Led by multi-reed player, Adam Simmons, this trio, along with bassist Howard Cairns and drummer Hugh Harvey, is another facet of Simmons' music, which includes his solo project, quartet, and the renowned Adam Simmons Toy Band. Presenting new and old material, this trio sees Adam focusing on alto saxophone and bass clarinet, working within self-imposed limitations in order to more fully explore the possibilities - similar to the Japanese art of folding paper, working from a simple starting point with a square piece of paper to create pieces of great complexity and beauty.
This concert is part of the tour to launch Origami's two new CDs: "Karaoke," a collection of songs from Ausstralian contemproary songwriters including Gotye, INXS, Dave Mason, Nick Cave and Colin Hay, and "The Usefulness of Art," a suite beckoning the consideration of art and its value in society.
Adam Simmons - alto sax, bass clarinet
Howard Cairns - double bass
Hugh Harvey - drums
“Dreamy, slow openers unfold to playful verve, then darkly tense and restless, edgy pieces exploring timbre, dynamics and saxophone versatility”
Ranked Number 5 in Best Releases of 2011 list - Roger Mitchell – www.ausjazz.net
“Simmons’s total alto mastery is evident on Cheers Big Ears with street march drumming behind the exquisitely tender saxophone, seguing into quick soul-edged runs. These highly descriptive pieces are expertly interpreted by an energetic and intelligent trio.”
John McBeath – The Australian
“Simmons is no stranger having been on the Melbourne scene since the 1990’s but this could be his defining moment. Origami, with masterly technique, embraces some of the most vital aspects of jazz tradition and yet has an utterly contemporary relevance. Swing, groove, interplay, self-expression, and in the example of past masters such as Rollins, has embraced pop without compromising artistic integrity.”
Peter Wockner – Limelight Magazine
“With all due respect to his previous projects, Origami strikes me as a quantum leap for Simmons, where potential and achievement come together... Origami captures and holds the listener’s attention from start to finish; don’t be surprised if your first reaction is to listen to it again, right away.”
Adrian Jackson – Rhythms Magazine
