Michael Formanek
is one of the most highly respected acoustic bassists in
jazz, having played with such hall-of-famers as Freddie Hubbard,
Lee Konitz, Joe Henderson, Gerry Mulligan, Stan Getz, Art
Farmer, Benny Golson, John Scofield, and many more. Formanek
commands a rich tone, rhythmic approach, and melodic virtuosity
that make him fit into any musical context, be it
"inside" or "outside" of the mainstream
tradition. Apparently, the great Charles Mingus was an influence
not only to the bassist, but also to the composer-arranger:
Formanek's tunes are always witty, surprising and challenging,
with an ironic bow in the direction of older jazz styles.
Formanek's 1994 release "Low
Profile" received acclaim from jazz reviewers
worldwide: "Mingus meets Stravinsky meets the circus.
One of the most expressive, unpredictable albums of the
year" (Jazz Times). "He's a world-class bass
player-composer, and 'Low Profile' ranks among the finest albums
of the year" (Jazziz). "Formanek is clearly bursting
with ideas, having the capacity to shape them into knife-edge
jazz" (Jazz on CD).
On his new album for ENJA "Nature
Of The Beast" , Formanek presents a quartet of
high-class players related to New York's Knitting Factory
scene. Dave Douglas (who recorded with Horace Silver and
John Zorn) is among America's most versatile young trumpeters. Steve
Swell is best known for his trombone work with Joey Baron
and Tim Berne. Drummer Jim Black recently raised
attention as a sideman for Dave Douglas, Robert Dick, and Tim
Berne. On some of the tunes, this stellar quartet is joined by
guest players Tim Berne, Tony Malaby and Chris Speed for highly
adventurous and original quintet (respectively septet)
renderings.
