[ 2CD in deluxe 8-panel digipak w/ liner notes by Francis Davis ; 2LP in deluxe gatefold sleeve w/ liner notes by Francis Davis & download card ] The exemplary & well-traveled cornetist Kirk Knuffke presents a bold new trio, with bassist Michael Bisio & pianist Matthew Shipp, on an intimate & expansive double album. Gravity Without Airs features the three world-class musicians on Knuffke compositions and in open form, creating a tour-de-force of poetry and verve. Rhythmically precise, New Orleans funky and full of grace, Kirk Knuffkes music is a reflection of his multifaceted personality: part musical sage, part jazz philosopher, a self-taught musician with wide interests, endless curiosity and an abundance of good humor. DownBeat This is Knuffkes debut as a leader for TAO Forms. It follows on his elemental contribution to James Brandon Lewis Jesup Wagon, which was one of the most acclaimed jazz releases of 2021, eventually securing the coveted top spot in both the JazzTimes Critics Poll and the international Jazz Critics Poll established by Francis Davis. Accolades for the cornetists recent work as leader include NPRs Jazz Album of the Year laurel for 2017s Cherryco, his homage to Don Cherry, a prime influence. DownBeat praised the way that album showcased Knuffkes nonchalant versatility and ebullient melodic gifts, while esteemed critic Francis Davis called it nothing short of spectacular. Davis also wrote the liner notes for Gravity.., noting the allure of Knuffkes instrumental aplomb: Kirk plays as if his cornet is a part of him he plays with it, not just on it. On his guiding artistic impulse, Kirk Knuffke says: Im concerned with making beautiful music. Beauty is always first, though not in a precious way. It can be in a rough way, too. A prolific, lauded record-maker, Gravity Without Airs fulfills his poetic aims as well as any recording he has made. This work finds Knuffke in the rare, even unique, trio format of cornet, piano and double-bass. His partners are two ever-estimable pillars of creative music, and the work theyve created together here brims with melody and mystery, intimacy and dynamism.