My Braxton new release

[Chuck Nessa]

The question:

"I was curious about your thoughts on the Braxton disc you're coming out with. Braxton has so many records on the market, I was wondering why you think this one is special. I was going to ask you in a forum, but didn't want to put you on the spot. Thanks."

I have known Anthony Braxton since 1967 and have always admired him as a musician and my admiration of his music (a different thing) has grown through the years.

My usual plan is to record/issue ignored music I think is worth exposing. For years (and now) Anthony's music has been documented as fast as the public can absorb, or faster.

A while back I was offered the duo session with John McDonough (completely unknown in the regular circles). I have lived with the recording for about a year and have listened to the music more than anyone including the participants. I finally decided this was a special, intimate performance and needed to be heard. The musical interchange is special to my way of thinking.

The most recent Anthony Braxton releases getting attention are also duos, with Joe Morris and Gerry Hemingway - these are both 4 disc sets of "free improvisations" and are wonderful but the size of these (and other) recent releases are a bit off putting to some.

My release (recorded around the same time) is a single disc with one long improvisation, compositions by both of the participants and finally a march by John Phillip Sousa.

I thought this program might be a good way into Anthony's other releases and might convince some doubters. I also am proud to introduce Mr. McDonough to folks not knowing him.

Thanks for the time.

[papsrus]

Thanks for the rundown. Sounds wonderful.

Please do send up a flare when this one and the Mitchell are available.

[paul secor]

I have to admit that I haven't kept up with Anthony Braxton over the years, except for an occasional recording. Part of that is that I've felt overwhelmed by the flow of releases. I'll buy this one because I trust Chuck's taste in music and want to support what he does.