Disc Makers client The Jason Parker Quartet is releasing their second album, No More, No Less later this month. We are very interested to see how the “pay what you can” model for their CD sales works out, as we have heard such good things about this technique in the past. The JPQ will celebrate their new album with a CD Release Party at Lucid Jazz Lounge in Seattle on October 24, 2009 at 9:30pm. The JPQ is made up of Jason Parker (trumpet), Josh Rawlings (piano), Evan Flory-Barnes (bass) and D’Vonne Lewis (drums). They are joined on three tracks by special guest Cynthia Mullis on tenor sax.
No More, No Less is the follow-up to the JPQ’s self-titled debut album from 2007. The new CD documents the growth the band has gone through during the past two years and illustrates the cohesive, passionate playing that prompted Earshot Jazz to call them “The next generation of Seattle Jazz.” Songs include one original by Parker and fresh takes on compositions by a diverse group of songwriters, including Wayne Shorter, Cole Porter, Sam Rivers, Nick Drake, George Gershwin, Duke Pearson and Tatum Greenblatt. The addition of Mullis on three tracks adds fire and depth to the band, and she fits in perfectly with the exploratory nature of the core quartet.
The JPQ prides itself on compelling original compositions and fresh interpretations of jazz standards. With the inclusion of Nick Drake’s “Three Hours” they have signaled a commitment to playing songs from outside the traditional jazz canon. And with Tatum Greenblatt’s “Mance’s Dance” they have shown a desire to play songs written by their peers. Greenblatt is a Seattle-born, NYC-based trumpet player currently pursuing a Masters’ Degree at Juilliard School of Music.
The CD Release Party at Lucid Jazz Lounge will feature songs from the new CD and other goodies as well. Also, Cynthia Mullis will be joining the band for the evening. The CD will be available at the show for a suggested donation of $15, but will be available to all attendees on a pay-what-you-can basis. Everyone who pays $15 or more will also receive a free download of “Jason Parker and Friends – Live at Lucid,” which was recorded earlier this summer.
The band is planning a West Coast tour for Winter 2009/2010. For more information, including member bios and a sneak peek at the DVD, please visit www.oneworkingmusician.com.
