Continuum

When pianist/composer Richard Sussman’s extraordinary debut album Free Fall was first released over 30 years ago, it quickly became a classic.  The reunion live recording of this incredible band, consisting of renowned trumpeter Tom Harrell, saxophonist Jerry Bergonzi, bassist Mike Richmond, drummer Jeff Williams, and pianist Richard Sussman was released as The Richard Sussman Quintet Live At Sweet Rhythm on Origin Records on June 19, 2010.

Continuum represents the third recording by this stellar group, and the first studio recording since the original “Free Fall” session. With the exception of trumpeter Randy Brecker replacing Tom Harrell in the line-up, Sussman returns with saxophonist Bergonzi, bassist Richmond, and drummer Williams, with a special guest appearance by guitarist Mike Stern on one tune. The new recording honors the unique musical chemistry of the group with a program of mostly original Sussman compositions, along with classics “Alone Together” and “Theme For Ernie”.  Continuum received significant radio airplay through October, 2012.  Continuum peaked at #4 on the College Music Journal, #4 on the Roots Music Report (including 6 consecutive weeks in the RMR top 10), and #42 on the Jazz Week Charts.

“Continuum - a continuous non-spatial whole or extent or succession in which no part or portion is distinct or distinguishable from adjacent parts - the continuum of experience in which events pass from the future through the present to the past. Although circumstances and events may appear to change dramatically over time, there is always a thread running through it all, establishing a continuity of consciousness and spirit.

Continuum – the composition and recording – represents the integration and coalescence of a wide variety of musical and stylistic experiences spanning several decades, illustrating the continuity or 'Continuum' through many seemingly disparate elements of my musical journey.  To provide continuity for this project, I reassembled the band from “Free Fall” (with the exception of Tom Harrell and Larry Schneider), my first studio recording as a leader, recorded in 1978.

I feel incredibly privileged to have once again been able to surround myself with some of the most talented and creative musicians on the planet:  Jerry Bergonzi, Mike Richmond, and Jeff Williams.  The incredible Randy Brecker joins us on trumpet and flugel horn.  And guitar wizard Mike Stern honors us with a special guest appearance on one tune.”

-Richard Sussman, April, 2012

Richard Sussman - piano, synthesizer
Randy Brecker - trumpet, flugelhorn
Jerry Bergonzi - tenor saxophone
Mike Richmond - acoustic bass
Jeff Williams - drums
Mike Stern - guitar (on "Mike’s Blues")