Evan Parker - With Barry Guy & Paul Litton at the Vortex 1996

Evan Parker, Barry Guy, Paul Lytton. This trio has been going on since the mid-80's, but the musicians were already playing together in various outfits in 1966. There is no shortage of albums by this band, but at the Vortex ranks as one of, if not downright, it's strongest recording. Why? Because it was done in perfect conditions, with all musicians in astonishing shape, on home court, so to speak: downtown London in front of an enthusiastic crowd of hard-core fans. And because that night's performance is presented unedited, all 78 minutes split into two extended sets. Listen to Parker's circular breathing solo at the beginning of the second set: He is literally smoking. Guy burns his double bass to the ground; Lytton is everywhere at once. The energy is discharged in spasms of sound, one cathartic moment after another. And yet, there is no going overboard or becoming your own stereotype. The strength, the inspiration, the spirit, the simple joy of playing together: that's what this music is all about. Of course the standard saxophone/bass/drums trio format calls for something a little jazzier than usual, but Parker remains true to himself, firmly anchored in free improv waters.

1) At the Vortex (First Set) Feat: Barry Guy / Paul Lytton / Evan Parker 38:19
2) At the Vortex (Second Set) Feat: Barry Guy / Paul Lytton / Evan Parker 40:25