Insidious Anthem – A Chicago Edge Ensemble album merging jazz composition and free improvisation.
Chicago Edge ENSEMBLE
"Insidious Anthem"
Released: November 2018 CD + Digital on Trost Records (Vienna, AU)
Chicago Edge Ensemble is a forward-thinking jazz collective led by guitarist and composer Dan Phillips, featuring a lineup of seasoned improvisers: Mars Williams on saxophones and percussion, Jeb Bishop on trombone, Krzysztof Pabian on double bass, and Hamid Drake on drums. Their 2018 release, Insidious Anthem, showcases the ensemble’s ability to seamlessly blend structured compositions with free improvisation, resulting in a dynamic and engaging listening experience.
The album’s eight tracks traverse a range of moods and textures, from the intricate interplay of “A Pontificator’s Tale” to the exploratory soundscapes of “Nonlinear Deconstruction.” Each piece serves as a platform for the musicians to engage in deep musical conversations, highlighting their individual voices while contributing to the ensemble’s cohesive sound.
Insidious Anthem stands as a testament to Chicago Edge Ensemble’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz, offering listeners a compelling journey through composed frameworks and spontaneous creativity.
This album was released by Austria’s renowned experimental jazz label, Trost Records and received an honorary mention in The New York City Jazz Record Album of the Year ranking.
Personnel
Hamid Drake – drums
Mars Williams – sax
Jeb Bishop – trombone
Dan Phillips – guitar
Krzysztof Pabian – double bass
Awards
Reviews
“Insidious Anthem employs a small band sound reflecting the taut arrangements of leader and electric guitarist Dan Phillips, whose skills as a writer rival his improvisational talent. Hard to label.. the small group packs a strong punch.”
Review of Chicago Edge Ensemble “Insidious Anthem” New York City Jazz Record
“The music on this album is filled with surprises and incredible turns., the musical language is rich expressive, vivid and incredible.”
“The compositions begin with an intricate and complex sonic architecture or quiet, searching textures that highlight the rich palette of the Ensemble… Phillips sets the basic theme and the overall atmosphere. Later these parts mature into collective, free jazz improvisations that enjoy the full power and the soulful sound of the Ensemble.”
Review of Chicago Edge Ensemble “Insidious Anthem” Salt Peanuts
“The fact that a relatively sleek five-man unit can generate that kind of muscle is pretty impressive.”
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