Lou Grassi's PoBand and John Tchicai - ComPOsed (2002)

“ComPOsed” is a bold and highly creative free jazz collaboration that unites drummer Lou Grassi’s PoBand with legendary multi-instrumentalist John Tchicai in an adventurous and deeply expressive session. Released in 2002 on the respected CIMP label, the album explores the boundary between structured composition and spontaneous improvisation, blending avant-garde jazz language with rich ensemble textures and dynamic collective interaction. The musicians approach each composition with openness and imagination, allowing the music to evolve naturally through shifting moods, layered instrumentation, and unpredictable rhythmic development.

John Tchicai delivers compelling performances on tenor saxophone, bass clarinet, and flute, bringing his distinctive melodic phrasing and spiritual intensity to the recording. Trumpeter Paul Smoker and reed specialist Perry Robinson add additional depth and color, while Art Baron expands the sonic palette through unusual instruments including didgeridoo and ocarina. Bassist Wilber Morris provides a strong and grounded foundation beneath the ensemble’s exploratory freedom, and Lou Grassi’s drumming guides the music with energy, subtlety, and inventive rhythmic textures. Tracks such as “Stealing Beauty” and “Red Sky in Morning” highlight the ensemble’s ability to balance abstraction with emotional resonance. The album’s warm and natural recording atmosphere perfectly complements its organic improvisational spirit, making “ComPOsed” an excellent example of modern creative jazz experimentation.

Tracklist:
01. Daddy No Mana
02. Yolo's Bayou
03. Drunk & Happy
04. Tidens Tand
05. Oxbow Incident
06. Stealing Beauty Pt. 1
07. Stealing Beauty Pt. 2
08. Red Sky in Morning

Personnel
Lou Grassi - drums
John Tchicai - tenor saxophone, bass clarinet, flute
Paul Smoker - trumpet
Art Baron - trombone, didgeridoo, ocarina, flute, bell
Perry Robinson - clarinet, ocarina
Wilber Morris - bass