Drummer Charles Downs was a mainstay of the New York City free jazz scene in the 1970s, mainly as a member of Ensemble Muntu with saxophonist Jemeel Moondoc. In those days, he went by Rashid Bakr — a tribute to fellow drummer Rashid Ali who performed with Sonny Rollins and both John and Alice Coltrane.
In 1981, Bakr partnered with trumpeter Roy Campbell, multi-instrumentalist Daniel Carter and bassist William Parker to form Other Dimensions in Music. They’ve been together ever since. Matthew Shipp joined them on piano for the 2000 live collaboration Time Is of the Essence Is Beyond Time.
Remarkably, over all that time, the 82-year-old Downs (he has returned to using his birth name) has never led an ensemble. Until now.
Released today, Inner features the legend with Hery Paz on saxophone, Jamie Safe on piano and Joe Morris on bass. It is an effervescent, masterful effort.
There is a timelessness to be found in avant-garde music that is well documented. The spirit free jazz fans heard screaming from New York City’s lofts a half century ago remains as urgent today as it did then. None of its sharpness is diminished.
In that sense, Inner is both a testament to genuinely progressive music and to the artistry of Downs and his bandmates. They are masters — all of them in excellent form.
More new music
Rafa Ramos Sania – A Broadcast Of Your Silence: Absolutely growls. Brilliant.
Various Artists – Post-Orientalism Anthology: Sonitus Vol. 9: Another fascinating entry in the series. Tracks by Gintas Kraptavičius, Mao Yuang and Nik Masoo are among the highlights.
Matthew Wright – Cracked Glaze: A remarkable live performance stretching 46 minutes and change. New classical meets sound design.
The Moderns 