Cooper-Moore, Stephen Gauci

*2024 stock* Conversations Vol. 1 is the eagerly awaited first installment of a two part release by pianist Cooper-Moore and saxophonist Stephen Gauci. This project, with volume two scheduled for release in the near future, was recorded at legendary Sear Sound studio and showcases these two deeply idiosyncratic players as they reach a unique dimension in which separate parts unify to create a breathtakingly astringent whole. The artists combined experience, spanning three generations, presents avant jazz in it's most bracing, current, iteration on this exciting recording.

Cooper-Moore and Stephen Gauci developed their extraordinary duo while performing weekly during a seven-month residency at Happylucky No.1 Gallery in Brooklyn. These two veteran musicians have experienced over 40 years of avant jazz history: Cooper-Moore’s performance roots in the realm of avant jazz music date to the NYC Loft Jazz era of the early/mid-70s where he started out playing with William Parker, David S. Ware & Bill Cole. Stephen Gauci arrived in NYC in 2000, with the likes of Kris Davis and Nels Cline.

“A New York City afternoon; Subway ride from Brooklyn, coffee to go, a slice of $1 pizza, and a 2 pm recording session with one of the world's greatest living pianist/improvisers. At the studio pleasantries are exchanged; "nice weather", "damned subways" … But how much beyond the obvious can be expressed with mere words? And so we take our respective places, Cooper-Moore at the piano, I with saxophone at ready, and begin the only conversation that matters. No need for compositions, no need for discussion. Each note laden with the entire history of music contained within. But there's something else too... and if we are completely still, completely quiet.. she will sing her song as well. Can you hear it?” - Stephen Gauci