Fantasy in Disguise:  "Thom the World Poet" joins Zzaj in a very magical outing.  Spontaneous poetry by Thom, improvised keyboards by Zzaj.  Some REALLY kewl material for the 21st century. Folks at SPLENDID e-zine reviewed it, too!   Do it via CREDIT CARD HERE (faster) or send $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, 4714 39th Avenue, Lacey, WA 98503  Catalog # ZP-35

SAMPLES:   Long Ago In Another Skin

                    Just Curious

                   Someone Once Told Me

 

PRESS:   SPLENDID EZINE

 

 

 

Y2K-os (Chaos Compilation from Zzaj Productions):  This fantastic spoken-word CD features poetry by Joan Payne Kincaid, Mark Weber, Ernesto Diaz-Infante, Captive Audience, Doug Michael, Remus Glaude, Kramtones & (of course), Rotcod Zzaj!  It does not paint images of total destruction... rather, the focus is on not giving away your right to CHOOSE your own path to the corporate mentality that has imposed it's soul-killing disease of political correctness on the masses.  Your survival in the coming millenium is directly related to your ability to see through the illusions painted by the Priests of Plastic, & this CD can help you do that!  Special Y2K price is only $5.00 (special price for shopping here at HOMEMADEMUSIC.com)!   EXCLUSIVELY available for credit card sale HERE (just CLICK on the GET IT button below), or mail-order to Zzaj Productions, 4714 39th Avenue, Lacey, WA 98503.   Catalog # ZP-30

 

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SHE MAY ONE DAY... WINNEBAGO:  This was the first poetry collaboration I did with Joan Payne Kincaid.  It features her fantastic spoken-word and poetry, with "synth paintings" underneath (by Zzaj, of course).  If you enjoy the natural marriage between poetry and music, this is the ticket!    Available from Zzaj Productions (mail order only, to Z.P., 4714 39th Avenue., Lacey, WA 98503) for only $8.00, or CLICK on the GET IT button below to use your CREDIT CARD!  Catalog #   ZP-25

 

Samples:      The Scene Was Changed   *   When You Are Stranded     * Remembrance Of Things Present  *

 

SDRAWKCAB ZZAJ:  This CD is a re-mastered version of improvised music in B'ham, Alabama that features the fantastic guitar(s) of Davey Williams, horns by LaDonna Smith, keyboards by Rotcod Zzaj & some of the earliest sax work by Seattle improvisor Wally Shoup.  A wild romp that NO (true) improvised music fan can be without!  $8.00 mail-order to  Zzaj Productions, 4714 39th Avenue, Lacey, WA 98503, or use your CREDIT CARD HERE, by just CLICKING on the GET IT button below!     Catalog #  ZP-26

SAMPLES:      Hsad Oduesp      Eigoow Eigoob    Zoolb S''yevad

PRESS:     "the Improvisor"  Jackal Blaster

 

 

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Rotcod Zzaj/Mr. Painful:   EXQUISITELY PAINFUL:  Our guitar-playin' pal Mr. Painful joined us (seems like years ago, it was really only '96) on some skull-rippin' sessions here at my "In The Shadow Studios" (of Mount Rainier, of course).  The results are as powerful as th' big quake comin' that'll dump us all into thee Pacific!  Some H-O-T music on here, sure to thrill all those who luv git-arz' that jus' won't QUIT!!!   $8.00 mail-order to Zzaj Productions, 4714 39th Avenue, Lacey, WA 98503, or use your CREDIT CARD HERE, by just CLICKING on the GET IT button below!  Catalog # ZP-27

SAMPLES:       Powdered Breath Prescription    Mister Painful''s Blooz     Cardiac Unrest

PRESS:    HEARD MAGAZINE    GAJOOB

 

 

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The Imaginary Band - AS GOOD AS GNU's:  This was a studio session, probably the next-to-last recording this group made.  Peter's guitar just WAILS on this one, & there are some grand keyboard moments from (both) Kramtones & Zzaj.  Catalog # ZP-17

Samples:   OH OH!     20000  LEAGUES

Revies:    Aural Innovations     Gajoob

 

 

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  Brigands of Beat - ANIMAL CRACKER ODYSSEYS - "B.O.B.", or "Brigands Of Beat", features Zzaj comping against all original percussives/sound layers from the legendary home-recordist Tom Furgas... there is a real jazz feel on some of the resulting tunes!  This was a "very much" fun project for both players, & we hope you'll check out the (full song) samples listed below (before purchasing it from us, eh?  This will probably be my last sonic adventure for quite a while, as I'm off to different parts of the globe again (very shortly).  You may mail-order by sending a check or money order for $8.00 to Zzaj Productions (this is a special discount price for HOMEMADEMUSIC.com buyers), 4714 39th Avenue, Lacey, WA 98503, but it's MUCH faster to do it via CREDIT CARD by simply CLICKING on the GET IT button below!  Catalog # ZP-82

SAMPLES:  Marsupials on Methedrine     Bovine BeBop

 

IMAGINED EXISTENCE:  Ernesto Diaz-Infante joins Zzaj (or was it the other way 'round?) in some highly imaginative forays into other worlds.  The music on "Imagined Existence" comes from the thought that nearly everything musicians do is through their 2nd set of eyes - their "ears". In that sense, I believe new worlds, new dimensions if you will, are possible for the performers, particularly when they are improvising… and (contrary to what some might believe) I think that is a GOOD thing.   We invite YOU to join us in what is bound to become a controversial listening experience.   You may mail-order by sending a check or money order for $8.00 to Zzaj Productions (this is a special discount price for HOMEMADEMUSIC.com buyers), 4714 39th Avenue, Lacey, WA 98503, but it's MUCH faster to do it via CREDIT CARD by simply CLICKING on the GET IT button below!  Catalog # ZP-31

SAMPLES:      Rupaul Goes Shopping    Bamboo Plaque    Tunnel Under The Yellow Sea

PRESS:      SPLENDID E-ZINE      HEARD MAGAZINE     GAJOOB

 

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THE MOMENT AS THE MOTIVE: Once again, Ernesto Diaz-Infante joins Rotcod Zzaj.  This outing came out with some most "mysterious" sounding pieces.  These sonic detectives will guide you to some secret hideaways (in the corners of your mind) you never knew existed.  Their music comes from living life in "improvised" mode... so, this is music that asks you to actually listen!  Those with adventure in their ears will LOVE this CD.   You may mail-order by sending a check or money order for $8.00 (special discount for HOMEMADEMUSIC.com buyers)  to Zzaj Productions, 4714 39th Avenue, Lacey, WA 98503, but it's MUCH faster to do it via CREDIT CARD by just clicking on the GET IT button below!   Catalog # ZP-32

SAMPLES:     Victim Eyes   *   Researching Rain Splattered Pavement   * Introducing The Enigma  *

PRESS:     "the Improvisor"

 

 

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RIDING THE LIZARD:    This fantastic CD is from the original tape collaboration by Eric Hausmann and Rotcod Zzaj.  It features Eric's magical guitars against original compositions from both artists.  It is available for credit card purchase exclusively, here   for only $8.00, by sending check or money order to Zzaj Production, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503.   Some GREAT music!  !   Catalog #  ZP-24

Samples:    Riding The Lizard     Fidel's Folly     Tornado Tantrum   

PRESS:    GAJOOB

 

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 The Yakkers - BAND OF CHIP THIEVES:  "The Yakkers" were an offshoot of an earlier Zzaj Productions group, "The Imaginary Band". T.I.B. was joined by John Alkins on percussion/keyboards, making the dynamic much different, ergo a new band.  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503  Catalog # ZP-48

SAMPLES:      Hard Drive   Cold Boot

PRESS:     THE UNHEARD MUSIC

 

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Jeff Olson & Rotcod Zzaj:  WHISTLEPOOT JUNCTION - HOT onna' heels of our last CD together, "nEW dIRECTIONS", comes straight-ahead instrumental, improv, poetry, all mixed into one VOLCANICALLY pleasurable listening experience! I've NEVER enjoyed playing instrumental pieces as much as with Jeff Olson (of the Screamin' Popeyes), & this CD (literally) SHINES, volkz! GET IT! $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503  Catalog # ZP-66

SAMPLES   Short Rhodes   *  Big Dumb Jam   *  Air On The Heads  *

 

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Eric Hausmann & Rotcod Zzaj:  PIZZA JAM - Hausmann's guitars got down-right FUNK-ee on this session at his house down in Florida (Jacksonville, to be specific).  Zzaj overdubbed back in his Morning Calm Studios, & this is the fine result.  ZP-67

 

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Eric Wallack, Ernesto Diaz-Infante & Rotcod Zzaj:  THE OLD NEIGHBORHOOD  This is some classic "remote" (i.e., via snailmail) improvised music that got fantastic reviews in the underground press.  There are some really rich/dense sonic paintings here, with much to be absorbed.  ZP-68

 

 

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Belinda Subraman & Rotcod Zzaj:  NECESSARY ILLUSIONS - Belinda Subraman and Zzaj team up to give you a very pleasant spoken-word journey through lives that seem to be full of NECESSARY ILLUSIONS. Belinda's poetry is wonderful against jazzy musical backgrounds furnished by Zzaj!  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503  Catalog # ZP-5

Samples:   Poetry Jungle   *  Monuments To Wishes  *   American TV Ads  *

 

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Ernesto Diaz-Infante & Rotcod Zzaj:   BLUER THAN BLUE - SPLENDID e-zine said: Roiling keyboards and percussive guitar are combined with semi-audible dialogue, creating a free-jazz fever dream that occasionally sounds like an outtake from the "Twin Peaks" soundtrack. Groovy! $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503  Catalog # ZP-1

Samples     A Brighter Shade Of Whale     Noise Outta' Joint    Stainless Stealaway

PRESS:    SPLENDID E-ZINE      UNIT CIRCLE REKKIDS   THE TAPED CRUSADERS

 

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Detroit Improv Duo:  INTUITIVE TESSERACT - You've never heard music like this... Jim Konen's "FUTURE RECORDS" label produced this wonderful and exciting CD, with Rotcod Zzaj joining Jim in-studio for (ever)more spontaneous "formed improv".  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503  Catalog # ZP-41

Samples        The Fasttrack    Skippies

 

PRESS:     SPLENDID E-ZINE     AURAL INNOVATIONS                     

                  DISTORTION       DEAD ANGEL

                   

 

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Kramtones and Zzaj:  EMOTIONAL CIRCUS - On this outing with our (musical) friend Kramtones, I (actually) sing! There are plenty of other musical interactions, too! This is a SPLENDID musical adventure.  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-6

Samples        Miss You    SunJazz II        Loop Thing

 

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Kissinger & Zzaj:  CRITICAL MASS - Mark Kissinger furnished the soaring guitar works, & Zzaj "rode along" for this fantastic trip!  A fine, fun, musical experience, especially for those who love psychedelic guitar! ZP-7

 

 

 

 

Eric Wallack and Rotcod Zzaj:  ARMCHAIR CARPET RIDES - Eric Wallack initiated this long-distance duo improvisational set with Rotcod Zzaj. Eric plays some masterful acoustic (& other) guitars; Zzaj adds his own brand of mysterious keyboard phrasings to make for a magickal journey the likes of which you have NEVER heard before.  In a SPECIAL EFFORT to help another musician in need, & in conjunction with a posting at MIXPOSURE.com, 90% of the purchase price for this CD will be donated to her, when you purchase this CD; your purchase will actually HELP someone who really NEEDS your help!  !  Catalog # ZP-73

Samples      Armchair Carpet Rides    London Fog    Hidden Fire

PRESS:  AURAL INNOVATIONS     SPLENDID EZINE  The Taped Crusaders

               Jackal Blaster

 

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John M. Bennett, Ficus Strangulensis & Rotcod Zzaj:  FLAG SLEEPING - Zalnikor Zundorum, in GAJOOB magazine, reviewed this thusly: Another great tape from Rotcod Zzaj and John Bennett with the addition of Ficus Strangulensis. 90 minutes of lyrical music actuelle. Inventive duos with continuous interaction of Rotcod's improvised Jazz style keyboards and sublime poetry. Extemporized readings with Shakuhachi. Side B's title, "Wordweave" is an apt description. Recommended for poetry lovers.  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503  Catalog # ZP-11

Samples        Afterflow     Before The Dark Spoon     Eddy

PRESS:     GAJOOB

 

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Ken Fletcher & Rotcod Zzaj:  UU UU .CALM - This was a brand new direction for Zzaj. Ken Fletcher composed much of the material on this zany little CD, though Zzaj had his share of contribution to the madnesses! With titles like "Truckerz' On Acid", "Goose Tesseract" & "Rained Ants", you'll have a general feel for this - but you'll have to LISTEN to it to experience the joy in our aural anarchy! I feel very lucky to have made Ken's acquaintance! This was a brand new direction for Zzaj. Ken Fletcher composed much of the material on this zany little CD, though Zzaj had his share of contribution to the madnesses! With titles like "Truckerz' On Acid", "Goose Tesseract" & "Rained Ants", you'll have a general feel for this - but you'll have to LISTEN to it to experience the joy in our aural anarchy! I feel very lucky to have made Ken's acquaintance!  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-18

Samples     Goose Tesseract     Chromosome Twist

PRESS:     SPLENDID E-ZINE        UNIT CIRCLE REKKIDS

 

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Harlan Mark Vale & Rotcod Zzaj:  PEYOTE BEAT REUNION - Kramtones (my friend Harlan Mark Vale) and I got together at the (temporary) "ArmourDrive Studio" (we're waiting until August 2002 to move back in to my "In The Shadow" facilities) during the 2001 C-mas holidays. He came all the way out of the Arid-Zona desert to play, and we got one HECKUVVA' "strange" CD out of the 3 hours we played. This will be especially enjoyable for those who love a touch of "odd" in their listening.  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-46

Samples       Peyote Punctuation    Pseudo Tar     Quit That Boogien

PRESS:    SPLENDID E-ZINE

 

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Eric Hausmann & Rotcod Zzaj:  THE COAST OF GHRISTMAS - Eric Hausmann & I did many tapes during the early 1990's. This was one of the best received & had a variety of musical styles. There were more "rock-oriented" cuts on this outing that on some earlier ones, with Eric's fantastic guitar artistry highlighted on nearly every piece. This CD serves as an exciting reminder that ALL of us can make music(s), & boundaries are limitless!   $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-43

Samples       Bad Beer Boogie     Crystal Candle Cake     Eleven Tower

PRESS:     GAJOOB     

 

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99 Hooker, Diaz-Infante & Zzaj:  THE FUTURE HAS ALREADY BEEN DONE -  '99 Hooker & Ernesto Diaz-Infante join Rotcod Zzaj on this experimental improvised journey where no man has dared go previously. You have never heard music this wild before!   $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-44

Samples      The First Song    It's Allright    It's Already Been Done

PRESS:     GO AHEAD, YOU REVIEW IT     SPLENDID E-ZINE     

                   AIDING & ABETTING           LEFT OFF THE DIAL  

        

 

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Dan Susnara & Rotcod Zzaj:  SLIGHT REINCARNATION - Dan Susnara joins Zzaj in a hilarious rock-oriented epic, described thusly in Phil Riley's FIVE CENT REVIEW: What makes it intriguing (to me, at least) is its use of a wider array of sounds than the other Zzaj I've heard; there's some neat percussion in the background, strange muffled vocals, and a more acoustic sound than much of Zzaj's work. An odd little pop song also turns up here too, sounding a bit like "The Night Watch" by King Crimson. I've been playing this tape a lot in the car, and I'm not tempted to take it out yet. For those of you not familiar with Zzaj yet, the best way to get a feel for him is to check out the aforementioned catalog. Another excellent effort by Rotcod and friends  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503  Catalog # ZP-13

Samples        Introduction To Morpheus     Grand Flashter Mash     Whereabouts Determined By Science

Press:  Gajoob

 

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Olson/Gravatt/Kramtones/Zzaj:  nEW dIRECTIONS - Phil Riley, in his FIVE CENT REVIEW site, said: For this outing, Zzaj (keyboards) is joined by Jeff Olson on Korg T3, Harlan Mark Vale on Roland D50 and Yamaha TG100, and Stacey Gravatt on guitar. The music, all improvised instrumentals, ranges from straight-ahead blues to dissonant free jazz, a satisfying mix for sure. The keyboards are fantastic, weaving in & out & around each other so much it becomes well-nigh impossible to distinguish one from another, all laced with Gravatt's intriguing guitar style. The sound becomes a bit too synthetic at times for my taste, crossing territory perhaps more comfortably inhabited by the likes of Allan Holdsworth and Bill Bruford; all the same, this is a versatile effort, ideal both as pleasant background and for more active listening.  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-2

Samples:          Lovely Dreams     Spherical Rain     Welcome To Boogieland

 

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Doctor Joe Hardin & Zzaj:  THE SCARAB POLEMIC - Musical jesters Joe Hardin & Rotcod Zzaj play a most harmonic joke on you - this is music for F-U-N! A truly humorous experience, but with solid blues/jazz rootz! Even contains some "deranged organizms" furnished by th' 'doc!  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-10

Samples:    Rain Dogs & Whistleblowers     Madison Avenue Twist    Ninety Two Boogie

PRESS:    SPLENDID E-ZINE

 

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Russ Steadman & Zzaj:  MIDGET HILL MASTERY TOUR - This fantastic album features some W-I-L-D guitars by Russ Stedman, in collaboration with Rotcod Zzaj. Straight-ahead instrumental RAWK-in that jus' won' QUIT! $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503  Catalog # ZP-57

 

Samples:    I Wanna' Poll Your Fans      Rum Together     Pool On The Hill

 

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Stages Of Alternate Reality (SOAR): INTO THE OUT - S.O.A.R. played music that leads you to the edges of wormholes on this CD, titled "Into The Out". This band consists of Pete Painful (guitars), John Alkins (keyboards), Harlan Mark Vale (drums and percussives) and Dick Metcalf (aka Rotcod Zzaj, on Kurzweill PC 88) in this first iteration. They played some music that will scorch your ears! $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503  Catalog # ZP-51

Samples:        Ripedrum Rhumba    *   Undercurrents    *   Hear The Voices *

 

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99 Hooker, Ernesto Dias-Infante & Zzaj:  ACCESSORY AFTER THE TRACTION - Three of the world's zaniest improvisors join forces to take you on a truck trek YOU'LL never forget! It's like bein' on acid without th' acid (& with th' krank). Poetry by Hooker is laid against (& into, through & throughout) by sounds like you've never heard before by Diaz-Infante & Zzaj. A grand excursion to what th' truckerz' see when th' "black beautys" wear off.  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-50

Samples:        Killin' Time      Smoky Bandito    18 Wheeler In Reverse

PRESS:  JACKAL BLASTER

 

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Robert Winson & Rotcod Zzaj:  FRACTURED FAIRYTALES - Robert Winson was a poet in living & working in New Mexico when I first met him (through the mails, as I was in Korea at the time).    He had sent a tape of his band "Bichos" in for review in my 'zine, & after hearing his performance, I decided we just had to record together. He sent the voice recordings & I went over/under/through them with musicweave.   Unfortunately (for us all), Robert died a few years later; hopefully, this CD will help to preserve the memory of his great   performance poetry  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-54

Samples:        Dark Ranger      All Those People Riding On Trains         Caucasian Phunk

Press:  GAJOOB    Jackal Blaster

 

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John M. Bennett & Rotcod Zzaj:  EACH SPEECH -    John M Bennett has been writing, reading and performing poetry for so many years now that even HE can't remember how/where/how long it's been.    Rotcod Zzaj joined John in massive poetry/music projects due to some odd/interesting collaborations he heard betwixt one "DimThingShine" and Bennett.     "Each Speech" is one of the more interesting collaborations between Bennett and Zzaj  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-55

Samples:      Delta To The Rain     The Slicing Slimeshine      The Sweet Mask

 

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Vale, Glaude & Metcalf (VGM):  IN THE LIFEBOAT - Remus Glaude (trumpet, keyboards) and Rotcod Zzaj (Kurzweill PC 88) support fantastic forward-looking compositions by Harlan Mark Vale in a live performance at the "Lifeboat Pub"!  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-61

 

Samples:        Four Women       Internet Chat        Strike The Match

PRESS:   AURAL INNOVATIONS

 

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Broca's Area & Zzaj:  HURTLE BLUE - HURTLE BLUE is a project betwixt Rotcod Zzaj & John Sosnowski (with guest appearances by Harlan Mark Vale and John Alkins). It received rave reviews in 'zines like AUTOREVERSE. The music approaches the universe from a "different" angle, but it is still an all-consuming and powerful musical experience. This is one of the BEST to come out of the Zzaj studios - EVER!  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-9

Samples:       Autumn Sweep      Singed       Haliowa

Press:    JACKAL BLASTER

 

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The Imaginary Band:  INDEPENDENT'S DAY - Features Harlan Mark Vale, Peter Tomshany and Zzaj (THE IMAGINARY BAND) with some SMOKIN' in-studio improvisation. This was actually the very FIRST CD to be produced at our studios.  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-3

SAMPLES:  Olympia Strange Piano       Freedom's Theme

 

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The Imaginary Band:  LIVE ON SONARCHY - Last Sigh magazine's Kim Alexander had some nice words for this spontaneous live recorded event: "The blend of electric guitar winding its way through spacious backdrops of organ and drums fuse together synth, chimes and a dab of jazzy tempo's in The Imaginary Bands opening act "Evaporations". This live performance at Sonarchy Radio/Jack Straw Studios in Seattle in October, 1997 leaves the listener wanting more fine programming and musician artistry from this excellent trio."  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-4

SAMPLES:   Crimson Sun    Evaporations

PRESS:   ACID ATTACH      GAJOOB     LAST SIGH MAGAZINE

 

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Ernesto Diaz-Infante and Zzaj:  TRIPLE DOSE - "DOSE" got one of the best reviews ever from Andrew Magilow, in SPLENDID e-zine: "Mr. Diaz-Infante and the enigmatic Rotcod Zzaj register another spike on the experimental music Richter scale with their latest offering, Triple Dose. These 16 tracks offer a variety of electronic arrangements which exemplify some impressive improvisational skills. While the majority of tracks here are certainly discordant and frenetic, this Bay Area duo throws you for a loop when you least expect it -- for instance, as they funk things up on "Shades of Blue" with old-school drum machine beats, low-key verbal rumblings and interweaving keyboards. Likewise, "Enclosed Circles" proves to be one of the more mesmerizing pieces, as the sound waves calmly disseminate from the inner workings of your stereo, bathing you in a relaxing yet slightly intimidating aura. Unlike many experimental outings, Triple Dose will make sense, as the piano poundings, poetic passages and miscellaneous manipulations are all logical processes, not blazing infernos!  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-14

 

SAMPLES:  Silhouettes    External Expression

PRESS:   SPLENDID E-ZINE

 

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Broca's Area and Zzaj:  WROUGHT IRON MUFFIN RANCH - This was the very FIRST collaboration with John Sosnowski & Mike Delaney (who are elsewise known as "Broca's Area"). Some really upbeat pieces on here, with strong flavorings of thee Rotcod's widely recognized "organ"isms! Anyone who is a fan of independent music will want this for it's historical value!!!  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-16

Samples:      Wrought Iron Rider      Muttered Buffin Malleability

 

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Ernesto Diaz-Infante & Rotcod Zzaj:  PSYCHEDELIC LANDSCAPES - SPLENDID e-zine reviewer Andrew Magilow said of this disc: "The wildly prolific Rotcod Zzaj teams up with Ernesto Diaz-Infante for another recorded improvisational wonder. These two pieces combine impromptu spoken word over a jagged ambient texture composed of dissonant, striking keyboards. The resulting swirling mass of experimental matter conceptually provides a form of intellectual escapism: perfect music to lose your mind to, or for creating an arousing aural mass which shapes thoughts and transforms your mental disposition. Simply put, it‚s seventy minutes of straightforward, comprehensible spontaneity."  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-21

PRESS:   RAGING SMOLDER     SPLENDID E-ZINE     

                AURAL INNOVATIONS             

 

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THE Splarch Brothers:  SNAKE OIL LOUNGING - Kramtones & Zzaj join forces under this moniker to give you a "sweet taste" of Louisiana bayou... compositions (all) by Kramtones, additional synths by Zzaj.  This is one of our best CD's!  ZP-23

 

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Ernesto Diaz-Infante and Zzaj:  WHERE SHADOWS SPEAK - RAGING SMOLDER reviewers dug this one enought to pen the following about it: "instrumental music (provided by Ernesto Diaz-Infante -- See RSMR #17 & #20 for more on Ernesto). Ernesto provides a pleasant contemplative meditative music foundation for the words of Zzaj, the combination of which reminds the casual listener of self-help relaxation tapes where words and music are used simply to calm the nerves. Upon deeper immersion, the listener is led into an intriguing psychological realm of introspection and wonder. With subtle vocal inflections, Zzaj conveys to the audience his own fascination with the verbal landscapes and mindscapes he is painting. The instrumental-only interludes help the listener to reflect on what has transpired and prepare for what lies ahead. Where Shadows Speak tends to be soothing and meditative ("... reflect, now trudge on, sharing, across the barren plain, which leaves you gently staring at all you've thought that's been ... midnight gallery, measured steps wept silently, feet fell like sorrow's tears...  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-22

PRESS:   RAGING SMOLDER

 

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Sound Council:  AT SUNSET - "Sound Council" is the group name assigned to this trio effort by John Alkins, Harlan Mark Vale and Dick Metcalf (aka Rotcod Zzaj). The music is deep, rich and resonant spontaneous improv that will inspire anyone who loves music that is sensitive but straight ahead & moving!  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-47

Samples:   A Synthesized Conversation    Somewhere Other   Unceremonious Closure

PRESS:  SPLENDID E-ZINE     

 

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MiWaPa Trio:  CROSS COUNTRY - This CD features some wonderful new improvised works by  guitarist/synthesist Jim Konen (Michigan), "odd-ist" Rotcod Zzaj, aka Dick Metcalf (Washington), and guitarist Mark Kissinger (Pennsylvania). The CD title, "Cross Country", made perfect sense based on the geographical distances. A FUN ride, too!  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-49

Samples:     Lightning On The Rails      Leaving The Yard    Bass Detectives in the Caboose

PRESS:    SPLENDID E-ZINE     AURAL INNOVATIONS    The Unheard Music

 

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Harlan Mark Vale and Rotcod Zzaj:  DANGEROUS REVISIONS - This grand experimental CD features (some of) the earliest sonic adventures of that great Northwest team, Zzaj & Kramtones! You will WANT this one if you're (at all) into sound that challenges!  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-56

 

Samples:   New Jack Swing    Polarity Shift   Funk Bicycle

PRESS:   AURAL INNOVATIONS   GAJOOB

 

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Jesters Of YesterMorrow:  INFINITE JUBILATION - Our wizard friend Eric Wallack joins on (yet) another romp through (somewhat) "patterened" improvisational pieces that reflect the joy musicians & listeners alike can derive from music(s) that are approached from a standpoint of no preconception.  Wallack's straight-ahead jazz guitar is fanciful and free against compositions by yours truly!   Catalog # ZP-65

This CD is also available at CDBABY!

 

Samples      Satellites and Moonbeams        Cosmic Positivity        Life On Pluto

Press - TAPED CRUSADERS

 

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John M. Bennett, Rotcod Zzaj & Ficus Strangulensis - SKINLESS HE:  This CD is a re-master of an early-90's tape created by poets Bennett & Strangulensis, then joined with "wordweave" by Zzaj.  Also features sections of poetry by Clarke A. Sany.:  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-70

Samples:  Consummation     Sheep Puckers   This Significant Piglet

Press:   GAJOOB

 

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The Neshama Alma Band, with Zzaj:  2 JOIN OCCULT:  Very, VERY strange music that was "sculpted" by our noise artist friend Ernesto, down San Francisco way.  This album won critical acclaim in the "noise underground" circles.   ZP-76

 

 

 

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Jake Berry & Rotcod Zzaj - ALIEN TONGUES:  Zzaj hooked up with Alabama poet Jake Berry in the late '80's.  Remastered from the original tape set.  Wild & Krazy stuph!:  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-72

 

 

Samples:       Alien Tongues     Havens Revisited

 

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R. Zzaj and Eric Wallack - Zee Zzaj Zinger:  This is a very unique experience.   The CD features vocal cuts from albums in this catalog all the way back through 1990.  Eric put(s) some GREAT guitars (both electric and acoustic), and used his Chapman Stick to enhance the listening experience.  DEFINITELY a cool intro to 2004!  $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog # ZP-74

Samples:   High Away    Whereabouts Determined By Science   Loop Thing

Reviews:   The Taped Crusaders     SPLENDID e-zine

 

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Konen, Russell, Tomshany, Zzaj - SONIC NUGGETS:  This CD captured some of the highest energy music ever to come out of the Zzaj Productions studios.  Guitars that just won't QUIT.  Drums (electronic) that will keep you on the edge of your seat.  Some amazing transitions, buried aural treasures that will astound your neighbors (or piss 'em off). $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503

Samples:     Under The Lodi     Panning For Percussives   Initial Survey

Press:     Aural Innovations    

 

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CD's by Charlie Saibel

Charlie Saibel:  BLACKBERRIES - This CD from Charlie Saibel features some "down home" rockin' rhythm & blues! 10 all original compositions that will have you begging for more! Has a definite "delta feel" to it, as in "Missisippi (or Louisiana) Mud". I gave it my "Most Highly Recommended" in my review for Improvijazzation Nation. We are very happy to have Charlie join us at Zzaj Productions & look forward to hearing many more of his tunes! If you like music "from the heart", you'll LOVE this one!  Catalog # ZP-120

 

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CD's by Harlan Mark Vale

 

Dean Ireland and Harlan Mark Vale:  THEY LOCKED US UP BECAUSE WE WERE HAPPY - Wonderful improvisations by a duo from the Arizona area; features Harlan Mark Vale and Dean Ireland! You haven't HEARD anything like this before. Playful, but well played, if you get my drift... keeps the listeners' attention easily!  Catalog # ZP-112

Samples       Aluminum Birds In Electric Trees    Nee New     Industrial Dust Bunny

 

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Harlan Mark Vale:  ENTELECHY - Harlan Mark Vale - ENTELECHY: We are proud to offer brand-new (2002) music from our long-time composer friend Mark. The tunes on this album display his talent in majestic ways, & you will fall in love with his energies. Simple but elegant works that have the spirit behind them  Catalog #  ZP-114

Samples      Sonoran Sands     Rubber As A Food Group      Axis Of Evil

 

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The Submariners:  DREAMS OF A SUBMARINER - Wonderful improvisations by a group called "Pagan Agents", that had Jeffrey Morgan, Harlan Mark Vale and Pete Leinone. The recording was done live at JackStraw Studios, a (by now) famous radio show in the Seattle area  Catalog # ZP-111

Samples       Flame On    Gabriel's Cherry    Kudos  

 

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CD's by Jeffrey Morgan

 

 

ELECTROSHOCK - "I Woke Up Brain Dead":  Zzaj Productions is proud to announce that it is the EXCLUSIVE U.S. distributor for this fantastic improv quintet featuring Jeffrey Morgan's alto sax, Dr. Borg on guitar, drums by Der Praesident and synths by Joker Nies & Konrad Doppert!   Sonic images of "strange" for the truly adventurous.   Simply click on the GET IT button below to order this wonderful excursionary CD!  Catalog #  ZP-105

 

 

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Jeffrey Morgan - QUARTZ & CROWFEATHER:  Zzaj Productions is (once again)  the EXCLUSIVE U.S. distributor for this fantastic set of solo alto sax & violin works  featuring the amazing improvisor Jeffrey Morgan!  Those who love cutting-edge improvised works will HAVE to have this one.   You can PURCHASE this CD through us for $14.50 here, or by sending a check or money order to Zzaj Productions, 532 Yorkshire, # 66, Rochester Hills, MI 48307.  Catalog # ZP-106

SAMPLES:     Nice To See You

 

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Jeffrey Morgan, Peter Jacquemyn, Mark Sanders:  SIGN OF THE RAVEN - This particular trio is a wonderful vehicle for Jeffrey Morgan... Peter Jacquemyn's contrabass lends an orchestral foundation for Jeffrey to paint against with his alto sax work, & Mark Sanders' drums & percussives provide counterpoints that are challenging for both listeners & players.   This is one of the best albums I've ever heard Jeffrey do!   Zzaj Productions is proud to be the exclusive distributor for this album in the U.S.  Catalog #  ZP-116

Samples:        Floating Bridges  Mojo Colorado

 

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CD's by John Alkins

 

John Alkins:  PIANO PORTRAITS - Solo piano by Great Northwest virtuoso John Alkins. If you enjoy music that paints beautiful sonic images of a world at peace (strange as that may seem, in these days of such obvious political nonsense) - THIS is the ONE, friends. Intimate and calming, this is music you will enjoy for years to come!  Catalog #  ZP-53

Samples      Ray Braziel     Shaun     Carillon

 

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John Alkins:  SACRED WOOD - This is the third CD by accomplished composer/keyboardist John Alkins (to be released on the Zzaj Productions label). It is simply the most beautiful solo keyboard work you will ever hear!  Catalog #  ZP-40

Samples:    Both Sides     Reflections     Sacred Wood

 

 

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John Alkins:   CONTINUUM - My longtime musical friend John had been thinking about a CD release for quite some time! We are proud to have been the mastering studio for his first album on CD! More importantly, however, is the wonderful music he plays. All original compositions for solo piano, first performed live here in Olympia! John is a master at surrounding you with the beauty he sees in nature and (literally) enveloping your ears in it! A truly WONDERFUL musical experience!  Catalog #  ZP-20

Samples:        Canopy      Moonchild      Emerella

 

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CD's by John Alkins and Harlan Mark Vale

John Alkins and Harlan Mark Vale:  OCEAN VOICES - John Alkins Sunset Beach studios was the location for this wonderfully sensitive keyboard and percussion album with two of the Pacific Northwest's greatest players on it!     Harlan Mark Vale now lives in Arizona, but he was visiting Olympia in September, 2001... it was only natural that he would visit John Alkins... what they hadn't anticipated was the (simply) astounding quality of this "direct-to-CD" recording.   They trade back and forth between keyboards, waterphone, percussion and make some truly beautiful and inspiring music that every true music lover will want to have in their collection!  Catalog #  ZP-45

Samples      Drum Talk    Ocean Voices

 

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CD's by Elemental

Elemental:  LUX AETERNAE - A HIGHLY impressive and inspiring collection of synthworks (primarily analog) by Reverend Fever (aka Elemental) from right here in the magickland of OlyWa! You will be VERY pleased that you purchased this wonderful musical adventure that hearkens back to the late '70's! I'm told he will have another out in a very short time!  Catalog #  ZP-100

 

 

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CD's by James Stonecipher

James Stonecipher:  VOLUME 1 - Our long-time musical friend from Hawaii recently journeyed back to these shores with some novel and unique music that was (originally) intended to be released for licensing only. After listening to this volume through and through, i spoke with him about a public release! James is a modern-day composer with ears attuned to the times, & this is some SERIOUSLY enjoyable music  Catalog #  ZP-101

 

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James Stonecipher:   VOLUME II - The second volume of James' work is completely laid-back and deep running. There is no doubt that you can hear whales singing to each other, maybe even a few turtles! It comes closer to "new age" than Volume I, but avoids the label, because his compositions maintain a sense of the RHYTHM of the earth and it's creatures, not just a musical simulation of animal or nature sounds!  Catalog #  ZP-101

 

 

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CD's by Elton Houck

Elton Houck:  TEXAS TWISTER  - "Elton Houck - TEXAS TWISTER, VOLUME 1 CD"  Catalog #  ZP-103

 

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Elton Houck:  TEXAS TWISTER, VOL II - Volume 1 was such a success that Elton released a second run of independent artists on this CD. These CD's are in heavy airplay all over the world because of the quality high-energy music on them. If you prefer something with a "new twist",  Catalog #  ZP-104

 

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CD's by Williams, Shoup & Vale

 

Williams, Shoup & Vale:  LIVE AT THE MIDNIGHT SUN -   This grand CD is from a LIVE SHOW recorded at the Midnight Sun, in Olympia, Washington. The show featured the amazing guitar antics of world-renowned improvisor Davey Williams, the spontaneous saxophone of Wally Shoup and the explosive percussion of Harlan Mark  Catalog #  ZP-29

 

Samples:      The Shadow Of Your Wind    Chalk Pulse      Rolling And Tumbling

 

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CD's by Jeffrey Morgan & Bert Wilson

 

Bert Wilson & Art Tantrum - MAGNETIC FIELDS:  Bert Wilson is one of the greatest saxophone players alive today! He is joined on this fantastic improvised album by Art Tantrum (aka Jeffrey Morgan). We are happy to be able to offer this excursion into the newest music around today... it's a classic that will stay in your collection of avant garde for years to come!  Catalog #  ZP-121

SAMPLES:   Magnetic Fields

 

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Bert Wilson & Jeffrey Morgan - TAKE NO PRISONERS:  One of the most energetic free-improv performances you will ever hear from this straight-ahead duo!  Their approach to th' playing on this CD certainly fits with th' theme of the title.  If you're an avid fan of avant-garde, you'll NEED this one!  Catalog #  ZP-122

SAMPLES:   Sky Dive

 

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CD's by Ole Lillelund & Jeffrey Morgan

 

Ole Lillelund & Jeffrey Morgan - THE CHINESE SMILE:  In our ever-expanding search for truly cool CD's, this outing by poet Ole Lillelund & improvisor Jeffrey Morgan is a real standout!  Very high energy for an album featuring poetry, there is crystal-clear recording & exciting insight.... as well as a small amount of the absurd!  Z.P. is the exclusive distributor for this CD in the U.S.  Catalog #  ZP-115

SAMPLES:   Hashish            Option Is Religion For The People  

                      The Killer Syndrome

 

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CD's by TRILLIUM

Trillium - WODDTS:  This CD reaches back into the earliest days of an OlyWa group that featured guitars by Bob Cerelli, keys by John Alkins , drums by Mark Vale & spontaneous spoken word by Zzaj.  It's the "cat's meow" for lovers of easygoing "out" musics!    $8.00, check or money order to Zzaj Productions, c/o Dick Metcalf, 4714 39th Ave, Lacey, WA 98503 Catalog #  ZP-62

 

 

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CD's from Jack Wright's Spring Garden

Bob Marsh - HILL MUSIC:  released in August 2001, was recorded in June and rushed to the presses. The group was the genius-child of Bob Marsh, an artist in every direction his mind travels, and now playing with all and sundry in the Bay area, after a lifetime of music in Detroit and Chicago. Among his profusion of projects was the gathering of string players in Chicago for the Emergency String Quartet. The name went with him when he moved to CA, though different personnel. A visit from Bob Falesch, Chicago partner and recording engineer, coincided with a session in Marsh's new home on the hill, of one of the formations of this group. Bingo. This had Damon Smith on bass, Jeff Hobbs and Tom Swafford violins, and Bob Marsh cello. This is a serious contribution to the stri