Cassandra Cleghorn (poetry/voice);
Erik Lawrence (saxophones/flutes);
Allison Miller (drums);
Rene Hart (bass).
Influences
Robert Creeley, John Coltrane, John Donne, John Cage, Simonides, Amiri Baraka, Joanne Kyger, Lester Young, David Amram, Sappho, Gary Snyder, Kenneth Patchen, Charles Lloyd, William Carlos Williams, Eric Dolphy, Mirabai...
Merge is a collaboration of poetry and music in a unique setting. This is not poetry accompanied by music, or music with some poetry. but a true blending of two exquisite styles creating a new style.
Poet Cassandra Cleghorn has been widely published but has found her home connecting her poetry with the music she loves. Colleague and Merge partner Erik Lawrence (saxophone and flute) has always found that these two mediums complemented one another, but never before like this.
Allison Miller is a drummer of extraordinary versatility, imagination and ability. Bassist Rene Hart has played with countless artists in countless settings yet distinguishes himself as a strong and unique major voice on his instrument in this setting.
Their first Cd was recently released and is available on CDBaby or tracks can be purchased at iTunes or Audio Lunchbox below. Visit www.mergepoetrymusic.com for samples and other goodies
I'm diggin' the NC-17 jazz poetry fusion. Really a unique blend of Music & Word..superb instrumental accompaniment. The New Orleans tribute sounds great. Maybe you could upload a song to the Merge 'space.' i'd like to hear a sample. thanks for the meaningful singing and playing.
