Interviews

In his Theory of Relativity, Albert Einstein posits that the fourth dimension, time, can flow differently for different observers. While length, width, and height are readily observable, appreciation of the passage of time can differ from person to person and place to place. The malleability of this construct inherently results in not only different conceptions… Read more: Slow Absorption: A Conversation with Ned Rothenberg on solo performance and ‘Looms & Legends’

With Mountain Call (ECM, 2026), Miroslav Vitous suddenly reemerges on Manfred Eicher’s label after a decade long absence. During the interim, he focused on orchestral sampling software and also released five albums on other labels, with the most recent coming out in 2018. While the bassist is no stranger to working with other labels; after… Read more: Review: Miroslav Vitous’s ‘Mountain Call’

Saxophonist and composer Luke Norris has a penchant for experimentation, merging the acoustic and electronic to create interesting soundscapes. His release, Northernsong (ears&eyes, 2020), was highly influenced by Mike Baggetta, a collaborator of punk rock bassist Mike Watt. The follow-up, Moment from the Past (self-release, 2026) takes an even more exploratory path. The album is… Read more: Review: Luke Norris’s ‘Moment From The Past’

Something powerful draws humans to create new expressions from the shredded remnants of a past existence. As far back as the second half of the third millennium BC, ancient Mesopotamians pieced together colored stones, shells, and ivory to craft novel temple artwork. Jumping forward, the Alexander at Pompeii, the Lion Hunt at Pella, and the… Read more: Piecing Together the Cracked Fragments: A Conversation with Bill Orcutt

Michael Formanek is perhaps best known for his work with the trio Thumbscrew, alongside guitarist Mary Halvorson and drummer Tomas Fujiwara. All three of that trio are part of the bassist’s newly assembled ensemble dubbed New Digs (Intakt, 2026). Completing the ensemble ate Hammond B3 player Alexander Hawkins and a trio of horns – John… Read more: Review: Michael Formanek’s ‘New Digs’