Big Water by Ross Garlow
PJCE Records is thrilled to announce the upcoming release of "Big Water," the captivating debut album from bassist and composer Ross Garlow. This genre-bending collection of instrumental and vocal pieces is a vibrant sonic journey through the landscapes and spirit of Oregon's iconic rivers. From the tranquil "Deschutes Desert Morning," evoking the serene beauty of a high desert sunrise, to the energetic funk of "Umpqua Funk" and the evocative reflection on loss in "Santiam In Flames," each track on "Big Water" paints a vivid musical portrait, capturing the unique personality and flow of its namesake waterway.
More than just a musical exploration, "Big Water" reflects Garlow's deep connection to the Pacific Northwest and his commitment to environmental awareness. Inspired by his extensive time spent exploring these vital ecosystems as an avid steelheader, the album weaves in subtle yet powerful messages of conservation, advocating for dam removal, tribal land reclamation, and the support of local environmental initiatives. Through a dynamic fusion of jazz, funk, soul, rock, and folk influences, Garlow invites listeners to immerse themselves in the power and fragility of nature, urging a deeper appreciation for the rivers that shape our region.
Featuring the exceptional talents of Kirk Kalbfleisch on drums and Leon Cotter on clarinet, saxophone, organ, and piano, alongside Garlow's own multi-instrumental prowess on bass, vocals, guitar, and keyboards, "Big Water" is a testament to collaborative artistry and a profound love for music and the natural world. The album was meticulously crafted at Dominic Castillio's studio, a space that fostered creative freedom and allowed Garlow's diverse musical vision to flourish. PJCE Records will host an album release show at The 1905, a cherished venue within Portland's vibrant jazz scene, marking a significant milestone for this exciting new voice in contemporary music. This project was made possible in part by a generous grant from the Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC).
Tracklist
| 1. | Deschutes Desert Morning | 4:05 |
| 2. | The Clack | 4:18 |
| 3. | Silty Sandy | 3:32 |
| 4. | John Day Naked | 3:44 |
| 5. | Umpqua Funk | 2:49 |
| 6. | Santiam In Flames | 5:06 |
| 7. | Nehalem Night with Moon | 4:25 |
| 8. | Undam the Klam | 4:00 |
| 9. | The Wild Rogue | 4:20 |
Credits
Ross Garlow (Vocals, Bass, Guitar, Keyboards, Auxiliary Percussion)
Leon Cotter (Saxophone, Clarinet, Keyboards)
Kirk Kalbfleisch (Drums, Auxiliary Percussion)
All tracks Ross Garlow, BMI
Recorded by Dominic Castillo
Mixed by Scott Stanley
Recorded at Beaumont Sounds
Recording date: October-December 2024
Mastered by: Dana White
Executive Producer: Ryan Meagher
Art by Tiny Little Hammers
PJCER 070
License
All rights reserved.
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.