new people sign up here
username (or email address)

password


forgot your password?

Curlew

releases

profiles

Few avant/electric jazz bands have maintained as high a quality of work over as long a career ? over two decades thus far ? as Curlew. Recognition has come from as disparate sources as the venerable New York Times, who called Curlew "the best of the unsigned, genre-busting downtown groups", to the punk missive Butt Rag, who stated that "Plain and simple, this group is titanic". Saxist/leader/main composer George Cartwright's compositions for Curlew are at once direct and mysterious, possessing a clarity and focus that show both Ellington and Ornette assimilated in the most unique way. They provide room for the band?s individual members ? ace players all ? to stretch out, improvise and leave their imprint. Curlew?s sound has therefore evolved with each new lineup. "Meet the Curlews" features long-time members Cartwright and guitarist Davey Williams as well as new members bassist Fred Chalenor (Hughscore), drummer Bruce Golden and pianist Chris Parker, whose contributions swing the genre-busting band more firmly into the realm of jazz. The eighth brilliant album by the band that The Wire called "...one hell of a group", and who Option referred to as "...the best and most obstinately commited band to emerge from New York's Knitting Factory based alternative music scene..."

Led by saxist George Cartwright, Curlew are noted for their sense of fun, great riffing, spirited interplay, and the superb musicianship of Tom Cora (cello), Davey Williams (guitar), Ann Rupel (bass), and Pippin Barnett (drums). Live In Berlin and Bee both capture the the band in a rockin' vein. "Jazz record of the week...one of the best of New York's downtown bands, and this recording captures the group at its most intense, roadhouse best."-The New York Times. "

A Beautiful Western Saddle has lyrics by noted poet Paul Haines and singing by Amy Denio. This brings the concept of the "art song" into a whole new light. "It's been awhile since anyone has written such compelling SONGS. I still can't believe [Western Saddle] is as magnificent as it is. Should be a massive hit in every kitchen...." -Mike King, author, "Wrong Movements".

Paradise changes the format to sax, dual guitarists [Davey Williams and Chris Cochrane], bassist Ann Rupel and drummer Samm Bennett. "Curlew's new twin-guitar lineup has resulted in, perhaps, the most satisfying yet of recordings by this criminally unrecognized band ".-Henry Kaiser. "Curlew is the best and most obstinately commited band to emerge from N.Y.'s Knitting Factory-based alternative music scene..."-Option.

Fabulous Drop is the seventh album from this all star downtown band. This fantastic, extremely high-energy release features leader/saxist George Cartwright, the great dual guitar team of Davey Williams & Chris Cochrane, bassist Ann Rupel & drummer Kenny Wollesen. Great tunes, great playing & a unique sensibility - George mines a unique, truly Southern avant esthetic unlike anything else in new music. "...one hell of a group..."-The Wire. "This is seriously good music & the performances are deceptively tight...if you're looking for something with 1st rate musical standards, smart performances, brilliant sonic surprises & nutritious brain food, grab it."-Memphis Commercial Appeal.

The Hardwood is an 80' hi-fi stereo video, shot by a four camera crew with the sound recorded digitally. It was professionally edited, and captures the excitment of the band live.