Tommy Smith - Into Silence [CD]

Saxophonist/composer Tommy Smith is a major creative force in contemporary music. He performs in settings ranging from solo saxophone to big bands and symphony orchestras. He joined Gary Burton's Group at the age of 18 in 1985, and has been performing throughout the world ever since. He has recorded for Blue Note, Linn Records and others and now leads his own small groups. He has recorded over 16 albums as a leader, featuring world-renowned musicians such as Jack DeJohnette, John Scofield, Kenny Barron, Eddie Gomez, Kenny Wheeler and Jon Christensen. Smith continues his exploration of new ideas with this solo recording made in Scotland's Hamilton Mausoleum, an unusual feature of which is Europe's longest and warmest reverberation. The 25 tracks were chosen from a collection of medieval chants, folk songs, ballads and jazz improvisations that were directly inspired by the sound of the chamber and the constellations that can be seen through the observatory shaped dome. This unusual recording by one of the UK's leading jazz musicians will appeal not only to lovers of jazz but also to listeners who have been experimenting with classical/world/folk crossovers such as 'Officium' by Jan Garbarek and the Hilliard Ensemble. Personnel: Tommy Smith (soprano and tenor saxophones, bells)