The Microscopic Septet - Manhattan Moonrise (2014)

Originally active from 1980-1992, and reactivated in 2006 with the original personnel, The Microscopic Septet are regarded as one of the most important and unique bands to come out of the New York scene of the 1980s. They entertained audiences with their combination of swing, energy and humor, which Downbeat described as 'seminal, brilliant post-modern jazz.'

The Micros start with a basic reeds-and-rhythm texture sonically similar to the sound of the Swing Era, but they use influences from the entire continuum of jazz. The result is a brilliant blend of fresh-sounding orchestration, ideas, compositions and inspired soloing. Their sound is the sound of jazz in America; ALL of it, from Ayler to Zorn, bebop to Basie. The Microscopic Septet distills the essence of jazz into a sound that swings a music that is intelligent, sometimes humorous, and always good fun.

The Micros are widely known for their theme song to NPR's 'Fresh Air with Terry Gross' program, broadcast daily across the USA and heard by millions!

Voted the #5 jazz group in the 59th annual DownBeat critic's poll, 'Manhattan Moonrise' is their 3rd release since reforming and their 7th release overall.

Tracklist:

1. When You Get In Over Your Head
2. No Time
3. Manhattan Moonrise
4. Obeying the Chemicals
5. A Snapshot Of the Soul
6. Star Turn
7. Hang It On a Line
8. Let's Coolerate One
9. Suspended Animation
10. Blue
11. You Got That Right!
12. Occupy Your Life
(61:15)

Personnel:

Phillip Johnston, soprano sax;
Don Davis, alto sax;
Mike Hashim, tenor sax;
Dave Sewelson, baritone sax;
Joel Forrester, piano;
Dave Hofstra, bass;
Richard Dworkin, drums.