Spiraling out of here

Steve Coleman is a NYC based alto saxophonist and the founder/leader of a method of improvisation known as M-Base. M-base is an acronym for "Macro - Basic Array of Structured Extemporizations." The wording is a perhaps a little heavy, and can make your eyes water if you stare at it long enough. Simply put, it's a way to express musical experiences through improvisation and rhythm.

I've included THIS LINK to show you that there are more ways to improvise than knowing chords, scales and patterns. In it Steve describes how to play with a Symmetrical Movement Concept. It's a pretty deep read, but makes sense. If you get good at this, you'll be one of about 5 people on earth who know how to play like that. Steve posts most of his music online for free distribution. You definitely should check it out. HERE is a good example of his playing, it's about as dark and funky as saxophone playing gets. Give it about 15 seconds, to go from solo to band. This album changed the way I make music. Always, always, always be receptive to new ideas!

This next clip is all about the Portuguese. It features Elis Regina on the vocals. Listen to the rhythm of the language, and to the subtle comping behind her vocals.

I want to play drums!

This is an incredible example of modern jazz drumming. Brian Blade plays a solo over hits and an out chorus with Josh Redman on the tenor sax. Notice how relaxed and loose Brian is... even with the hits, he is having fun and responding to the rhythm rather than forcing something he worked out onto it. Remember, in your own playing tone and time are most important when soloing, notes are secondary. If you play with a beautiful tone, and you solo with a solid rhythmic feel, you'll always sound great.