towards an inevitable rendezvous, appreciated for what it is - a refuge and a point of departure.


Nisajo
Brink Man Ship [FMRCD53-V0798]

This highly acclaimed and long awaited NISAJO recording features the international new trio of John Wolf Brennan, Nicky Heinen and Alex Alexandrov has already caused a bit of a stir on the European contemporary music scene, having received the Swiss equivalent of a Grammy. The Cd features compositions by pianist Brennan, as well as flautist Heinen, plus group improvisations.Unusual as the instrumentation may appear, featuring the wonderful Russian bassoonist Alexandrov, the music from this trio contains moments of shear beauty and intellect.


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Philipp Wachsmann Trevor Taylor Lawrence Cassereley
ELECTROPHONIC ART TRIO [FMRCD540]

The title of this group was influenced by the Legendary 'New phone Art Trio' of the 60/70s featuring Vinko Globakar but it is a very different music! as all three musicians have always worked with electronics as well as acoustically and present here a really deep surreal sound world of great depth but also intimacy Of the 5 tracks here tracks 1 and 5 were recorded at a live concert at Iklectiki Arts in London on 23rd July 30th 2017 while tracks 2,3,4 were recorded at Visconti studios previously on April 30th


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Marina dzukljev Samo Salamon Jaka Berger
FRESH DUST TRIO [FMRCD543]

Fresh Dust trio is a new formation including well known Slovenian guitarist and composer Samo alamon on six string and twelve string acoustic guitar, Marina Dukljev, one of most active and creative pianists from Serbia in the last few years and one of the most active drummers and composers in Slovenia in last 15 years, Jaka Berger on drums. The trio is exploring the raw acoustic essence of the instruments and blends the tradition of free improvised jazz with contemporary preparations and techniques to lift the dust, make it fresh and bring the music into new sound potential


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DEPS [FMRCD544]

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SO PERHAPS [FMRCD545]

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Jose Lencastre alto sax Raoul Van Derweide double bass Onno Govaert drums
SPIRIT IN SPIRIT [FMRCD547]

FMR's continued series of cds by brilliant saxophonist Jose Lencastre continues with this excellent trio also featuring Raoul Van Derweide on double bass and Onno Govaert on drums The music an eclectic mix of inspiring improvisation and was recorded at Zaal 100 in Amsterdam it gives the listener in its 6 tracks the continued progress and success of a new breed of brilliant improvisers across Europe!


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Pillip Gibbs guitar. Neil Metcalfe flute Adrian Northover Marcelo Mgliocchi drums/percussion
THE VISITORS [FMRCD548]

The Visitors was recorded at Red Shed studios I 2019 and was mixed by Ian Hill it contains 6 great tracks of epic free improvisation The Visitors is one of the finest groups in the country featuring stellar players on the London Scene jump in! you won't regret it. Creative emotional and fully charged improv


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UDO SCHINDLER [FMRCD549]

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Udo Schindler saxophone , bass clarinet, cornet, euphonium. Erick Zwang Ericksson drums percussion
POETRY?? EIN WURFELWURF [FMRCD550]

This new release by Berlin based Multi instrumentalist Duo Schindler features him playing here in a duo here with drummer percussionist Erick Zkwang Ericksson Speaking about it Udo Schindler says, 'This is my first recording in a duo with a drummer, which is a new challenge and allows a more open playing style. The rhythmic elements come to the fore. The quest of my 80th salon was the local Erick Zwang Ericksson, whom I have know for decades, but had previously never played with. A operation was addressed in the nineties, but was not realised. All the more surprising and enjoyable is the result of our common interaction. The sensitive spatial arrangement of the actors in the audio sound image by Obrecht adds an important quality to the concert document and enhance its impact'


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MONASH [FMRCD552]

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Paul Dunmall Jon Iragabon James Owston Tymek Jozwiak
AWOTO [FMRCD553]

Paul Dunmall continues he's epic recording scedhule documenting his amazing career and we are very greatful for it Recorded in Birmingham in May 2019 Awoto features the Amazing saxophonist Jon Iragabon duelling with the master and producing a forceful and passionate dialogue! the fire suitably flamed and kept hot by the wonderful James Owston on bass and the wonderful Tymek Jozwiak! 4 great tracks of burning improvisation


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Paul Dunmall - Phillip Gibbs - James Owston - Jim Bashford
CLAPTRAP [FMRCD554]

Caught live at the Claptrap in Stourbridge in March 2019 this cd see Paul Dunmall continue his never ending quest to record and play great music, continually trying different sideman and different combinations! and as may have been expected the results are something else, incredible powerful music for our times!!


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Rick Countryman Saxophone Chrisian Butcher Drums Simon Tan. Bass
EMPATHY [FMRCD555]

EMPATHY is a special release for me, as we cover a lot of diverse territory, while maintaining our identity. All the music is unrehearsed, with little discussion between recordings, beyond a simple intro setting, such as suggesting Christian start something with brushes. The first tune Empathy is a more evolved version of our melodic free jazz concepts, followed by a similar evolved take on fast free swing with Temperance. Outside the Context also extends on our past concept of theme development in an open trio approach, which focuses on spontaneous interaction. The fourth ballad-like tune The Snowman, a subtle, abstract reference to the climate crisis, ventures into tone/color exploration. The next two tunes are more textural pieces, with The Struggle for Relevance led by arco on the bass, and Resilience being led by drums with bass and sax as layers over it. The final track Blue Inside Gray returns to more a standard sounding groove, another spontaneous hit between bass and drums, that focuses more on blues inspired expression. Rick Countryman


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Francoi Carrier Tomek Gadecki Marcin Bozek. Michel Lambert
WIDE [FMRCD556]

continuing the Europen Tours Francois and Michel join up with Tomek Gadecki and Mocin Bozek in a live recording in Bydgoszvcz Poland on May 24th 2018 As to be expected fascinating interactive improv of high quality and creative excess!!!


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Albert Cirera Nicholas Field
LIVE AT DRAGON [FMRCD557]

In June last year 2018 the Catalan saxophonist Albert Cirera, the English Swiss drummer N icolas Field and the Poloish bass player RafalmMazur met in Krakow They had planned several concerts, a recording session and to spend time together.In Krakows alchemy they played a concert and CD release via Not two Records , and the following summer under the title Five Spontaneus Ones


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Sue Lynch tenor sax. Dawid Frydrk Trumpet John Edwards double bass Dave Fowler drums
DIAL [FMRCD558]

Recorded at Iklectic London in 2019 Dial is yet another of the many really intretsting free improvv groups working in the capital the two tracks Dial tone 1 and 2 provided a constant flow of ideas and challenging music!


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ROB BURKE. BEN MONDER. TOM RAINEY. with BEN GRAYSON
SLIPSLIDING [FMRCD559]

Slip sliding takes the listener on a musical ride aiming to evoke emotions and discussion about what is good, bad different, indifferent, familiar, unfamiliar, beauty and the unexplainable. This experimental project includes compositions by Rob Burke and the group improvisations that are intensely expressive. The music traverses compositions and improvisation with an underling investigation in to distortion. 'Check out' Ben Monder's use of varied and dense distortion and how Rob Burke interacts with his manipulation of harmonics in the sound ideas that are infused with the unique creativity of Tom Rainey. The distortion is further manifested with the post -editing of Ben Grayson: adding sounds and changing the sound scape of many of the tracks.


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NOTHING PARTICUALAR [FMRCD560]

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Jaka Berger prepared drums Colin Petit tape electronics. Jure Borsic saxophones, clarinet
BOOTLEG Honey, did you break all my Jazz Cassettes? [FMRCD561]

Eclectic and quirky improv with diverse tong in cheek titles such as 'Not Ornette' 'All the things you will never be'. 'did you expect Bossa and blind on cue by Miles Device!! Difficult to categorise , you'll just have to listen, but certainly creative, interesting and diverse The music was recorded at Radio Student Ljubljana by Jure Gruden


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Paul Dunmalls Nonet
INTERPRETATIONS OF BEAUTY [FMRCD562]

recorded in June 2019 this is the rare event of a larger ensemble recording featuring a different kind of feel by using mostly strings. Violins, Viola, cello , double bass guitar etc The players are Paul Dunmall , Neil Metcalfe, Philip Gibbs, Trevor Taylor, Hannah Marshall, Sarah Farmer, Theo May, Alison Blunt and the enigmatic John Edwards on double bass there's 6 tracks of beautiful music in this release now well into the 90's on FMR and this will be a landmark . You can easily see why Paul Dunmall won the Paul Hamlyn prize this year


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UPWARD FALL [FMRCD564]

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DUNMALL NOBLE EDWARDS SANDERS
The Runciple Quintet [FMRCD565]

Great new dunmall release featuring the finest UK improvisers, Paul Dunmall with Liam Noble, John Edwards, and drummer Mark Sanders The feeling principle features 3 tracks, The feeling Principle , Full Waking Trance and There single heart recorded in Birmingham at Samson Studios in Spet 2019


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SHANTI PAUL JAYSHINA JOSH ISON JOSE CANHA TREVOR TAYLOR DAN BANKS
OSCILATIONS 12 TONE MUSIC FOR JAZZ QUINTET [FMRCD568]

The music on this cd was composed by percussionist Trevor Taylor for jazz quintet,using partly 12 tone technique and in parts space notation, a graphic method where the players interpret the music written in a non conventional way. All of this hopefully is woven along with conventional solos and free form improvisation into a coherent music


Paul Dunmall Mark Sanders liam Noble John Edwards
THE FEELING PRINCIPLE [FMRCD569]

A quartet outing this time with Pul on Tenor and Alto saxophones joined by Liam Noble piano John Edwards on Bass and Mark sanders on drums The quartet plough familial field of intense free improvisation with relentless energy and invention in 3 tracks, The feeling Principle , Full Waking Trance and The Single heart, Jump in and immerse yourself !


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DARK ENERGY [FMRCD570]

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DINNER PARTY [FMRCD571]

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Paul Dunmall Angelica Sanchez Mark Sanders
SONGBIRDS TEMPLE [FMRCD572]

A songbirds Temple was recorded at Samsom Studios Birmingham in November 2019 by Olly Sansom and although it includes regular drummer Masrk Sanders introduces a new trio featuring the outstanding talent of Angelica Sanchez! the music is outstanding improv and the piano offers a different approach here


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Sabu Toyozumi Simon Tan Rick Countryman
TURTLE BIRD [FMRCD573]

The music recorded on this CD is from a live performance on December 12, 2018 in the Philippines, at Tago Jazz Caf, by engineer Alvin Cornista. The contents represent the entire first set and the final selection from the last set, appropriately with an extended drum solo from the Japanese legendary improvisational master, Sabu Toyozumi


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Simon Jeans Johannes Luebbers Daniel Susnjar
ARTEFACT AGENCY [FMRCD574]

Featuring Simon Jeans on guitar, Johannes Luebbers on keyboards and Daniel Susnjar on drums, Australian group Artefact Agency was formed in 2014 as a vehicle to explore collaborative composition and collective improvisation. The trio were interested in creating semi-improvised music that re- flected the diversity of their collective practice, drawing on elements of jazz, rock, free improvisa- tion and contemporary classical music


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CAJULA [FMRCD578]

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Rick Countryman Saxophone Chrisian Butcher Drums Simon Tan Bass
BLUE SPONTANEITY [FMRCD579]

The selections on Blue Spontaneity are drawn from 3 contiguous days of recording in July 2019, Christian Buchers seventh year of collaborations in the Philippines with Rick Countryman, with Simon Tan involved for six of them. Due to Simons active schedule, the first and last day were a trio format, and the second day was as duo.


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Paul Dunmall Percy Pursglove John O'Gallagher Elliot Sansom Chris Mapp Miles Levin
AWAKENING EXPECTATIONS [FMRCD580]

fabulous music from a new Dunmall Sextet, recorded In Birmingham by Olly Sansom in March 202 just before lockdown!!!! Thank god they made it just in time!! Titles are Awakening Expectations and Playing there virtues , dive in!!!! you won't be sorry


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Jean Michel Van Schouwburg Adam Bowman Daniel Thompson Adrian Northover
BELLOWING EARWIGS [FMRCD581]

the Bellowing Earwigs are the marvelous Daniel Thompson on ArchTop Acoustic Guitar, Collagist Poet Adam Bohman on unamplified objects , Adrian Northover on Soprano Saxophone and the Voice-Mouth of J-M Van Schouwburg . Recorded at OXO Tower on 09-10-15 by Adrian Northover. We performed the Boat Ting and IKlectic and we recorded these tracks on the same run. Issued on Trevor Taylors FMR Records. Titles : Obstinate Trout Constellation, Bewildered Bison Dissection Group, Latent Trouser Press Controversy, Treacherous Company Kagghamra Style, Electrified Militant Bladderack and (yes) Monotone Britishness.


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Steve Hubback Metal Moves
Metalkymist [FMRCD582]

The return of master craftsman and percussionist with a new Metal Moves album featuring his many hand crafted instruments 9 great inspired improvisations (except Son yr Christr) A solo tour de force of percussion by one of our most creative and innovative voices not to be missed


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Stefan Keune Dominic Lash Steve Noble
AND NOW [FMRCD583]

'And now' features two British improvisers with the great German saxophonist Stefan Keune recorded on January 22, 2020 at the UKs premier creative music space Cafe Oto The music features three improvisations titled 'Well Then' 'Whatsoever' and 'Finally' dip in to some tantalising improv from three masters


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Sabu Toyozumi Simon Tan Rick Countryman Yong Yandsden
REABSTRACTION [FMRCD584]

andsdenSabu Toyozumi has collaborated with Rick Countryman many times during recent years, evolving the free music revolution he helped initiate in Japan over 50 years ago. The neighboring islands of the Philippines, where Countryman and bassist Simon Tan reside, have played host to performances with Sabu that have produced 7 albums prior to this release. Malaysian tenor man, Yong Yandsen, joins to extend the oft recorded trio to a lively two sax quartet. Both Sabu and Countryman had met Yandsen in Kuala Lumpur several times last year, but separately during other projects. The music captured here is from their third night performing together in Manila, and the second with acoustic bassist Simon Tan.


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Shirley Smart cello James Arben tenor bariton saxophone, bass clarinet , flute
ENTAGLEMENT [FMRCD585]

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James and Shirley met whilst working with Ethiopian vibes master Mulatu Astatke, and quickly discovered a shared interest in the possibilities of free improvisation that drew on their common interests and aesthetic, as well as musical interaction in a free set- ting. These dialogues are an exploration of harmonic, rhythmic and timbral tension and res- olution, created from bold experimental playing techniques and melodic discourse. The music draws on influences from Jazz to Middle Eastern, Folk and Contemporary music


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Raymond Macdonald Gogs Maclean
SASS [FMRCD586]

recorded , without discussion, in a single improvised take on a Friday evening in 2020 SASS represents the stunning and tantilising creative abilities of Scottich improvising musicians saxophonist Raymond Macdonald and double bassist Gigs Maclean. jump in and immerse yourself !


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Musician Supreme
KEITH TIPPET [FMRCD587]

New box set containing 4 cds from the Keith Tippett canon on FMR to celebrate this extraordinary musician who gave so much to the UK scene No notes but 4 cds in individual sleeves the cds are Linukea , he's amazing piece for piano and string quartet, an early duo with Howard Riley in Bern and two recordings with his Dartington improvising trio featuring Pul Dunmall and Julie Tippetts. One with tracks recorded at the old vortex and the BBC and the other at the Priory as part of the now defunct Southend Jazz festival 2004


G.P.Hall
Steel Storms & Tender Spirits [FMRCD58-V0998]

Graham Peter Hall has come a long way in his many years as a professional musician; Blues, Flamenco, Jazz and hard Rock are the styles that most influence his musical formation. On this special double CD (his third release on FMR) Peter reveals to us some recordings he has made in the last decade, remastered and packaged with an insightful 12 page booklet. He uses a startling erray of tools that are combined with acoustic/electric and bass guitars, that he plays masterfully. Gary Husband


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Paul Dunmall Neil Metcalfe James Owston Tymek Jowsiak
UNMASKED [FMRCD590]

Swirling flutes kick off this brand new Dunmall extravaganza ! with Pauls alto flute duelling with Neil Metcalfe's concert flute, ably abetted by bassist James Owston and Tymek Joswiak on drums, both who provide excellent contributions ofspirited but thoughtful playing the improv soon moves into time, a measured loping haunting tempo before suddenly being hijacked again by fresh rhythmic interludes Thats the spirit of the whole album. Its a rarity to have a Dunmall release playing only flute, and this is beautifully recorded and haunting from beginin to end!


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Hernani Faustino Joao Madeira
DB DUET [FMRCD591]

The rarity of two virtuoso Portugese bass players duelling away pushing, listening, responding in a very delightfully creative way. Hernandi Faustino and Joao Maderia are the cream de la cream in Portuguese in music circles playing in many of the leading bands both as leaders and sidemen.Here they have free reign to run amok in there veery bass sound world, it works exceptionally well, with crystal clear sound and each panned to a different side they explore and celebrate everything you can do on a double bass, and its always musical and compelling. Recorded in Lisbon DB Duet is the state of the art bass playing, but it is more !! Much more!!!


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Udo Schindler. Jap Blonk
LAKEFRONT DISCUSSIONS [FMRCD592]

Lakefront Discussions takes its name from an intriguing duo recording by multi instrumentalist duo Schindler with the tantalising voice of Jap Blonk recorded in Kurparkschlosechen, Herrsching in Ammersee, Germany on April 26th 2020 its a beautiful recording by Udo capturing every detail of this live performance on which he uses multiple instruments, reed instruments as well as brass. We also hear the remarkable sounds of Plonks computer productions truly interesting and compelling sounds, possibly modulation his own voice , extending his range enormously. Both men push and react to each other with endless streams of creativity and complexity sometimes working together other times seemingly two independent voices. 8 wonderful tracks of boundless intrigue ! highly recommended


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Udo Schindler Damon Smith Karin Erhard
MunichSoundStudies Vol. 1 [FMRCD593]

The Munich studies consists of two cds recorded from the 12th December 2019 to 15th The first cd vol 1 is entitled artoxin_encounter and was recorded at Galerie ar Toxin in a live recording by Gottfried Duren. It features a wonderful trio of Udo Schindler on clarinet, bass clarinet and alto horn along with Katrina Erhard on c and alto flute plus from the USA the incredible Damon Smith. There are 6 track of compulsive improvisation! The second cd Vol 2&3 is split into two sessions. The first featuring Udo in a duo with Damon on 7 tracks whilst the second set adds the outstanding voice and creativity of Jap Blonk in 5 tracks of mayhem! Udo varies his instrumentation on each set. Highly recomended!!


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Udo Schindler Damon Smith Jap Blonk
MunichSoundStudies Vol. 2 & 3 [FMRCD594]

The Munich studies consists of two cds recorded from the 12th December 2019 to 15th The first cd vol 1 is entitled artoxin_encounter and was recorded at Galerie ar Toxin in a live recording by Gottfried Duren. It features a wonderful trio of Udo Schindler on clarinet, bass clarinet and alto horn along with Katrina Erhard on c and alto flute plus from the USA the incredible Damon Smith. There are 6 track of compulsive improvisation! The second cd Vol 2&3 is split into two sessions. The first featuring Udo in a duo with Damon on 7 tracks whilst the second set adds the outstanding voice and creativity of Jap Blonk in 5 tracks of mayhem! Udo varies his instrumentation on each set. Highly recomended!!


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Dunmall Pursglove Foote Saunders Owston Bashford
C O S M I C D R E A M P R O J E C T I O N [FMRCD596]

Wow this is a throw back, tunes! yes in a very rare excursion Paul fronts a sextet that sounds like a big band playing some of his new tunes. Again beautifully recorded at Samsun studios on Sept 11th 2020, this new ensemble 'Cosmic Dream Projection' produces as they say a sound 'greater than its individual parts! All are great players who excel but for me Percy Pursglove stands out on trumpet. For many Dunmall fans this new venture will get you salivating at the mouth! its that good. The tunes act as a springboard to some energetic creative and burning improv you will not be disappointed. Tunes are back!!!!!


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luc Houtkamp Steve Bereseford Martin Blume
SHED 1 [FMRCD597]

3 compelling improvisations by three European masters! British pianist Steve Berseford with ace German improv drummer Martin Blume with (and now living in Malta) saxophonist Luc Houtkamp. The trio produce a menacing landscape of intricate and subtle sounds mostly low key, introspective and rumbling, searching taunting and testing . Beresford is always interesting from his prepared piano to his humorous toys and you never quite know which direction things will go. Every so often an impassioned saxophone will wail for awhile and kick start a more frenetic episode but the drums are always thoughtful never overpowering , subtle and enduring. Ultimately highly controlled improvisations by three Euro masters! check it out!


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Udo Schindler Ove Volquartz
TALES ABOUT EXPLODING TREES AND OTHER ABSURDITIES [FMRCD598]

Sinister throaty bass and double bass clarinet introduce this new duo recording , (a duo being favourite situation for Udo Schindler) here featured with the amazing woodwind improv star One Volquartz, in a five track bombshell echoing the title, 'tales about Exploding Trees and other Absurities'! Recorded as a live recoding on October 12th 2018 at the88th SALON fur Klang+Kunst in Munich this record continues to document the amazing work of Udo Schindler in many different settings. Continued breaking of new ground, new sounds and atmospheres jump in and experience one of the most important improvisers on the German scene .


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STEFAN KEUNE ERHARD HIRT HANDS SCHNEIDER PAUL LYTTON
XPACT II [FMRCD601]

This is the third cd on FMR cd for Martin Keune, and here again he's in great company with Erhard Hirt on Guitar , Hans Schneider on double bass and the master percussionists Paul Lytton, well apparently on everything! This is the second incarnation of the XPact group and 34 years have passed before this new Xpact group, Xpact II the music is impossible to catorgarise, as it proceeds through myriad levels of improvisational density The pace is fast and furious but everyone contributes mightily and its thoroughly engaging . The music enters many levels and you'll just have to hang on to your hat and listen hard!


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CARLO MASCOLO JOAO MADERIA FELICE FURIOSO
CINESTASIA [FMRCD602]

Recorded in May 2017 Cinestesia. is a trio of free improvisation featuring Felice Furioso on percussion Portugese master Joao Madeira on double Bass and Carlo Mascolo on trombone, an interesting combination indeed. The recording came about after a fruitful meeting in Lisbon at the M.I.A. festival The music on this cd evokes a special human tension present in all three musicians -composers delicate and tenuous , which explores a form of un common sensitivity where sound processed instinctively though gesture in action deeply involves the three musicians complicit in balancing the elusive sound matter and structure most relevant to instant composition, most often avoiding the severity of cliches in improvisation. 7 great tracks of stimulating and highly creative improv


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DAN BANKS JOSE CANHA TREVOR TAYLOR ROBIN PORTER
LOST AT SEA [FMRCD603]

Sigur Rs, the Icelandic band, known for their ethereal, post-rock sound palette, evoking the combined aesthetics of rock, classical Euro- pean music, and minimalism, has become somewhat of a household name over the past twenty years. However, their increasing popularity has not diminished their experimental spirit, and to this day, their highly atmospheric music captures the natural beauty and magnificence of Iceland. Lost At Sea intends to capture, explore, and recast the captivating sonic landscapes woven by Sigur Rs through a combination of free improvisation and structured compositions. The works included in this CD exist along the line of re-arrangement and homage, with mo- ments featuring more direct references to Sigur Rs's work ('Lost At Sea', for example) and others that are more evocative and subtle ('Victory & The Rose'). Lost At Sea will take you on a fascinating journey through a sonic landscape inspired by the work of Sigur Rs, lensed and constructed by the creative voices of Dan Banks, Jos Canha, Trevor Taylor, and Robin Porter. All compositions and arrangements by Dan Banks.


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GUY-FRANK PELLERIN MATTHIAS BOSS EUGENIO SANNA
WATER REFLECTIONS [FMRCD604]

Altogether a splendid release of careful thoughtful but always creative and well paced small group improvisation by an Italian supergroup of Guy Frank Pelerin on soprano and tenor sax, Eugenio Sanna. guitar and objects, Matthias Boss violin and voice Recording quality is excellent .The three aim for a single voice where the response and call is almost immediate and although they come from very different musical backgrounds you'd be hard pressed to tell they work so well together In all 10 tracks that hold your concentration because of the quality of the interchange. A really nice group!


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I AM VILLAGE [FMRCD605]

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Alberto Pederneschi Solo Percussiion
MICROCOSMO [FMRCD606]

one of the most original and interesting solo percussion cd's we have heard in a long time! Alberto has a style and vision all his own as he battles with prepared drums, drums, kalimba, objects, voice Theres something very special and origial in these pieces and approach!


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GIng Lenz den zwanzigsten durchs Gebirg oder nicht
UDO SCHINDLER. PATRICK SCHIMANSKI [FMRCD607]

-After an impressive level of recent releases on FMR Udo Schindler teams up with Drummer percussionist Patrick Schiminski for another duo series of improvisations at the 'Salon fur Klang + Kunst in Munich the scene of such healthy creative and productive improvised Munich. This time the inspiration is from the novel Lenz by Georg Buchner. With players both moving though a wide range of instruments and electronics this beautifully recorded music will delight!


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Tibor Takacs Laslo Lenkes Goran Grubisic
FUNAMBULISTS [FMRCD608]

Describing Serbian group 'The Funambulists' music is difficult! Its improvisation yes but its many other things too The group provide an extraordinary large sound field for just three people. The barrage never lets up! a veritable onslaught of sound in a consistent wave of aural shock and energy . The guitar (Laslo Lenkes)is loud and thoroughly probing, making the saxophone (Tibor Taskacs Fakii) have to work hard in the upper register to be heard whilst Goran Grubisics pounding drums complete the onslaught, in this barrage and wall of sound. Introvert, and subtle improvisation this is not, but if you get off on energy alone you won't be disappointed!


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DOCTOR STEPHEN TROMANS Solo Piano
THE WAY [FMRCD609]

This album was a watershed moment in m recent life. I was in the process of recovering from a period of severe mental and physical strain occasioned from work stresses and the realities of life under pandemic restrictions, loss off livelihood etc Three days before the session I was visited , in the form of a shadow entity, possibly an aspect of my creative 'physche', in the early hours of the morning with a telepathic directive to record again: a new solo album, in a great studio, on grand piano. And to improvise it all on the day, from my experiance of late


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ED JONES EMIL KARLSEN
FROM WHERE LIGHT FALLS [FMRCD610]

Ed Jones is perhaps the most well know name in the is this beautifully recorded free improv recorded at Leeds Conservatoire in 2020, and the music clearly shows his jazz heritage In many ways it reminds me of many of the great drum saxophone black American free jazz duos it has the intensity without anger, musical, density with restraint, in fact its very subtle introduction to an exciting new duo. Emil Karlsen is a fine collaborator sounding some times like John Stevens and Elvin or Rahied Ali and uses interesting and stimulating percussion combinations This is their debut album but I hope it won't be their last! great stuff


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Soundscape Sibop
Tim Richards/Sigi Finkel [FMRCD61-0499]

Although Tim Richards has recorded a number of CD's featuring the fabulous 'Spirit Level' (including an early release on FMR) This is an all new Soundscape release and 'Shibop' sees Tim sharing the writing honours with virtuoso Austrian saxophonist Sigi Finkel, an old friendship made when on one of the many Spirit Level European tours.The inclusion of the dynamic saxophonist has changed the shape of this group totally, now far more a fusion sound than 'Spirit Level', although the group includes many of the Spirit Level past and excellent musicians such as Marc Parnell on drums and Phil Scragg on bass. Fast, punchy and full of energy ,this new CD combines the enthusiasm and dynamism of fusion with the subtly and interplay of the greatest jazz!!


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Vasco Trilla percussion Liba Villavecchia. saxophone
ASEBIA [FMRCD611]

Asebeia is a new duo cd featuring one of the greatest percussionist of the day Vasco Trilla with saxophonist Liba Villavevvhia However the music follows a serious path having the title 'Criminal charge for desecration and disrespecting of divine objects' to understand more about this read the attached pdf! The music as expected is passionate improvisation . Its beautifully recorded and the 8 tracks weave an aural magic as Vasco swops many percussion sounds, hit struck bowed in a tapestry for Liba to respond. Highly recommended! titles are Kolnos, Eaudalmonia, Pisits, Akolasia, Ataraxia, Eidola, Sophrosyne and Thelon


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Paul Dunmall Johnathan Impett Andrew Bal Paul Rogers Phillip Gibbs
DISTRACTED [FMRCD614]

With cover graphics by Paul Dunmall 'Undistracted'. represents one of his favourite recordings never previously released on FMR, We hope you enjoy its much as us!!!


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Paul Dunmall Simon Thoumire John Edwards Phillip Gibbs
BROTHERS IN MUSIC [FMRCD615]

We are releasing some Dunmall music not previously available as we hit the 100 mark and these are some of his favourites!


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Udo Schindler Wilbert de Jode
LOW TONE STUDIES PARTICIPATION & INTERPLAY [FMRCD616]

Udo Schindlers great series of recordings continues with three new ones Low Tones are live recordings by Udo Schindler tracks #1-5 at DasLihotzky_wagnisART in Munich at February 7th, 2020 and tracks #6-10 at the 99th Salon fr Klang+Kunst in Krailling/Munich at February 28nd, 2020 mix & master by Wolfgang Obrecht/Tonstudio RichArt, Munich both concerts took place as part of the concert series 'LowToneStudies


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Udo Schindler Thomas stempkowski
IN SEARCH OF SURPRISE [FMRCD617]

IN SEARCH OF SURPRISE The international Trio S.R.L. has an interesting background as it emerged through an artistic residency in the Villa Waldberta (Feldafing/Munich) during the restricted Covid period from november 2020 to february 2021. The french american composer Etienne Rolin was introduced to multi instrumentalist Udo Schindler thanks to the cultural manager Gabi Sabo. Immediately from the first meeting there was a mutual understanding and confidence in the nature of the collaboration which covered 14 encounters and close to a dozen hours of recordings over a three month period.


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Sonic Rivers
MIRROR UNIT [FMRCD618]

On one of the particulary hot summer days in Cologne in 2019, we met to record the music for our duos second album During our session the temperature in the small but fine cinema (hall of the cultural centre Alte Feuwache) rose continuosly and reached truly tropical conditions by the time of the evening concert For this CD we have now chosen those sonic rivers that evolved during the 'melting point' of the day, so to speak, with a few unintended sounds leaking in from the cultural centres courtyard contributing in their own way to this evenings special atmosphere


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BERND DEZEVIM TOBIAS SHIRMER. JAN RODER. MATTIAS BRODE
BROEDE SCHIRMER UNIT [FMRCD619]

Recorded on the 3rd Feb in 2020 at Tito's Zentrifuge in Berlin Germany, 'Imaginary moments in a city' presents something different in that its rare to hear a grand harmonica (here played by Brode Shirmer) in an improvised context and it works amazingly well!A fascinating new innovative group in the FMR stable! This brand new line up from Berlin offers music between Free Improv, Com- position and Contemporary (Free) Jazz. The unusual instrumentation with harmonica, clarinets and piano together with the compositions and the strong musical characters of the players create an original and independent group-sound with a dense and compact interaction.


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SCRATCHING [FMRCD620]

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Mia Zabelka Glen Hall
QUANTOM VIOLIN [FMRCD622]

Atomized, Interpolated, Reconfigured, Mosaiced, Cut up, Transported to the Sonic territories of quantum interactions. The musical collaboration of Austrian violinist. Vocalist and sound artists Mia Zabelka and Canadian sound artist Glen Hall bends the clock of real time music. It enters a realm of vibrational 'implants. Phase vocoded reversals. Spatialized architectures and unforeseen happenstances. 'The Quantum Violin' is a virtuoso escape hatch out of our imaginations box


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Evan Parker John Edwards Tony Marsh
MEDWAY BLUES [FMRCD623]

Recorded by Trevor Taylor at Colin Erswells Chatham basement club this cd is the only known recording of the trio with the great Tony Marsh, who passed a few years later the group


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Udo Schindler Thomas stempkowski
RELATED UNIQUE ITEMS [FMRCD624]

THOMAS STEMPKOWSKI and I agreed to dedicate these recordings with double bass to the memory of our colleague Simon H. Fell. It could hardly be more tragic and macabre, because Thomas died unexpectedly (for me) on June 12th, 2021 during the production of this CD. I never would have thought that the recordings would be a farewell and memorial album. We had plans. The first meeting stim- ulated us, the interpersonal and the inner sound was right. A strong voice is silent, not only will I miss it! us The music is dedicated to the British bassist, composer & label head SIMON H. FELL who died on June 28th, 2020, a valued colleague whom I wanted to invite for my concert series low tone studies in 2021 in Munich. live recording of the performance on October 26th, 2019 at the 97th Salon fr Klang+Kunst,


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Steve Hubback
Runecarvers [FMRCD62-V0999]

This CD features the Norwegian group especially formed to play Steve Hubbacks compositions for the brilliant and original sound sculptures he personally designed and manufactured. Aesthetically beautiful as well as producing amazingly sonorous power. With sounds ranging from awesome gongs to metalic harps and soundplates the material perfectly captures the potential of a fascinating and largely metalic soundscape. Totaly original music played on totaly original instruments! a sensational success!! The CD booklet includes a fascinating collection of his instruments, sculptures and mobiles.


Baschet Brothers Les Sculptures Sonores
The First Fifty Years [FMRCD63-0599]

A chronologically edited, audio document of the definitive recorded output of 'Les Sculptures Sonores', the instruments solely created by the French brothers Bernard and Franois Baschet, who from 1954 pioneered for over 45 years a completely new way of combining sculpture and sound. Some small, some over 20 feet high and incorporating glass rods, metal cones, wires, plastic inflatable resonators, and many other devices, these fascinating structures are not only cosmetically entrancing, but produce an incredible range of sounds and varied sonic textures. The CD features music by composers and performers familiar to these instruments: Daniel Ouzounoff, Jacques Lasry, Michel Deneuve, Malcolm Ball amd Toru Takemitsu.


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Philipp Zurcher and Tripod
Back Home [FMRCD64-V0799]

Being also a restorer of Guitars, Violins and stringed instruments has made the young Swiss virtuoso guitarist highly tuned to the quality of his sound as well as his musical direction, and this premiere recording clearly highlights his acute attention to detail in a varied set of fresh compostions, juxtapostioning solo acoustic and electronic pieces with the wonderfuly subtle trio 'Tripod', consisting of Hans Ermel on acoustic bass, and Lukas Bitterlin on drums.


Jamie Anderson
Dogcatchers Trio [FMRCD65-V0899]

The debut CD from young saxophone talent Jamie Anderson brings together a trio performance of pure vibrance. Featuring four of Jamie's own compositions, plus two standards ('Love Is A Many Splendoured Thing' and 'Chelsea Bridge') and the bass and drum talents of Arnie Somogyl and Gene Calderazzo respectively, 'Dogcatcher' is the perfect example of 'the new breed' of jazz talent. Recorded with a 'first takes only' policy, the trio emit a raw energy that will make anyone sit up and listen. "To me, jazz music means of the moment. To be true to this spirit of spontaneity all the tunes on this album are live first takes capturing the vibe." Jamie Anderson


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Michel Denevue
Danse de Dunes [FMRCD66-V1099]

Michel Denevue is well known around the world as the leading exponent of the 'crystal' , an instrument invented by the French brothers Francois and Bernard Baschet, and consists of a series of chromatic glass rods connected to metal resonators that produce the most wonderful sound when 'stroked' with the fingers. Allthough Michel has released a number of solo Cds, this is the one of which he is most proud, and that represents most eloquently his musicality. 'Danse de Dunes' is a homage to the desert, and the writing has an extrtemely Arabic flavour played beautifully by the virtuoso 'Ensemble Ishua', a group combining the Crystal with voice, cello, violin, percussion, double bass and chorus


Jonathan Crossley
Dreams of Skilia [FMRCD68]

Debut recording form this excellent South African guitarist. The young guitarist explores the rich textures of the guitar, with the aid of live electronics and sampling techniques. Dreams of Skilia also features Jazz master John Fourie as well as pianist Wessel van Rensberg and guitarist Reza Kahn.


John Mayer's
Indo Jazz Fusions 2000 [FMRCD69]

John Mayers legendary Indo Jazz Fusions returns for 2000. Continuing his blend of Jazz and Indian music that he started with Joe Harriott, each composition (including one by Kenny Wheeler INJA) is played by an excellent ensemble of young musicians. A return not to be missed.


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Keith Tippett
Linuckea [FMRCD70]

The long awaited piano quintet by Keith Tippett is finally available on CD, for all those who missed its original performance with the Kreutzer String Quartet and those who want to hear it again. Recorded with some of the original quartet Linkea is a fantastic inclusion to any collection.


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Steve Hubback
Best kept Secrets [FMRCD71]

For this CD actually recorded in 1997) Steve Hubback has finally produced a personal masterpiece! This CD is not only a summary of his current musical direction, but the total personalization of his style brought to life by the use of all his own instruments and sound sculptures. Gongs, Kyzees, Cymbals, Bells, Drums and a host of other Hubback made percussion produce a high energy but also highly spiritual percussive soundworld.


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Paul Dunmall
East West North South [FMRCD72]

A new recording from the excellent saxophonist Paul Dunmall also here on bagpipes) with a quartet including John Adams and Phillip Gibbs guitars) and brilliant drummer Mark Sanders. Dunmall thoroughly deserves his reputation as one of the most exciting British saxophonists in years!!


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Roger Dean's Lysis Lives
Resounding In The Mirror [FMRCD73]

A 2CD set of 3 recordings by Roger Deans Lysis Lives, AustraLysis Electroband Resounding and the unreleased LYSIS Plus with Kenny Wheeler. These three recordings are the perfect accompaniment to the talents of Roger Dean, a must for all his fans, old and new!!


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25 of the Worlds most innovative Percussionists!
PERCUSSION PROFILES [FMRCD74]

The first of two planned CDs based around the new boom about 25 of the worlds leading and most dynamic percussionists. This first CD presents all solo material, much recorded specially for the CD and introduces 13 of the worlds most creative players including players such as Marilyn Mazur, Pierre Favre, Le Quan Ninh, Gregg Bendian


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Ad Peynenberg / Steve Hubback
And other stuff [FMRCD75]

Eccentric dutch saxophonist meets crazy British percussionist!! Perhaps an unlikely combination on the face of it, but this pairing produces dynamite improvised music of rare quality. And Other Stuff introduces a major saxophone find to couple Steves recent series of duo CDs, the last being he stunning release with Norwegian saxophonist Frode Gjerstad.


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Wachtelaer/Lytton/Grazzhoppa/Valckenaers/Weilacher
Vanishing Pictures [FMRCD76]

Vanishing Pictures is not only the name of the CD, but the highly successful brainchild of leading Belgium drummer percussionist Dirk Wachtelaer. Here he has assembled an ensemble of brilliant musicians from around Europe into a working ensemble, and this is their first CD. With names like Paul Lytton, DJ Grazzhoppa, it could be nothing less than highly stimulating music.


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Frank Perry
Temple of the Ancient magical Presence [FMRCD78]

Although not seen often on the concert platform Frank Perry has been busy for 30 years building an enviable reputation for producing a totally original musical output based on his spiritual beliefs utilising his awesome all metallic percussion setup using gongs, temple bowls and a host of ancient percussion instruments, some over 600 years old! Here he presents some new and some old unreleased recordings of solos, duos and trios featuring world famous musicians such as Evan Parker, David Toop, Paul Lytton, Paul Lovens, Jin Hi Kim and Trevor Taylor.


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RECREATOR
SOLAR SAHARA [FMRCD79]

Recreator is a new trio featuring the talents of reknowned British saxophonist Theo Travis, FMR regular percussionist and ex-pat Steve Hubback and keyboardist extraordinaire Nick Le Beat. Indefinable in categorisation, the title 'Solar Sahara' gives a clue to the music that encompasses so many musical soundworlds, jazz, electronic, improvised, contemporary classical, they're all thrown into the mix and the results are a stimulating and engaging music of energy and spirituality.


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Paul Lytton, John Stevens, Frank Perry, Eddie Prevost, Trevor Taylor:
Improvising Percussionist (FMR CD81) [FMRCD81]

This new CD represents a snapshot of the UK improvised percussion scene back in the early seventies. Never released before and recorded to a very high quality at Pye Studios in London the CD includes the only ever recorded documentary of the solo recording by the legendary John Stevens, along with some fascinating solo playing by players who have now become a by-word for percussion and improvisation in the UK. On listening time after time to these tapes I know I have done the right thing releasing them, they sound terrific and defy their nearly 30 year enforced hibernation, and now nothing can give me the same buzz to see them finally see the light of day!! (Trevor Taylor)


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Tsunami
Tsunami [FMRCD82]

One rainy day in Glasgow ace British saxophonist Lol Coxhill flew to Scotland for a small tour with the George Burt/Raymond MacDonald Quartet. Although plagued by the weather this CD (originally titled Glasgow After The Rain) was produced in a studio after the tour and gives an insight into some extremely powerful and emotionally stimulating music, part of which was influenced by psycho-analytical reference cards used as scores! A great introduction to both Lol Coxhill and some highly creative Scottish musicians.


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Trevor Taylor
New Music For Percussion & Electronics [FMRCD85]

This new CD offers a fascinating tour of Taylors current musical directions including electronics and sound sculpture as well as pure percussion. The CD contains composed works by masters such as John Cage, Toru Takemitsu as well as Taylor himself. Works for sound sculpture by artists Francois Baschet, Steve Hubback and Derek Sheil, plus Eclipse and Cosmo, two unreleased solo percussion pieces from the seventies.


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John Mayer
Shiva Nataraj (King Of Dance)  [FMRCD86]

This is the second release on FMR for the world famous John mayer's Indo-Jazz Fusions following the outstanding success of INJA (FMRCD69) released last year. Right through the 60s and 70s John Mayer along with British virtuoso saxophonist Joe Harriott took the group to the very pinnacle of success being the first group to successfully fuse jazz and Indian music. Like Inja the majority of tracks have been composed by the leader, with the balance made up by some very exciting compositions from the rest of the band and outstanding composers like Kenny Wheeler and Stan Sulzmann.


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Paul Dunmall/Tony Bianco
I You [FMRCD87]

British saxophone hero Paul Dunmall and American drummer /percussionist extraordinaire Tony Bianco have made many valid contributions to jazz over the years and this latest duo recording is no exception. Containing 4 brand new improvisation workouts 'I You' is a wonderful showcase for both these musicians amazing talents.I YOU. The first inklings of consciousness. An ancient duality. Subject-Object. Man duets with his environment. Man looks out of his eyes to the Universe. The relationship between One and Two, the first movement in Mathematics, just happening over and over again. Music and listener form one relationship. A question and answer relationship. The saxophone and drums duet. A dialogue that is primitive but also futuristic. The drums providing the rhythmic drone on which the saxophone speaks a message.


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The Kortrijk Percusssion Project
The Kortrijk Percusssion Project [FMRCD88]

For this brand new project Dirk Wachtelaer chose two other musicians who he knew of and respected, but had not worked with directly before. By coincidence both were British Percussionists, but players with subtly different styles and approaches. There was however a tentative link between them all, in that all three of these musicians have a love of sound sculpture and experimental musical instruments as well as percussion. Wachtelaer's idea was to engage his live electronic percussion and machine samples (which included the sounds of Pierre Bastien and Derek Shiel) with the beautiful hand crafted sound sculptures made and played by Steve Hubback and Trevor Taylors percussion sound sculptures created by the famous Baschet Brothers (Les Sculptures Sonores). For one week the ensemble rehearsed the material, before travelling to a studio in Antwerp to record parts of it, and finally performed the premiere of the music in kortrijk on friday 28th November 2001.


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Frode Gjerstad/Terje Isungset
Shadows And Lights [FMRCD89]

Following his very successful duo recording with Steve Hubback (Demystify), Frode Gjerstad teams up with another percussionist, Norways Terje Isungset for this latest release 'Shadows And Light'. Isungsets unusual set-up of drums, and found objects (stones, metal and wood) mixes very well with Gjerstad's virtuoso playing, this time solely on clarinets. Frode say's 'The way he (Terje) uses his set and the sounds that he produces, to me suggests a music which fits the wooden sound of the clarinets'. Recorded in a school gymnasium in Bergen, this twelve track CD utilises the rooms acoustic character and the wonderful interaction of the performers beautifully.


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BROTZMANN, UUSKYLA, FRIIS NIELSEN
FLYING FEATHERS [FMRCD91]

Peter's Brotzmann, Uusklya, Fris Nieklsen are Flying Feathers, and they do in this fabulous new studio recording! If your a fan of Brotzmanns 'no prisoner' approach you will love this record! a tour de force that never the less succeeds because of the empathy between the players who have worked together over many years. Peter Brotzmann is a colossus amongst saxophonists with an unmistakeable sound and style and we unashamedly recommend this new CD as a magnificent example of where this direction of 'Free Jazz' has reached, warm, passionate and moving!


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THE GEORGE BURT/RAYMOND MACDONALD QUARTET WITH LOL COXHILL:
COXHILL STREET [FMRCD92]

A rapid follow up to the highly acclaimed 'Tsunami'! Named after a real road in Glasgow and recorded over a weekend there, UK improv guru Lol Coxhill reunites with this excellent Scottish quartet for another round of rollicking improvisation. This is another great document of this consistent, energetic and hugely enjoyable group. Another chapter of the quartets adventures not to be missed!!


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LUKE ANNESLEY
BEGINNING [FMRCD93]

Luke Annersley is another of an impressive list of new young saxophone talents that amazingly manage to excel at many other musical levels such as composition as well playing, and on this brilliant new release we hear 4 new compositions by him plus some surprising arrangements! Joined by a really strong lineup of legendary guitarist Dave Cliff, solid bassist Simon Thorpe and the versatile drummer Matt Skeiton, The altoist's beautiful tone, fine technique and imagination are always to the fore! Although not ground breakingly avantgarde the group produces a fresh and purposeful sound and energy that confirms good jazz is alive and well!


SECOND NATURE
PERIPHERAL VISIONS [FMRCD94]

Second Nature's Peripheral Vision is the debut album from one of the UK's most exciting groups in recent years. The success of this album lies largely in the beautiful writing, and arranging, plus powerful solos from pretty much everybody in the group,(especially mufti-instrumentalist Lori). Led by guitarist Jez Franks , whose compositions offer wonderfully strong melodic lines, this group excels with a controlled but intelligent energy, sophisticated but not lacking in spirit. A new group with a massive future!!


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LEON MICHENER
IMAGINARY LANDSCAPE [FMRCD95]

Leon Michener is one of the most exciting new pianists to emerge in recent years. Still in his twenties he commands a frightening technique with a powerful intellect which combined with a warm and human touch make this a sensational debut album! To take on a horrendously difficult contemporary piano classic like Xenakis 'Herma' is no mean feat on your maiden voyage, but to include brilliant renditions of pieces by names like Scelsi and Ives is something else!


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AMALGAM: PRAYER FOR PEACE [FMRCD96]

FMR is proud to finally include a major recording by Trevor Watts and Amalgam on its 'Legacy' label, A major release of the 70's classic never previously released onto CD, Amalgam where a highly respected group which for this recording included John Stevens, and two bass players, Jeff Clyne and Berry Guy. Actually recorded in the spring of 1969 it contains 5 pieces and Trevor Watts has said of the title track, 'The mood of Prayer for Peace' is a very strong part of my musical personality The theme came to me during an improvisation. Afterwards 1 remembered h because the feeling was so beautiful for me 1 wanted to recreate it, and give the feeling of peace and beauty to others'.


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I.0
LIVE AT THE ROUNDHOUSE [FMRCD98]

1.0.is the startlingly exciting 30 piece big band that has assumed the mantle left by Loose Tubes! Thoroughly engaging they have been described as a cross between Schoenberg and Starsky and Hutch! Somehow they manage to fuse the improvisation of jazz with classical string arrangements, hip hop rhythms and dance floor grooves .... and a voodoo tension that echoes film scores !... Exuberant, infectious and above all a band with unparalleled spirit that is always prepared to push the barriers!


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Acoustic Masks (Felix Jay and Byron Wallen)
Murliton Music [FMRCDE49-0698]

However diverse, all of the music is linked by the central motif of the acoustic mask, the disguised voice, so fundamental to the worlds transcendental musical traditions. Mirliton marimba, muted trumpet, marimba bottletops, ngoni hunters harp, amplified sitars, e-bowed guitar, even MIDI a sort of alternative spirit voice are used to great effect. The piano preparations nod towards both players developing involvement with the gamelan. This recording is the outcome of their joint trip to Java returning with serious collections of inspirational instruments.


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ANITA WARDEL
WHY DO YOU CRY? [FMRCDUGCD03-9897]

Although originally from Australia, Anita Wardell has risen to the ranks of Britians Jazz star singers at an alarming rate, due to her wonderful voice, equisite musical taste, and outstanding musicianship.In this her first CD (Accompoianed by the brilliant Lian Noble) we have a wonderful collecion of contrast from great standards to brilliant originals, some written by her showing mature writing skills! A brilliant talentof which Norma Winstone said I remember being astounded by her improvising! this CD has been worth the wait, she sings without affection,and with clarity of voice that I love!


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DELTA SAXOPHONE QUARTET
UNEASY DREAMS [FMRDVD004-0310]

Following on from its ground breaking commissions and CD releases, the Delta Saxophone Quartet in partnership with Kingston University London, has now produced this art house DVD which forms part of its 25th anniversary celebrations. The music presented here features works by some of the UK's and Ireland's most original and challenging composers: Michael Finnissy, Mike Searby, Stephen Goss, Gerald Barry, and Tim Ewers, combined with eclectic soundscapes from the quartet. The visual design is by Frank Millward and combines analogue studio footage with digital 3D spectrographic responses for each of the musical tracks. This DVD also includes a variety of interviews which give a unique insight into the often hidden worlds of composers and performers living in con- temporary UK plc today.


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PAUL DUNMALL
DEEP DVD [FMRDVD03]

PAUL DUNMALL (saxophones) Paul Dunmall is one of the finest saxophonists we have in Britain today, and is recognised as one of the most creative musicians on the scene. For the last 20 years he has dedicated himself entirely to free improvisation. This is the first DVD to come from FMR and a no better subject for one than the evergreen Dunmall.


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TREVOR WATTS VERYAN WESTON MARK SANDERS JOHN EDWARDS
'HEAR NOW' a film by Mark French plus extra audio tracks [FMRDVD05]

Beautifully recorded and produced film by Mark French with various sections where Trevor Watts talks about the music. 4 separate dialogues , plus two tracks recorded by the quartet at Hastings Jazz Club in 2012


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Trudy Kerr
SweetSuprise [FMRUGCD04-0797]

Like her close friend Anita Wardell, Trudy Kerr also came originally from Australia and has made a highly succesful career in the UK. Although with a different style, sound and more varied musical repetoire than Anitia, she certainly shares an amundance of ability, excellent stage presence and a highly sophisticated vocal command. in this, amazingly her first CD, she is joined by an all star group of the very best British Jazz musicians including Dave O'Higgins and the brilliant guitarist Mark Johns.Singer Ian Shaw has said 'I have followed her career and heard her gig through some of the country's finest jazz venues. At Ronnie Scott's she bequiled an eager audience with her highly polished show. This CD is a stunning debut!


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Tom Hannahs Agenda
Part One : Desolate Streams. [FMRUGCD05-0897]

Tom Hannah has fast acheived a reputation as a songwriter. performer of world class. His writing is fresh, full of wit and originality and totaly uncliched.To do this recording consisitng of 9 excellent pieces, he employed some of the countries best known musicinas across the setrum of Jazz and rock. Including the brilliant Kelvine Christiane on Saxophones, Gary Hammond-percussion, Marc Parnell-drums, Dave Jones-Bass, Dave Priseman-trumpet, and Victoria Newton-backing vocals.


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Rob Hall
HEADING NORTH [FMRUGCD06-0898]

This is saxophonist Rob Halls second CD for FMR using roughly the same personnel as the highly acclaimed Open Up This Cd is based on the experiances of various tours up and down the country, in this case to Scotland, and includes many pieces written specially for and after these tours. The CD also features Robs expansion to clarinet as well as soprano sax, which has now exapanded to include alto as well. His full rounded tone has now developed even more along with his excellent compositional talent, making these performances along with his excellent band of Dave Frankell, Alex Keen, Paul Cavaciuti, Phillip Van Endert a further example of a fast maturing virtuoso saxophonist and major writer


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Laura Zakian
Nobody Else But Me [FMRUGCD07]

An impressive debut album for this young singer from Italy. Now resident in London. The female vocal scene has become quite crowded of late, but she has the style and personality to make a mark. Zakian can make a melody swing without beating it into submission first, and sings with a smile on her face - a pleasant relief after some of the doom-laden tones one hears so often these days. Her accompanying quartet features that excellent pianist Steve Melling and trombonist Mark Bassey, a superb witty player and one to watch out for in the near future. Jazz CD of the week. Dave Gelly, The Observer

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John Wickes
Innovations in British Jazz(Vol1) [SWB1]

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After presenting some expository background information, (Chapter 1), it is with this earlier generation that the narrative begins. I960 was selected as a starting point, not only because this was the time of my first encounter with jazz as a teenager, but because it was around that time that British jazz emerged from the cocoon of respectful emulation with which it had wrapped itself out of a mistaken attitude of self-imposed second-bestness to the genuine article, which had to be American and, preferably, black. As it unfolds, the story will also reveal fascinating though little-discussed links with the early development of British rock music, and show how the new British jazz contributed to the shaping of the latter
 
Steve Day
Two Full Ears - Listening to Improvised Music [SWB2]

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Steve Days Two full Ears is not yet another introduction to Jazz. Instead, its pages are crammed both with the music itself and the process of the interaction between playing and listening. The book is a description of one mans passion for Jazz and improvised music written from the perspective of the listener. Steve Day writes with authority about a music that has been circling around his ears for over a couple of decades. Whilst there is plenty of attention to musical detail, the book sets out to record what it is like to really listen, backed up by 17 tracks on the free accompanying CD, that contains much of the actual music he refers to in the books 22 chapters.
 
Francois Baschet
Les Sculptures Sonores [SWB3]

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FRANCOIS BASCHETS NEW BOOK. 325 PAGES WITH OVER 160 PAGES OF RARE PHOTOGRAPHS IS COMPLETE WITH A FREE CD OF MUSIC FEATURING THE BASCHETS CREATIONS, DOCUMENTING RECORDINGS BY COMPOSERS AND PERFORMERS OF THE INSTRUMENTS SUCH AS DANIEL OUZOUNOFF, JACQUES LASRY, MALCOLM BALL AND MICHEL DENEUVE.
 
Steve Day
Ornette Coleman Music Always [SWB4]

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In this fascinating study of Ornette Coleman, Steve Day focuses his writing skills on one individual, the legendary alto saxophone player whose name is synonymous with the birth and development of "Free Jazz". Ornette Coleman changed the whole rationale behind jazz music. Leonard Bernstein called him a genius, Dizzy Gillespie once asked if he was serious. No player before or since has managed to split critical opinion so decisively.
 
Michael Bettine Trevor Taylor
Percussion Profiles [SWB5]

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Book about 25 very special percussionists, and the accompanying CD of all solo material by them(which contains many tracks specially recorded for this project) will interest an inspire you as much as they have us!!
 
High Davies
Sounds Heard [SWB6]

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A Potpourri of Environmental Projects and Documentation, Projects with Children, Simple Musical Instruments, Sound Installations Verbal Scores, and Historical Perspectives.
 
Mike Pearson
Conversations in British Jazz [SWB7]

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This book celebrates the work of a group of self-effacing, outwardly unflambouyant people. Musicians who have made a life for themselves playing modern jazz in Britain. Is there another cultural pursuit less promising in terms of job security or financial reward
 
Steve Hubback
Fire and Steel [SWB8]

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This book covers all his work and development as an artist as well as musician, and contains over 150 mono photographs of his pieces as well as 16 pages of colour plates, his own comments on his life and work, plus a complete discography
 
Zev
Ear Drumming [SWB9]

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This incisive book is a must for all percussion as well as general music fans (or in fact anyone interested in psychology/philosophy). Z'ev starts this book and attempts to explain his interests in many areas such as shamanism, trance and meditation and how these can be attained through music, and he uses his theories to explain how the human ear has a direct analogy with the drum and its human tradition.
 


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Eric Marin
The Transfiguration if Daily Life [SWD1]

In Production

An incredible film about the wonderful French Sound Sculptors and Inventors Bernard and Franois Baschet, brought to you by FMR for the first time on DVD.


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Steve Hubback
Forged From Dreams - The Sonorous Sculptures, Music and life of Welsh artist Steve Hubback [SWDVD01]

This fascinating DVD tells the story of one of the UKs most innovative musicians, whose art evolved from musician into blacksmith, bronzesmith, and sound sculptor! Steve Hubbacks Sonorous Sculptures are both incredibly sonically pure, while also being harmonically rich, and the visual aesthetic has an indefinable organic magic and spirituality. This DVD covers all his work and development as an artist as well as a musician, and contains an interview with Hubback with Mark Curry, plus footage from Norway, Iceland, Denmark, England and Wales as well as performances from his European Group Metal Moves (featuring Tineke Noordhoek and Birgit Lokke) plus solo performances in England.


Rob Hall
Open up [UGCD01]

This upcoming saxophonist/composer with the strong blessing of Jim Mullen (who features on this CD) has paved a way into the British Jazz circuit with great confidence, particularly within his strong compositional skills. With the addition of Dave Frankel (keyboard/piano, Alex Keen (bass) and drummers Joachim Leyh and Paul Cavaciuti, this is a strong debut.


Laura Zakian
Nobody Else But Me [UGCD07]

An impressive debut album for this young singer from Italy. Now resident in London. The female vocal scene has become quite crowded of late, but she has the style and personality to make a mark. Zakian can make a melody swing without beating it into submission first, and sings with a smile on her face - a pleasant relief after some of the doom-laden tones one hears so often these days. Her accompanying quartet features that excellent pianist Steve Melling and trombonist Mark Bassey, a superb witty player and one to watch out for in the near future. Jazz CD of the week. Dave Gelly, The Observer


Lisa Kavanagh
I'M IN LOVE [UGCD08]

Lisa Kavanagh (voice), Dominic Ashworth (guitars), Geoff Gascoyne (bass), Jamie Trowell (percussion/drums), Derek Nash (sop/baritone saxes). I'm In Love features the many facets of this new talented singer's vocal style from an easy swing feel to more soulful and passionate interpretations. Supported by the fine arrangements of Geoff Gascoyne who gives Lisa space for her own self expression and subtle improvisation and the piano-less set up gives the whole CD a refreshing look and feel.


GORDON MARK WEBBER
NO NEED FOR LABELS [UGCD10]

Gordon Mark Webber (Vocals), Dominic Ashworth (Guitar) lain Hall (Bass guitar), Roy Chilton (Double bass), Rees Bridges (Drums), Derek Nash (Saxophones), Gunther Kuermayr (Piano), Chris Howes (Piano), Ben Cummings (Trumpet) First outing on FMRA)ftimate Groove for male vocalist Webber!


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CLARE FOSTER
THE MUSIC AND I [UGCD11-1203]

Clare Foster (vocals), Andrew McCormack (piano), Alec Dankworth (bass), Winston Clifford (drums), with guests: Shanti Paul Jayasingha (trumpet) and Jean Toussaint (saxophone) This brand new release from the hugely gifted singer Clare Foster demonstrates not only her breathtaking voice, but her undeniable talent as a lyricist, setting her original, smart and inventive lyrics (lovingly reproduced in the CDs booklet) to brand new arrangements of classic compositions from amongst others Oscar Hammerstein, Duke Ellington and Freddie Hubbard. This CD also contains some great guest appearances from the much celebrated saxophonist Jean Toussaint and the lush, ethnic-inspired trumpet sound of Shanti Paul Jayasingha, alongside her excellent backing band of award winning musicians: Andrew McCormack, Alec Dankworth and Winston Clifford.


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ANITA WARDELL & BENN CLATWORTHY:
IF YOU NEVER COME TO ME [UGCD12-0104]

Anita Wardell (voice), Benn Clatworthy (saxophone, flute), Robin Aspland (piano), Paul Morgan (double bass), Martin Drew (drums) A welcome return from easily one of the best female voices in the business and this fine saxophonist. What an enjoyable album this is. The pairing of Anita Wardells voice and Benn Clatworthys flute and saxophones is not only new but exceptionally pleasing. And like all good ideas, it sounded right the first time it was mentioned - which was not long ago, on a London night when Anita sat in at one of Benns gigs. And a couple of months later it sounded just as right in the studio, where these 10 well-chosen standards were recorded, mostly in first takes. Jack Massarik


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BRIGITTE BERAHA:
PRELUDE TO A KISS [UGCD13-0504]

This French singers debut recording hails the arrival of a wonderful new voice to the European jazz scene. Based in the United Kingdom, Brigitte has successfully produced an album of songs that demonstrates her ability to steer clear of the tried and tested formulae that many of her fellow singers choose. selecting a line-up of gifted musicians that will complement her skilful voice. Recommended by one of her mentors Anita Wardell, this is forward thinking jazz singing based in the now.


HELENA JESSIE
MUSIC PLAY [UGCD14-0105]

The results (on Music Play) are outstanding for a newcomer. On this album she tackles some of the 20th Centurys most challenging jazz standards and makes them her own. From the gentle cadence of Begin The Beguine to an ambitious fast swing version of This Cant be Love, her unique style unfolds. Rich and luscious, her voice lulls you into submission and her affection for each of these songs shines through. For 24-year- old Helena Jessie, this is just the beginning of a wonderful childhood dream. Yvonne Murray (Journalist) Music Play displays the exciting vocal talent of UK newcomer Helena Jessie. It features a strong choice of well-known standards, a good selection of grooves and well crafted arrangements. Helena has remarkable intonation and a seductive timbre. Her phrasing is direct and swinging and she is well supported by a top class rhythm section. All in all this is a fantastic debut album which will captivate the listener and bear repeated listening.

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