St. Louis
born Chris Cheek is one of the most sought after saxophonists in the jazz world
today, having played in the groups of legendary artists such as Paul Motian,
Charlie Haden, Steve Swallow and Bill Frisell. As a leader he has performed
with the likes of Jorge Rossy, Brad Mehldau, and Kurt Rosenwinkel. His
recordings have received rave reviews and been praised widely, becoming favorites
among fellow musicians and listeners alike. He is also co-leader of the bands
Rudder and The Bloomdaddies. Cheek's music encompasses a wide vista, firmly
rooted in the jazz tradition with a foot towards the unknown. As Steve Swallow
and Carla Bley put it, "On the one hand, he's the very embodiment of
gentle, graceful lyricism. But he's unable to resist the urge to subvert. He's
a master of the sucker punch; just when he's convinced you that things couldn't
be sweeter, he'll play something that jolts you right back to real life,
something as direct and succinct as an uppercut. Do not trust this man! Listen
at your peril." His flexible,
dynamic sound, along with his adaptability and inventiveness makes him a perfect
fit for the sound of Wild Man Conspiracy.
THE TUNES
1.
Strawberry Jam - Strawberry Jam was written for a friend who likes those tiny
sweet fruits, and who also listens to Jazz and Pop music. Chris tried to find
something that could be enjoyed at breakfast or while driving on the open
highway. Perfect for a nice jam too.
2. The Other
- This cinematic and storytelling piece is more like a suite dedicated to 'the
other'. There's a lot of discussion about 'the other' nowadays, but isn't it
so? The other, that's you!
3. Parcelas
Desiguales - A contemplation about the fact that few people in the world have a
lot - and a lot of people in the world have almost nothing. "Unequal
parts" is about this human failure.
4. Volver -
After a great tour with Wild Man Conspiracy in Catalunya, "we wanted to return
to Spain as soon as possible." A tune full of desire and melancholy, with
a glimpse of the stunning Spanish actress, Penelope Cruz.
5. Victor -
This tune isn't about the Russian president, Victor Putin, because his name is
Vladimir. No one knows who this guy Victor is and unfortunately, Guillermo
isn't planning to divulge the secret of this mysterious man.
6. Blues
Cruise - Writing Blues Cruise was Cheek's way of exploring the experience of
being on the open seas and playing music on a ship. The symmetrical part of the
tune originates from working with the reciprocal or mirror harmony and melody
of the original idea. Cheek likes to think of it as hearing the same thing
above and reflected below the horizon of the water's surface.
7. The
Adventures of Evil Pancake and Friends - A critic once said: The aliens seem to
have landed in the head of Celano whom thankfully used their influence for he
has created a new science. This tune is proof of that once more. Dali meets
Monk meets Celano.
8. No More
Tango - It takes two to tango. This tune shows what happens when the other
isn't around. After all, dancing the tango can't save a relationship.
Recorded
March 23, 2018 live at the Bimhuis, Amsterdam by Philip ten Brink
Mixed: Dirk
Hooglandt and Wild Man Conspiracy / Mastering: Q Point - Peter Brussee.
Photography: Tjerk Laan / Artwork: Macarena Baggiani
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