Search - Non Stop :: Tropical Reflections

"Tropical Reflections" is the latest release by the Non Stop band, featuring compositions by John L Holmes and Mike Friedman. The two musicians have collaborated since the early 1980's in the belief that their efforts would result in ongoing performances and recordings of their original music. While their first recording was in 1989 it wasn't released as an LP, but received airplay on NPR's Northwest Jazz Program. Their shared direction has been to write original music which has a common core, but can diverge in each individual's unique direction. While this composer's workshop isn't exclusive, they have found that there is little local enthusiasm for this endeavor at a local level. This has not hindered the passion for excellence, as perhaps the generosity of their fellow performers would indicate. Most of the performers live in Walla Walla, but bring diverse influences to the table. World renowned trombonist and retired professor at Whitman College, Dave Glenn, donates his efforts on selected tunes. Glenn Ayers, drummer and percussionist and an original component of Non Stop as well as a mainstay with Seattle salsa group, Bochinche, has been indispensable to the success of this project. Ken Wilson, new to this band, has contributed his unique talents on saxes, flute and voice. Seattle bassist-extraordinaire, Steve Kim, has generously agreed to accommodate the effort by flying to Walla Walla for recording sessions. The recording is graced with inspired blowing throughout.