Kurtis Rivers CD discography. When the multifaceted jazz ensemble Either/Orchestra began performing original arrangements of songs inspired by a little-known compilation of 1970s Ethiopian music, they may not have thought that their imaginative reworkings could result in a bona fide cross-cultural exchange. Contacted by the album's producer, Francis Falceto, to play at the 2004 Ethiopian Music Festival, the Boston group's appearance would mark the first time a non-Ethiopian artist performed there. ETHIOPIQUES VOL. 20 is a two-disc set documenting the results of the historic event. Augmenting the core ensemble are several local guests on vocals, tenor saxophone, and percussion. Working with traditional and contemporary Ethiopian melodies, the group stretches out to add swinging big-band style horns, evoking strange tonalities that would not be out of place on a Sun Ra record. While the dazzling horn section does take center stage, the most adventurous element is the wonderfully varied and detailed rhythm section--in particular, the guest percussionists, whose organic polyrhythmic grooves bring jazz full circle, and back to its African roots. Recording information: Ethiopian Music Festival, Addis ...

Kurtis Rivers CD discography. Off the recording scene for five years, a reconfigured version of the Either/Orchestra returns under founder Russ Gershon's guidance to play their original music. After working with Ethiopian legend Mulatu Astatqe, Gershon and the band are playing a funkier music, ...

Kurtis Rivers albums. If a person had to choose only one adjective to describe Love In Exile, it would be "lush." "Exuberant," "inspired" and "optimistic" also apply, but the lush nature of Salim Washington's melodies and arrangements is the thing that stands out ...

Kurtis Rivers music CDs. Blues and bop are the key to guitarist Fred Woodard's playing and he is joined by bassist Herman Hampton and drummer Peter Barr on "1715". A Berklee School Of Music graduate in jazz composition and arranging, after Berklee Fred played ...

Kurtis Rivers discography. Track Listing of songs: Morning Is the Time for Miracles; Harlem Homecoming; Country Walk; Maestro Joe; In Search of Sane Alternatives; Jamila; Stranded; Horace T; There Is Now Grass Growing in Antarctica; How Great Thou Art/Yes Lord;