Listen on:
In the spirit of S.F. Bay Area artistic experimentation and exploration, THE LEFT COAST IMPROV GROUP (TLCIG) has crystalized from divergent musical and geographic backgrounds to form a unit of unprecedented talent. Its members are products of deep dedication, long study (both in and outside of academia), and many years of performance experience.
The emphasis of the group’s approach is on relaxation, freedom, and listening, rather than individual virtuosity which, nevertheless, underlies the ensemble as an unfailing support for its cohesive expressiveness.
The Left Coast Improv Group an ever-changing configuration and brainchild of the Improv Wizard himself Jim Ryan presents their most stellar recording to date now available on Edgetone Records.
- Jim Ryan - flutes/kalimba/alto saxophone/small percussion
- Ernesto Diaz-Infante - prepared guitar/violin/small percussion
- Jeff Hobbs - violin, cornet, clarinet, sax, trumpet, other instruments
- Ron Heglin - trombone/voice
- Scott R. Looney - laptop computer/interactive electronics
- Bob Marsh - cello/violin/voice/other instruments
- Karen Stackpole - drum kit/percussion/gongs
Each track has its strengths and the album works beautifully as a whole. It absorbs the listener gently, never imposing its views. The group gels together marvelously.
François Couture, All Music Guide
The music is orchestral, spirited and highly animated, some of which brought to mind avant-garde interpretations of the best of Carl Stallings soundtracks.
Jerry Kranitz, Aural Innovations