James Newton Quartet - Live In Willisau, Switzerland, 1983

2025

Producer Stephen Mayner has unearthed recordings of the James Newton Quartet, recorded in Willisau, Switzerland in 1983.

Newton, a boundary-breaking performer, known for his sophisticated, high-minded albums that reflect a wide variety of jazz and classical influences. Possessed of a warm tone, Newton's flute work is technically impressive and resourceful, making use of multi-phonics, flutter-tonguing, and concurrent vocal/flute lines that push the envelope of the instrument's sound. 

The members of the JNQ were Geri Allen on piano, Anthony Cox on bass, and Andrew Cyrille on drums. The Willisau recording was one of the first recordings in Geri Allen's distinguished and historic career. Bassist, composer, and bandleader Anthony Cox possesses a highly virtuosic command of his instrument, contributing expertly to every nuance of the ensemble with his sensitive playing, and masterfully manipulating a variety of styles with confident response and fluency.

Andrew Cyrille is one of the most respected drummers jazz has ever produced. His ensembles and compositions have contributed greatly to the jazz tradition he represents. He is known for his collaborations with David Murray, Muhal Richard Abrams, Mal Waldron, Horace Tapscott, Peter Brötzmann, and Oliver Lake, among others.