First recording by a new sextet, and another release from Discus which follows through Martin's obsession with AACM innovations expressed via dynamic and creative composition twinned with top flight improvising. A double CD of six long pieces, each thematically linked to make one long cycle which moves between completely notated and completely improvised passages, combinations of both elements, some electric Miles inspired grooves, and strange folk-like drums and drones.
"Martin Archer just released his most important record since "In Stereo Gravity". Actually, it might be the most important record of his career. "Story Tellers" is double CD with six 20+minute suites. Themes are interconnected, each of the six musicians gets a "persona". The flow of the album reminds me of Wadada's Ten Freedom Summers. And there are tributes herein to Wadada, Roscoe et Muhal, so you know where the roots of it are. A fantastic listen: complex, deep, yet elemental. Applause for Martin, please." - FRANCOIS COUTURE
Martin Archer - The Casuist - alto, sopranino and baritone saxophones, bass clarinet, bass recorder, flute, shaker, chimes, loops & electronics
Mick Somerset - The Wounded Healer - C, alto, bass, meditation, geisha and drone flutes, chalumeau and bass clarinets, shawm, shruti boxes, shaman drums, bells, rattles, gongs, trine, jews harp
Kim Macari Stone-Lonergan - The Barbarian - trumpet
Corey Mwamba - The River Follower - vibraphone
Anton Hunter - The Rain Maker - guitar and electronics
Peter Fairclough - The Wayfarer's Bastard - drums and percussion
