Gunga Galunga - Unlicensed Nuclear Accelerator (2013)

Stylistically speaking, the material performed is even more diverse than the backgrounds of its constituents. "Jackson Hole" and "Rainy Day, Sunny Heart" convey beautifully the sophistication and pop sensibilities of trumpeter / composer Tom Barber. "Starbird" and "Portrait in Tears" are compelling and dark vignettes by tenor man Willie Matheis. "The Black Monk" and "How The Moon Broke" expose guitarist Dan Duval's interest in extended free improvisation and rich harmonic exploration both in and out of the modern jazz idiom. The most authentic punk rock explosions on the entire disc occur during "The Red C," by Euge. Bassist Jon Shaw keeps everything on the rails the whole time, no matter what is happening. It's exactly as engaging and accessible as it sounds. Which, to me anyway, is extremely accessible and engaging. This city is full of amazing jazz talent, and both Gunga Galunga and PJCE Records are creating a home for the music with one hand and pushing it forward with the other. So come help us celebrate all of that at the February 8th CD Release Show!

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PJCE Records is a grassroots recording label documenting the wide variety of original music being created by Portland area jazz composers and improvisers. We aim to provide an outlet to encourage the dissemination of new music in the area as well as fostering community within the jazz and improvised music scene in Portland. We release one album per month digitally and/or in limited CD pressings. The albums are recorded live in one session per album, reflecting a common practice from jazz history and encouraging a rapid turnaround to document and enhance the thriving community of jazz and improvising musicians in the Portland area. The label is operated by the Portland Jazz Composers’ Ensemble and all rights to the music remain with the individual artists.

Thomas Barber, trumpet
Willie Matheis, tenor sax
Dan Duval, guitar
Jon Shaw, bass
Tom "Euge" Goicoechea, drums