... featuring Canadian bass legend Neil Swainson!

Roy Styffe has been at the forefront of Canadian jazz saxophone for over 30 years; a lyrical improviser akin to the melodicism of Paul Desmond, the playfulness of Cannonball Adderley and the depth of John Coltrane.

In this special performance, Roy reunites with longtime musical collaborators, Toronto-based Neil Swainson and Victoria‘s own Dr. Tony Genge.

... about … well let’s just say it, not having drums.

Don’t get me wrong, nobody loves a well tuned set of skins better than I do, and we all know it’s hard to find someone more sensitive on the traps than Kelby MacNayr, but what happens without drums? Many of you may already know that the early swing rhythms were the responsibility of the bassist, not the drummer. And jazz trios were often sans-percussion, allowing for a wide offering of sounds to develop between differing melodic voices in a small ensemble.

When you come on Tuesday to hear Roy and Neil and Tony, listen for the space; listen for the empty place where you’re used to hearing the swish of a brush on a snare or the long decay of a cymbal. And then notice how these three amazing musicians use the openness for rich, inspired musical conversation.

Gordon

Photo: Album Art from Larry Willis’ drumless trio with Cecil Mcbee and Gary Bartz

A long time friend and supporter of Tuesday Night Jazz, Larry Saidman has an award-winning podcast that you should check out from time to time. Awesome stories and information in a wide ranging approach to experiencing the jazz learning journing together with friends.

This week: The traditional songs you'll hear in Part 1 include Wayfaring Stranger, St. James Infirmary, Red River Valley, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Roll In My Sweet Baby's Arms, and John Henry.  There is one non-traditional folk song (Bob Dylan's The Times They Are a Changin'), plus one Fergus McCreadie tune that sure sounds like a traditional folk song.

AND if you want to learn more about Larry the podcast guy himself, I did an interview with him in February 2021, and it is well worth a listen. Watch Now

In this special presentation, Poetrio share some of the music they have been working on and developing in their residency at James Bay United, celebrating the life and spirit of the great musical master Sonny Rollins. Expect joy and sorrow uplifting rhythms and mystical possibilities. Featuring saxophonist Roy Styffe, bassist Scott White and drummer Kelby MacNayr.