Sunday Music Muse Day - David Liebman, Turtle Island Quartet

It's ten days to Christmas, and this Sunday Music Muse Day, find me still putting off my Xmas shopping.  While I procrastinate, let list to two slightly odd CDs, in being sort of concept records (?).  First up, David Liebman  The Elements: Water. This "theme" is water.  The music ranges from introspective to more avant-garde played by high-quality sideman.  There is also an interview with Dave Liebman about the production of the music, on the last track. Worth a listen.

My second selection is the Turtle Island Quartet Have you ever Been...?  The theme of this classical quartet CD is playing the music of Jimi Hendrix (a favorite of mine) and the music of David Balakrishnan, the group's founder and resident composer. There's evena tune by John Mclaughlin, "To Bop or Not to Be", from one of his post-Mahavishu Orchestra CDs.  The music of Balakrishnan ,"Tree of Life", is a suite inspired by the Charles Darwin's book, "On the Origin of Species".  I have an earlier CD of the group and think of them a classical fusion band.  I think you'll find their interpretations of Hendrix tunes interesting.

I hope to start my Xmas shopping this week (I have no choice, I guess).  Next Sunday Music Muse Day will feature holiday music.  Until then, enjoy.