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Michael Moore - alto sax, clarinet, whistles, maracas & compositions
Guillermo Celano - electric guitar
Omer Govreen - acoustic bass
Onno Govaert - drums & percussion
The rather presumptuous title, the ‘Universe’ quartet, has to do with this quartet music being an exploration of my universe. It's a repertoire band, these guys are ready and willing to play anything I give them, and I am grateful for that. My intent is, rather than break new ground, to explore older forms and make enjoyable music. The advantage of being DIY one's whole life is that you have total freedom from commercial pressures; I can follow my muse anywhere, and this is where it has taken me! — Michael Moore, 2026 Notes Disc A. Listen! was written shortly after the passing of the larger-than-life South African saxophonist Sean Bergin, who was a key figure in the Amsterdam music landscape for forty years and a great inspiration. Louisiana is a slow, sultry waltz, perhaps not quite as hot and humid as New Orleans in the summertime. China Camp is named after a gorgeous spot on San Francisco Bay in Marin County, California. Estalido means 'clicking' in Portuguese, 'burst' in Spanish. Fascination is a very old piece which was often played by Available Jelly on the Leidseplein in Amsterdam back when there was music in the streets. Skimming started out as a light, airy set of gestures, but somehow evolved into something darker. Tinto is a bolero with a text by Valerie van Straaten. Unfortunately none of us can sing. Spiros is a portrait of a character in Carson McCuller's fabulous book 'The Heart is a Lonely Hunter.' Project 88 was written enroute to my pianist father Jerry's 88th birthday celebration. Buon Giorno is a short story about daily life, with repeats, ups and downs, something we all experience. Keftoo is just a short riff, for writer extraordinaire Kevin Whitehead. Trouble House I often introduce as a Bob Dylan song that I wrote. Disc B. Shine is just pure, shimmering optimism. Brethren is another old Available Jelly groove. Eve is evocative of crepuscule. Spooky is just a spooky, meandering melodic line. Top Secret is a reworking of the old standard 'Secret Love.' I'm a Workin' Man is another very old piece which I still cannot play properly. Chain Saw is about when it's time to trim some olive trees. Klee was suggested by the paintings of Paul Klee. Pigeons is another piece inspired by the cooing of doves in the Alentejo. The Card Players is a recent polyrhythmic romp. Rural Root was inspired by the country piano artistry of Floyd Cramer. Trippin' — we hope you have enjoyed this musical trip! |
