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Byron Blackburn's Labor Day Session

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by Byron Blackburn

Byron Blackburn's Labor Day Session Cover Art
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16:38
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14:29
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01:40
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12:15
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about
This was Byron Blackburn's final recording session before he passed away in September of 2009. The session was done in an afternoon, and even though his health was failing his spirit was very much alive in this session. It's a free blowing, improv session with a group of musicians that came together for a friend.

"Byron always showed generosity. And in this last event, bringing together musicians that performed and respected his work. Even without knowing what time we have together, that day brought magic to the music. And that magic was captured like all music to document what happens when great players come together to work. For me it will be a moment in time that will always be there."
-Jaroba (saxophone, bass clarinet)


"This was a great experience! I took the train out to sacramento and stayed with Ross and we played with Byron a lot over the course of the weekend and everyone was so chill - Byron sounded great and looked deeply happy - I know it took a lot of energy for him to play, but he was, as always, totally generous with us on that day. I'm glad i could be a part of giving something back to him. I salute him for all that he gave to the community through his own music along with his talent for organizing performances and musicians (which is harder than herding kittens). I would say I miss playing for him but I know he's still listening."
-Phillip Greenlief (saxophone)


"It was a really special thing to be able to play on Byron's records. Both records he made were during times when he was in failing health. But the special thing about his music is he conveys a sense of hope and determination, no matter how dark his forecast is. It's a real pleasure to be able to play with him and present his music in the way he wanted. More importantly though was it was nice to have him as a friend. Byron was a huge supporter of his friends' efforts, and he is sorely missed. We are blessed that we still have his music to listen to. It's a good feeling to know that his spirit lives on through his sounds and through the community that he built."
-Ross Hammond (guitar)


"It was quite a special day. We were all very concerned about him. However, he trooped his way through the session. Just one of those rare moments where everyone was playing for a higher purpose. Unforgettable. Peace to Byron."
- Tony Passarell (saxophones)

"This recording exemplifies Byron's musical voice and vision. I feel fortunate to have known him, made music with him and to have been able to help him realize that vision. He was a great friend, and I miss him deeply."
-Tom Monson (drumset)

"When facing grief, loss and death, musicians have one special advantage: they can come together in the healing radiance of sound. Five California musicians knew they were losing a colleague and mentor as bassist Byron Blackburn's last days approached. What did they do? They got together with their beloved friend and made some truly soulful music. Saxophonists Jaroba, Tony Passarell and Phillip Greenlief weave melodic webs over Blackburn's insistent grooves. Drummer Tom Monson plays in and out of time simultaneously, commenting, underlining, supporting and generally keeping things happening. Ross Hammond's guitar adds swathes of colours and textures, either through effects-drenched drones or carefully sculpted lines that mesh effectively with what surrounds them. The five tracks clock in around 15 minutes, including a short one that briefly features Jaroba on bass clarinet. A loving tribute to, and celebration of, their comrade who passed away a scant two weeks after the recording, this is heartfelt music."
-Glen Hall, Exclaim!
credits
released 17 May 2010
Byron Blackburn-bass
Tony Passarell-saxophone
Jaroba-saxophone
Phillip Greenlief-saxophone
Ross Hammond-guitar
Tom Monson-drumset
tags
tags: jazz rock soul Sacramento
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