David S. Ware New Quartet - Theatre Garonne 2008

The David S. Ware Archive Series was launched in November 2015 with the expanded & definitive release of Birth of a Being, and AUM Fidelity has marked the anniversary of his birth - November 7, 1949 - with a new edition therein every year since.

David S. Ware was a master saxophonist of the highest order, and an unparalleled sonic alchemist of the modern jazz era. Following David's untimely passing in October 2012, it was understood necessary to continue releasing singular works of great magnitude in order to further radiate his distinctly potent sound and vision. As he and his work were an integral inspiration toward the creation of AUM Fidelity, that mission continues strong with this essential DSW-ARC series.

Théâtre Garonne, 2008 presents a luminous concert from a transitional period in David S. Ware's ever-creative life. His 17-year-longstanding Quartet with Matthew Shipp and William Parker, which had achieved a naturally ascendant and well-earned worldwide acclaim, performed their final concerts on a triumphal European tour in March 2007. Knowing that this end was coming, David had already begun writing new compositions and conceptualizing what would become his new quartet. The first iteration of this group, foundationally with guitarist Joe Morris, debuted at New York's Iridium jazz club in mid-July. The group was made whole with Ware's stalwart musical companion William Parker back on bass and fellow master musician Warren Smith on drums.

As had been Ware's method with his Quartet, the group worked the new material live on stage together toward a studio recording thereof. That session took place in May 2008, and Shakti [AUM052] was the gorgeous result. The change from Shipp's 88 keys to Morris' cleanly articulated lines on 6 strings played a substantial role in the resulting sound. The density of much of Ware's classic Quartet work gave way, allowing a more ready hearing to the nuance & focus on melody which is part of all his work. As AUM Fidelity wrote on it's release: heavyweight as ever yet light as a feather.