Album Notes

Founded in 2001 by pianist and composer Kevin Hays and saxophonist Seamus Blake, the Sangha Quartet performs an enthralling and unique blend of acoustic and electric modern Jazz.

Seamus Blake - Saxophones
Kevin Hays - Piano/Fender Rhodes/Wood Flute/Voice
Larry Grenadier - Bass
Bill Stewart - Drums


All important Jazz artists individually, with playing credits that include Pat Metheny, John Scofield, Sonny Rollins, Joe Henderson, Roy Haynes and Chris Potter, the members of this extraordinary group draw from the rich Jazz tradition, the classical and pop worlds along with fresh original material penned by it’s gifted members. The CD includes Bjork's 'The Modern Things", several of Hays' compositions and the title track by Seamus Blake'


A NOTE FROM THE ENGINEER (Liner Notes)

For me, this is a staggering live performance in the studio. Kevin, Seamus, Larry, and Bill utilize their skills to provide us with sheer beauty after returning for a European tour. The eight selections were played straight down in one very productive afternoon without the aid of fixes or overdubs.

The musical manipulation of electronics with traditional acoustic values advances a language that had its roots in the late sixties and long before, to bring us into the twenty-first century. While current technology allows performers to create a multitude of textures and sonic effects, few can actually make an emotional statement that bears repeated listening. Both the quality of the compositions and the choices made in the moment show up a level of maturity from this 'Stellar' quartet that honors the listener.

A balance of groove, melody and harmony is achieved with none of the dumbing down monotony often heard these days. The result of this unique camaraderie is an open path of extremely durable music.

As a Fresh Sounds listener you don't need a history of the various influences of these players. What's really important is that they do not trample on the past, present, or the future. This group achieves grace in the midst of extreme chance taking.

--David Baker
February 2004