Venue: the Village Vanguard (NY)
Date: Thursday, July 28th, 2011.
Concert review by Audrey Fort
Personnel: Chris Cheek and Bill McHenry (saxophones), Steve Cardenas (guitar), Mat Maneri (viola), Jacob Sacks (piano), Thomas Morgan (bass) and Paul Motian (drums)
Witnessing Paul Motian perform should be a rite of passage for all drummers. This octogenarian is especially known for his innovative role in pianist Bill Evan’s trio in the 1950’s and 60’s. Along with bassist Scott LaFaro, Motian helped liberate the rhythm section from its role as mere timekeeper. Motian still plays regularly with various groups that he leads in New York City, primarily at the Village Vanguard.
