David Murray & the Gwo-Ka Masters

With a voice marked by a strident sense of drama and emotion, saxophonist David Murray creates dynamic and incendiary improvisations that have often been likened to the work of avant-garde iconoclast Albert Ayler. Since first taking New York by storm in 1975, Murray has stood apart from the crowd, with technical proficiency that allows him to not only play the freest of jazz styles, but also speak a ballad with the lush sentimentality of Ben Webster or Coleman Hawkins. In addition to his role in such ensembles as the World Saxophone Quartet, the Music Revelation Ensemble, and Jack DeJohnette's Special Edition, Murray has established his own inimitable catalog of recordings as a leader working in a range of ensemble formats, from duets to big bands.

In an attempt to combine native Afro-Caribbean roots with his own unique brand of jazz, Murray has most recently taken up with a group of drummers native to Guadeloupe. From Africa by way of the French West Indies, these Gwo-Ka (big drum) musicians offer jubilant percussive textures that inspire Murray to new heights.