Jazz / Modern Creative, Chamber Jazz, Folk Jazz, Klezmer, Avant-Garde Jazz, Jewish Music, Jazz Instrument, Saxophone Jazz
Allan Tucker Mastering
Dan Gellert Mixing
Erik Friedlander Cello
Francesco Malno Photography
Ikue Mori Design
John Zorn Executive Producer
Jon Rosenberg Engineer
Kazunori Sugiyama Producer
Marc Ribot Guitar
Mark Helias Bass
Marty Ehrlich Sax (Soprano), Arranger, Producer, Clarinet
One of the most respected and versatile reed players in New Music, Marty has been an integral member in the units of Julius Hemphill, Oliver Lake, Anthony Braxton and Bobby Bradford, among others. He has released many critically-acclaimed CDs on a variety of labels, but none more touching or personal as Sojourn, his contribution to Tzadik’s series of Radical Jewish Culture. Exploring the roots of his own Jewish heritage, Marty take us on a new path with his intimate Dark Woods ensemble, touching upon Coltrane and Klezmer on his journey. Sojourn is a very special release by one of today’s most accomplished composer/performers. A musician’s musician, his compositions are contrapuntally more complex and have a delightful folklike simplicity.
Essential for strong believers in soprano-saxophone jazz, Sojourn is a fine album from Marty Ehrlich's Dark Woods Ensemble. It may not be incredibly dynamic, but these mature, mellow compositions flow from semi-reflective to plaintive ("The Secret of Light") to moderne. All of the musicians contribute substantially to the project's strength. Bassist Mark Helias pulls and plucks with an excellent round, warm tone; cellist Erik Friedlander effortlessly slides between the front and back of the mix; guest Marc Ribot adds fine soloing; and Ehrlich alternates between clarinet and soprano sax. A satisfying listen replete with themes, harmonies, closure, and interesting motion all around. ~ Joslyn Layne, All Music Guide
Marty Ehrlich
Active Decades: '70s, '80s, '90s and '00s
Born: 1955 in St. Louis, MO
Genre: Jazz
Styles: Modern Creative, Chamber Jazz, Post-Bop, Avant-Garde Jazz, Jazz Instrument, Piano Jazz, Saxophone Jazz
A versatile player, Marty Ehrlich has led stimulating sessions and has been a valuable sideman in several different situations. He first recorded with the Human Arts Ensemble in 1972, Ehrlich studied at the New England Conservatory of Music and in 1978 he moved to New York. Since then, he has worked with many top musicians, including Muhal Richard Abrams, Anthony Braxton, Julius Hemphill, and Bobby Bradford (where he fills in for the late John Carter). Ehrlich has also duetted with Anthony Cox, led his Dark Woods Ensemble, and recorded as a leader for Cecma, Sound Aspects, Muse, New World, and most often Enja.
---Scott Yanow, All Music Guide |
