Dave Holland Quintet

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Bassist Dave Holland, after working with Miles Davis, Chick Corea’s Circle (which included Anthony Braxton), and Sam Rivers, became an important bandleader himself.

One of Holland’s most rewarding groups was a quintet that also included trombonist Robin Eubanks, Chris Potter on tenor and soprano, vibraphonist Steve Nelson, and drummer Nate Smith.

The same group with Billy Kilson on drums had recorded Prime Directive (1998), Not For Nothin’ (2000) and Live At Birdland (2001).

Here is the Dave Holland Quintet in 2009 performing “Prime Directive.”

The performance begins with some heated ensembles which becomes an explosive trombone-tenor duet, freely improvised but quite coherent and colorful.

Eubanks and Potter continue playing passionately as the other musicians join in, the theme reappears, Nelson gets a solo, and the piece finishes with a witty melody statement.

-Scott Yanow

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