Constantine Alexander - Firetet (2023)

As a son of Greek immigrants born and raised in the (best) city of Chicago, you have to ask—what’s more Chicago than Pizza and Jazz? I hosted a jam session in 2017 at Gino’s East Pizzeria where The Firetet was born. Inspired by legendary bands like Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers and trumpeters Clifford Brown, Nicholas Payton, and Sean Jones, these cats reinvented the way a trumpet could sound which ultimately led me to bring out the fire from within.

This project highlights members of The Firetet. I wanted to celebrate each individual’s unique sound to create something unforgettable.

I have to shout “Deez” out. This tune is my contrafact of Coltrane’s Giant Steps. A tune that started out as a joke during my residence at Gino’s East eventually became a tune that reminds us all not to take life too seriously. Opening with Julius as he whimsically flirts with an ethereal sound before Ben jumps in to add more depth; Greg creeping in, hastening the tempo before Roy and I come in to bring it all together in an explosion of color and sound. Finally, closing out with Greg’s solo to celebrate the rhythm of life.

I would like to thank everyone who has helped to make this album possible. Andy Shoemaker for your amazing recording, mixing, and mastering skills. Giovany Revelle for the great videography. My musicians: Greg Essig, Ben Dillinger, and Julius Tucker for your incredible playing and collaboration. Roy McGrath not only for your marvelous playing but also for all of your mentorship throughout this process to accomplish something I never thought possible. Herminio Rodriguez for the stunning photography. Grace Pisula for your fantastic graphic design. Thank you all so, so much.

This album is dedicated to my family and most importantly, my brother George.