Clark JM Jazz Mandolin
Search
Tips & Tricks Mel Bay Mandolin Sessions
Spotlight

JM_Ad_GiJM.jpg

JM_Ad_JLSmith.jpg

JM_Ad_Clark2.jpg

Manndolins.jpg

JM_Ad_Sorensen.jpg

JM_Ad_Giroaurd.jpg

JM_Ad_MandolinCafe.jpg

Sage Wisdom

"Good improvisation communicates harmonic progression melodically. Effective melodies manipulate harmonic content through the use of guide tones and preparatory gravity notes, masterfully woven in systematic tension, release, and transparent harmonic definition."



« Times Argus Review: Will Patton | Main | GiJM Feedback »

November 2, 2008 | The Absynth Quintet: Indigo Shoes

Introducing "Indigo Shoes" from a fabulous Trinidad, California Gypsy "Jamgrass" band, "The Absynth Quintet." We've been following mandolinist Bird Jowaisis now for several years since their sophomore 2004 release "Kevlar Mariachi Pants." Bird and the band have matured and solidified their unique signature sound, a blend of Eastern European Gypsy, Americana, and Jam band. Rich with energy and finesse, they produce a fierce acoustic energy that never betrays a carefully crafted sophistication. In addition to the quintet of banjo, upright bass, mandolin, drums, and guitar, the CD features special guest appearances by Zebulon Bowles and Rob Diggins on violin, Drie Roberts on vocals, and Steve Porter on musical saw!

Chris 'Bird' Jowaisas: Mandolin

From their website: "The Absynth Quintet melds the familiar and the avant-gard with a unique and provocative palette of tone and texture. This is streetcorner swing with a sense of humor, bluegrass with footstomping danceability, intertwined with playful forays into the depths of sophisticated musical experimentation. The Eugene Weekly places the sound 'somewhere along the spectrum of acoustic-improvisational-gypsy-jazz... plucky and tight a la David Grisman' with 'a dash of Eastern European exoticism that puts you in a smoky, understated hash bar kind of mood.' And desptite the fact that 'The subtle interplay of various harmonic layers is also deserving of a close and contemplative listen' the band makes it clear that this is not meant to be hyper-organized, candlelit jazz. They make music that is equally appropriate for sit down shows at theatres or rocking friday night danceclub parties, 'we work where the visceral and the cerebral meet' is how Mandolinist Chris 'Bird' Jowaisas put it. The Arcata Eye said '...listening to KMP is akin to being served an exotic meal (or mind altering beverage) one could never hope to replicate at home. You have to go out for this kind of stuff. Delicious.' The CD is out now on Sidenote records and available at music stores and itunes."

The Absynth Quintet

Recent performances had the band sharing the stage with such acts as Vince Herman, Thamusement, Sam Bush, Devil Makes Three, Joe Craven, David Grisman Quintet, Peter Rowan and Hot Buttered Rum.

Instrumentation:
Ian Davidson: Banjo
Rudy Luera: Upright Bass
Chris "bird" Jowaisas: Mandolin
Ryan Roberts: Guitar
Michael Schwartz: Drums and Percussion

Sample Audio

Purchase CD: Indigo Shoes
Band Myspace Page
Band Website: Absynth Quintet

Posted by Ted at November 2, 2008 6:32 AM


Bookmark and Share


QuickNav:   Home | Book | Webtracks | Tips | Store | Contact
Feeds: Tips & Tricks | What's New
© 2005-2018 JazzMando.com. All rights reserved.


Disclaimer: In the 'Information Age' of the 21st Century, any fool with a computer, a modem, and an idea can become a self-professed 'expert." This site does not come equipped with 'discernment.'



Site designed and hosted by No Hassle Design, Development, & Hosting

Tips & Tricks - Listen & LearnMel Bay Mandolin Sessions Articles- check it out!