Lovely gig with Joe McPhee a couple of weeks ago. What an amazing player (obviously!), and an incredible nice guy. Really interesting to deal with the different approach to the ‘open’ context of an American rather than European player (although I suppose the ‘European’ designation is itself probably too broad to be of use; as I imagine the ‘American’ one might be if I’d worked with more guys from over there!): most noticeable was Joe’s phrasing: long long loooong melodic ideas - really beautiful. There were recording mics at the gig – hopefully it all came out OK, and something might come of this…watch this space. In the meantime, here’s a shot clip from the gig. Organ purists – fear not – I do use pedals on the albums! On the subject of the albums – a nice review in the current Wire from Clive Bell.

Anyhow – spent the last 10 days in New York. A couple of gigs with the wonderful band of Rob Brown, Ted Daniel, Mark Helias, and Harris Eisenstadt, plus a recording with the same guys. I took some South African music out there, and the session felt great…we’ve got some lovely stuff down by Johnny Dyani, Mongezi, Dudu, and others…so hopefully more on this soon. Those guys are incredible players, and I think the rhythm section of Mark and Harris has spoilt me for I don’t know how long…those two sound amazing together (again - obviously!; but it bears saying) .

By the way – as I type, listening to Horace Tapscott, ‘Live at Lobero’s Vol.1′. Wow. This guy is one of THE great pianists, period. Why is he not better known? Also – possibly even less known, if that’s possible – Sonship Theus on drums. A monster player – totally individual sound to his set-up, and propulsive as you like.