Audio: Highlights from Tuesday at the House of Shields

Last Tuesday's gig was really satisfying, so I thought I'd share some of it for those who weren't able to make it. Although we were short two of our regular members (pianist Adam Shulman and bassist Fred Randolph), Seth Ford-Young filled in ably on the bass, and Evan and I have been playing together long enough that the lack of a chordal instrument, rather than leaving an empty sound, actually opened up possibilities for loose, exciting interplay. Also, the fare was mostly standards, which was refreshing in itself--we usually play originals and arrangements, which are interesting and challenging, but it's great to be able to really open up on some old stand-bys.

Here are a couple of examples:

• ...What Love Is (DePaul/Raye) Featuring: Ian, trumpet; Evan Francis, alto saxophone; Seth Ford-Young, bass; Jon Arkin, drums.
• All the Things... (Jerome Kern) Same personnel.

There's a little distortion in the sound, which I apologize for--this was the first time using my new MP3 recorder, and I neglected to check the levels until after we'd already finished. (Although this isn't exactly CD quality, I'm mainly proud of the musical work, which I think comes through. For CD quality sound, click the album cover to your left.) Enjoy!